SF Events 2007

Event

Dear readers,

Welcome to another list of events, classes, actions, films, conferences, grant deadlines, etc., for your planning convenience. Our searchable website edition of the calendar ( http://www.ecologycenter.org/calendar/ ) contains events further into the future. Please continue to send event listings to calendar@ecologycenter.org and forward any breaking action alerts to alerts@ecologycenter.org .

Check out our online EcoDirectory: http://www.ecologycenter.org/ecodirectory/ . Do you have questions? The EcoDirectory provides resources and referrals for common environmental concerns.

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(the events are listed by date and title, then again below with full descriptions)

ECOLOGY CENTER EVENTS
3/1/2008 Free Worm Composting Workshop
3/2/2008 EcoHouse Tour
3/8/2008 National Nutrition Month Events at the Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market
3/8/2008 Meeting: Bay Area Seed Interchange Library (B.A.S.I.L.)
3/11/2008 National Nutrition Month Events at the Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market
3/18/2008 National Nutrition Month Events at the Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market
3/20/2008 The Natural History of the Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion
3/21/2008 Stomp the Stumps! Benefit Dance Party
3/22/2008 Ferment Change! A Benefit for West Oakland's City Slicker Farms
3/25/2008 National Nutrition Month Events at the Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market
3/29/2008 Compost Give-Away at the Berkeley Farmers' Market
4/6/2008 Home Graywater Systems Slideshow & Tour

ALL EVENTS
Through 3/10/2008 Class: Simplify Your Life
Through 3/22/2008 Environmental Forum of Marin's 2008 Sustainable Communities Seminar
Through 3/24/2008 Earthship Biotecture Training in Jamaica
Through 3/29/2008 Volunteer Training: Bay Interpretive Training
Through 4/4/2008 Art Exhibit: "Jason Austin"
Through 4/6/2008 Exhibit: "Trading Traditions: California's New Cultures"
Through 4/12/2008 Art Exhibit: Americans Who Tell the Truth
Through 7/20/2008 Training: Permaculture Design
Through 1/18/2009 Course: 4 Seasons Permaculture Design Certification
2/29/2008 Compost Give-away at Berkeley Marina
2/29/2008 Volunteer: SPAWN Native Plant Nursery
2/29/2008 Eco-Travel Mixer for Green Professionals
2/29/2008 Bay-Friendly Landscaping and Gardening Conference
2/29/2008 Lecture: Politics, Ethics, and Co-Benefits: Who suffers, who should pay?
3/1/2008 Presentation: Eco-Travel
3/1/2008 Volunteer: Native Plant Propagation
3/1/2008 Workshop: Urban Composting
3/1/2008 Workshop: Hands-On Biodiesel Homebrewing
3/1/2008 White Elephant Sale
3/1/2008 Workshop: Blueberries and Other Small Fruits
3/1/2008 Volunteer: Habitat Restoration with EarthTeam
3/1/2008 Volunteer: NoPa/USF Tree Planting with Friends of the Urban Forest
3/1/2008 Workshop: Glass Collage
3/1/2008 Volunteer: Habitat Restoration in Milagra Ridge
3/1/2008 Free Worm Composting Workshop
3/1/2008 Volunteer: Habitat Restoration at San Geronimo Creek
3/1/2008 Volunteer: Late Winter Planting at San Francisquito Creek
3/1/2008 Educator Workshop: Getting Started School Garden Design
3/1/2008 Conference: Bay Area Environmental Youth Quest
3/1/2008 UCB Botanical Garden Sick Plant Clinic
3/1/2008 Ecological History Tour of San Francisco
3/1/2008 Visitacion Valley Permaculture Workshop
3/1/2008 Workshop: Using Native Plants in the Garden
3/1/2008 Volunteer: Native Planting at Eden Landing
3/1/2008 Film: "Made in L.A."
3/2/2008 Workshop: Hands-on Decolis Lime & Marble Plaster Application
3/2/2008 Film: "Uncounted: The New Math of American Elections"
3/2/2008 Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica
3/2/2008 Meeting: East Bay Tracking Club
3/2/2008 EcoHouse Tour
3/2/2008 Nature Hike at Arastradero Preserve: Animal Tracking
3/2/2008 Volunteer: Ocean Beach Clean-up
3/2/2008 Workshop: Bamboo Trellis Building
3/2/2008 Volunteer: Point Isabel Work Party
3/2/2008 Party with Grandmothers for the Oaks
3/3/2008 Nomination Deadline: Community Leadership Awards
3/3/2008 Workshop: Building Successful Community-Based Food Initiatives
3/3/2008 Presentation: Bay Area Aerial Spraying
3/3/2008 Board Meeting: Friends of Five Creeks
3/3/2008 Lecture: In Defense of Food: The Omnivore's Solution
3/3/2008 Slideshow & Talk: Grazing and Native Ecosystems
3/4/2008 Workshop: How to Design and Deliver Powerful Presentations
3/4/2008 Book Event: The Revolution Will Not Be Funded
3/4/2008 Adoption Informational Workshop
3/4/2008 Film and Discussion: "King Corn"
3/5/2008 Volunteer: Demonstration Garden at the Native Plant Nursery
3/5/2008 Berkeley Climate Plan Workshop--NEW DATE
3/5/2008 San Francisco Permaculture Guild Gathering
3/5/2008 26th Annual Salmonid Restoration Conference
3/5/2008 Book Talk: Wendy Johnson on "Gardening at the Dragon's Gate"
3/5/2008 Talk: Recycling Water with the Rainwater Hog
3/5/2008 Film & Discussion: "King Corn"
3/6/2008 Class: Drought-tolerant Plants
3/6/2008 The Low Carbon Diet--"Lose 5000 pounds in a month!"
3/6/2008 Amory Lovins in conversation with Roy Eisenhardt
3/6/2008 Workshop: Toxic Cleanup at Livermore Lab Site 300
3/6/2008 Seminar: Alternative Water Sources for California
3/6/2008 Talk: The Sustainable Enterprise: The Keys to "Green" Transformation
3/6/2008 Workshop: Zen and the Art of Mushroom Hunting
3/6/2008 Talk: Marion Nestle: What to Eat
3/7/2008 Film: "Tillie Olsen -- A Heart in Action"
3/7/2008 Volunteer: SPAWN Native Plant Nursery
3/7/2008 Discussion Seminar with Marion Nestle
3/7/2008 Nomination Deadline: Growing Smarter Together Awards
3/7/2008 Lecture: Climate Change and Health
3/8/2008 National Nutrition Month Events at the Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market
3/8/2008 Volunteer: Habitat Restoration at San Geronimo Creek
3/8/2008 Volunteer: Arbor Day Tree Planting and Tree Care with Friends of the Urban Forest
3/8/2008 Class: "Monthly Biodynamic Classes"
3/8/2008 Educator Workshop: Groceries from the Garden
3/8/2008 Benefit Concert: Songs of Hope & Struggle
3/8/2008 Volunteer: Habitat Restoration for the San Francisco Garter Snake
3/8/2008 Sea Watch at Louis' Restaurant
3/8/2008 Meeting: Bay Area Seed Interchange Library (B.A.S.I.L.)
3/8/2008 Bee Symposium 2008
3/8/2008 Workshop: Growing Terrific Tomatoes
3/8/2008 Presidio Manzanita Trip
3/8/2008 Bug of the Month Club: Mantis Mania
3/8/2008 Film: "What a Way to Go: Life at the End of Empire"
3/8/2008 Twilight Marsh Walk
3/8/2008 Celebration: International Women's Day
3/8/2008 International Woman's Day at Galeria de la Raza
3/8/2008 Workshop: "Bay-Friendly Gardening Basics"
3/8/2008 Workshop: Natural Pest Control
3/8/2008 Volunteer: Native Plant Demonstration Garden
3/8/2008 Volunteer: Bair Island Paddle and Work Party
3/8/2008 Workshop: "Bay-Friendly Gardening Basics"
3/8/2008 Workshop: Indoor Gardening with Succulents
3/8/2008 Hands-On Workshop: The Living Soil
3/8/2008 Volunteer: Quail Habitat Restoration
3/9/2008 Meeting: Cool Schools Global Warming Campaign
3/9/2008 Ridge to Bridge Bicycle Ride
3/9/2008 Party with Grandmothers for the Oaks
3/9/2008 Volunteer: Prepare Least Tern Habitat at the Alameda Wildlife Refuge
3/10/2008 Course: Introduction to Recycling
3/10/2008 Deadline: Grant Proposals for StopWaste.org Recycling Projects
3/10/2008 Book Talk: "The Great Warming: Climate Change and the Rise and Fall of Civilizations"
3/11/2008 National Nutrition Month Events at the Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market
3/11/2008 Banff Mountain Film Fest to benefit Marin Conservation Corps
3/11/2008 Talk: Global Warming: Lessons from the Past to Predict the Future
3/12/2008 Workshop: Green Home Improvement 101
3/12/2008 Invasive Weeds Awareness Day at the Capitol
3/12/2008 Workshop: "Lead-Safety for Remodeling, Repair & Painting of Older Homes"
3/12/2008 Volunteer: Plant Natives
3/12/2008 Talk: How to Fight Climate Change Without Soaking the Middle Class
3/12/2008 Book Talk: The Top 25 Censored Stories
3/13/2008 Slideshow and Talk: Wildlife of Golden Gate Park: Why We Need a Management Plan
3/13/2008 Dialogue: Let's Examine the Issues: Water Quantity & Quality
3/13/2008 Talk: Climate Change and Our Water
3/13/2008 Talk: "Biofuels: Energy, Food People"
3/13/2008 Slideshow & Music: Patagonia's Wild Rivers
3/14/2008 California Straw Building Association (CASBA) Spring Conference
3/14/2008 National Pesticide Forum: Reclaiming Our Healthy Future
3/14/2008 Workshop: Sustainability & Healthcare
3/14/2008 Lecture: Climate Change and Health: Critiques of Epidemiological Methods
3/14/2008 Volunteer: SPAWN Native Plant Nursery
3/15/2008 UC Botanical Garden's School Garden Conference
3/15/2008 Permaculture Design Two-Week Intensive
3/15/2008 Bowl-The-Planet and Silent Auction
3/15/2008 Workshop: Organic Fruit Tree Care: Training the Young & the Old
3/15/2008 Planning for the Future of Muir Woods
3/15/2008 Eco-Career Day for High School Students
3/15/2008 Direct Action and Rally against Chevron Refinery Expansion
3/15/2008 Workshop: Planning Your Garden
3/15/2008 Workshop: Companion Planting
3/15/2008 Volunteer: Habitat Restoration at San Geronimo Creek
3/15/2008 Volunteer: Weed the Wetlands at Santa Venetia Marsh
3/15/2008 Application Deadline: Young Climate Leaders
3/15/2008 Workshop: "Gardening from the Ground Up"
3/15/2008 Workshop: "Go Native - Planting for Pollinators"
3/15/2008 Volunteer: South of Market Tree Planting with Friends of the Urban Forest
3/15/2008 Seminar: "Alternative Materials: Cob and Strawbale"
3/15/2008 Educator Workshop: Kids in Gardens
3/15/2008 Teacher Training: Wild in the Wilderness
3/15/2008 Exhibit: Fibers and Dyes
3/15/2008 Exhibition: In Our Own Backyard: A Celebration of the East Bay Regional Parks
3/16/2008 Community Labyrinth Peace Walk
3/16/2008 Workshop: Garden Garments
3/16/2008 Work Party: Bernal Hilltop Native Grassland Restoration Project
3/16/2008 Party with Grandmothers for the Oaks

ECOLOGY CENTER EVENTS

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Free Worm Composting Workshop — Come on down and get the scoop on worm composting from the expert compost teachers from the Alameda County Composting Program. Worm composting can be an especially good choice for apartment dwellers and others lacking yard space. Find out how to compost kitchen scraps into free, nutritious fertilizer using red wiggler worms. The class is geared for beginners but those who already compost with worms and need advice are welcome too. Location: Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley. Time: 10am - 12pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-548-2220 x233.

Sunday, March 2, 2008
EcoHouse Tour — Tour the Ecology Center's environmentally friendly demonstration site. Learn about a broad-spectrum of simple improvements that can be made to an urban home. The tour includes: Berkeley's first city-permitted wetland / greywater system, solar panels, on-demand water heater, water saving fixtures, natural and recycled building materials, water catchment strategies, ducks in the city, a living roof garden, organic permaculture gardening, native drought tolerant plants, mushroom cultivation, and more. Note: The interior of the home is not included on the tour. MUST register by 2/29/08 for either the 10am or the 1pm tour. Time: Begins at 10am and at 1pm. Cost: $10 sliding scale, no one refused for lack of funds. Info: 510-548-2220 x242, ecohouse@ecologycenter.org , http://ecologycenter.org/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
National Nutrition Month Events at the Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market — Cooking demonstrations, free samples, and free copies of recipes that are easy, delicious, inexpensive, & seasonal. "Be Fit Berkeley" with Cooking Demonstrations of Hearty Winter Greens with Garlic & Lemon by Chef Sandy Zeldes, Certified Nutrition Consultant & proprietor of Blossom Green, 11am to 1pm; City of Berkeley, Health Dept. diabetes and hypertension screening; and Berkeley City Council members. Sponsored by the Berkeley Nutrition Coalition [City of Berkeley Health Dept., Berkeley Unified School District, Ecology Center/Berkeley Farmers' Market/Farm Fresh Choice, Berkeley Community Gardening Collaborative, and the "Eat Better Today" Farmers' Market Project (a statewide project of the Ecology Center promoting nutrition to food stamp recipients and encouraging food stamp recipients to shop at local farmers' markets that accept the EBT food stamp card)] in cooperation with the Network for a Healthy California (a state program promoting healthy active families through the daily eating of fresh fruits and vegetables). (Please note that the Tuesday & Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market are at different locations.) Convenient public transportation: 1 block from the Downtown Berkeley BART Station, many buses on MLK and Shattuck, street parking. The Berkeley Farmers' Markets proudly accept EBT food stamp cards and WIC farmers' market nutrition program vouchers. About BFM: A program of the Ecology Center since 1987, offering a wide range of mostly organic produce and healthy, locally-produced foods; together with educational events, cooking demonstrations, and live music, these award-winning markets serve as a central meeting place for the members of our diverse and vibrant community. Location: Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market, Center St. at MLK Jr. Way, Berkeley. Time: 10am - 3pm. Cost: Free (as always). Info: 510-548-3333, http://www.ecologycenter.org/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Meeting: Bay Area Seed Interchange Library (B.A.S.I.L.) — You are invited to a planning/organizing meeting for B.A.S.I.L.. Come share ideas and help us strategize. Put your energies and visions into this important project. Location: Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley. Time: 4pm. Info: 510-658-9178, http://www.ecologycenter.org/basil/ .

