Tom Rusert and Darren Peterie offer the following vital groups and essential information for everyone interested in Sonoma Valley’s natural beauty:
Birding Sonoma Valley
"Our goal is to celebrate the century-old Christmas Bird Count (CBC) tradition via a full-day birding adventure and a great dinner celebration at the end of the day. We have fun, are ranked among the best in the United States, and desire quality birding participation that results in good citizen science." Sonoma Birding has extensive information about birding leaders, teams, circles, and information about endangered species. Birding hotspots.
City of Sonoma Plaza Tree Walking Tour Map
One of the greatest charms of the Plaza is “hidden in plain sight.” The tree map provided by Birding Sonoma Valley features the names and locations of the beautiful old—and younger—trees gracing the landscape around City Hall.
Sonoma Bike Paths
An easy-to-use graphic map of Sonoma’s bike paths through vineyards, fields, and other special areas set aside for bicycling—and great birding!
Resources
Celebrate Sonoma’s Good Nature!
Organizations Vital to Sonoma Valley's Sustainability and Well-being
Sonoma Valley is a beautiful, biologically rich watershed. Its natural abundance is the foundation for a world-class quality of life experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether expressed in premiere wines or breathtaking natural vistas, its bounty and beauty are part of a unique natural heritage. The Sonoma Ecology Center works to retain this remarkable heritage for the future. Our mission is to work with our community to enhance and preserve ecological health in Sonoma Valley.
Sonoma Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) is the only local organization supporting public school education in the classroom. In 1992, founding members were parents responding to school district budget cuts that reduced or eliminated music, enrichment programs, and materials for teachers. The SVEF evolved from a conduit for private donations to a catalyst for sustainable, innovative educational programs enriching curriculum and optimizing local community resources. An SVEF program benefits every student in every Sonoma Valley public school. The five core programs funded and directed by the Foundation are consistent with the mission and strategic plan of the Sonoma Valley Unified School District.
The Sonoma Community Center exists to enrich the lives of the people of Sonoma Valley by fostering a broad range of cultural, educational, recreational and community service activities. It also strives to preserve and restore our historic building and to provide affordable space for community activities.
Sonoma was recently recognized by Gallup-Healthways Well Being Index as the happiest place in California. The Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau is no different: we love what we do, and that’s anything that offers a fresh perspective on Sonoma for our residents and guests. Need a map of local bike paths or tickets to a special event? Looking for a cooking class, great live music or a new picnic spot? Find a new hiking trail. Attend a private barrel tasting or savor our world-class jazz festival.
Whether you’re a seasoned local or a first-time visitor, Sonoma Valley takes pride in Sonoma becoming the country’s first “slow” city—from our green ways of living to our charming central plaza and artisan food and wine culture. Swing by one of our two visitor centers or give us a call. We’ll put a smile on your Real Wine Country adventure.