Turtle Observer Program

Are you a nature lover interested in learning more about one of Mt. Tam’s ecosystem members, the western pond turtle? Would you like to then apply what you’ve learned by helping conservation efforts through data collection, observation, and using cool tools like spotting scopes? Join us for our 90 minute Turtle Observer presentations, taking place online from 9:00 am – 10:30 am!

Part I: Western Pond Turtle Presentation will discuss the importance of wildlife conservation, the kinds of turtles on Mt. Tam, and why you should become a community scientist. 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. This first meeting will be held via Zoom on Saturday, February 11, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Part II: Turtle Observer Docent Training will go over turtle identification in greater detail, cover monitoring protocols and safety. This will take place on Saturday, February 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Zoom. Optional excursion on the watershed in the afternoon to look for turtles, share tips, and a demonstration on how to use the spotting scopes from 1:00 to 2:30.

Site Visit to Bullfrog Creek (Optional): Saturday, February 25th, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

RSVP required; family-friendly with adult supervision ages 8+. Sign up at www.marinwater.org/volunteer