California’s wild coasts are dynamic, awe-inspiring meeting points of rivers, land and sea. TNC works across the state to protect the rugged beauty of these places and the nature they support, from kelp forests to salmon runs, black abalone to Tule elk. Hear from TNC experts about our interconnected efforts to preserve, restore and study our wild coasts. As we navigate a rapidly changing planet, the lessons we’re learning here can help the world. Info HERE.

Join us as we go on a foraging journey with the California moray (Gymnothorax mordax), a top predator off the coast of Southern California. Elongated and toothy, moray eels are uniquely specialized to forage within the tight, twisting crevices of rocky reefs. We will begin with prey detection and location, exploring how these eels use different senses to find prey - both underwater and, surprisingly, on land. Presented bu Maya McElfish, Grad Student, UCSC. At the Crepe Place, 1134 Soquel Ave. RSVP HERE

Learn how to create beautiful, long-lasting dried flower holiday wreaths with Beth Benjamin. She will demonstrate the mechanics of putting everything together and will have a couple examples to guide your inspiration. Personal artistic style is highly encouraged! You’ll be able to choose from a wide selection of dried materials from the UCSC Farm and other sources. With care, your wreath will last for years. Light refreshments will be served and the atmosphere promises to be jovial, creative and social. UCSC Haybarn. More info and registration HERE.

Even though I'll feel sad looking at the trees that will be lost, it would be worse to ignore the consequences. Chipping away at denial speeds up my learning of how to live in our nest. Thanks to the Aptos resident who initiated this event, the theme is gratitude. I like that. Among the things I feel grateful for are the people who tried to steer a course other than highway expansion. Before we sustain the loss of these trees, let us take time to pause and honor their life and spirit, and to renew our shared commitment to protect what remains sacred in this land. Bring flowers, poems, songs, or simply your quiet presence. Meet at Moosehead Dr. and Spreckels Dr. Learn MORE.

Learn about many of Elkhorn Slough's most iconic winter duck species, from waterfowl conservation struggles to identification tips! 1700 Elkhorn Road. Reserve a spot HERE.

Featuring a video of Speaker Chairman Lopez of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band, sharing the history of the Amah Mutsun. The Amah Mutsun Tribal Band had an extensive history of communal activity, shared cultural understanding and collective rituals and beliefs. The Amah Mutsun occupied the San Juan Valley for thousands of years before the Spanish arrived in the late 1700’s. The Amah Mutsun community was originally made up of approximately 20 to 30 contiguous villages stretched across the Pajaro River Basin and surrounding region. Members of these different villages were united by shared cultural practices and tribal traditions. Brave and Free meeting 6:00 pm + Socializing, Program at 6:30 pm. Aptos Grange, 2555 Mar Vista D

Join Surfrider Santa Cruz for an inspiring evening with award-winning photographer Jodi Frediani. Through breathtaking images and stories, discover the wildlife of Monterey Bay and the importance of protecting our ocean and coastal ecosystems. Participants will immerse themselves in Jodi’s breathtaking images, listen to stories from decades on the water, learn about local marine life, and connect with others passionate about protecting Monterey Bay and its extraordinary wildlife. Aptos Library, 7695 Soquel Dr. Info HERE.