Intro to Ecology & Biodiversity of Urban Oakland
Intro to Ecology and Biodiversity of Urban Oakland
We will learn about the ecological history of Oakland, how to see the past, present, and potential futures of the land we live on. As well as why a shared sense of connection to the living world is essential to a sustainable and prosperous future for all who live in Oakland.
Host: Aminah Hanif-Cruz, Hub Lead, Black Girl Environmentalist
Facilitator: Saumitra Kelkar, Biology Educator and CA Native Plant Specialist
Join us for a late morning walk around the lake to learn about what native and non-native plants are in the neighborhood. We will practice learning the names, how-to identify native plants, and cataloging them on the iNaturalist app!
Please remember to bring a water bottle and any sun protection you may need for this walk.
Event Details 🕰️
11:00-11:15 AM Welcome and Grounding
11:15-12:50 PM Walk perimeter of Lake Merritt
12:50-1:00 PM Closing Remarks and Gratitude
Who's invited?
Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and has an love + appreciation for Oakland's greenery. Children are welcomed at this event! It is highly walkable, and stroller-friendly.
What about parking?
There is no designated parking on-site, we recommend street parking (partially metered) or using public transportation. The closest BART stations is the Lake Merritt Station (south side) and the 19th St/ Oakland Station (north side). The primary designated accessible parking (including van-accessible spaces) is available in the paved parking lot off Bellevue Avenue at Lakeside Park.
What about accessibility?
Lake Merritt is highly accessible. The multi-use loop is overwhelmingly paved concrete (at least 8 feet wide) with a gentle grade of 3% or less, making it highly accessible for wheelchair users and mobility equipment. ADA-compliant restrooms are located at Snow Park, Children’s Fairyland, the Boating Center, and the Municipal Boathouse.
Will this event be photographed or recorded?
Please be aware this event is being photographed and video/audio recorded for promotional and archival purposes. By registering for this event, you consent to your image and voice being used. If you prefer not to be photographed or recorded, please notify our lead and speaker at the event.
Is this a paid ticketed event?
This event is free to attend for BIPOC identifying people, though voluntary donations for the speaker are gratefully accepted.
Workshop Schedule
June 6, 4-6 PM - Living Oakland: a Virtual Tour of the Town's Ancient Ecosystems
June 13, 11-1 PM - Intro to Ecology and Biodiversity of Urban Oakland
July - TBD
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Community Guidelines 🧠
Black Girl Environmentalist events are designed to be welcoming, curious, and respectful spaces for learning and connection.
By attending, you agree to treat speakers and fellow attendees with respect and follow all community norms and instructions.
Harassment or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. For the safety and comfort of everyone, BGE and our guest speaker reserve the right to remove any attendee from the event at any time, if behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful.
Thank you for supporting our community! We look forward to seeing you at Part 2 of our workshop series! Please tell a friend!
*For any other questions or special accommodations, please email [email protected]