Water’s Amazing Journey at Coyote Hills
Water surrounds Coyote Hills, but where does it come from, and where does it go? In winter, we expect rain to fall from the clouds (precipitation) and land on mountains, lakes, and rivers. Some of this water is soaked up by plants and seeps into the ground, replenishing groundwater. Some water is held in reservoirs for non-rainy days and released for human and animal use. The rest flows to the bay and the ocean. The sun heats surface waters, causing water to turn from a liquid into a gas (evaporation). The gaseous water vapor rises and cools to form clouds (condensation). When the clouds collect enough moisture, precipitation falls, starting the cycle anew. Because the ocean surface covers 72 percent of the planet, it is ultimately the source of most of the rain falling on the earth. So, the next time you sip water, think of its fantastic journey from the ocean to your lips!
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WHAT’S the WEATHER?
How is weather different from climate? What is El Niño? Explore the answers to these questions and come outside to experience and measure weather parameters like wind speed, air temperature and pressure, humidity and cloud cover. – Jan 6 (Sat), 11am-Noon
WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE
Explore the Coyote Hills watershed, discover where your water comes from, and learn how we are connected and responsible for our watersheds, wherever we live. Make your own paper watershed and use a watershed model to find ways to protect our precious water! – Jan 27 (Sat) 10:30am-noon
PAINT in COLOR
The flowers are here, and I must paint! Join us this weekend to foster your inner artist by water coloring in the tranquil butterfly garden. Spring is just around the corner! Supplies will be provided, or you may bring your own –Jan 21, Feb 4 (Sun), 12:30-2pm
TEATIME TROT and TREAT
Tea making is a tradition across many cultures. Come on a one-mile hike in the hills to identify and gather some of our local edible plants to be made into delicious tea! Bring your own mug if you have one. – Jan 28, Feb 18 (Sun), 12:30-2pm
KING TIDE WALK
Hayward Regional Shoreline (Hayward)
What are King Tides? How do they affect plants and animals, and what can we learn from them? Find out and participate in the community science King Tides Project on this easy walk along the San Francisco Bay shore. Be prepared for muddy shoes! –Jan 13 (Sat), Noon-1:30pm; Feb 10 (Sat), 11am-12:30pm
THE EARLY BIRDER SEES THE BIRD, AN INTRO TO BIRDING
Hayward Regional Shoreline (Hayward)
Explore the wonders of the avian world. See and hear our local bird friends foraging and frolicking on the edge of the bay. All experience levels welcome and we will have binoculars to share. –Feb 11, 25 (Sun), 8-9:30am
