The Sierra Club's mission is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote the responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment; and to use all lawful means to carry out these objectives.

All Sierra Club leaders are ambassadors of these principles. An essential part of our leadership training is centered around teaching good environmental awareness and conservation fundamentals. Most of this is a no-brainer, but some ideas may be brand new to new leaders. We welcome everyone to engage in learning about local conservation issues, to become advocates for places at risk in Southern California and all over the country and the world. 

The Environmental Awareness Requirement: The I/M/E leader candidate requirement is for a minium of 14 hours (which can be split up). Ideally, candidates should choose field studies in areas where they wish to lead outings. The Angeles Chapter Natural Science Section conducts wonderful workshops and hikes. College/University courses may count, as may special Geology or (for example) Desert Wildlife workshops, Leave No Trace courses as well as trail maintenance work (up to 7 hours). The LTC Admin can make clear what satisfies this requirement. 

Leave No Trace (LNT) Principles. Chapter members sometimes hold LNT training courses.

Learn about Sierra Club Campaigns here in California: Addup

A Leader Checklist that focuses on the environmental aspect:

Below: Trail Maintenance with Santa Monica Mountains Task Force (SMMTF). The Forest Committee does trail work in the San Gabriels.

. 

Leaders Rachel Glegg and Bill Vanderberg conduct a trail day in April, 2018