Weather Extremes in California's Native Landscapes with William Selby

It’s anyone’s guess which extreme weather events might surprise us and our plant communities in the coming season; cloudbursts, floods, droughts, wildfires, cold snaps, heat waves, or windstorms! Whether you’re a novice gardener or an expert at Theodore Payne Foundation veteran, we all understand why championing native plants has become more relevant and crucial than ever!

With the Santa Ana winds upon us, we’re surveying how our ecosystem will respond to the unexpected atmospheric chaos that is transforming our natural landscapes. What are our plants communicating to us and how can we anticipate or adapt to the next weather challenges? Staring down a future of water shortages and dead pools, our better understanding of these patterns is essential if we and our plants are to survive and thrive. Join professor emeritus, author, and naturalist, William Selby, as he shares a lifetime of discoveries beyond his informative website and recent publication, California Sky Watcher book.         

We will start with a discussion fortified with a wealth of colorful images, always keeping this event open to your questions. We will end with a walk through Theodore Payne Foundation's magical demonstration gardens before sunset.

A portion of this class will be held outdoors. Please dress accordingly and wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes. Bringing water is strongly recommended.

William Selby teaches an assortment of earth science courses (including weather and climate) as professor at Santa Monica College and Visiting Professor at the UCs. Selby has led hundreds of field classes throughout the state and beyond. He has helped establish environmental programs at SMC, served as consultant for films (such as Dry Times) and the community, and produced field guide booklets. His enduring 550-page book, Rediscovering the Golden State: California Geography, is in its 4th edition. He carries decades of personal and professional weather observations and climate research experiences from numerous sources (including the National Weather Service) into his latest Heyday book project.

You can follow his stories at www.rediscoveringthegoldenstate.com .

LA Times Book Review: The California Sky Watcher: Understanding Weather Patterns and What Comes Next

Photo Credit: Matt Wright

Refund Policy: If you are feeling sick or experiencing covid-19 symptons we urge you to stay home. Please note refunds/credit are not available within 7 days of the event.