Exploring Wildlife and Plant Diversity of Sonoma County Vernal Pools Presentation with Sarah Gordon

Vernal pools are tough environments to survive in, filled with water in the winter and bone dry in the summer. Species that depend on vernal pools have had to learn how to survive these harsh conditions. Join us for this fascinating presentation in Heron Hall to learn about the ecology of vernal pools and the amazing diversity of wildlife and plants that depend on vernal pools for habitat. We will discuss how Sonoma County vernal pools are unique from other areas of California and learn about what the Laguna Foundation is doing to protect and conserve this rare and endangered ecosystem. Hot drinks and light snacks will be provided.

Sarah Gordon is a plant ecologist with experience in seasonal wetland plant ecology and rare plant conservation and mitigation. She completed her M.S. degree at Sonoma State University in 2006 and subsequently worked as a lecturer, research technician and ecological consultant, specializing in botany, rare plants and vernal pool ecosystems, primarily in Sonoma County. Sarah joined the Laguna Foundation staff in 2017 and had been volunteering with the Foundation for over ten years, beginning with the docent training program (where she visited a vernal pool for the first time!) and supporting the Vernal Pool Citizen Science Program. Sarah also volunteers with the Milo Baker Chapter of the California Native Plant Society and serves on their Board of Directors.