Course Inspires Next Generation of California Naturalists
‘Wild Davis’ Students Investigate Local Ecosystems, Learn Wildlife Conservation and Environmental Stewardship
Nobody knew that badgers were inhabiting an ecosystem near Davis until recently — and finding them is the kind of discovery that would excite any seasoned biologist. But that’s not who identified the rare species just last year. It was spotted by undergraduates in Laci Gerhart’s popular “Wild Davis” course (EVE 16), who have also had rare glimpses of ringtails and other species.
Gerhart, an associate professor of teaching in the Department of Evolution and Ecology, created the innovative course to give both biology students and non-majors an opportunity for hands-on experiential learning about the UC Davis environment — but they also do far more. Through partnerships with UC Environmental Stewards and work in Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve, Gerhart aims to train a diverse, engaged citizenry in environmental stewardship.
Students’ capstone projects have included pollinator surveys, trail maintenance, trash pickup, installing QR codes to capture donations for the reserve, and classifying wildlife imagery from camera traps. Gerhart said she strives to ensure that every project has a meaningful effect on campus — and students say the class stokes a passion for future environmental stewardship and volunteerism.