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Turning the Key: Unlocking Nature's Secrets

Nature’s secrets are written in the languages of science and beauty. In this hands-on class, indoor and outdoor activities will engage you with living systems as a source of creative inspiration. You will explore models for sustainable design and culture change, while developing and sharing visions for sustainable futures.

Come prepared to participate in a variety of activities, including spending time sitting outside on the ground, and sharing ideas in conversation. Bring a bag lunch.
Class #01NSTK1-01
Sat., May 3
9:30 am – 5 pm
Room 1605
Register by Feb. 12: $90
Register after Feb. 12: $112
"Register Online"

Michelle Merrill Ph.D., is a biological anthropologist whose research includes field studies of primate behavior, tropical ecology, sustainability and biomimicry. She is a Cabrillo instructor.

Green Building and Remodeling for the Home
Green building is here to stay. This workshop will introduce you to green building basics from a homeowner’s perspective. Whether remodeling or building new, you will learn cost effective ways to create a healthier, more comfortable building while reducing your energy and water bills. This class will answer your questions, help you plan your project, and help you choose the best materials and building professionals.

Class #01HLGB1-01
Sat., March 15
9 am - 1 pm
Room 312
Register by Feb. 12: $55
Register after Feb. 12: $68
"Register Online"

Karsten Mueller, Ph.D., LEED AP, CGBP has been a green building consultant since 2002. He has consulted on several successful commercial and residential projects in our region and is currently building a green home in Santa Cruz.

Solar and Renewable Energy
for Your Home or Business

Adding solar, wind, or biofuel energy to your home or business can save energy, money and reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other atmospheric pollutants. You can generate your own electricity and free yourself from fluctuating utility costs and the possibility of future blackouts.

This is an introductory workshop about design and installation of photovoltaic, wind energy and solar water heating systems, including information on how to take advantage of California rebates. Joe Jordan to bring to class.

Class #01HLSR1-03
Sat., April 19
9 am – 1 pm
Room 432
Register by Feb. 12: $55
Register after Feb. 12: $68
"Register Online"

Joe Jordan works at NASA Ames Research Center and the SETI Institute. He leads “physics-in-nature” and astronomy stargazing walks, and numerous educational projects on renewable energy and also teaches renewable energy at Cabrillo College.


Rainwater Harvesting Systems:
Principles and Design

Rainwater harvesting is a popular alternative for homeowners and gardeners who want to become more self-sufficient by collecting rainwater while reducing their water bills. Rainwater can be used to water gardens and for emergency water supply.

In this class we will discuss the fundamentals and principles of designing a domestic rainwater harvesting system.

There will be a lunch break followed by a field trip to visit a rainwater supplier and a residential rainwater harvesting system used to irrigate over an acre of garden area. Bobby Markowitz is a licensed landscape architect specializing in rainwater harvesting design. His passion about rainwater harvesting has come out of his 30 years experience in landscaping, from his own organic garden and concern for the environment.

Class #01HLRH1-03
Sun., March 2
10 am – 4 pm
Room 435
Register by Feb. 12: $78
"Register Online"

Bobby Markowitz is a licensed landscape architect specializing in rainwater harvesting design. His passion about rainwater harvesting has come out of his 30 years experience in landscaping, from his own organic garden and concern for the environment.

Green Options


Turning the Key: Unlocking Nature's Secrets

Green Building and Remodeling for the Home

Solar and Renewable Energy for Your Home or Business

Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Principles and Design




2008 Master Composter Training Program backyard composting

Presented by the County of Santa Cruz Home Composting Program

January 30 - March 19

Go to their website to find out about this and other workshops at: www.compostsantacruzcounty.org
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