Exploring trails, learning about native species and cultures, getting up close and personal with animal ambassadors, my memories of Effie Yeaw Nature Center are tinged with golden light filtered through trees in a 77-acre riparian woodland.
Many locals don’t know this gem exists around the corner in Carmichael.
Let’s change that. As the center named for teacher and conversationist Effie Yeaw celebrates 50 years, now is the perfect opportunity to visit.
“People need to know that we are here and we are open,” says volunteer Kari Bauer. “It’s free—you only have to pay a $7 county parking fee—and there are programs for all ages. There’s so much going on.”
Bauer started volunteering at the center when she retired as a critical-care nurse. She was always interested in nature, grew up loving animals and majored in zoology. When she discovered the Yeaw docent program, she found her niche.
“It’s always been a wonderful place to be,” Bauer says. “The people are so friendly and welcoming and grateful for everything you do.”
Interim Director Rachael Cowan agrees.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat and positive buzz about the Nature Center,” Cowan says. “They make our programs, habitat restoration, animal care and outreach possible, and they usher in new members and inspire future environmental stewards.”
There’s plenty to keep volunteers busy. Activities include walking the trails with information about the center, issuing friendly reminders about ticks and rattlesnakes, helping maintain the grounds, training to become docents to lead tours and school groups, and helping with animals.
“A number of volunteers have been here for many years because it’s such a wonderful place,” says Bauer, who joined the center in 1998. “It’s not just the environment. It’s the people you’re with.”
The environment is magical. The center offers natural spaces to observe native plants and wildlife, plus dozens of special events, school field trips, guided walks, talks and nature camps. The nonprofit American River Natural History Association manages the center.
“People come to heal, to seek refuge from modern life, to inspire creativity, to commune with others who enjoy nature and so much more,” Cowan says.
Bauer’s favorite event is Bird & Breakfast in March. The fundraiser places attendees in small groups for bird walks with experienced birders. They scope out nests of native species such as hummingbirds, bushtits and red-shouldered hawks. Participants return to a breakfast spread.
Bauer appreciates how the programs inspire the next generation of nature lovers.
“I spent summers camping and didn’t realize now how special that was,” she says. “Not every child gets to do that. Lots of kids come to the nature center and see animals for the first time. If you get a child excited about something, they’re going to spread the word to everyone they know. I got that from Jane Goodall.”
For 50 years, Effie Yeaw Nature Center has given kids and kids-at-heart an opportunity to discover nature. Here’s to another 50 years of memories.
For information, visit effieyeawnature.org.
Jessica Laskey can be reached at jessrlaskey@gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram: @insidesacramento.
