Northern Sierra Cone Camp - Eldorado National Forest
Who is this training for?
Anyone interested in learning about conifer cone and seed collection! College students, professional and amateur arborists, foresters, field technicians, community scientists, and Corps or service members are all welcome. Cone Camp Day 1 provides a robust introduction to the skills, tools, and knowledge related to cone collection and forest seed gathering. If cone collection is or will become part of your work, we recommend staying for Days 2 & 3 for more in-depth guided practice.
Cone Camp registration is open! Cone Camp is a hybrid course comprised of a 2-3 hour online prep course (Cone Hunting 101) and in-person hands-on field training. Attendees learn how to identify, survey, monitor, and facilitate cone collections from California’s native conifers. For arborists and tree care professionals, this training offers a unique opportunity to gain skills in tree identification, canopy access, and tree assessment to support large-scale reforestation and seed conservation efforts across the state. This work is a vital part of increasing the pace and scale of the critical reforestation efforts in taking place in California by supporting our seed banks. Cone Camp was created in partnership with the Region 5 USFS, CAL FIRE, and American Forests as part of the CA Reforestation Pipeline Partnership.
There are two levels of teaching during each camp by providing additional training days for career professionals actively involved in cone hunting activities:
- Pre-camp: complete the online course, Cone Hunting 101.
- Day 1: Hands-on introduction to cone surveying and monitoring with light field practice. Recommended for all, including college students, community scientists, early career professionals, or those just looking for a refresher to the cone world. Professionals would be highly encouraged to attend Day 1 for ground-level orientation to the landscape, basic skills, and cultural training. $20 registration fee.
- Day 2 & 3: In-depth guided practice to cone surveying, monitoring, facilitating collections (climbing demonstrations included), and contract administration. Recommended for seasonal field techs, foresters, arborists, and individuals that are currently or planning on actively participating in cone collection from start to finish. $50 registration fee for attending all 3 days.
What campers receive:
- A printed copy of The California Cone Hunter’s Pocket Guide
- Field-based instruction from expert cone coaches
- Networking with reforestation professionals / arborists and folks from a diverse range of industry sectors
- Optional camping: American Forests is reserving group camping for the training, attendees are welcome to utilize the space to camp overnight for no additional fee.
Location
Sky Park Event Center
Morman Emigrant Trail
Pollock Pines, CA 95726