The Sonoma Coast Marine Science Program is implemented through an innovative suite of activities focused on educating students about the importance of local marine sanctuaries and marine protected areas (MPAs) through marine science and watershed exloration and education activities.

Docent-led experiences are generally only available for groups of 60 students or less. 

There are many ways that our staff work with teachers to customize a program that meets their curriculum objectives.

• Cultural History: students learn about the area's early settlers - the Pomo, redwood loggers, ranchers, and Russians
• Marine Protected Areas and Marine Wildlife: each season brings something new to the coast, and students can come learn and view seabirds (April through August), harbor seals (March through August), and gray whales (January through May)
• Mediterranean Climate: the unique coastal climate has allowed for special adaptations of the native botany, which students can discover
• Geology: there are just as many things to teach as there are things to explore at the Sonoma Coast, with excellent viewing of the San Andreas Fault, tectonic plates, marine terraces/uplift, erosion, and more.

Due to the time it takes our staff to customize this educational experience, there is a fee of $7 per student. Additionally, because demand is high for programs scheduling can take up to two weeks, reservations are best made two to three weeks prior to the date desired.

Depending on grant funding and donations, scholarship may be available to cover program fees and transportation expenses. Applications are available on the School Group Forms page.

2020 UPATE:

Due to concerns over COVID-19 all field trips to Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District State Parks are cancelled through April 15th of 2020. At this time we are not taking any NEW reservations for groups prior to July 1st, 2020. If you have a pre-existing reservation that was cancelled due to COVID-19 closures and cancellations we are happy to work with you to reschedule you for the earliest available date. Please contact the Programs Manager at (707) 869-9177 ext. 1 or at kat@stewardscr.org.