State of the San Lorenzo River Symposium

The public is invited to join scientists and policymakers for the State of the San Lorenzo River Symposium on April 11, 2026, at the London Nelson Community Center. This free event, themed “The Confluence of Science, Policy and Action,” aims to bridge the gap between environmental research and community stewardship.

The symposium is a collaborative effort hosted by the Coastal Watershed Council, the City of Santa Cruz Water Department, the County of Santa Cruz, the San Lorenzo Valley Water District, and the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County.

This year’s program will feature a keynote address by State Senator John Laird, who will join a distinguished panel of local experts to explore the complex history and future of the San Lorenzo River Watershed.

Event Highlights

Expert Presentations: Topics include California environmental policies, the history of the Awaswas village (Aulintak), Santa Cruz County Regional Conservation Investment Strategy, and the state of the San Lorenzo Steelhead Fishery
Ecological Briefings: Vital updates on the invasive shothole borer, watershed forest health, status of the Foothill yellow-legged frog in the watershed
Guided River Tour: Following the morning sessions, attendees are invited to a hands-on river tour from 1-2 p.m.

Speakers

State Senator John Laird
Laurie Egan, Executive Director – Coastal Watershed Council
Martin Rizzo-Martinez, Associate Professor in Film and Digital Media – UC Santa Cruz
Bryan Mori, Wildlife Biologist – Biological Consulting Services
Brian Woodward, Regional Forest Advisor for Santa Cruz Mountains – UC Agriculture and Natural Resources
Jodi McGraw, Principal Ecologist – Jodi McGraw Consulting
Kelli Camara, Consulting Technical Director – Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County
Sean Cochran, Environmental Scientist – CA Department of Fish and Wildlife

Event Details