American River Conservancy offers spring programs including forest bathing, fishing and stargazing

The American River Conservancy is offering a range of spring public programs open to community members of all ages and experience levels, with events spanning forest bathing, fishing, hiking, wine and stargazing, poetry and open farm days. On Sunday, April 19, adults are invited to a guided forest bathing walk at Wakamatsu Farm from 10 a.m. to noon, featuring a gentle one-mile meander along pond trails with sensory exercises designed to encourage mindfulness and a deeper connection with the natural world. Suggested donation is $10 for members and $15 for non-members, and registration is required at ARConservancy.org/events. Families and fishing newcomers can cast a line at the conservancy's Fishing on the Farm events, scheduled for Thursdays on April 23 and May 7 and 21 from 4:30 p.m. to sunset at an eight-acre lake in the Gold Hill and Placerville area. Volunteer fishing enthusiast Fred Campbell-Craven will provide basic instruction and equipment for beginners and children, with catch-and-release and no live bait rules in effect. Cost is $10 per car for members and $15 for non-members, and participants ages 16 and older must hold a valid California fishing license. For details on all upcoming programs, visit ARConservancy.org/events or email julie@ARConservancy.org.