Western pond turtles are special because they are the only freshwater species of turtle in California and they tell us important things about the health of our lakes. By becoming a Turtle Observer you can turn your interest into meaningful action by contributing to conservation efforts through data collection, observation, and using cool tools like spotting scopes. The training takes place in two parts, with an online morning component followed by an afternoon field visit. Once you have completed the two-part training you have the choice to visit several locations at any time you want during the spring to participate. This is a family-friendly project!

Join Marin Water and Marin County Parks for this two-part training. The 9-11 am online meeting will cover the importance of wildlife conservation, how to identify the various turtle species in Marin, monitoring protocols, and the benefits of becoming a community scientist. In the afternoon, from 1-3 pm, we will gather at Pacheco Pond in Indian Valley where you will meet other volunteers in person, practice using spotting scopes and binoculars, and put identification skills into practice. We will offer another excursion to Lake Lagunitas at 2:00 on Wednesday February 14.

Sign up for trainings or events by completing this google form. Please help share this opportunity by printing out this flyer and posting it in your community and sharing it on your social media platforms! Feel free to contact us at volunteerprogram@marinwater.org or give us a call at 415-945-1128 to learn more.