Learning Among the Oaks

Connecting kids, nature and land

Help us build a community of kids who care about nature and each other

See how we’re changing young lives

“I have learned that being an Oak Ambassador means more than just knowing about animals, oaks, rocks and other parts of nature. It means being responsible, respectful, and helpful to nature and teaching others to do the same.”

—- Boone, 5th grade Oak Ambassador

About Learning Among the Oaks (LATO)

LATO is The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County’s (LCSLO) outdoor science education and youth environmental leadership program delivered through three public school bases, each with its own associated oak nature trail for educational hikes, field studies and stewardship experiences.

These services reach more than 2,000 people each year, mostly children and families, many from underserved communities. LATO’s place-based learning and integration with public school programs means that experiences are relevant to kids’ everyday lives and that kids from a variety of backgrounds have the chance to participate.

Together, we’re building a community of kids who care about nature and each other.

What LATO has been up to

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New Spring Events in San Luis Obispo County on our Website Calendar:
March 25 Coreopsis Hill hike
April 1 Spring Plant Sale (online pre-ordering happening now)
April 2 Shell Creek hike
April 6 - 8 SLO Co flora release & Cal Poly botanical hikes
April 15 & 22 - Carrizo Plain hike
April 29 - Junge Ranch hike
April 29 - Cambria Wildflower Show
May 5 - Sudden Oak Death Blitz
May 20 - Plant ID workshop in field

cnpsslo.org/events/
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Frank Velasquez-Randise

Enjoy recent Santa Margarita Ranch LATO wildlife camera project images thanks to longtime volunteers Nathan, Dan and Katrina Sharon. Pick your favorite to share with family and friends. These are our wild neighbors. Hopefully, all are staying safe through another atmospheric river. ... See MoreSee Less

Enjoy recent Santa Margarita Ranch LATO wildlife camera project images thanks to longtime volunteers Nathan, Dan and Katrina Sharon. Pick your favorite to share with family and friends. These are our wild neighbors. Hopefully, all are staying safe through another atmospheric river.Image attachmentImage attachment+6Image attachment

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Love this!❤️ everyone looks nice and healthy!

I wonder if it is the same bobcat in these photos?

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If you find injured or orphaned wildlife, please contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Even the best intentions can be harmful and even kill without proper knowledge and training. We are open 365 days a year for any wildlife in need!

#KeepThemWild #NotAPet #WildlifeRehab
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Thank you for sharing.

Dawn and dusk are the most active time for coyotes. Look closely to see this well-camouflaged coyote out on a morning hunt. Thanks to volunteers Lydia, Cindy and the LATO Santa Margarita Ranch Wildlife Camera Project team. #localwildlife ... See MoreSee Less

🗓️ Saturday, March 11, 2023
1:00 PM 2:00 PM

Chumash people have used some 150 species of plants for food, medicine, raw materials for making clothing, tools and utensils, religious paraphernalia, and other items essential to existence. Equally important are how the Chumash thought about plants and were affected by them.

Dr. Timbrook's informative, illustrated talk will provide a glimpse into the fascinating plant world of the Chumash, including the complex interrelationships between the first people of our region and the environment in which they lived.

This class is $5 for members and $15 for the general public. Anyone aged 13 and up is welcome to participate!

*Registration is available online at www.slobg.org/calendar/chumash-ethnobotany or in person at the Gift Shop.

#SLOBG
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I have learned to love nature, to be one with nature, and to value nature.

- Rosie, Oak Ambassador, 4th grade

Subscribe to LATO Nature Notes, our bi-monthly e-news

Our Partners & Supporters

San Luis Obispo County Fish and Game Fines Committee

Rod Hoadley ~ Peak Racks

Marguerite Costigan and            Terry Sanville

Ann Robinson

Brisco Foundation

Joan Collier

Barlow Family Foundation

Justin Community Grants

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Randy and Sally Knight

Christine Harvey

Mankins Foundation

Marney and Roger Briggs

James F. Maino and Lisa Kilburn

Warren and Carol Sinsheimer

DeVos Family Foundation

Cal Poly Biological Sciences Department (Professors John Perrine and Emily Taylor)

Partial listing; Supporter page under construction.