Opportunities From: Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority

John will be leading a birding walk from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

Join us for upcoming opportunities to enhance your knowledge as a docent or volunteer with the Open Space Authority. These sessions are designed to provide knowledge and practical experience to help enhance our programs for the public. 

Come learn with us!

You need not be a docent to come join us for one of these fun learning sessions; we hope that this inspires new volunteers to want to join us for docent training in winter 2027. 

Please note that some of these sessions are in-person at our office at 33 Las Colinas, virtually through Zoom and in the field. When you sign up for a session, please note date, location and time below as it may not correspond to the automatically generated calendar reminder through the volunteer portal. Reminders will be sent 2 days in advance from Kat, at khill@openspaceauthority.org

Interested in presenting or offering a topic? 

Please email Kat to choose an open date and finalize curricula. If you have thoughts on what you'd like to learn as a docent, please also email Kat to see if we can find a lead to offer training

We will have a gentle walk sharing stories, advice, and general kindness and comfort for those who are grieving. We will be at Rancho Canada del Oro in August. 

This month we will host one program, only.

While the walk will be from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. the shift includes 30 min before and afterwards. Please note that the shift time has been adjusted to be 30 min before and after this program.

Charles S. will be the lead, but we are looking for at least two more helpers. 

Description shared with the public about this program:

Whether you lost someone yesterday or years ago, sometimes the best thing to do is just be with people who understand. Come take a gentle walk with us and begin to heal in nature at this beautiful neighborhood park. Each month we will choose a new location and you are welcome to join us. Dress for the weather. Talking about your loss is optional and everyone is welcome.

Pam will be leading the new "Poison Oak - Friends or Foe?" program on 10/18/2026. She asked us to open this opportunity to another docent who might be interested in joining to share some knowledge and enjoy the experience. Why not join us?

Mike H. is leading this awesome full loop hike on Coyote Ridge to share his knowledge all about tule elk! We are seeking at least two hike sweeps to help manage the group, share knowledge and escort guests back if they need to leave early for any reason. Please note that we are advertising for two dates, 8/6 and 9/3. The 10/1 date below is for a special in-person and online hybrid presentation. 

Here is what has been shared with the public:

Did you know we have elk just 15 minutes south of San Jose? Come join us for a hike at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma to learn all about the recovery of this incredible species, their habitat, home range and specific habits during this time of year. You will get to hold an elk antler, search for elk scat and hear their mating call-- the bugle! This hike will cover the full 5.5 mile loop in the preserve, which features over 1000 ft. of elevation gain. Come prepared with close-toed shoes, hiking poles, layers, snacks, sun protection and plenty of water for this walk and talk!

Location: Máyyan ‘Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve located at https://maps.app.goo.gl/hAJ4Ki69KcLLf7RRA More location details will be sent the week before your hike. Please be sure to check your email.

What to expect This guided hike will have 1,000 elevation feet change as we hike a full loop along various trails. A docent will lead the group. There will be frequent stops along the trail to discuss tule elk and look for evidence of their presence.

What to bring

Comfortable hiking shoes

Hiking poles are recommended

Water

Snacks

Sun protection

Appropriate clothing