Tuesday, March 11, 2008
National Nutrition Month Events at the Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market — Cooking demonstrations, free samples, and free copies of recipes that are easy, delicious, inexpensive, & seasonal. "Eat Better Today" Booth (2pm-6pm) and Cooking Demonstration at 2:30pm by HuNia Bradley, Co-Manager of Farm Fresh Choice & Chef/CEO of HuNia's Divine Soul Kitchen. Preparing: Collard Greens Salad. Sponsored by the Berkeley Nutrition Coalition [City of Berkeley Health Dept., Berkeley Unified School District, Ecology Center/Berkeley Farmers' Market/Farm Fresh Choice, Berkeley Community Gardening Collaborative, and the "Eat Better Today" Farmers' Market Project (a statewide project of the Ecology Center promoting nutrition to food stamp recipients and encouraging food stamp recipients to shop at local farmers' markets that accept the EBT food stamp card)] in cooperation with the Network for a Healthy California (a state program promoting healthy active families through the daily eating of fresh fruits and vegetables). (Please note that the Tuesday & Saturday Farmers' Market are at different locations.) Convenient public transportation: 5 blocks from the Ashby BART Station, many buses on MLK and Shattuck, street parking. The Berkeley Farmers' Markets proudly accept EBT food stamp cards and WIC farmers' market nutrition program vouchers. Location: Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market, Derby St. at MLK, Jr. Way, Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 6pm. Cost: Free (as always). Info: 510-548-3333, http://www.ecologycenter.org/ .

Tuesday, March 18, 2008
National Nutrition Month Events at the Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market — Cooking demonstrations, free samples, and free copies of recipes that are easy, delicious, inexpensive, & seasonal. Cooking Demonstrations at 2:30pm and 3:30pm: Chef Michael Bauce, Berkeley Unified School District (BUSD) cooking instructor at Thousand Oaks School; macrobiotic chef at Manzanita Restaurant, Oakland; and One Peaceful World Private Chef. Preparing: Chinese Greens with Ginger & Sesame Seeds. Sponsored by the Berkeley Nutrition Coalition [City of Berkeley Health Dept., Berkeley Unified School District, Ecology Center/Berkeley Farmers' Market/Farm Fresh Choice, Berkeley Community Gardening Collaborative, and the "Eat Better Today" Farmers' Market Project (a statewide project of the Ecology Center promoting nutrition to food stamp recipients and encouraging food stamp recipients to shop at local farmers' markets that accept the EBT food stamp card)] in cooperation with the Network for a Healthy California (a state program promoting healthy active families through the daily eating of fresh fruits and vegetables). (Please note that the Tuesday & Saturday Farmers' Market are at different locations.) Convenient public transportation: 5 blocks from the Ashby BART Station, many buses on MLK and Shattuck, street parking. The Berkeley Farmers' Markets proudly accept EBT food stamp cards and WIC farmers' market nutrition program vouchers. Location: Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market, Derby St. at MLK, Jr. Way, Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 6pm. Cost: Free (as always). Info: 510-548-3333, http://www.ecologycenter.org/ .

Thursday, March 20, 2008
The Natural History of the Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion — In the Klamath-Siskiyous, very unusual natural features, such as metal-rich serpentine and peridotite rocks, multiple climactic influences, and a mixed and jumbled geology create a complex mosaic of habitats with fascinating plant and animal species. The Klamath-Siskiyous are home to a diversity of bird species, and 280 of the more than 3,100 plant species endemic to the area. Please join us to learn more about this interesting bioregion from the folks from the Siskiyou Field Institute (SFI). The Siskiyou Field Institute (SFI) provides engaging field-science programs about the Klamath-Siskiyou bioregion of southern Oregon and northern California. SFI will share stories from the field as they take you on a tour of their facility and the natural history of the Klamath Knot. Location: Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley. Time: 7pm - 9pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-548-2220 x233.

Friday, March 21, 2008
Stomp the Stumps! Benefit Dance Party — Celebrate forest activism and the spring equinox dancing to 3 great bands: Grapefruit Ed (special appearance!), the Funky Nixons and the Gary Gates Band. All ages club. Benefits Bay Area Coalition for Headwaters & Earth First! Advance tickets at ticketweb.com. Location: Ashkenaz, 1317 San Pablo Ave., @ Gilman, Berkeley. Time: 8pm. Cost: $15 at door, $12 in advance and for students. Info: 510-548-3113, http://www.ashkenaz.com/ .

Saturday, March 22, 2008
Ferment Change! A Benefit for West Oakland's City Slicker Farms — Come join us for a fermented food feast and celebration of Urban Agriculture to Benefit West Oakland's City Slicker Farms "growing fresh and affordable produce for West Oakland". There will be a presentation on the work of City Slicker Farms by founder Willow Roesenthal, a slide show of international urban agricultural by UCB lecturer Nathan McClintock, live music by Zoyres Eastern European Wild Ferment, and a live ferment workshop. Bring a fermented food and get entered in a drawing to win Homebrew, Sauerkraut, Plant Starts, and Gift Certificates to the Berkeley Farmer's Market. Location: Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley. Time: 7pm - 10pm. Cost: A donation of $10-30 sliding scale is requested, no one turned away due to lack of funds.. Info: 510-548-2220 x233, max@ecologycenter.org .

Tuesday, March 25, 2008
National Nutrition Month Events at the Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market — Cooking demonstrations, free samples, and free copies of recipes that are easy, delicious, inexpensive, & seasonal. Cooking Demonstrations from 2pm to 4pm: Joy Moore, healthy food activist & KPFA Radio personality. Preparing: Beets & Beet Greens. Sponsored by the Berkeley Nutrition Coalition [City of Berkeley Health Dept., Berkeley Unified School District, Ecology Center/Berkeley Farmers' Market/Farm Fresh Choice, Berkeley Community Gardening Collaborative, and the "Eat Better Today" Farmers' Market Project (a statewide project of the Ecology Center promoting nutrition to food stamp recipients and encouraging food stamp recipients to shop at local farmers' markets that accept the EBT food stamp card)] in cooperation with the Network for a Healthy California (a state program promoting healthy active families through the daily eating of fresh fruits and vegetables). (Please note that the Tuesday & Saturday Farmers' Market are at different locations.) Convenient public transportation: 5 blocks from the Ashby BART Station, many buses on MLK and Shattuck, street parking. The Berkeley Farmers' Markets proudly accept EBT food stamp cards and WIC farmers' market nutrition program vouchers. Location: Tuesday Berkeley Farmers' Market, Derby St. at MLK, Jr. Way, Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 6pm. Cost: Free (as always). Info: 510-548-3333, http://www.ecologycenter.org/ .

Saturday, March 29, 2008
Compost Give-Away at the Berkeley Farmers' Market — Bring your own container-two buckets are suggested or large garbage bags. (Please backyard amateur gardeners only and no professionals). Sponsored by the Berkeley Community Gardening Collaborative. Location: Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market, Center St. at MLK Jr. Way, Berkeley. Time: 10am - 3pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-548-3333, http://www.ecologycenter.org/bcgc/ .

Sunday, April 6, 2008
Home Graywater Systems Slideshow & Tour — Learn about the permitted greywater system at the Ecohouse. This system is the first residential constructed wetland/greywater system in the State of California and the first greywater system in Berkeley to be permitted. We will discuss the principles and process of safely irrigating with shower, bathroom sink, and laundry waste water. The workshop includes a 1 hour slide show presentation of greywater design and the application process. Return home with ideas and plans of your own! PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED. MUST register by 5pm on 4/4/08 for either the 10am OR the 1pm tour. Near North Berkeley BART. Time: Begins at 10am or 1pm. Cost: $15 sliding scale, no one turned away for lack of funds. Info: 510-548-2220 ext. 242, ecohouse@ecologycenter.org , http://ecologycenter.org/ .

ALL EVENTS

Through Monday, March 10, 2008
Class: Simplify Your Life — After an introductory session, the following four sessions will each be devoted to specific topics. Financial management will be discussed the second session, and decluttering the third session. Other possible topics, depending on what the class prefers, are alternative/small homes, reducing expenses, opting out of the consumer trap, alternatives to buying from corporations, buying and eating locally, and researching what other people have done to simplify. Handouts will be provided, including a bibliography. Students may borrow several books on simple living available from the instructor. Instructor: Katherine McKay, a long-time advocate of simple living. This class is presented by Las Positas College Community Education Program, and is not for credit. Classes will be held Monday evenings (no class on Presidents' Day). Sign up via email. Location: Las Positas College, 3033 Collier Canyon Drive, Livermore. Time: 6:30pm - 9pm. Cost: $89. Info: commed@laspositascollege.edu , http://laspositas.augusoft.net/index.cfm?fuseaction=1013&courseid=894 .

Through Saturday, March 22, 2008
Environmental Forum of Marin's 2008 Sustainable Communities Seminar — The 2008 Sustainable Communities Seminar takes place over seven Saturdays and features presentation and instruction from three dozen local environmental leaders and teachers who will explain the practical and scientific reasons for incorporating environmentally sustainable decisions in our lives. This course is offered primarily to inform and to inspire. While there are no tests and no mandatory reading, extensive resources and recommended readings are provided for each day's focus topic. Each class is devoted to one overarching subject, with each building upon the other in order to provide you with the most fruitful learning experience possible. Online registration has begun; space is limited. Location: Environmental Forum of Marin, San Rafael. Time: 9am - 2pm. Cost: $250. Info: 415-479-7814, SeminarAdmissions@MarinEFM.org , http://marinefm.org/workshopseries.html .

Through Monday, March 24, 2008
Earthship Biotecture Training in Jamaica — Earthship Biotecture will be starting a project in Negril, Jamaica in February 2008. The Earthship Commando team from our headquarters in Taos, New Mexico led by Earthship inventor Michael Reynolds will spend three weeks building an Earthship structure. There will be positions available for eight trainees for each of the three weeks. Session 1: February 25th-29th, Session 2: March 3rd-7th, Session 3: March 10th-14th. Cost: $350/wk, not including room and board. Info: http://www.earthship.net/ .

Through Saturday, March 29, 2008
Volunteer Training: Bay Interpretive Training — Hands-on training sessions covering the history of the Bay, marine habitats, bayshore plant and animal life, and more, with an emphasis on teaching using artifacts and live animals. Location: Shorebird Park Nature Center, 160 University Ave, at the Marina, Berkeley. Cost: $49. Info: 510-981-6720, pdonald@ci.berkeley.ca.us , www.cityofberkeley.info/marina .

Through Friday, April 4, 2008
Art Exhibit: "Jason Austin" — Featuring 40 works by Visual Artist Jason Austin. Location: EBMUD, 375 11th Street, Second Floor, Oakland. Info: http://www.mesart.com/indexps.jsp?artist=2983 .

Through Sunday, April 6, 2008
Exhibit: "Trading Traditions: California's New Cultures" — The exhibition explores the fusion of California's new communities, highlighting -- through photographs, artifacts, and sound -- the interethnic connections that symbolize the richness of California's diversity. Based on the book Under the Dragon (Heyday Books), the exhibition features the photographs of Lonny Shavelson, commentary by Fred Setterberg, and sound design by James LeBrecht. Location: Oakland Museum of CA, 1000 Oak St., @ 10th St., Oakland. Info: 510-238-2200, http://www.museumca.org/ .

Through Saturday, April 12, 2008
Art Exhibit: Americans Who Tell the Truth — Portraits by Maine artist, Robert Shetterly. This exhibition features 30 of the 68 portraits Shetterly painted of American truth tellers including images of Paul Robeson, Harriet Tubman, and W.E.B. DuBois. Amongst Shetterly's collection are local Bay Area truth tellers including Lateefah Simmons, James Bell, Daniel Ellsberg, Eva Patterson, and Cesar Chavez. Reception will also feature local truth tellers (Eva Royale will be representing Cesar Chavez), as well as spoken word performances and remarks from the artist. In the Sargent Johnson Gallery. Opening Reception on 2/1/08, 6pm-8pm. Location: African and African-American Art and Culture Complex, 762 Fulton St., SF. Info: 415-922-2049, info@aaacc.org , http://www.aaacc.org/ .

Through Sunday, July 20, 2008
Training: Permaculture Design — Join us on the third weekends of the month, 2/08-7/08, for EarthFlow's Santa Cruz Permaculture Design Certificate Course Series. Part One: 2/16+17 & 3/15+16: Fire, Water, Earth & Air... Introduction to Permaculture and Natural Pattern Understanding. Part Two: 4/19+20 & 5/17+18: Food, Water, Shelter & Energy... Designing & Building the Complete Home Ecosystem. Part Three: 6/21+22 & 7/19+20: Community & Green Business... EcoVillage Design and Community Celebration. Meets 9am-5pm Sat and 10am-5pm Sun. Location: Santa Cruz. Cost: $90 per day, $175 per weekend, $950 for all six weekends (pre-paid in full). Info: http://earthflow.com/santacruzPDC08.php .

Through Sunday, January 18, 2009
Course: 4 Seasons Permaculture Design Certification — An opportunity to take a Permaculture Design Certification Course over a full year of nature's rhythms on a budding permaculture farm. Learn how to observe and use the same principles that make ecological systems self-sustaining, and apply them to integrated homes and gardens. In addition, you will learn how to apply these principles to energy systems and water supplies, healthy communities, meaningful and fulfilling work, ecological economies and global political movements for change. The course weaves together the principles and practices of permaculture with wilderness awareness - explore tracking and participate in activities that deepen your awareness and intimacy with the rest of the natural world. Starts 2/23-24/08 and continues one Sunday per month through 1/09. Instructors: Penny Livingston-Stark, Lydia Neilsen, Lauren Dalberth, David Hage, Matt Berry and others! Details and application available online. Location: Commonweal Garden, Bolinas. Cost: $1100 for 13-day program. Info: 415-868-9681, http://www.regenerativedesign.org/courses-events/permaculture .

