People, Plants and Purpose Wildlands Excursion

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Travel into Catalina Island’s wildlands for People, Plants and Purpose, an immersive excursion that explores the deep relationships between people and native plant life through an Indigenous lens. Our guide Gabrielle Rocha Crowe will share traditional ecological knowledge that highlights how plants have long been used for food, medicine, tools and cultural practices. 

Participants will journey through diverse island habitats, engaging in sensory-based learning, storytelling and place-based observation. Along the way, our guide will introduce key native species and share their historical and contemporary uses, emphasizing ethical harvesting practices, reciprocity and respect for the land. 

This program is designed to foster a deeper understanding of the connection between culture, ecology and stewardship. By centering Indigenous perspectives, People, Plants and Purpose encourages participants to reflect on their own relationship with nature while gaining insight into practices that continue to shape environmental resilience today. 

As Co-Chair and Secretary of Environmental Sciences for the Gabrielino-Shoshone Nation of Southern California, Crowe bridges cultural knowledge and environmental science. Her work includes collaboration with organizations like the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve. In her partnership with the Conservancy, she supports efforts to integrate Indigenous perspectives into conservation, education and land stewardship. 

What to Bring

• A reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Layered clothing, as temperatures may vary throughout the day

Important to Know

Meet at the Trailhead Visitor Center for a free shuttle into the wildlands. Upon event completion, we will return to the Trailhead.

Ferry tickets are not included in the cost of this workshop and should be purchased early to ensure a seat is available. Same day ferry riders from Long Beach should reserve the 6 a.m. Catalina Express boat.

Participants should come prepared for being outside in the field, standing and walking. Sturdy, close-toed shoes and a re-fillable water bottle are required. Some walking on uneven terrain should be expected.