Entomology Program
The SSU Preserves' Entomology Education Program increases awareness, and appreciation for, the critical role of insect biodiversity in ecosystems. We emphasize conservation issues, especially watershed stewardship and ecologically sound pest management.
Support for the Entomology Education Program is provided through grants, private donations, merchandise sales, and fundraising efforts. The Entomology Education Program benefits from access to the SSU Biology Department Museum, and the expertise of faculty advisor, Dr. Nathan Rank.
Please contact us if you are interested in any of the following programs. We reach over 12,000 people each year.
Find us on Facebook.
K-12 and Public Outreach
We offer classroom and school garden presentations, public hikes, lectures, workshops and classes, and extensive exhibits for large events, for all age groups and levels of expertise. Our programs feature high-quality microscopes and specialty insect collections, with a focus on aquatic invertebrates and garden allies.
Professional and Teacher Training
We collaborate with other agencies to provide training for teachers, docents and master gardeners.
Events
The SSU Field Station & Nature Preserves' Open House features Insecta-Palooza!, a smorgasbord of educational interactive stations about bugs for people of all ages to enjoy. Our Open House is held each October, on the Saturday before Halloween. This and other events are highlighted in the Preserves calendar.
More Information
Garden Allies Brochure - information on attracting beneficial insects)
Photos - check for regular updates
Data & Publications - we add to the Preserves lists regularly
Events - keep informed about Insecta-Palooza and other entomological activities.
Thanks to supporters of the Entomology Outreach Program
Support the Entomology Outreach Program with your donation to our fall fundraising campaign. Your contribution will appear on both the Insecta-Palooza and the Entomology Outreach Program web sites.
For more information on donating to our program please contact Michelle Covington at michelle.covington@sonoma.edu or (707) 664-4151.
Your contribution goes toward school programs and curriculum development, and to offset costs of hosting Insecta-Palooza. Entomology Program sponsors are listed on the website and in the Insecta-Palooza program. Choose from several levels of sponsorship.
Levels of support
Cricket - $50
Ladybug- $100
Dragonfly - $250
Butterfly - $500
Honeybee - $1,000
The Melissa Garden
Lacewing - $2,500
Firefly - $5,000