Friday, February 29, 2008
Compost Give-away at Berkeley Marina — Free compost giveaway at the Berkeley Marina, last Friday of each month, weather permitting, beginning in February and continuing through October. 8:45am-2:45pm, with first priority given to Berkeley Unified School District and Berkeley Community Gardens. Tractor operator on site until 11:45am, self-serve after 11:45am. Location: Berkeley Marina Maintenance Yard, 201 University Ave, Next to Adventure Playground, Berkeley. Time: 8:45am - 2:45pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-981-6660.

Friday, February 29, 2008
Volunteer: SPAWN Native Plant Nursery — Volunteer at SPAWN's Native Plant Nursery. All plants from Nursery will be used to help restore local watersheds. Bring Gloves, weather appropriate clothing, water. RSVP via email. Location: Lagunitas. Time: 10am - 1pm. Info: 415-663-8590 x107, jenny@spawnusa.org , http://www.spawnusa.org/ .

Friday, February 29, 2008
Eco-Travel Mixer for Green Professionals — 5-day Cancun, Mexico Vacation Giveaway. W.L. Taylor Construction, Inc. invites you to a business networking mixer and complimentary lunch. Mingle with other Bay Area "green" professionals. Learn how to get huge discounts on travel to places like Costa Rica, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and Alaska. Location: Green Building Exchange, 305 Main Street, Redwood City. Time: 11am - 2pm. Cost: Free (includes complementary lunch). Info: 408-888-8058.

Friday, February 29, 2008
Bay-Friendly Landscaping and Gardening Conference — Discover how Bay-Friendly Landscaping can help you cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce waste, conserve water and prevent pollution. Session topics will include: Bay-Friendly practices for nurturing the soil; innovations in irrigation for making every drop of water count; anatomy of a Bay-Friendly Landscape; beyond ladybugs and lacewings: an in-depth look at beneficial insects. Who should attend: public and private landscape professionals, city planners and advanced home gardeners. Workshop fee includes lunch and all conference materials. Register online. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Student Union, Berkeley. Time: 8am - 5pm. Cost: $75. Info: http://www.stopwaste.org/home/index.asp?page=787 .

Friday, February 29, 2008
Lecture: Politics, Ethics, and Co-Benefits: Who suffers, who should pay? — With Kirk R. Smith, Director, Health, Environment, and Development Program, UCB. Part of the UCB/School of Public Health Lecture series on Climate Change for Health Scientists. Location: 2319 Tolman Hall. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 3:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-643-9016, http://events.berkeley.edu/?event_ID=6593&view-prevew .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Presentation: Eco-Travel — A presentation on getting started in eco-travel and a chance to meet company leaders and motivational speakers. Location: Green Building Exchange, 305 Main Street, Redwood City. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: Free. Info: 408-888-8058.

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Volunteer: Native Plant Propagation — Native plant propagation for Pier 94 and community garden work, followed at 1pm by a barbecue hosted by Literacy for Environmental Justice (LEJ). Bring a food item to grill. Location: Literacy for Environmental Justice Nursery, 1150 Carroll Ave, SF. Time: 10am - 2pm. Info: jrobinson@goldengateaudubon.org .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Workshop: Urban Composting — Join Garden For the Environment for a fun, hands-on workshop teaching basic methods of both backyard and worm composting including bin set up and maintenance, what goes in (and what doesn't) and how to get your heap cooking! Compost is a rich soil amendment that will greatly benefit your garden plants, houseplants, and the environment, by diverting compostable material from the landfill. Learn how to turn those food scraps or fallen leaves into "gardeners gold". Rot on! Call or email to pre-register or for more information. Location: Garden for the Environment, 7th Ave., @ Lawton St., SF. Time: 10am - Noon. Cost: Free. Info: 415-731-5627, info@gardenfortheenvironment.org , http://www.gardenfortheenvironment.org/ .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Workshop: Hands-On Biodiesel Homebrewing — This class gives you the hands on experience you need to start making your own high quality fuel. Topics Include: We will Demo & Practice: Basic Chemistry of Making Biodiesel; Oil Quality Testing - Free Fatty Acid Titration and Quantitative Water Test; Calculations for Methanol and Catalyst Use; Understanding trade-offs; Fuel Quality Testing For Conversion; Washing Techniques; Separating Fuel From Glycerol and Water; Processor Operation; Avoiding & Breaking Emulsion; Processor Design & Building Tips; Basic Safety Guidelines; Using Biodiesel in Your Diesel Vehicle. This class combines lab, practical, theory and Q&A. Recommended Resources: http://www.biodieselcommunity.org , http://biodiesel.infopop.cc , http://bayareabiodieselsupply.com , http://www.b100supply.com . Taught by Andrew Morris. Limit 8 Participants. Register via email. Location: Oakland. Time: 9:30am - 5:30pm. Cost: $90, 2nd person from same household 1/2 price. Info: morris1524@yahoo.com .

Saturday, March 1, 2008 - Sunday, March 2, 2008
White Elephant Sale — The White Elephant Sale is the biggest, the best, and certainly the most enjoyable rummage sale in Northern California. All proceeds from the sale go to support programs and exhibitions at the Oakland Museum of California. For donation information please call (510) 536-6800, or, for large donations please call our van at (510) 839-5919 for pickups. Location: White Elephant Sale Warehouse, 333 Lancaster Street, Oakland. Time: 10am - 4pm. Info: 510-536-6800, http://www.museumca.org/events/elephant.html .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Workshop: Blueberries and Other Small Fruits — Learn how to select, plant, and maintain blueberries and other wonderful small fruits for home growing. Instructor Nancy Garrison will cover her favorite delectables such as Chilean guavas, mulberries, autumn olives (Eleagnus multiflora), raspberries and white sapote. Included in the instruction will be special soil preparations, best varieties for the Peninsula and South Bay, and trellising techniques for raspberries. (1.5 CEUs). Nancy has a vast knowledge of growing blueberries and raspberries locally based on years of research with the University of California Cooperative Extension and in her home garden. Register by phone. Location: Common Ground, 559 College Ave, Palo Alto. Time: 2pm - 4pm. Cost: $25. Info: 650-493-6072, www.commongroundinpaloalto.org/ .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Volunteer: Habitat Restoration with EarthTeam — Join EarthTeam's Restoration Initiative for an environmental service project at Strentzel Meadow. Email or call for more info or to register. Location: Martinez. Time: 9:30am - 12:30pm. Info: 510-704-4030, trisha@earthteam.net , http://www.earthteam.net/ .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Volunteer: NoPa/USF Tree Planting with Friends of the Urban Forest — Breakfast/lunch is provided! Call for meeting location and to RSVP. Location: SF. Time: 9am - Noon. Info: 415-561-6890 ext 110, http://www.fuf.net/calendar_news/index.html .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Workshop: Glass Collage — Learn to cut glass and create decorative and expressive glass panels, jewelry or sculpture using stained glass techniques to frame handmade art work. We will work with collage materials decorative papers, magazine images, thin metal, and paints, pencils, and markers to create the work. You will then sandwich the work between glass and frame it using copper foil techniques and solder. We will work on various themes to create the collages and then construct the piece. Beginners and intermediate students welcome. Bring personal imagery, photographs on acetate (make copies at any copy place), or any other flat materials you wish to include. Instructor Reddy Lieb is an artist who has been working in glass for over 20 years. In 2000 she was awarded a residency at the Sanitary Fill Company. Two-part workshop meets two Saturdays, 3/1+3/8. Class size is limited and classes fill up quickly, call to reserve a space. Location: SCRAP, 801 Toland St., entrance on Newcomb, between Toland and Selby, SF. Time: 1pm - 4pm. Cost: $30 materials fee. Info: 415-647-1746, scrap@scrap-sf.org , http://www.scrap-sf.org/ .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Volunteer: Habitat Restoration in Milagra Ridge — Check out the early wildflower bloom and stunning views atop this wind blown ridge, while restoring habitat for the endangered Mission blue butterfly and the endangered San Bruno Elfin butterfly. Join Sue Gardner of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy at Milagra Ridge in northern Pacifica. Dress in warm layers, wear sturdy shoes and bring lots of friends! We provide snacks, tools and gloves. Meeting spot is at the Milagra Ridge entrance gate off Sharp Park Road. A carpool from Fort Mason (leaving at 9:15am) is available. RSVP by phone required. Location: Milagra Ridge, Pacifica. Time: 10am - 1pm. Info: 415-561-3067, http://ggnrabigyear.org/calendar.html .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Volunteer: Habitat Restoration at San Geronimo Creek — Volunteers needed to help restore native habitat in Marin County's San Geronimo Creek. We will meet at Roy's Pools on the San Geronimo Valley Golf Course. Directions from 101: Take Sir Francis Drake to Fairfax. Continue on SF Drake ~5 mi West of Fairfax (over the big hill, past the Golf Course). Just past the golf course, make a left onto Nicasio Valley Drive, then left onto San Geronimo Valley Drive. Roy's Pools is on the left hand side. What to bring: Warm clothing, long pants, long sleeves, work gloves, sturdy shoes, a water bottle, or any other appropriate gear for weather conditions. Call or email for more information. Rain cancels. Time: 10am - 1pm. Info: 415-663-8590 x107, kevin@spawnusa.org , www.spawnusa.org .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Volunteer: Late Winter Planting at San Francisquito Creek — We are in the final days of planting season. Help plant natives like tufted hairgrass and blue elderberry along the paths at the Baylands. Other projects include removing non-native vegetation and site monitoring. This unique wetland habitat was saved from development in the 1950s and is now home to many native species, including shorebirds and anadromous fish such as steelhead trout. In partnership with the City of Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve. Location: Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, End of Embarcadero Rd., Palo Alto. Time: 9am - noon. Info: 510-452-9261 ext. 119, http://www.savesfbay.org/bayevents .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Educator Workshop: Getting Started School Garden Design — We'll help you design and build a green school garden from the ground up in this half-day course. Learn how to plan your garden space, obtain and use recycled building materials in your garden, and how to set-up your own drip irrigation system. You will receive a course binder that includes basic layout and elements of school garden planning, finding and using recycled materials in building your garden, how to prepare and care for your soil using compost and other amendments, and strategies for water conservation (including drip irrigation). Reserve your space online, or by phone or email. Location: St. Elizabeth High School, Oakland. Time: 9am - 12:30pm. Cost: $29. Info: 510-665-3430, workshops@thewatershedproject.org , http://www.thewatershedproject.org/default/ .

Saturday, March 1, 2008 - Sunday, March 2, 2008
Conference: Bay Area Environmental Youth Quest — High school youth leaders from across the Bay Area lead and participate in interactive workshops about environmental science and current environmental and social justice issues at Youth Quest. Participants gain new knowledge and action strategies to implement in their home communities. Guest speakers, performers, games, guided hikes, and stewardship projects round out this amazing community-building experience. Registration materials online. Location: Headlands Institute, Marin Headlands. Cost: $55 (some scholarships available). Info: 415-332-5771, http://yni.org/hi/teen/conference .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
UCB Botanical Garden Sick Plant Clinic — UC Botanical Garden experts diagnose your plant woes the first Saturday of every month. Location: UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley. Time: 9am - noon. Cost: Free. Info: 510-643-2755 x03, http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Ecological History Tour of San Francisco — CounterPULSE and Shaping San Francisco director Chris Carlsson will conduct a 4-hour historical tour of San Francisco by bicycle. Bring a snack and water, and call to reserve your spot! Location: CounterPULSE, 1310 Mission St., at 9th Street, SF. Time: Noon - 4pm. Cost: $15-$50 sliding scale. Info: 415-608-9035, http://www.counterpulse.org/shapingSF.shtml#biketours .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Visitacion Valley Permaculture Workshop — How To Install A Washing Machine Based Greywater System: Site Design and Hands-On Plumbing Installation. Offered by Brett Stephens of San Francisco Landscapes (http://sflandscapes.com) and Natives Spaces (http://www.nativespaces.org). Also included: a casual tour of Brett's experiment-in-progress backyard filtration system & living machine, snail ranching, mushroom spawning, bunker bagging and water gardening! 256 Talbert near Sunnydale Avenue, SF. T-Third MUNI Metro line, Sunnydale Avenue Station; 9 San Bruno bus. RSVP by email -- space is limited. Location: SF. Time: 12:30pm - 3:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: brett2012@hotmail.com .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Workshop: Using Native Plants in the Garden — Explore using California native plants for their beauty and appropriateness in our Mediterranean climate. Included is an overview of how Native Americans shaped the landscape of California, from creating and restoring habitats for local wildlife to using natives for potential sources of food, dyes, medicines, and fiber. A list and description of natives that work well in the Bay Area will be included along with cultural information on how to work with them. 1.5 CEUs. Location: Common Ground, 559 College Ave, Palo Alto. Time: 10:30am - 12:30pm. Cost: $25. Info: 650-493-6072, www.commongroundinpaloalto.org/ .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Volunteer: Native Planting at Eden Landing — In partnership with the California Department of Fish and Game. Restoring this former salt pond will increase habitat for threatened and endangered waterfowl, shorebirds and fish, and provide recreation opportunities. Help restore this important habitat area. Our goal is to plant 5,000 native wetland plants this winter, such as alkali heath, jaumea and salt grass. Other activities include picking up trash and debris, removing non-native plants, and site monitoring. RSVP. Location: Eden Landing Ecological Reserve, Hayward. Time: 9am - noon. Info: 510-452-9261 x119, bayevents@savesfbay.org , http://www.savesfbay.org .

