Hike Sonoma Valley’s newest parkland

A writer whose poetical work focuses on local history and ecology, will lead a walk June 6 through Sonoma Valley Regional Park's new addition.

Arthur Dawson will offer a deep introduction to the history and significance of the region during an easy, 1.6 mile trek over 29 acres recently added to the north side of the park.

Dawson calls himself an historical ecologist and has written two popular local books: 'Stories Behind Sonoma Valley Place Names' and 'On Foot in Sonoma.' He also writes a column, 'Stories Behind Sonoma County Place Names' that appears monthly in The Press Democrat. Dawson over the years has collected oral histories, developed archives and contributed field and archival research to local and regional restoration efforts.

The new addition to the park was purchased by the Sonoma Land Trust and transfered to the Sonoma County Regional Parks last year. The former 'Curreri property' along Highway 12 in Glen Ellen is considered an important link in the Sonoma Valley wildlife corridor that stretches from The Mayacamas to Sonoma Mountain. The land offers views elevated views as far south as The San Pablo Bay.

The walk starts at 9 a.m. and ends about 11 a.m. The hike is free but space is limited so reservations are required. To reserve visit sonomavalley.brownpapertickets.com.

You can reach Staff Writer Meg McConahey at meg.mcconahey@pressdemocrat.com or 521-5204. On Twitter @megmcconahey.