Welcome to Virtual Mind Walks! Last March, COVID-19 restrictions forced us to cancel our lineup of annual Mind Walks lectures. Holding in-person lectures in a crowded room was no longer a safe option. Fortunately, we live in a time when technology allows us to meet virtually and join in the discussion without leaving our homes.
This year, California State Parks, in collaboration with the Central Coast State Parks Association, brings a new type of learning right to your living room: Virtual Mind Walks. These free, online presentations feature a variety of subject matter from experts covering topics aimed at stretching the mind of the avid lifelong learner.
This lecture series offers twice monthly educational opportunities devoted to recreational, natural, and cultural history topics as they relate to the Central Coast. The Mind Walks Program is underwritten by the Thomas E. and Mary Kathryn Eltzroth fund and supported by the Central Coast State Parks Association.
Upcoming Lectures
August 6, 2021
Rare Plants in Harsh Environments: Serpentine Endemism in San Luis Obispo County with Kristen Nelson, Vice President of SLO Chapter of the California Native Plant Society
California is a worldwide biodiversity hotspot, supporting more than 6,500 native plant species. Nearly 30 percent of these species occur only in California and more than 35 percent are considered rare and endangered. Serpentine and other ultramafic soils form some of the most exceptional and botanically diverse habitats in the state, despite covering less than 2 percent of the land area. Though rare in general, serpentine soils are relatively common in western San Luis Obispo County – and support a whole host of exceptional botanical wonders. Join Kristen for a virtual jaunt through some of her favorite local serpentine outcrops.
August 20, 2021
One Plover’s Story with Ryan Slack
Follow the journey of one plover, R22:02, over the course of 10 years at Oceano Dunes SVRA and learn about the successes of the Oceano Dunes District Shorebird Program.
September 3, 2021
Gray Wolves with Kent Laudon of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Description & Sign-Up Link Coming Soon
September 27, 2021
Sharing Space with Sea Otters: A Case Study of Coexistence in a Crowded World with Gena Bentall of Sea Otter Savvy
As we begin Sea Otter Awareness Week 2021, Sea Otter Savvy founder and director Gena Bentall tells the story of the return of sea otters to a human-occupied California coast and the challenges of balancing the needs of wildlife and people in a changing world.
Sign-Up Link Coming Soon
MORE 2021 DATES AND PRESENTATIONS COMING SOON!