Saturday, March 1, 2008
Film: "Made in L.A." — Made in L.A. follows the story of three Latina immigrants working in Los Angeles garment sweatshops as they embark on a three-year odyssey to win basic labor protections from a mega-trendy clothing retailer. Made in L.A. reveals the impact of the struggle on each woman's life as they are gradually transformed by the experience. Made in L.A. is a story about immigration, the power of unity, and the courage it takes to find your voice. In Spanish and English with bilingual subtitles. In person: Filmmakers Almudena Carracedo and Robert Bahar. Preceded by local short film, Victims of Fashion, Produced in BAVC's NEXT GEN YouthLink Program. Victims of Fashion is about local sweatshops and the effects they have on the workers and our economy. Our goal is to raise awareness that the problem is not only in developing countries, but a local problem as well. Co-presented with Global Exchange, Instituto Laboral de la Raza, Active Voice, and California Newsreel. Location: Brava Theater, 2781 24th St., between York and Hampshire, SF. Time: 7pm - 9pm. Cost: $5-$10 sliding scale. Info: http://www.brava.org/joomla1013/index.php .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Workshop: Hands-on Decolis Lime & Marble Plaster Application — Green Fusion will host a Hands-on Plaster Application Workshop on Decolis Lime & Marble Plaster, taught by Plaster Artisan Lin Spier. Decolis Plaster is a beautiful French lime plaster that looks similar to a venetian plaster. Green Fusion currently has this plaster on display in the bedding section of the store. Register by phone. Location: Green Fusion Design Center, 20 Greenfield Ave, San Anselmo. Time: 9am - 4pm. Cost: $250. Info: 415-454-0174, http://www.greenfusiondesigncenter.com/events.htm .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Film: "Uncounted: The New Math of American Elections" — A new documentary that shows how the election fraud that changed the outcome of the 2004 election led to an even greater fraud in 2006 and now looms as an unbridled threat to the outcome of the 2008 election. Director David Earnhardt will be present at all screenings for Q&A. Shows at 2pm, 4pm, 7:15pm, & 9:30pm. Location: Red Vic Movie House, 1727 Haight St., SF. Cost: $8.50 general, $6.50 2pm shows, $5 seniors & children. Info: 415-668-3994, http://www.redvicmoviehouse.com/ .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica — Save the Rainforest one vacation at a time -- your presence at Guaria contributes to the success of our biodiversity projects and benefit ground-level community efforts. Retreat includes: heart opening classes; yoga-meditation classes; one on one-yoga tune-ups; experiential forest hikes and ocean/river adventures; surfing, swimming, and snorkeling; lectures - exercises on inner peace and levity; 8 days/7 nights stay at Guaria de Osa surrounded by tropical rainforest, beaches, abundant bird watching, and amazing wildlife! Guaria de Osa is a road-less location, far away from city lights, pollution, stores, shopping, unnatural noises. Our buildings are constructed of wood from fallen trees; powered by sunlight; right off the beach surrounded by big rainforest trees, a garden full of fruit trees, flowers, healing plants and Ylang Ylang perfuming the campus; unique architecture built from reclaimed hardwoods; a magnificent yoga space. Cost: $1600. Info: 888-246-7059, kristajanehoffs@hotmail.com , http://www.guariadeosa.com/ .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Meeting: East Bay Tracking Club — The East Bay Tracking Club will meet at the Emery Point parking lot, across West Frontage Road at the westernmost end of Ashby Avenue. We will scout the beach for good tracks and sign, then carpool up to Tilden Nature Area for more tracking. All ages and skill levels welcome. Email for more information. Time: 7:30am. Cost: Free. Info: jredmane@gmail.com .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Nature Hike at Arastradero Preserve: Animal Tracking — Many of our most fascinating animals are the hardest to see. Learn the difference between coyote and bobcat footprints. Interpret scat and owl pellets, and explore the mysterious world of animal sights and signs! All ages welcome. Limit 15 participants -- pre-registration by email required. Location: Arastradero Preserve, Palo Alto. Time: 1pm - 3pm. Cost: $10. Info: arastradero@acterra.org , http://www.acterra.org/arastradero/volunteer.html .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Volunteer: Ocean Beach Clean-up — Help SF Surfrider Foundation keep Ocean Beach clean! The clean-up will focus on removing litter left on the beach in order to prevent plastic materials from entering the ocean and damaging the marine ecosystem. Snacks and drinks, in addition to all needed materials will be provided. If you expect to bring a group of more than 5 volunteers, please contact us so that we can plan to have sufficient supplies. Steady rain cancels. Location: Great American Highway and Taraval. Location: Ocean Beach, SF. Time: 10am - Noon. Info: Melissa.leggett@gmail.com , http://www.sfsurfrider.org/prog_cleanup.htm .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Workshop: Bamboo Trellis Building — Meet in the People's Park Community Garden. Location: People's Park, Haste St. above Telegraph Ave., Berkeley. Time: 2pm. Info: terricompost@yahoo.com .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Volunteer: Point Isabel Work Party — The work done on removing ice plant in one location has been very successful and looks to us as if we could finish that space up in one or possibly two more events. The Cape Ivy eradication is looking good, but we've taken a closer look and found it in other areas. This is a great time to be pulling it as it's easy to see and untangled in Broom. This plant is one of the worst out there because it is so prolific and re-sprouts from anything left in contact with the soil. The Broom is becoming very accessible and easy to identify as the yellow flowers begin to bloom. The soil has been watered again by the recent rains, so removal with loppers and weed wrenches is very do-able right now. Meet just below the dog park. Please let us know if you are able to join us so that we can get the bagel count right (we've been taking far too many home!). Location: Point Isabel, Rydin Road before Costco, off Central Ave exit, El Cerrito. Time: 10am - 2pm. Info: 510-704-8628, kyotousa@sbcglobal.net , http://www.kyotousa.org/ .

Sunday, March 2, 2008
Party with Grandmothers for the Oaks — Join Berkeley Grandmothers for the Oaks for a Party at the Oak Grove. Bring songs, musical instruments, and lots of food and water. We're going to sing our little hearts out ya hear? Location: Memorial Oak Grove, (on Piedmont, just north of Bancroft), Berkeley. Time: 2pm. Cost: Donations of food and water appreciated. Info: http://www.saveoaks.com/SaveOaks/Main.html .

Monday, March 3, 2008
Nomination Deadline: Community Leadership Awards — We invite you to nominate outstanding leaders in your community for The San Francisco Foundation 2008 Community Leadership Awards. The Awards recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership has made a significant impact in their particular Bay Area communities. This work may confront societal or civic issues, address health or environmental concerns, or promote arts and humanities. One of the four Awards distinguishes an under-recognized, mature artist who has made a significant and ongoing contribution in the Bay Area. Each year their peers nominate outstanding individuals and groups, and a panel of Bay Area community leaders selects the Award winners. Individuals receive $10,000 awards and organizations are awarded $20,000. Individuals and nonprofit organizations in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties are eligible. Nomination form available online. Time: 5pm. Info: 415-733-8500, INFO@SFF.ORG , http://www.sff.org/ .

Monday, March 3, 2008
Workshop: Building Successful Community-Based Food Initiatives — A Community Food Programs Planning Workshop for the Bay Area. Have you started a project that involves gardening, small-scale farming, food processing, nutrition education, farmers' markets, or similar community endeavors? Are you planning to organize a food policy council, a farm-to-school program, a beginning farmer training initiative, food processing incubator, or a similar program? Are you a non-profit organization (or similar entity) that wants to be more involved with developing successful community-based food and farm programs? This workshop is for you! Join us to build your project planning skills and learn how to develop successful new projects. Through a USDA Community Food Projects grant, Tufts University in Boston and of the Institute for Conservation Leadership are offering this full-day training on design and development of successful community-based food and farm initiatives. We are also offering a one-on-one 'hands-on' technical assistance to any group with specific needs, including help with Community Food Projects proposals for 2008 and beyond. All participants will receive a Community Food Initiatives Planning Guide to accompany the presentations. March 4th - Individualized Consultations: Onsite technical assistance will be available for up to one hour for 6-8 organizations that request it in advance (to allow for scheduling). Organizations can bring multiple members - staff, board, etc. - and use the time for follow up individualized planning, to discuss CFP proposals, or for any related assistance. Location to be announced. Please complete the following registration - one for each person attending. Email your registration(s) with the heading: "CF Workshop Registration", Name, Organization, Mailing address, Phone, Your email, Are you also interested in a one-one meeting on Tuesday March 4th? Do you have any special food needs (e.g., vegetarian, no-lactose, etc)? Registration fee includes a copy of the Community Food Initiatives Planning Guide by Hugh Joseph and Barbara Rusmore, and lunch and other refreshments. Payments: Make out check or money order to: Trustees of Tufts University. Mail payment with a printed registration form to: Hugh Joseph, PhD, AFE: Friedman School of Nutrition, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Ave., Room 121, Boston, MA 02111. Please mail registration fees on or before February 25, 2008. After February 25, please bring your payment (cash or check) to the workshop. Call or email for more information. Location: Preservation Park/Ginn House, 660 13th Street, Oakland. Time: 9am - 4pm. Cost: $25 per person in advance, $12 for any additional persons from the same organization, additional $5 per person for payment at door. Info: 617-636-3888, hjoseph@tufts.edu , http://www.foodsecurity.org/california/ .

Monday, March 3, 2008
Presentation: Bay Area Aerial Spraying — Informational presentation on Bay Area Aerial Spraying to eradicate the light brown apple moth, with members of Pesticide Free Zone of Marin, stopthespray.org, CA Alliance to Stop the Spray, and others. Directions: Paradise/Tamalpias exit off Highway 101, go West to the first entrance to the Corte Madera Town Center. Turn right and park in the closest parking lot to your right. The Community Room, Suite 201, is located on the second floor above the south end of the Center's open square. Location: Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera. Time: 7pm. Info: eastbayinfo@stopthespray.org , http://www.stopthespray.org/ .

Monday, March 3, 2008
Board Meeting: Friends of Five Creeks — All welcome. Location: Albany Community Center, 1249 Marin Ave, Albany. Time: 7pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-848-9358, f5creeks@aol.com , http://www.fivecreeks.org .

Monday, March 3, 2008
Lecture: In Defense of Food: The Omnivore's Solution — A lecture by author/journalist Michael Pollan. What should we eat? is a question most people for most of history have had little trouble answering. You ate what tradition (aka your mother) and nature dictated. Now, we have something called "nutritionism," an ideology promoted by science, the food industry, government and the media that has hopelessly confused the issue and done nothing for our health, except to make it worse. Pollan traces the rise and triumph of nutritionism and the Western Diet, before proposing an alternative approach to eating that promises to improve both our health and the health of the environment. The Stanford Bookstore will be attending with copies of books for sale. Location: Kresge Auditorium. Limited seating -- please arrive early. Location: Stanford University, Palo Alto. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: http://events.stanford.edu/events/121/12187/ .

Monday, March 3, 2008
Slideshow & Talk: Grazing and Native Ecosystems — Grazing and native ecosystems are the topic of a slide talk by David Amme, one of the state's greatest experts on and advocates for native grasses, now the East Bay Regional Park District's Wildland Vegetation Program Manager. The talk, part of the Close to Home series of walks and talks, centers on how cows, sheep, and goats can provide some of the "ecosystem services" once provided by herds of tule elk and regular burning by native peoples. Location: Montclair Presbyterian Church, 5701 Thornhill Rd., Oakland. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: $5 donation. Info: 510-655-6658, http://www.close-to-home.org/ .

Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Workshop: How to Design and Deliver Powerful Presentations — The Sustainable Business Alliance presents this special event. Whether you present in front of large audiences or just to small groups of people, even one-on-one, you'll learn valuable tips and techniques that will make you more charismatic, persuasive, and influential! Presentation includes: Qualities and characteristics of great presenters and great presentations; The 9 Step Process for designing and delivering a great presentation; Tailoring presentations to different audiences; Dealing with nervousness and anxiety; How to set up and manage the environment and the audience. Price includes refreshments, workshop, materials and raffle. Pre-registration required. RSVP online. Location: Anna's Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley. Time: 5pm - 7:30pm. Cost: $57 at door, $52 in advance, $47 members in advance. Info: http://sustainablebiz.org/events/BKWarren.html .

Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Book Event: The Revolution Will Not Be Funded — Join the Bay Area Chapter of INCITE! Women of Color Against Violence for a reading and discussion of their newest book: The Revolution Will Not Be Funded: Beyond the Non-Profit Industrial Complex. A Fundraiser for The New Orleans Women's Health Clinic. A massive and largely unregulated industry, the US non-profit sector is the world's seventh largest economy. Many social justice organizations have joined this world, often blunting political goals to satisfy government and foundation mandates. But even as funding shrinks and government surveillance rises, many activists often find it difficult to imagine movement building outside the nonprofit model. In this landmark collection, over 25 activists and scholars describe, discuss, and critically rethink the long-term consequences of this investment. Location: Modern Times Bookstore, 888 Valencia St., at 20th St., SF. Time: 7pm. Info: 415-282-9246, http://www.moderntimesbookstore.com/ .

Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Adoption Informational Workshop — Adopt A Special Kid will be hosting a workshop for prospective parents interested in foster and adoption. We will discuss the kids available, the process to become a foster or fost/adopt parent, and our agency's services. Call for more information or to reserve your space. Location: Adopt A Special Kid, 8201 Edgewater Drive, Suite 103, Oakland. Time: 7pm - 9pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-553-1748 ext 12, http://www.aask.org/ .

Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Film and Discussion: "King Corn" — Two recent college graduates embark on a mission to see where America's food comes from—by growing it. In the rural town of Greene, Iowa, the two friends plant a single acre of the nation's most powerful crop—corn—and then set out to follow it from a seed to the dinner plate. By Aaron Woolf, Curt Ellis, and Ian Cheney. Film followed by panel discussion on sustainability, agricultural policy and food security. Presented By: ITVS Community Cinema, KQED Education Network, The Oakland Museum of California, The Oakland Film Office, The San Francisco Public Library, Hands On Bay Area, Access SF and Bay Area Video Coalition. Co-Sponsors: Food First, Garden For the Environment, Center For Urban Education and Sustainable Agriculture, Mo Better Food and Farm Fresh Choice. Located in the James Moore Theatre. Location: Oakland Museum of CA, 1000 Oak St., @ 10th St., Oakland. Time: 6:30pm - 9pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-238-2200, roseli_ilano@itvs.org , http://www.museumca.org/ .

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Volunteer: Demonstration Garden at the Native Plant Nursery — Help plant a demonstration garden at Save the Bay's Native Plant Nursery. Space limited; sign up online to reserve space and for directions to the event. Location: Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline, Oakland. Time: 1pm - 3pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-452-9261 x119, bayevents@saveSFbay.org , http://tinyurl.com/259eah .

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Berkeley Climate Plan Workshop--NEW DATE — An opportunity to learn about and comment on Berkeley's draft Climate Action Plan. Learn more about: The sources of Berkeley's greenhouse gas emissions; Climate protection actions contained in Berkeley's draft Climate Action Plan; How to get involved in the local movement to combat climate change. This is also one good opportunity to provide input on the draft climate plan before the close of the public comment period on March 7th. Hosted by the Planning Commission. Location: North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst Ave., Berkeley. Time: 7pm - 9pm. Info: http://www.berkeleyclimateaction.org/ .

