Western Monarch Count Field Training

Saturday, October 17, 2026 9:00-11:00 AM

Bodega Dunes Campground Bodega Bay, CA 94923

Meeting Location: Day-use parking lot (Coordinates: 38.34174° N, 123.05673° W)

Led by: Meghan Ashley Peterman, Sonoma County Coordinator

Training Description

Join us for a field training for the 2026 Western Monarch Count. This training is intended for new volunteers as well as returning volunteers who would like a field refresher before the count season begins.

We will begin by visiting the Bodega Dunes overwintering site (Site #3121) and checking for monarchs. Using the site as our field classroom, we will walk through Western Monarch Count survey protocol, practice finding and counting monarchs, and review how to record observations.

We will also discuss the importance of scouting overwintering sites early in the season, site assignments, volunteer schedules, and what to expect during the Early, Mid-Season, and Late Count periods. As time allows, we will review habitat assessments and additional scouting techniques.

The goal is for volunteers to leave feeling comfortable with the basic survey process and prepare to participate in the 2026-27 Western Monarch Count in Sonoma County.

Please review the Xerces Society’s virtual Western Monarch Count training before attending this field training.

***RAIN CANCELS!***

What to Bring

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