The Santa Cruz Mountains cover more than 1,000 square miles of the Central California Coast, running from just south of San Francisco all the way down to the Salinas Valley. The region has been actively stewarded for thousands of years by indigenous people and is a place of significant cultural, biological, and environmental diversity which supports many native plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth. Join host Ronnie Lipschutz for a conversation about the mountains and the network with Dylan Skybrook, Manager of the SCMSN, a collaboration of twenty-six organizations engaged in land stewardship in the Santa Cruz Mountains, whose mission is to help cultivate a resilient, vibrant region where human and natural systems can thrive for generations to come. On KSQD 90.7 FM

This documentary follows the life of Terry Kennedy, an American veteran who befriended a giant 22-foot oceanic manta ray he named "Willy Wow" in Baja Mexico. The film documents their extraordinary nearly two-decade bond, which transformed Terry from a Hell's Angel associate into a passionate manta ray conservationist. Now in his 80s, Terry embarks on one final journey to a remote volcanic island for peace, closure, and the chance to reunite with his old friend. At Patagonia, 415 River St. RSVP HERE.

Summer Fun Fest is a joyful, all-ages festival designed to bring the community together through nature, creativity, and hands-on exploration. Enjoy FREE admission all day and experience a lively mix of activities and entertainment throughout the museum and outdoor spaces. Enjoy the food truck and sweet treats, interactive activities and hands-on stations, community partner tabling, and live performances in the amphitheater throughout the afternoon. From cultural performances to animal demonstrations and nature-based activities, there will be something for everyone to discover and enjoy. More INFO.

Create a garden that’s beautiful, resilient, and in harmony with the environment. In this Earth-friendly Gardening workshop, Monterey Bay Master Gardeners share practical, research-based tips for choosing plants that thrive in our local conditions while supporting a healthier environment. Topics include: Select climate-wise, water-smart, native, and drought-tolerant plants; Choose the right plants for your garden’s conditions and needs; Support pollinators and soil health; and more! UCSC Arboretum, Horticulture 2 Meeting Hall. Sign up HERE.

Home gardens, small farms, and wildland-agricultural interfaces can often be areas of increased water, food, and habitat resources for wildlife. Many people are interested in seeing wildlife on their properties, from the common visitors to the elusive wanderers. Come learn about how to monitor for wildlife in your own backyard, as well as the ecology, habitat requirements, and challenges species face across dynamic landscapes. Answer the question: What does biodiversity mean to you? At UCSC Hay Barn. Info and sign up HERE.

Join the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County for a special bird-themed First Friday celebrating the incredible birds that call Santa Cruz County home. Join Sophie Wood Brinker, author of Birds of Santa Cruz, for a meet and greet and book signing. See live raptors and explore our Mini Nature Museum. Connect with local bird experts and fellow nature enthusiasts, and discover how protecting open spaces helps birds and our entire community thrive. All ages welcome to attend this free event! Info HERE.

Attend the General Meeting of Indivisible Santa Cruz County to learn about current and upcoming actions, to network, and to be in community with people dedicated to preserving our democracy. The theme of this meeting is Injustice Anywhere is a Threat to Justice Everywhere, and the focus of this meeting is Elections and Civic Power. At London Nelson, 301 Center St. Info HERE.

We are celebrating 30 years of science education on the Monterey Bay. That's 30 years of plankton collection, 30 years of kelp forest ecology, and 30 years of hands-on learning reaching over 135,000 students! Hearty hors d'oeuvres and drinks served. Funds raised will transform the lives of students aboard the Team O’Neill Catamaran on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Seymour Marine Discovery Center, 100 McAllister Way. Tickets $75. RSVP HERE.