Open to ages 6 and up.

Join in the search of the Black Sea Turtle in south San Diego Bay. Paddling silent kayaks, traverse the warm, shallow waters of South Bay, passing over eel grass beds to look for the backs and heads of turtles rising to breathe. Stinson will teach you about the biology of these magnificent sea creatures, and also relate the fascinating story of San Diego’s turtles—a tale that began in 1855. Price includes equipment and paddling instruction. No previous kayaking or swimming experience is required.

Saturday, December 5; 9 AM–noon
Member $55 per adult; Nonmember $65 per adult
$20 for child age 6–12 paddling in double kayak with parent

Leaders: Margie Stinson

Western, Herring, California, Heermann’s, Ring-billed, and Mew gulls are all part of San Diego life. This course is sure to end your confusion about gull identification. Study plumage patterns from fledgling to maturity. We might also see Bonaparte’s and Glaucous-winged gulls. All participants will receive a reference booklet; bring binoculars and leave field guides in the car.

Saturday, January 9 and Sunday, January 10, 2010; 9 AM–1 PM
Member $30; Nonmember $38

Instructor: Herb Young

This all-day class is designed for the new nature photographer with a point-and-shoot pocket digital camera. Discuss the various operation modes of the cameras and discover the meaning of terms such as aperture, resolution, f-stop, ISO, white balance, and exposure. Learn the concepts of good composition and how to take great photos with a simple camera. The class will include a walk through the Balboa Park’s Cactus Garden or other areas to practice your newfound skills. Finish up by reviewing the images and discussing what to do “after the shoot.” Limited to 12 participants.

Saturday, January 9, 2010;9 AM–2 PM
Member $70; Nonmember $80

Instructor: Larry Stein

Open to ages 6 and up.

Lake Murray is located within the boundary of beautiful Mission Trails Regional Park. This is a great lake for viewing a wide range of resident and migrating birds, including osprey, egrets, herons, ducks and geese. There are picnic tables along the shore for a no-host lunch after the paddle. Price includes equipment and paddling instruction. No previous kayaking or swimming experience is required.

Saturday, January 9, 2010; 9 AM–noon
Member $55 per adult; Nonmember $65 per adult
$20 per child ages 6–12 paddling in a double kayak with a parent

Leaders: Marie Humphrey