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
San Francisco Permaculture Guild Gathering — Meet in the SF Botanical Garden Garden Club Room. Location: Strybing Arboretum / Botanical Gardens, 9th Ave @ Lincoln Way , SF. Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Info: kevinbayuk@yahoo.com , http://www.urbanpermacultureguild.org/ .

Wednesday, March 5, 2008 - Saturday, March 8, 2008
26th Annual Salmonid Restoration Conference — This premier restoration conference features all-day field tours of Tuolumne and Stanislaus River restoration and monitoring projects, a Fisheries Monitoring and Management tour of the Mokelumne River, and half-day workshops and tours of fish-friendly vineyards, and the Cosumnes River Preserve. Workshops include Fins and Zins: Sustainable Agriculture and Watershed Management, Fish Passage: Managing Flows on Regulated Rivers and Streams, Floodplain Restoration, and Invasive Species. Other highlights of the conference include the Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival, SRF's annual meeting, a poster session and reception, and a cabaret, a Copper River salmon banquet, and a lively dance party with Latin-dance band Sambada. Call or visit website for more information or to register. Location: Lodi. Cost: see registration form for fees. Info: 707-923-7501, srf@calsalmon.org , http://www.calsalmon.org/ .

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Book Talk: Wendy Johnson on "Gardening at the Dragon's Gate" — For more than 30 years, Wendy Johnson has been meditating and gardening at the Green Gulch Farm Zen Center, which provides choice produce to SF's Greens restaurant. Now she has distilled her lifetime of experience into Gardening at the Dragon's Gate, a celebration of inner and outer growth that shows how the garden cultivates the gardener. Location: Black Oak Books, 1491 Shattuck Ave., @ Vine, Berkeley. Time: 7pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-486-0698, http://www.blackoakbooks.com/blog/ .

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Talk: Recycling Water with the Rainwater Hog — When Sydney-based designer Sally Dominguez was told it was impossible to fit a water storage tank under her small garden deck, she designed her own. Available from DWR this Spring, the Rainwater Hog (www.waterhog.com.au) is a small-scale modular storage tank for collecting rainwater that can be reused for watering plants, washing the car or whatever you need. Join us for an evening with this innovative designer whose work has been internationally recognized and check out the Rainwater Hog in person. Learn about the numerous ecological benefits of rainwater storage from a designer on the forefront of the movement. Leasingham South Australian wines from Cellar Door Wines (www.cdwine.com) and refreshments from Hint Waters (www.drinkhint.com) will be served. RSVP by email by 3/3/08. Location: Design Within Reach, 1770 Fourth Street, Berkeley. Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Info: 510-524-1994, berkeley@dwr.com , http://www.dwr.com/studios/berkeley .

Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Film & Discussion: "King Corn" — Two recent college graduates embark on a mission to see where America's food comes from—by growing it. In the rural town of Greene, Iowa, the two friends plant a single acre of the nation's most powerful crop—corn—and then set out to follow it from a seed to the dinner plate. By Aaron Woolf, Curt Ellis and Ian Cheney. Panel discussion on sustainability, agricultural policy and food security follows film. Presented by: ITVS Community Cinema, KQED Education Network, The Oakland Museum of California, The Oakland Film Office, The San Francisco Public Library, Hands On Bay Area, Access SF and Bay Area Video Coalition. Co-Sponsors: Food First, Garden For the Environment, Center For Urban Education and Sustainable Agriculture, Mo Better Food and Farm Fresh Choice. Location: San Francisco Public Library, 100 Larkin St., Koret Auditorium, SF. Time: 6pm - 7:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: roseli_ilano@itvs.org , http://tinyurl.com/yjp2dk .

Thursday, March 6, 2008
Class: Drought-tolerant Plants — Richard Ward of the Dray Garden in Oakland will focus on plants, especially succulents, with low water demands. He'll bring plants for sale. Location: Marin Art and Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Ross. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: $5. Info: 415-455-5260, http://www.maagc.org/ .

Thursday, March 6, 2008
The Low Carbon Diet--"Lose 5000 pounds in a month!" — Acterra and Stanford Health Improvement Program are co-sponsoring an action-oriented class to help individuals and communities reduce their "carbon footprints" (which contribute to climate change) in a practical, fun way. The 4-session (meeting every other week) course will utilize the illustrated Low Carbon Diet reader from Empowerment Institute to help guide the class. More than a list of eco-friendly actions, the class helps you actually implement changes, including calculating current CO2 footprint, supporting your efforts at reduction, and tracking progress. Register by 2/25 to be assured of receiving a reader. Multiple Dates: (every 2 weeks) 3/6/08; 3/20; 4/3; and 4/17 To register online, go to "classes", use code lcd-01 Location: Hoover Pavilion, Stanford Campus, 211 Quarry Rd, Stanford. Time: 7pm - 8:30pm. Cost: $65 (includes reader). Info: 650-498-4744, http://hip.stanford.edu/ .

Thursday, March 6, 2008
Amory Lovins in conversation with Roy Eisenhardt — Amory Lovins is internationally renowned for his unique problem-solving approach within the world of energy. Trained as an experimental physicist, Lovins rose to prominence during the oil crisis of the 1970s when he was still in his twenties. He challenged conventional supply-side dogma by urging the United States to follow a "soft energy path." In 1976, Foreign Affairs published Lovins' groundbreaking article "Energy Strategy: The Road Not Taken?" which described the "soft path" to energy as a shift from bigger to smarter, from more to more-with-less. This year marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Rocky Mountain Institute, which Lovins co-founded in 1982. The Institute is a Colorado-based applied research center that fosters the efficient and restorative use of resources to create a more secure, prosperous, and life-sustaining world. It has grown to include a fifty-member research staff that is working to protect and enhance natural and human resources. In the 1990s, Lovins' work with the Institute included the design of an ultra-efficient automobile called the Hypercar. He has written twenty-nine books and hundreds of scholarly papers. His recent Winning the Oil Endgame is a "roadmap to getting the U.S. completely, attractively, and profitably off oil." The recipient of numerous awards including a MacArthur Fellowship, Lovins was named a "Hero for the Planet" by Time magazine in 2000. Purchase tickets online or by phone. Location: Herbst Theatre, War Memorial Performing Arts Center, 401 Van Ness Ave, @ McAllister, SF. Time: 8pm. Cost: $19/$17 members. Info: 415-392-4400, http://www.calacademy.org/events/march_2008.php .

Thursday, March 6, 2008
Workshop: Toxic Cleanup at Livermore Lab Site 300 — This workshop will focus on what to do about toxic soil and debris at the Livermore Lab Site 300 high explosives testing range in Tracy. This debris is at one of the outdoor "firing tables" where bomb blast were, and still are, detonated. The "toxic pile" there is full of dioxins, furans, and PCBs. Learn more about the scale and scope of contamination and competing plans to address it. Location: Tracy Community Center, 300 E. 10th St., Tracy. Time: 6pm. Cost: Free. Info: 925-443-7148, http://www.trivalleycares.org .

Thursday, March 6, 2008 - Friday, March 7, 2008
Seminar: Alternative Water Sources for California — The most accessible new water sources for our state are from conservation and efficiency, water recycling and desalination. This conference will explore how to finance and implement these programs, as well as how to navigate the regulatory challenges when working to add recycled or desalinated water into a water supply portfolio. You will hear from regulators, agency staff, water districts and cities with a track record of successful programs, engineers and specialty consultants, lawyers and financial experts. The Department of Water Resources, Department of Public Health, Metropolitan Water District, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, Marin Municipal Water District, and West Basin and Central Basin Water District will all be represented. Register online or by phone. Location: Sacramento. Cost: $695 general + $150 for materials. Info: 800-574-4852, http://www.theseminargroup.net/upcoming-seminars.lasso .

Thursday, March 6, 2008
Talk: The Sustainable Enterprise: The Keys to "Green" Transformation — With the recent awareness and focus on global climate change, many organizations have realized the importance of adopting sustainable enterprise principles. However, some organizations that are ready to take action do not fully understand the complex nature of sustainability let alone how to achieve it. Sustainability consultant Matthew Heim will show how, given the right tools and information, organizations can reap the rewards of early adoption and learn to leverage sustainability practices in their business relationships. Event includes breakfast and time for discussion. Register online. Location: City Club of San Francisco, 155 Sansome Street, 9th Floor, SF. Time: 7:30am - 10:30am. Cost: $40 door/$35 preregistration/$25 students and members. Info: 877-816-2080, http://www.strategyplus.org/calendar.php .

Thursday, March 6, 2008
Workshop: Zen and the Art of Mushroom Hunting — Discover the world of mushrooms with Debbie Viess. The workshop includes an evening slide lecture with hands-on material (Thursday, March 6, 7:30pm-9pm) and a day in the field at Salt Point State Park (Saturday, March 8, 10am-3pm). Proceeds benefit the Oakland Museum and the Golden Gate Audubon Society. Space limited; call to register. Location: Oakland Museum of CA, 1000 Oak St., @ 10th St., Oakland. Cost: $35. Info: 510-843-2222, http://www.museumca.org/cal-public/calendar.cgi?month=03 .

Thursday, March 6, 2008
Talk: Marion Nestle: What to Eat — Personal Responsibility vs. Social Responsibility. Marion Nestle teaches at NYU in the Department of Nutrition, Food Studies and Public Health. She is the author of numerous books, including What to Eat, which was released in 2006. Part of The Ethics of Food and the Environment series. This series explores -- through films, talks, and seminars -- the ethical issues surrounding food production in the United States and around the globe. Location: Annenberg Auditorium (Cummings Art Bldg.) Location: Stanford University, Palo Alto. Time: 5:30pm - 7pm. Cost: Free. Info: http://www.stanford.edu/dept/EIS/lectures.html .

Friday, March 7, 2008
Film: "Tillie Olsen -- A Heart in Action" — This new film about the life of the renowned writer/activist is screened in honor of International Womens Day. Discussion follows. Conscientious Film Projector Series presented by BFUU Social Justice Committee. Location: Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar St., @ Bonita, Berkeley. Time: 7pm. Cost: donations welcome. Info: 510-495-5132, http://www.bfuu.org/ .

Friday, March 7, 2008
Volunteer: SPAWN Native Plant Nursery — Volunteer at SPAWN's Native Plant Nursery. All plants from Nursery will be used to help restore local watersheds. Bring Gloves, weather appropriate clothing, water. RSVP via email. Location: Lagunitas. Time: 10am - 1pm. Info: 415-663-8590 x107, jenny@spawnusa.org , http://www.spawnusa.org/ .

Friday, March 7, 2008
Discussion Seminar with Marion Nestle — Christopher Gardner and David Magnus (both from Stanford's School of Medicine) join Marion Nestle in an exploration of the foods we eat. Part of The Ethics of Food and the Environment series. This series explores -- through films, talks, and seminars -- the ethical issues surrounding food production in the United States and around the globe. Location: Manzanita Dining Commons (located behind Schwab Residential Center on Serra St) Location: Stanford University, Palo Alto. Time: 10am - Noon. Cost: Free. Info: http://www.stanford.edu/dept/EIS/lectures.html .

Friday, March 7, 2008
Nomination Deadline: Growing Smarter Together Awards — The Association of Bay Area Governments' (ABAG) Growing Smarter Together Awards program showcases planning efforts at the local level that advance smart or "focused" growth in the Bay Area. The Awards recognize excellence in planning and development by local governments, demonstrating a significant commitment toward achieving the regional planning goals of the Bay Area Vision and focused growth principles being advanced in the FOCUS Initiative. The awards program showcases personal and program/project oriented work that demonstrates a significant commitment to achieving the regional planning goal of "complete communities." These cities and towns meet the day-to-day needs of residents and promote conservation efforts that protect vital natural, scenic, and agricultural resource areas. Individual local governments or groups of jurisdictions working in partnership may submit nominations for the regional Growing Smarter Together Awards. Application and details available online. Time: 5pm. Info: 510-464-7995, http://www.abag.ca.gov/smarter.html .

