A Welcome Center and Outdoor Classroom for RDO

It is said that "the root cause of climate disruption is humanity's lack of connection to the earth."* Direct contact with nature is the solution. Want to join me in making a difference? I'm raising money to benefit Waddell Creek Association (WCA), and any donation will help make an impact. Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me.

WCA supports the health and function of Rancho del Oso (RDO) which is the coastal portion of Big Basin Redwoods State Park. RDO is home to an abundance of migratory and resident birds, secretive mountain lions, diverse salamander species, and whales. With seven distinct ecosystems, this coastal valley is the gateway to the famous Skyline to Sea Trail, extending all the way through the Santa Cruz Mountain Range.

We are in need of an updated Welcome Center in order to support the environmental education programs and dynamic recreational activities: hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The new Welcome Center would maintain the existing footprint (672 sq. ft) with an attached outdoor classroom (480 sq. ft) for school groups, interpretive programs, and a staging area for recreational activities. 

The existing building was installed in 1976 and is showing signs of extensive rot and decay. It no longer meeting the needs of staff and visitors. With thousands of park visitors and school students each month, we aim to provide a safe and welcoming experience for all of our park guests.

At this critical point in history, it is important for all of us to have a direct, intimate connection to the natural world. This project would make it possible for more people of all ages and walks of life, to experience the curative and inspirational impact that one receives through direct contact and interaction with our natural world. 

Your donation would increase stewardship and understanding between humans and our parklands. 

Thank you,
Lea



* The End of Ice, by Dahr Jamail, The New Press, New York, 2019.