At Jack London Park, an intro to nature journaling
Nature journaling brings people closer to nature through observations in writing, counting, drawing, taking notes and, says naturalist Sarah Reid, the simple act of wondering.
“Keep it simple,” says Reid, who has been leading outdoor education, programs, and events since the late 1970s and has been a volunteer in local parklands and at Jack London State Historic Park since 2004. She’ll lead an “Introduction to Nature Journaling for Adults” on Sunday, March 27, 9-11 a.m., at Jack London Park.
Participants can bring any kind of journal – lined or blank, and pen(s) or soft pencil (#2 or HB). Colored pencils, watercolor pencils, a small watercolor kit, and water-brushes are advised but not required.
“I like mixed-media cardstock journals so I can use a variety of pens/paint/pencils,” Reid says.
Her approach shows that journaling can be therapeutic, quieting, and meditative. The result is a personal and sometimes revealing record of observations.
Reid completed the University of California Naturalist certificate program in 2017 and enjoys sharing her passion for local parks and nature. She is an avid hiker and equestrian and a self-professed addict of iNaturalist and Nature Journaling.
It’s a good idea to bring water and wear sturdy shoes for hiking and layered clothing appropriate for the weather. A folding easy-to-carry chair or stool or re-useable plastic garbage bag to sit on the ground is also suggested. Binoculars and a macro lens or loupe are optional.
The park gate opens at 8:30 and the program will start at 9 a.m. sharp, beginning in the ranch parking lot to the right of the entry kiosk. The group will walk from there to the Pig Palace and back. This event will be cancelled in the event of rain.
After the program, visitors can enjoy the park’s historic side and learn about the lives of famed author Jack London and his wife, Charmian, who made the place they called “Beauty Ranch” their home.
Tickets are $10 per person and do not include the parking fee (regularly $10 per car for up to nine passengers). The program is limited to 10 people.
For information on other upcoming events at the park, visit https://jacklondonpark.com/events.
