Are you passionate about the desert and ready to deepen your connection to this unique landscape? Do you want to be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and network to help protect and preserve our diverse wildlife, habitats, and water resources? Join Anza-Borrego Foundation and UC Environmental Stewards for an immersive 9-week course to become a certified California Naturalist… in the Desert! 

You’ll study the natural history of California, with a special focus on the geology, flora, fauna, and water resources of the Anza-Borrego Desert alongside expert scientists in their respective fields. You’ll gain hands-on experience in education, interpretation, participatory science, and environmental stewardship.

Dates: October 13 - December 10, 2025

Fees: ABF Member: $425, Non-Member: $500

Delivery Mode: Hybrid (weekly live online discussions, guest lectures, field trips in Anza-Borrego, and an independent project designed to enhance your knowledge and communication skills in natural history)

Contact: Samanatha Young, samantha@theabf.org 

Course Website & Registration

Organization Description: Anza-Borrego Foundation (ABF) is the official nonprofit partner of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. We provide financial support for Park programs, acquire land for conservation in and around the Park, educate the public about the Park’s resources and support research relevant to our region.