PLACERVILLE, CA. – American River Conservancy (ARC) is pleased to share its winter 2025–2026 lineup featuring outdoor adventures, literary experiences, creative workshops, and community gatherings. This winter’s programs invite participants to explore, learn, and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of the American River region. All events require online registration and are subject to change. Visit ARConservancy.org/events for registration, costs, age restrictions, and updates.
FEATURED EVENT
Think History’s Dull? Think Again! — An Evening with Author Alan Ehrgott
Saturday, February 28 • 5:30–7:00 PM
ARC proudly spotlights this special evening with Alan Ehrgott, ARC’s retired founder and director. Ehrgott will present a captivating photo-rich program based on his newly released historical novel, The Elusive Conquest of Queen Califa, a sweeping tale of early California brought to life through adventure, courage, and discovery. Part history, part historical fiction, and part personal memoir, this unique presentation promises to reshape how audiences see California’s past. Signed copies of Ehrgott’s book will be available, and $10 from every copy sold (both at the event and online) will be donated to the Phase 2 construction of ARC’s Education Center at Wakamatsu Farm.
In addition to the scheduled dates below, please note ARC’s “pop-up” programs, which are offered impromptu when conditions are ideal, including: New Year Cleanse Hike, Snowshoe Hike, and the Mushroom Walk.
iPhone Artistry Class
Saturday, January 10 • 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Photographer and educator Betty Sederquist leads a fun, hands-on workshop in smartphone photography, including basics, techniques, and suggested apps.
Capturing Wakamatsu: A Poetry Walk & Workshop
Sunday, January 25 • 12:00–2:00 PM
Explore the farmhouse, barn, and scenic landscapes of Wakamatsu Farm with poets Taylor Graham and Katy Brown, then write a poem inspired by what you discover.
From Trails to Tales: A Park Ranger’s Stories — Author Talk
Saturday, January 31 • 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Former California and National Park Ranger Rosanne McHenry (“Ranger Rose”) shares hilarious, heartfelt, and unforgettable stories from her years in the field. Includes prize drawing and book signing.
SIP, SAVOR & SOLVE: ARC’s Inaugural Trivia Night
Saturday, February 7 • 6:30–8:00 PM
Join ARC for a lively evening of wine, desserts, and friendly trivia about local nature, Indigenous history, the Gold Rush, and ARC’s own conservation work.
Book Club Discussion – Is a River Alive? by Robert Macfarlane
Thursday, February 26 • 6:00–7:30 PM
Engage in a thoughtful conversation about Macfarlane’s exploration of the Rights of Nature movement and our relationship with the waterways that sustain us.
About American River Conservancy (ARC)
ARC is a non-profit environmental organization that preserves healthy ecosystems in the upper American River and upper Cosumnes River watersheds through land conservation, stewardship, and education. Based in Coloma, California, since 1989, ARC has completed more than 90 conservation projects and contributed over 35 miles of trails, while safeguarding over 30,000 acres of native fisheries, endangered species habitat, agricultural lands, cultural resources, and recreational landscapes. ARC offers public hikes, hands-on workshops, community events, and environmental education programs for people of all ages. Support ARC by volunteering, donating, and discovering more at ARConservancy.org.