Friday, March 7, 2008
Lecture: Climate Change and Health — With special guest Jonathan Patz, Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment, UW Madison. Part of the UCB/School of Public Health Lecture series on Climate Change for Health Scientists. Location: 2319 Tolman Hall. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 3:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-643-9016, http://events.berkeley.edu/?event_ID=6593&view-prevew .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Volunteer: Habitat Restoration at San Geronimo Creek — Volunteers needed to help restore native habitat in Marin County's San Geronimo Creek. We will meet at Roy's Pools on the San Geronimo Valley Golf Course. Directions from 101: Take Sir Francis Drake to Fairfax. Continue on SF Drake ~5 mi West of Fairfax (over the big hill, past the Golf Course). Just past the golf course, make a left onto Nicasio Valley Drive, then left onto San Geronimo Valley Drive. Roy's Pools is on the left hand side. What to bring: Warm clothing, long pants, long sleeves, work gloves, sturdy shoes, a water bottle, or any other appropriate gear for weather conditions. Call or email for more information. Rain cancels. Time: 10am - 1pm. Info: 415-663-8590 x107, kevin@spawnusa.org , www.spawnusa.org .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Volunteer: Arbor Day Tree Planting and Tree Care with Friends of the Urban Forest — Breakfast/lunch is provided! Call for meeting location and to RSVP. Location: Friends of the Urban Forest, Presidio of SF, Bldg. # 1007, SF. Time: 9am - Noon. Info: 415-561-6890 ext 103, http://www.fuf.net/calendar_news/index.html .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Class: "Monthly Biodynamic Classes" — Topic: Cosmic Rhythms and Planting Calendars. Learn about all the cosmic influences that affect plants. Find out how a planting calendar can help you see plants in the proper relationship to these cosmic events thus increasing your awareness of the land's cosmic surroundings. Location: Rudolf Steiner College, 9200 Fair Oaks Blvd., Fair Oaks. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: $75-95. Info: 916-961-8727, http://www.steinercollege.edu/biodynamics.html .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Educator Workshop: Groceries from the Garden — Teach your students where their food comes from. Learn activities that illustrate the benefits of sustainable agriculture and locally grown food while testing kid-friendly, healthy recipes using the plants from your garden. Receive seeds, recipes, activity ideas and a course reader in this half-day workshop. Reserve your space online, or by phone or email. Location: UCB Richmond Field Station, 1327 S 46th Street, Gate #2, Richmond. Time: 10am - 12:30pm. Cost: $29. Info: 510-665-3430, workshops@thewatershedproject.org , http://www.thewatershedproject.org/default/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Benefit Concert: Songs of Hope & Struggle — A Benefit Concert for Berkeley Organizing Congregations for Action (BOCA). Strengthening Berkeley Through Organizing. Featuring Bruce Barthol. Bruce Barthol has been the resident songwriter for the Tony Award winning San Francisco Mime Troupe for over three decades and is the original bass player with Country Joe and the Fish. Opening with Francisco Herrera: Singer, Trabajo Cultural Caminante. Francisco Herrera is a cultural worker who uses music as a tool to raise consciousness and promote social change. He has been involved in community organizing, mental health and pastoral work for over 25 years in California, Mexico, and Central America. Reception at 5:30pm (wine $4, food bar $5). Call for information & tickets. Location: St. John's Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave, Berkeley. Time: 7pm. Cost: $25 suggested donation (a little more or a little less). Info: 510-665-5821, http://www.berkeleyboca.org/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Volunteer: Habitat Restoration for the San Francisco Garter Snake — Get your fingers dirty and help restore habitat for the critically endangered San Francisco garter snake, with a chance to see California red-legged frogs! Join Sue Gardner of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy for a day of weed pulling around several newly created frog ponds at Mori Point in Pacifica. Dress in warm layers, wear sturdy shoes and bring lots of friends! We provide snacks, tools and gloves. Meeting spot is Mori Point entrance gate. A carpool from Fort Mason (leaving at 9:15am) is available. RSVP by phone required. Location: Mori Point, Pacifica. Time: 10am - 1pm. Info: 415-561-3067, http://ggnrabigyear.org/calendar.html .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Sea Watch at Louis' Restaurant — Join Alan Hopkins for a sea watch looking for Marbled Murrelet, California Sea Otter, and Steller Sea Lion. Because you never know: you might get lucky! Meet at Louis' Restaurant, and then walk to the sea watch location. RSVP by email required. Location: Louis' Restaurant, 902 Point Lobos Ave, SF. Time: 7:45am - 9:45am. Info: mbzlat@yahoo.com , http://ggnrabigyear.org/calendar.html .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Bee Symposium 2008 — The Honeybee, Pollinators, and the Environment. In this time of global ecological challenges, the honeybee is an indicator species reflecting the enormous changes taking place in our world. Bee populations are dying and pollination ecology is deeply affected. As beekeepers, we must become stewards of the earth. This one-day symposium offers information and speakers with new perspectives on honeybees and native pollinators, beekeeping practices, innovative approaches and ecological strategies for beekeepers. Limited parking -- please carpool. Lunch available for purchase on site. Location: Summerfield Waldorf School, 655 Willowside Rd., Santa Rosa. Time: 9am - 6pm. Cost: $25/$30 at door. Info: 707-824-2905, symposium@beekind.com , http://beekind.org/beekeeping.shtml .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Workshop: Growing Terrific Tomatoes — Learn which tomatoes have great flavor, reliable production, and the ability to hold up under regular garden conditions. You will learn trellising methods, soil preparation and what NOT to do, and how to avoid the brown crispy-foliage-blues so a bountiful harvest will be yours. Tomatoes featured will be the result of her 25 years of hands-on research. (1 CEU) Location: Common Ground, 559 College Ave, Palo Alto. Time: 10:30am - 12:30pm. Cost: $25. Info: 650-493-6072, www.commongroundinpaloalto.org/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Presidio Manzanita Trip — Join Kirra Swenerton of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy at the Presidio Native Plant Nursery and see some Presidio Manzanita seeds and find out about recent attempts to make these seeds viable. Maximum 20 participants; RSVP by phone required. Location: Presidio Native Plant Nursery, 1244 Appleton Street, SF. Time: 10am - 11am. Info: 415-652-7651, http://ggnrabigyear.org/calendar.html .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Bug of the Month Club: Mantis Mania — Sarah's Science presents Mantis Mania Extravaganza for children ages 4-12. Learn the life cycle and natural history of this most fascinating insect and raise your own pet praying mantis. From breeding drosophila (baby mantis food) to watching mantids emerge from their egg cases - experience nature's wonders up close. You will take home: two vials of drosophila; growing medium; fruit fly booklets; two praying mantis egg cases (50-500 baby mantids will emerge); two hatchery containers; praying mantis booklet. Register online. Location: Lake Merritt United Methodist Church Office, 1255 First Avenue, Oakland. Time: 1pm - 3pm. Cost: $65 (includes all materials and a snack). Info: 510-581-3739, sarah@sarahscience.com , http://www.sarahscience.com/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Bug of the Month Club: Mantis Mania — Sarah's Science presents Mantis Mania Extravaganza for children ages 4-12. Learn the life cycle and natural history of this most fascinating insect and raise your own pet praying mantis. From breeding drosophila (baby mantis food) to watching mantids emerge from their egg cases - experience nature's wonders up close. You will take home: two vials of drosophila; growing medium; fruit fly booklets; two praying mantis egg cases (50-500 baby mantids will emerge); two hatchery containers; praying mantis booklet. Register online. Location: Lake Merritt United Methodist Church Office, 1255 First Avenue, Oakland. Time: 10am - Noon. Cost: $65 (includes all materials and a snack). Info: 510-581-3739, sarah@sarahscience.com , http://www.sarahscience.com/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Film: "What a Way to Go: Life at the End of Empire" — The threat of nuclear annihilation first brought the very real thought that humans could destroy the planet. While nuclear weapons are still a very real threat, we now face planetary crisis brought to us by climate change and resource depletion. "What a Way to Go" looks at the current global situation and asks the most important questions of all: How did we get here? Why do we keep destroying the planet? What do we truly want? Can we find a vision that will empower us to do what is necessary to survive, and even thrive, in the coming decades? Join us for this powerful film followed by a short discussion. Location: First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way, Entrance on Dana, Berkeley. Time: 7pm. Cost: Free, donations welcome.

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Twilight Marsh Walk — Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the sun we will observe the beginning of nature's night shift. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as night descends. Meet at the observation deck. Not suitable for young children. Reservation by phone required. Location: Don Edwards SF Bay Refuge Visitor Center, 1 Marshlands Road, Fremont. Time: 5:30pm - 7pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-792-0222 ext 43, http://www.fws.gov/desfbay/Tideline/Activity.htm#Mar8 .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Celebration: International Women's Day — Join Richmond's celebration of International Women's Day with workshops, performances by local artists, and a talk by civil rights pioneer Yuri Kochiyama. Richmond mayor Gayle McLaughlin hosts the event. Location: La Vonya de Jean Middle School, 3400 MacDonald Avenue, Richmond. Time: 10am - 4pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-620-6502, http://kpfa.org/events/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
International Woman's Day at Galeria de la Raza — A spoken-word event called La Ultima Palabra (the last word). If yours was the last word ... what would it be? Speakers include Avotja, Kriya Traber (of Youth Speaks), Susana Aragon, Leticia Hernandez Linares and MamaCoAtl. Location: Galeria de la Raza, 2857 24th Street, (@ Bryant), SF. Time: 8pm. Cost: $8. Info: 415-826-8009, info@galeriadelaraza.org , http://galeriadelaraza.org/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Workshop: "Bay-Friendly Gardening Basics" — Bay-Friendly Gardening means simplifying garden care, reducing chores and using as few resources, from water to fertilizer, as possible. Bay-Friendly gardeners work with nature to reduce waste and prevent pollution of local creeks, waterways and San Francisco Bay. Considering form and function before planting can you save time and resources. This workshop will provide an overview of considerations and practices that will help you make smart choices at the nursery. The Bay-Friendly Gardening workshops are offered by the StopWaste.Org and its Bay-Friendly Gardening partners: The Watershed Project, EBMUD, the Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program, and the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. Register online. Location: Wente Vineyard , 5050 Arroyo Rd., Livermore. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-444-7645, http://www.bayfriendly.org .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Workshop: Natural Pest Control — Got pests? We'll cover the basics of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in this workshop, focusing on least toxic organic controls to deal with landscape pests and diseases. Learn to create an ecosystem in your garden by planting to attract wildlife and a diversity of beneficial insects, which will help prevent pest problems. Pre-registration by phone or email required. This workshop is part of our Resource Efficient Landscaping Education Program. Location: Garden for the Environment, 7th Ave., @ Lawton St., SF. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: Free. Info: 415-731-5627, info@gardenfortheenvironment.org , http://www.gardenfortheenvironment.org/ .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Volunteer: Native Plant Demonstration Garden — Help prepare the front and back of the El Sobrante Library for the Bringing Back the Natives Tour that will take place 5/4/08. We need volunteers to help plant, weed and mulch the plants. Also, we need volunteers to help produce educational materials, design plant labels and garden maps. These workdays are a great opportunity to learn about native plants, gardening tips, and to meet your neighbors. Newcomers are always welcome. Our workdays are not only educational, but also serve to protect the native habitat for local wildlife. It is outdoors and fun for the whole family. Meet behind the El Sobrante Library. Call or email for further information. Registration not required, but appreciated to plan tools and refreshments. Any skill level is welcome. Tools, gloves and refreshments provided by SPAWNERS. Location: El Sobrante Library, 4191 Appian Way, El Sobrante. Time: 9:30am - Noon. Info: 510-665-3538, juliana@thewatershedproject.org , http://www.spawners.net/events.html .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Volunteer: Bair Island Paddle and Work Party — Bair Island is a group of former salt ponds that are home to many species of nesting birds, harbor seals, and native oysters. Paddle to Middle Bair Island and help restore native wetland habitat at a site that is normally off-limits to the public. Remove non-native iceplant and help plant 2,500 natives to improve habitat for birds and wildlife. Age 10 and up. Location: Redwood City. Time: 9am - 2:30pm. Cost: $35. Info: 510-452-9261, bayevents@savesfbay.org , http://www.savesfbay.org/bayevents .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Workshop: "Bay-Friendly Gardening Basics" — Bay-Friendly Gardening means simplifying garden care, reducing chores and using as few resources, from water to fertilizer, as possible. Bay-Friendly gardeners work with nature to reduce waste and prevent pollution of local creeks, waterways and San Francisco Bay. Considering form and function before planting can you save time and resources. This workshop will provide an overview of considerations and practices that will help you make smart choices at the nursery. The Bay-Friendly Gardening workshops are offered by the StopWaste.Org and its Bay-Friendly Gardening partners: The Watershed Project, EBMUD, the Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program, and the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. Register online. Location: StopWaste.org, 1537 Webster Street, Oakland. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-444-7645, http://www.bayfriendly.org .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Workshop: Indoor Gardening with Succulents — Explore the possibilities of indoor gardening with these sculptural plants. You'll plant your own cactus and succulent dish garden to take home. Discuss the culture and care of plant groups suited to indoor and greenhouse collections. Includes a tour of the Arid House collection. Location: UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley. Time: 9am - noon. Cost: $45. Info: 510-643-2755 x03, http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Hands-On Workshop: The Living Soil — Healthy soil feeds healthy gardens. Learn the art and science of how healthy soil is born at one of the Bay Area's cultural treasures, the Green Gulch Farm. Wendy Johnson, author, teacher and garden mentor for both adults and children leads us in a fascinating hands-on workshop. Price includes delicious vegetarian lunch prepared on site. Transportation: Carpooling to Marin County's Green Gulch Farm Zen Center. Registration form available online. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: $35 general, $25 members, $5 children. Info: 415-661-1316 ext 354, http://www.sfbotanicalgardensociety.org/sfbgs_course_template.cfm?s=4766 .

Saturday, March 8, 2008
Volunteer: Quail Habitat Restoration — Save the Quail habitat restoration workday. Meet at the playground picnic tables at Quail Commons. Location: Quail Commons, Presidio, corner of Battery Caulfield and Washington Boulevard, SF. Time: 9am - noon. Info: jrobinson@goldengateaudubon.org .

Sunday, March 9, 2008
Meeting: Cool Schools Global Warming Campaign — Join us at our next Cool Schools Global Warming Campaign meeting in Berkeley! Meetings are always open to all middle and high school students! Space may be limited depending on meeting activities. Snacks provided. RSVP requested. Location: Berkeley High School, 1980 Allston Way (at Milvia), College and Career Center, Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 4pm. Info: 510-704-4030, chicory@earthteam.net , http://earthteam.net/ .

Sunday, March 9, 2008
Ridge to Bridge Bicycle Ride — Experience the national parks straddling the Golden Gate as we cycle to the Marin Headlands and back on a strenuous 12-mile loop. Helmet required. Meet Ranger James Osborne at the Officers Club, corner of Moraga Ave. and Arguello Blvd. Call for reservations. Location: Presidio, SF. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: free. Info: 415-561-4323, http://www.parksconservancy.org/calendar/index.asp?event=912 .

Sunday, March 9, 2008
Party with Grandmothers for the Oaks — Join Berkeley Grandmothers for the Oaks for a Party at the Oak Grove. Bring songs, musical instruments, and lots of food and water. We're going to sing our little hearts out ya hear? Location: Memorial Oak Grove, (on Piedmont, just north of Bancroft), Berkeley. Time: 2pm. Cost: Donations of food and water appreciated. Info: http://www.saveoaks.com/SaveOaks/Main.html .

Sunday, March 9, 2008
Volunteer: Prepare Least Tern Habitat at the Alameda Wildlife Refuge — Help prepare habitat for the California Least Tern nesting season with Friends of the Alameda Wildlife Refuge. Meet at main refuge gate, northwest corner of former Alameda Naval Air Station, Alameda. Age Range: 12+. RSVP required. Location: Alameda Wildlife Refuge, Alameda. Time: 9am - Noon. Info: 510-522-0601, leoraalameda@att.net , http://ggnrabigyear.org/calendar.html .

Monday, March 10, 2008
Course: Introduction to Recycling — Introduction to Recycling: All the Basics: Terms, Concepts, Equipment, and Resources in San Francisco (Three Day Course). The course is designed for newcomers to the recycling field and is an ideal orientation for many individuals such as: entry-level program assistants, interns, professionals from other fields, members of local advisory committees, city council members and staff, members of the board of supervisors, activists, solid waste handlers, recycling facility employees, commercial and industrial facility recycling program managers and staff. Details and registration available online. Location: Sanitary Fill Classroom, 401 Tunnel Rd, SF. Time: 8:30am - 3:15pm. Cost: $45. Info: 510-217-2433, ncra@ncrarecycles.org , http://ncrarecycles.org/itr/itr_SF.html .

