Second Annual California Wildlife Day!

A Wild Success!

      CRWC hosted its second annual California Wildlife Day community event on March 23rd with the help and co-hosting of the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District. The event took place at the Palo Corona Regional Park in Carmel Valley under a clear blue sky. Lynn Cullens, executive director of the Mountain Lion Foundation was the keynote speaker. Remarks were also heard from the spokesperson of CA Senator Bill Monning, as well as two in-person elected officials: Assemblyperson Mark Stone and District Supervisor Mary Adams.

​      More than 600 local residents and visitors came to enjoy the happenings of the day, both indoors and outdoors. Over 30 environmental exhibitors were present to discuss local wildlife and conservation initiatives, 200+ pieces of local school children art, poetry, and science projects were on display, and several food vendors including Fire On Wheels Pizza and Earthbound Farms provided delicious food all day long. 

            As part of a regional CWD contest, school groups from around the Monterey area submitted art, poetry, and bilingual science posters in hopes of recognition and REI-sponsored prizes. Twenty elementary, middle, and high school students were awarded for their exemplary research, creativity, and hard work. Two groups of students from Tularcitos and Stevenson elementary schools presented their research on California wildlife species during the event. 

             Live animal demonstrations featured a great horned owl, a red-tailed hawk, and a peregrine falcon. The crowd was enraptured with the up-close view of these majestic birds. Nature walks were also led through the Palo Corona park grounds, a recently opened MPRPD park featuring a rewilded golf course. Arts and crafts were offered to young children, and a sculpture installation by local artist Paola Berthoin was also held. Needless to say, there was no shortage of family fun all day long. Many thanks to our guests, presenters, sponsors and co-hosts. We look forward to making next year an even greater success!

​Click through the photos below to see some snapshots of the day