On the Expedition
Explore the rivers that protect Northern California’s world-renowned wine regions and collect data that will help protect some the most valuable agricultural land in all of North America. The Napa, Russian, and Navarro rivers, and Sonoma Creek, define the landscape where grape farmers use these waterways to produce the high-end wines the region is famous for, and iconic fish species steelhead trout and coho salmon, utilize the area for breeding. How can nature and people coexist in this beautiful, productive and threatened landscape? You’ll collect data necessary for answering these questions.
This region serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds, butterflies and a wide variety of native plant and animal species. Scientists are learning how these species coexist with the resource needs of the growing human population. Vineyard owners, non-profit organizations, and local governments are working alongside scientists to ensure California’s rivers continue to simultaneously support its local agriculture and natural habitat.
You’ll work along several rivers in California’s North Coast region to determine how these ecosystems respond to both agricultural advances and efforts to protect and sustain this environment. Alongside scientists, you will set up transects, identify vegetation, measure trees, conduct stream habitat surveys, conduct bird surveys, capture and identify butterflies, and collect data necessary to preserving nature in this environment.
By engaging in this research, you’ll have the opportunity to experience what it is like to work in a ‘living laboratory’ where research findings provide guidance for a more sustainable management of California’s ecosystems and water resources. Your valued involvement will deepen the awareness of freshwater ecosystems and their surrounding habitats, aiding to solve regional environmental problems.
In your time off, hike, kayak, or canoe the local rivers, and watch enigmatic birds in the heart of the Pacific Flyway. You’re close enough to explore the coastal forests, visit the towering redwood grove and visit some of the famous vineyards and wine-tasting rooms.
About the Research Area
Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties form the heart of Northern California's Wine Region and contain some of the State’s best examples of riparian and Coast Range forests. In addition to the striking countryside, the mild climate and mix of soils make for perfect wine grapes and the cultivable land in this region is some of the most coveted and expensive in the world. The region is home to many coastal and inland state parks, extensive hiking and biking trails, and numerous tourist attractions. It also has an important and unique habitat supporting some of California’s most charismatic biodiversity. This area serves as a home to the Coastal Redwoods, some of the world’s tallest trees, a key breeding ground for several threatened fish species, and a natural fly-way for millions of migratory birds.