Monday, March 10, 2008
Deadline: Grant Proposals for StopWaste.org Recycling Projects — Funding available for Non-Profit organizations: StopWaste.org is soliciting grant proposals for projects that increase recycling, decrease the amount of waste sent to landfills, and increase education relating to the 4 Rs: Rot, Reduce, Re-use, and Recycle. Download an application. Time: 5pm. Info: 510-891-6500, http://www.StopWaste.org/npgrants .

Monday, March 10, 2008
Book Talk: "The Great Warming: Climate Change and the Rise and Fall of Civilizations" — Anthropologist Brian Fagan's new work tells the global story of climate change between the 10th and 15th centuries, known as the Medieval Warming Period, and puts it into context -- its peaks and valleys followed a trend that we can clearly make out in retrospect. We're entering a time when extreme aridity will affect a large portion of the population, where the challenges to adapt once again will be even more complex. There's much to learn in the history of drought and Fagan offers valuable lessons in The Great Warming. Location: Cody's Books (West Berkeley), 1730 Fourth St., Berkeley. Time: 7pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-559-9500, http://www.codysbooks.com/calendar/0803marCalendar.jsp .

Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Banff Mountain Film Fest to benefit Marin Conservation Corps — This year's film festival features a collection of the most inspiring and thought-provoking action, environmental and adventure mountain films. From traveling to remote landscapes and cultures to up close and personal stories with adrenaline-packed action sports, the film festival is an exhilarating and provocative exploration of the mountain world. Tickets can be purchased from REI or the Rafael Film Center. Location: Rafael Film Center, 1118 4th St., San Rafael. Time: 7pm. Cost: $18. Info: 415-454-4554 ext. 274, http://www.marincc.org/ .

Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Talk: Global Warming: Lessons from the Past to Predict the Future — Anthropologist and historian Brian Fagan joins the Council to discuss how the earth's previous global warming phase—a millennium ago—might have reshaped human societies and how these subtle changes in the environment had far-reaching effects on human life from the Arctic to the Sahara to the Indian Ocean. With lessons for our own time, Fagan recounts how the earth experienced a rise in surface temperature from the tenth to the fifteenth centuries and the drought and famine that ensued—perhaps a preview of today's global warming. He warns that the history of the Great Warming, particularly our vulnerability to drought, suggests that we may yet be underestimating the power of climate change and the potential for severe disruption in our lives in the years to come. Registration at 5:30pm; program at 6pm. Location: World Affairs Council of Northern California, 312 Sutter Street, Second Floor, SF. Time: 5:30pm. Cost: $15 general, $5 students, free for members. Info: 415-293-4600, info@wacsf.org , http://www.itsyourworld.org/wac/Default.asp .

Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Workshop: Green Home Improvement 101 — Are you planning to remodel/rebuild and are thinking green? Come and hear about: Green Building Market Trends; How to get started with a remodeling project; Effects on the resale value of your house. 6pm wine & cheese, 6:30pm lecture and Q&A. Meet in the Ecohome Improvement Design Studio. Register online. Location: Ecohome Improvement, 2619 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. Time: 6pm - 8:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-644-3500, http://www.ecohomeimprovement.com/ .

Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Invasive Weeds Awareness Day at the Capitol — Each March, Invasive Weeds Awareness Day at the Capitol brings weed workers from across the state to Sacramento. The day features opportunities to educate state legislators and to learn about current policy initiatives. Join us and help us protect weed funding from budget cuts. Our morning session will feature updates on the California Wildlife Action Plan, the long-range vision for CDFA's weed programs, statewide mapping efforts, progress in implementing the state weed plan, and the potential for establishing a statewide invasive species council. Then we do a quick "how to" for making legislative visits, and head to the Capitol in small teams to visit the offices of our elected officials. Afterward we will regroup to share information from our visits, and get together over a beer to toast our work! Lunch is provided. Register online. Location: Sacramento. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-843-3902, info@cal-ipc.org , http://www.cal-ipc.org/policy/state/ciwad.php .

Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Workshop: "Lead-Safety for Remodeling, Repair & Painting of Older Homes" — HUD and EPA approved one-day course. Recommended for remodelers, renovators, painters and maintenance workers doing painting and minor repairs. This class leads to a Notice of Completion in training for lead-safe work practices and meets the minimum training requirements for individuals performing certain activities in federally assisted housing, including Section 8. Register by phone or download registration form from website. Location: Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Main Office, 2000 Embarcadero, #300, Oakland. Time: 8am - 5pm. Cost: Free to owners (and their employed maintenance crews) of residential properties built before 1978 in Alameda, Berkeley, Emeryville or Oakland. Class fee for all others is $130.. Info: 510-567-8280, http://www.aclppp.org/ .

Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Volunteer: Plant Natives — In partnership with the City of Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve. Winter rains make it the perfect time to plant in the wetlands and we need your help to plant 8,000 native plants in the Baylands! Volunteers will plant species like blue-eyed grass, white yarrow, and sea lavender. This unique wetland habitat was saved from development in the 1950s and is now home to many native species, including shorebirds and anadromous fish such as steelhead trout. Location: Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, End of Embarcadero Rd., Palo Alto. Time: 1pm - 3pm. Info: 510-452-9261 ext. 119, http://www.savesfbay.org/bayevents .

Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Talk: How to Fight Climate Change Without Soaking the Middle Class — Fighting climate change is going to cost all of us money because the price of dumping carbon into the atmosphere must necessarily rise. Peter Barnes, Senior Fellow at the Tomales Bay Institute and co-founder of Working Assets, explores the possible solutions to this vexing political and environmental conundrum. Register online. Location: Commonwealth Club of California, 595 Market St., 2nd Floor, SF. Time: 5:15pm. Cost: $15/$8 members. Info: 415-597-6700, http://www.commonwealthclub.org .

Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Book Talk: The Top 25 Censored Stories — Peter Phillips discusses his new book Censored 2008: The Top 25 Censored Stories. The best-selling Censored series highlights the year's twenty-five most important underreported news stories, alerting readers to negligence of corporate media and the resurgence of alternative media. Location: Revolution Books, 2425 Channing Way, under Sather Gate Parking Garage, Berkeley. Time: 7pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-848-1196, http://www.revolutionbooks.org/ .

Thursday, March 13, 2008
Slideshow and Talk: Wildlife of Golden Gate Park: Why We Need a Management Plan — Slideshow and talk by Nancy DeStefanis, Executive Director of San Francisco Nature Education. Learn about the opossums, raccoons, skunks, foxes, coyotes, owls, and great blue herons that call Golden Gate Park and other parks home! San Francisco Naturalist Society general meeting. Location: Randall Museum, 199 Museum Way, SF. Time: 7:30pm - 9pm. Cost: Free. Info: 415-225-3830, JKodiak@earthlink.net , http://www.sfns.org/ .

Thursday, March 13, 2008
Dialogue: Let's Examine the Issues: Water Quantity & Quality — The Bay Area Science Forum presents: California's Water Resources. Enjoy a series of interactive dialogues with experts on water issues of the San Francisco Bay Area. A discussion between Peter Gleick, President and co-founder, Pacific Institute, and Ellen Hanak, Senior fellow and associate director of research, Public Policy Institute of California. Details available online. Location: Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, 3200 California St., SF. Time: 7:30pm - 9pm. Info: http://www.bayareascienceforum.org/ .

Thursday, March 13, 2008
Talk: Climate Change and Our Water — Thinking Globally and Acting Locally to Protect our Watersheds. An Evening with Bruce Riordan to Benefit the Codornices Creek Watershed Council. A discussion on the impacts of climate change to our water resources and the personal and collective actions we can take to make a difference. Riordan specializes in developing local solutions to global warming, and recently participated in Al Gore's national climate change activist training. Drinks and light refreshments will be served. Carpooling is encouraged due to limited parking. RSVP by email or phone. Location: 155 Tamalpais Road, Berkeley. Time: 7pm - 9pm. Cost: $25 suggested donation. Info: 510-540-6669, josh@urbancreeks.org , http://www.codornicescreekwatershed.org/ .

Thursday, March 13, 2008
Talk: "Biofuels: Energy, Food People" — This event will explore the questions: What are biofuels? Will they really replace gasoline? What do they mean for my community? For the planet? Are they really "green"? With Tad Patzek, Professor of Geoengineering at UC Berkeley, Miguel Altieri, Professor of Agroecology at UC Berkeley, Eric Holt-Giménez, Executive Director of Food First/Institute for Food and Development Policy, and Judith Mayer, Project Coordinator of the Borneo Project. Location: Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar Street, at Arch, Berkeley. Time: 7pm - 10pm. Cost: free ($20 suggested donation). Info: 888-ECO-NOW2, http://www.econowusa.org/ .

Thursday, March 13, 2008
Slideshow & Music: Patagonia's Wild Rivers — Help Save Patagonia's Wild Rivers. Join us on the 11th Annual International Day of Action for Rivers, for a multimedia presentation & discussion about two spectacular rivers in Patagonia that are threatened by large dam construction. 6pm happy hour with Pascua River expedition members. For more information visit http://www.internationalrivers.org/. 6pm happy hour at Cafe Valparaiso--next door to La Pena. Multimedia presentation, discussion and live music from 7:30pm-9:30pm. Location: La Peña Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. Time: 6pm - 9:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-848-1155, dayofaction@internationalrivers.org , http://www.lapena.org/calendar/2008/3 .

Friday, March 14, 2008 - Sunday, March 16, 2008
California Straw Building Association (CASBA) Spring Conference — Meet with well-known straw-balers, stay in a strawbale cabin and have a lot of fun and education in this three-day conference. Call or visit website for registration and program details. Location: Cambria. Cost: $105-$225. Info: 209-785-7077, http://www.strawbuilding.org/ .

Friday, March 14, 2008 - Sunday, March 16, 2008
National Pesticide Forum: Reclaiming Our Healthy Future — This year, Californians for Pesticide Reform (CPR) is joining forces with Pesticide Action Network and Beyond Pesticides for a major conference. The Healthy Futures Conference will serve as the 2008 CPR Annual Meeting and is Beyond Pesticides' 26th National Pesticide Forum. The days will be filled with workshops, skills trainings and opportunities to network with pesticide and toxics reform activists from across California, the U.S. and the world! Conference topics include: Children's health and public policy; Farmworker justice, organizing and consumer action; Building just and healthy food systems; Power of local activism to influence political change; Pesticides and the secret history of the war on cancer; Skills training sessions; DDT and malaria; Global warming and biofuels; Biomonitoring and pesticide drift; Lawns and landscapes; Managing indoor environments; Water quality and much more. Call or email for questions and information about scholarships. Registration and further details available online. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Berkeley. Cost: $75 general, $65 member, $35 student, $175 business. Info: 888-CPR-4480, t.cosentino@earthlink.net , http://www.pesticidereform.org/ .

Friday, March 14, 2008
Workshop: Sustainability & Healthcare — This course introduces the principles of sustainability, from historical development to current paradigms. Participants will be introduced to several notable "green" efforts in the healthcare field, including the use of safer medical supplies and materials and the reduction of toxic medical waste. Clear, actionable steps will be suggested, such as establishing toxic-free buildings, literacy around local environmental health issues and the practice of safe, effective, precaution-based medicine. Participants will engage in experiential learning exercises involving strategies for promoting sustainable healthcare. The course is especially geared to primary health care practitioners operating in small- to medium-sized clinics, including nurses, psychotherapists, and complementary health professionals. Instructor Joel Kreisberg, DC, MA, is the founder and executive director of the Teleosis Institute. Currently an adjunct faculty member in the School of Holistic Studies at JFK University, he completed his Doctor of Chiropractic at New York Chiropractic College and received his MA in Integral Ecology at Prescott College. Pleasant Hill campus, Room N263. Register online. Location: Pleasant Hill. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: $161. Info: 800-696-5358, http://www.jfku.edu/run/ce/index.php?act=browse&id=271 .

Friday, March 14, 2008
Lecture: Climate Change and Health: Critiques of Epidemiological Methods — With panel: Hubbard, Eisenberg, Colford, Tager, Catalano, UCB SPH. Part of the UCB/School of Public Health Lecture series on Climate Change for Health Scientists. Location: 2319 Tolman Hall. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 3:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-643-9016, http://events.berkeley.edu/?event_ID=6593&view-prevew .

