August Regional Nature Journal Club Field Trip @ Albany Bulb, Albany CA

Let's nature journal together at the urban wilds of Albany Bulb! This bayside park has a wide variety of flora and fauna…native plants, birds in the estuary, trees, a small beach, views of the bay over to SF and Marin. There’s also interesting emergent artwork, small paths, and some tide-dwelling beings for folks who are more on the daring side.

• Learn more about the Albany Bulb here: https://www.albanybulb.org and here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albany_Bulb
• Free; Suggested $20 donation for the Wild Wonder Foundation.

Field trip hosts: Kate Rutter, Regional Nature Journal Club Trip host

Weather note: If for any reason rain is forecast for the day of the field trip, grab an umbrella and come anyway. There’s not a lot of cover, but we can journal the wet conditions! Do note that conditions have been very warm, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Transit & Parking:

• Public Transit is available, but it’s a bit of a walk. Take AC Transit #72 to the San Pablo+Marin Ave stop. From there, walk ~1.1 miles West. This path includes some tricky road crossings, but it’s possible.
• Please post on the Meetup group for carpools.
• Parking is available in two lots along Buchannan Street. Come a little early to be sure to get a closer spot.

How to find us:
Meet at the restroom at the start of the Albany Waterfront Trail.
(If you come a little late, look for people sketching. :)
Location Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9GsK4V3e7sde7Ww2A

Bring:

• Seasonally appropriate clothing / dress for variable (including HOT or WINDY) weather.
• Sunscreen and hat.
• Waterbottle (water is available onsite.)
• Nature journaling supplies.
• Potluck Lunch: Bring potluck treats to share for lunch, and bring your own bowl and spoon.
• A sense of wonder and humor.
• Anything else to make the day lovely for you: folding stool, magnifying loupe, umbrella, depending. ;)

Flow of the day:

• We'll gather together for our opening circle at **10am** and do short intros and a warm-up. Then we'll head out for journaling, either in small clusters, or solo, whichever you prefer.
• We'll gather together at 12:30 for lunch, to share work, and to socialize. Then we'll head back out for more journaling!
• We'll meet again at 3:30 for a final closing circle and connection time, then wrap.

Good to know:

• Open to all ages and ability levels. No registration is necessary. $20 suggested donation.
• Accessibility: mostly flat and accessible pathways; benches and seating. Some paths are unofficial, so don’t venture beyond your comfort zone.
• Bathrooms are available onsite.
• Cell coverage is moderate so plan accordingly.

Bring friends and family!