How we care for streams, soils, and watersheds shapes the resilience of our landscapes and communities for generations.
This two-day, immersive workshop is for land stewards, conservation and restoration professionals, students, and community members to learn low-tech, process-based restoration practices that slow water, reduce erosion, and restore ecological function.
Through a blend of classroom learning and hands-on field practice, participants will:
Explore how in-stream rock structures, beaver dam analogues (BDAs), and post-assisted log structures (PALs) can restore natural hydrology.
Learn to “read the landscape” and design interventions that respond to the cues of water, sediment, and vegetation.
Gain practical skills in revegetation strategies, earthworks for water harvesting, and ongoing ecological monitoring.
Experience projects already underway at Jalama Canyon Ranch and leave with knowledge you can apply on your own land or in your professional practice.
Beyond technical skills, this workshop connects you to a broader movement of land and water stewards dedicated to restoring watersheds and strengthening ecological resilience.
LEAD FACILITATORS
Brenton Kelly | Quail Springs Permaculture
Audrey Taub | SLO Beaver Brigade
Cooper Lienhart | Nature’s Engineers
Jesse Smith | White Buffalo Land Trust
Workshop Details
Duration: Two full days (9:00 AM–4:00 PM)
Format: Mix of lectures, field walks, and hands-on restoration work
Meals: Farm-to-table lunch provided both days
Optional: Overnight camping available on site
Cost: The training cost is $475 USD and includes instruction, materials, and locally sourced, delicious lunches each day.
Limited scholarships are available. FOR INQUIRIES & QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR PROGRAMS TEAM AT PROGRAMS@WHITEBUFFALOLANDTRUST.ORG