Friday, March 14, 2008
Volunteer: SPAWN Native Plant Nursery — Volunteer at SPAWN's Native Plant Nursery. All plants from Nursery will be used to help restore local watersheds. Bring Gloves, weather appropriate clothing, water. RSVP via email. Location: Lagunitas. Time: 10am - 1pm. Info: 415-663-8590 x107, jenny@spawnusa.org , http://www.spawnusa.org/ .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
UC Botanical Garden's School Garden Conference — Join teachers, school volunteers and youth educators for the University of California Botanical Garden's annual one-day conference in a roundtable of activities to experience new curricula, innovative activities and learn horticultural and management techniques to take full advantage of one of the most engaging places of learning. Hands-on workshops include: Botany on Your Plate: Investigating the plants we eat (curriculum); Math in the Garden: Inquiry-based activities that build math skills (curriculum); Traditional Uses of Native Plants: Cordage & Basketry; Cultivating Color: Natural dyes and activities from the Garden; Cooking from the Garden: Fresh nutrition for your students; Creating & Sustaining Your Garden: Horticultural How-to's; The Garden and Your Students: Activities & Management techniques; Small group collaboration to identify resources and strategies for starting or furthering your school garden. You'll also receive: A School Garden Resource Guide, activity packets, take-home materials that link the garden to math, literature, nutrition and science, information on local programs, and certificate of participation. Pre-registration required. Download registration form from website. Location: UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley. Time: 9am - 3:30pm. Cost: $25. Info: 510-643-4832, manoux@berkeley.edu , http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu/education/educationK12.shtml#proDev .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Permaculture Design Two-Week Intensive — Whether you currently own property or dream of it, this two-week intensive course will immerse you in information, ideas and inspiration for how to design sustainable, regenerative systems in balance with your home ecosystem. You will learn the ethics, principles and practice of "permanent culture," by exploring topics such as organic gardening, mulching, natural building techniques, forest farming, water retention and regeneration, erosion control, community processes, and much more. Using a combination of lecture, discussion, hands-on activities at OAEC's 80-acre site, visits to local permaculture examples, and a group design project, you will have the chance to integrate and apply the concepts of permaculture during almost 100 hours of course time. Upon completion of the course, participants receive a Certificate of Permaculture Design. Begins at 5pm on the 15th and ends at 12 noon on the 28th. Instructor: Brock Dolman, with guests. Location: Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, 15290 Coleman Valley Rd., Occidental. Cost: $1400/$1300 if registered two weeks in advance. Info: 707-874-1557, http://www.oaec.org/ .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Bowl-The-Planet and Silent Auction — You're invited to a pledge event for the Center for Ecosystem Survival. Come and rock-out for the planet. Registration fee includes Glow Bowling, food, and music. Bumper bowling is available for kids. Our Silent Auction offers prizes from the Bay Area's museums, restaurants and activities. This pledge event raises funds to preserve and protect endangered habitats worldwide and to bring the Center's award winning Insect Discovery Lab to Bay Area school children. Call to sign up for the event, to pledge, or to volunteer. Location: Serra Bowl, 3301 Junipero Serra Blvd., Daly City. Time: 5pm - 8pm. Cost: $35. Info: 415-648-3392, info@savenature.org , http://www.savenature.org/ .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Workshop: Organic Fruit Tree Care: Training the Young & the Old — Join GFE and Orchard Keepers, organic tree care experts, for this extensive workshop covering organic fruit tree care for both young and mature fruit trees. Learn to encourage fruit from trees of all ages, starting with techniques for training and invigorating young trees for healthy, vigorous growth. We will also learn re-establish annual fruit bearing cycles on older trees through restorative pruning. This hands-on workshop will cover apples, pears and plums (both Stone fruits and Pome fruits). Pre-registration by email or phone required. Location: Garden for the Environment, 7th Ave., @ Lawton St., SF. Time: 10am - Noon. Cost: $15, no one turned away for lack of funds. Info: 415-731-5627, info@gardenfortheenvironment.org , http://www.gardenfortheenvironment.org/ .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Planning for the Future of Muir Woods — Go "behind the scenes" with members of the National Park Service planning team, talking about how we might sustain and steward the old-growth redwood forest and its historical resources, while continuing to offer visitors memorable experiences. Call to RSVP and get meeting location information. Location: Muir Woods National Monument. Time: 9:30am - 11:30am. Cost: free. Info: 415-561-4730, http://www.parksconservancy.org/calendar/index.asp?event=1392 .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Eco-Career Day for High School Students — Through hands-on workshops and by meeting professionals in the field, learn about the wide range of environmental fields available in the urban and natural environment. Get a jump on summer educational, volunteer, and job opportunities at the resource fair with dozens of local organizations. Registration required; details online. Location: Crissy Field Center, Presidio, Bldg. 603, @ Mason & Halleck, SF. Time: 10am - 3pm. Cost: free. Info: 415-561-3000, iyel@parksconservancy.org , http://www.parksconservancy.org/calendar/index.asp?event=45 .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Direct Action and Rally against Chevron Refinery Expansion — The purpose of this action is shut the Chevron refinery down for the day, and to support community efforts to stop Chevron from expanding its refinery. Attendees will rally in Carroll Park at 11am. Nonviolent direct action to shut down the refinery will take place at 1pm, with shuttle buses leaving from Richmond BART and Point Richmond. Join the bicycle brigade or bring a boat and participate from the water. Location: Judge G. Carroll Park, W. Cutting Blvd and W. Garrard Blvd., Richmond. Time: 11am. Cost: free. Info: 510-984-2566, takedirectaction@riseup.net , http://tinyurl.com/2nfekt .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Workshop: Planning Your Garden — Learn to use the charts in How To Grow More Vegetables. Getting seedlings started at the right time and in the right quantities can help make the best use of garden space. Bring a copy of How to Grow More Vegetables, 7th edition (always available at Common Ground), a sharp pencil, and a calculator. (1 CEU) Location: Common Ground, 559 College Ave, Palo Alto. Time: 1:30pm - 3:30pm. Cost: $25. Info: 650-493-6072, www.commongroundinpaloalto.org/ .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Workshop: Companion Planting — Discover how to enhance your garden's health and productivity while attracting a beneficial insect population. Learn how to make efficient use of your garden space and the plants' natural properties by using methods that have been used for centuries. (1.5 CEUs) Location: Common Ground, 559 College Ave, Palo Alto. Time: 10:30am - noon. Cost: $22. Info: 650-493-6072, www.commongroundinpaloalto.org/ .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Volunteer: Habitat Restoration at San Geronimo Creek — Volunteers needed to help restore native habitat in Marin County's San Geronimo Creek. We will meet at Roy's Pools on the San Geronimo Valley Golf Course. Directions from 101: Take Sir Francis Drake to Fairfax. Continue on SF Drake ~5 mi West of Fairfax (over the big hill, past the Golf Course). Just past the golf course, make a left onto Nicasio Valley Drive, then left onto San Geronimo Valley Drive. Roy's Pools is on the left hand side. What to bring: Warm clothing, long pants, long sleeves, work gloves, sturdy shoes, a water bottle, or any other appropriate gear for weather conditions. Call or email for more information. Rain cancels. Time: 10am - 1pm. Info: 415-663-8590 x107, kevin@spawnusa.org , www.spawnusa.org .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Volunteer: Weed the Wetlands at Santa Venetia Marsh — Two endangered species, the California clapper rail and salt marsh harvest mouse, depend on Santa Venetia Marsh for survival. Help plant native plants like coyote bush, gumplant and sticky monkey flower and weed out invasive plants such as harding grass and fennel at this site. Join us at this beautiful site on Gallinas Creek, and learn about the history of wetland protection near the Marin Civic Center. Location: Santa Venetia Marsh, San Rafael. Time: 9am - Noon. Info: 510-452-9261 x119, bayevents@savesfbay.org , http://www.savesfbay.org .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Application Deadline: Young Climate Leaders — Project Slingshot, sponsored by Clif Mojo Bars and Focus the Nation, is offering summer scholarships of up to $10,000 for work on creative solutions that can propel global warming solutions into action. Applicants, 18- to 25-years-old, may offer proposals in one of three categories: "outdoor fanatics protecting the places we love to play," "innovators challenging our expectations," and "artists inspiring our communities." Details online. Info: http://69.30.50.18/mojoslingshot.php .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Workshop: "Gardening from the Ground Up" — Bay-Friendly Gardening means simplifying garden care, reducing chores and using as few resources, from water to fertilizer, as possible. Bay-Friendly gardeners work with nature to reduce waste and prevent pollution of local creeks, waterways and San Francisco Bay. Healthy soil is the foundation of a healthy garden. Understanding your soil will help you grow a blossoming garden this season and for seasons to come. Backyard composting, sheet mulching basics and other soil building techniques will be covered during this workshop. The Bay-Friendly Gardening workshops are offered by the StopWaste.Org and its Bay-Friendly Gardening partners: The Watershed Project, EBMUD, the Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program, and the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. Register online. Location: Bay-Friendly Demonstration Garden (Oakland), 666 Bellevue Ave., Lakeside Park, Oakland. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-444-7645, http://www.bayfriendly.org .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Workshop: "Go Native - Planting for Pollinators" — Bay-Friendly Gardening means simplifying garden care, reducing chores and using as few resources, from water to fertilizer, as possible. Bay-Friendly gardeners work with nature to reduce waste and prevent pollution of local creeks, waterways and San Francisco Bay. Attract birds, butterflies and beneficial insects. Learn to diversify your garden by including California native plants that provide food, shelter, and nesting places for wildlife. The Bay-Friendly Gardening workshops are offered by the StopWaste.Org and its Bay-Friendly Gardening partners: The Watershed Project, EBMUD, the Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program, and the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. Register online. Location: Garre Winery & Vineyard, 7986 Tesla Road, Livermore. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-444-7645, http://www.bayfriendly.org .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Volunteer: South of Market Tree Planting with Friends of the Urban Forest — Breakfast/lunch is provided! Meet at Luscious Garage, 459 Clementina St. (between 5th & 6th St.). Call to confirm meeting location and to RSVP. Location: SF. Time: 9am - Noon. Info: 415-561-6890 ext 100, http://www.fuf.net/calendar_news/index.html .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Seminar: "Alternative Materials: Cob and Strawbale" — Two natural building methods are currently undergoing renewed popularity. Cob is an ancient technique using a mixture of earth, sand and straw; it requires only simple handtools and can easily be shaped into imaginative structures. Strawbales are highly insulative and create an Old World character of thick walls and deepset windows. The methods are gaining building code approval in many communities. Location: Building Education Center, 812 Page St., Berkeley. Time: 10am - 5pm. Cost: $85. Info: 510-525-7610, http://www.bldgeductr.org/seminars.html .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Educator Workshop: Kids in Gardens — Gather the tools to build a school garden in our flagship introductory course. This fast-paced workshop will give you a jump start on creating—and sustaining—a school garden. Our hands-on presentations, demonstrations, and activities will give you basic gardening concepts and techniques that you can use to create your school garden. You will learn basic gardening concepts, including propagating plants, collecting seed, improving soil, eliminating pests using less toxic alternatives, as well as strategies for increasing water conservation, preventing green waste accumulation, and developing wildlife habitat. Reserve your space online, or by phone or email. Location: Mary Silveira Elementary School, 375 Blackstone Drive, San Rafael. Time: 9am - 4pm. Cost: $49. Info: 510-665-3430, workshops@thewatershedproject.org , http://www.thewatershedproject.org/default/ .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Teacher Training: Wild in the Wilderness — Wild in the Wilderness: Adventures in Environmental Education. If you are interested in designing and implementing your own low-cost environmental education program in a beautiful natural environment, consider bringing a group to the Clem Miller Environmental Education Center. This teacher training workshop (required for teachers bringing a group to the center) is held annually and will provide the foundation for planning your visit. Participate in hands-on activities, discovery methods, and thought-provoking games that illustrate a variety of science and ecological concepts while fulfilling some of the California State Science standards. Learn how to adapt these activities to your lessons and become familiar with the teaching spots around the Center. Leave the weekend energized and full of environmental education ideas that you can take back to the classroom. Accommodations at the Center are required. 1.5 units of continuing education credit are available through Dominican University. This fast-paced workshop is curriculum based and compatible with the California State Science Framework. Workshop takes place from Saturday 9am to Sunday 4pm. Priority registration is given to teachers whose school is already registered to bring their students to the Center. Those wishing to learn basic environmental education techniques are also welcome on a space-available basis. Space is limited and registration is required. Register online, by phone or by email. Location: Clem Miller Environmental Education Center, Point Reyes National Seashore, Pt. Reyes Station. Cost: $80 general, $75 members, free if your school is already scheduled at the Education Center. Info: 415-663-1224, fiona@ptreyes.org , http://www.ptreyes.org/schoolprogram/index.shtml .

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Exhibit: Fibers and Dyes — Discover the rich history of using plants for fibers and dyes, Walk through the Garden's exhibit of various plants used for fibers and dyes. See samples of plant fibers woven into designs. Location: UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: Free with garden admission. Info: 510-643-2755 x03, http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu .

Saturday, March 15, 2008 - Sunday, October 12, 2008
Exhibition: In Our Own Backyard: A Celebration of the East Bay Regional Parks — Take a virtual tour of the East Bay Regional Parks, following the flow of creeks from snow-capped Mount Diablo through protected park land to the many parks along the shoreline of San Francisco Bay. More than 40 photographs from the museum's Bob Walker Archive celebrate the diversity and habitats of the parks. Guest curated by Christopher Beaver, author of After the Storm: Bob Walker and the East Bay Regional Park District. Location: Oakland Museum of CA, 1000 Oak St., @ 10th St., Oakland. Cost: $8 general, $5 seniors & students w/ ID, free for members, children five and under, and City of Oakland employees. Info: 510-238-2200, http://www.museumca.org/ .

Sunday, March 16, 2008
Community Labyrinth Peace Walk — Everyone welcome. Rain cancels. Location: Willard Middle School, Telegraph Ave., between Derby St. and Stuart St., Berkeley. Time: 3pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-526-7377, info@eastbaylabyrinthproject.org , http://www.bpfp.org/users/eblp/ .

Sunday, March 16, 2008
Workshop: Garden Garments — Learn to dye with plant sources from your garden. Create an array of colors for a garden dyer's sample book, and dye a plant-colored and patterned textile to take home. Location: UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley. Time: 1pm - 4pm. Cost: $40. Info: 510-643-2755 x03, http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu .

Sunday, March 16, 2008
Work Party: Bernal Hilltop Native Grassland Restoration Project — Join volunteers working to control invasive weeds, pick up trash, maintain restoration areas, and enjoy the spring wildflower bloom at this award-winning urban natural area restoration project. Meet at the foot of the road leading to the phone company microwave tower near the southwest road closure of Bernal Heights Boulevard. Bring your own clippers/tools if possible. Location: Bernal Hilltop Native Grassland, Bernal Heights Boulevard southwest terminus, SF. Time: 11am. Info: 415-831-6328, bpandrp@peoplepc.com .

Sunday, March 16, 2008
Party with Grandmothers for the Oaks — Join Berkeley Grandmothers for the Oaks for a Party at the Oak Grove. Bring songs, musical instruments, and lots of food and water. We're going to sing our little hearts out ya hear? Location: Memorial Oak Grove, (on Piedmont, just north of Bancroft), Berkeley. Time: 2pm. Cost: Donations of food and water appreciated. Info: http://www.saveoaks.com/SaveOaks/Main.html .

.......................................................................................................................................

Carrie Bennett
Ecology Center

Send event listings to calendar@ecologycenter.org
Send action alerts to alerts@ecologycenter.org
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For questions or clarifications, call 510/548-2220 x233 or x239.

// Thanks to volunteers Guy Baldwin and David Klotz for help with the EcoCalendar.
// Thanks to Jennifer Bresee, Beck Cowles, and David Ricardo for their guidance.

The Ecology Center is a membership organization providing environmental information and direct services to promote sustainable living and a healthy, socially just world. Please support this community resource for the environment by becoming a member or making a donation. Support our work on-line at http://www.ecologycenter.org/donate/

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