#43 April 8, 2026

[Eric Zimmerman]

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IMPORTANT REGISTRATION DATES & DEADLINES:

 

4/13/26            LAST DAY for Seniors to declare Candidacy to Graduate for Spring
                        For more info about declaring candidacy visit the registrar website here.

 

4/17/26            Last day to Add Spring courses with an Add code

 

4/24/26            Last date to Drop Spring courses w/o a “W” grade

- View SPRING Quarter Registration Deadlines here.
 
- View Registration Pass Times & Info here.

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UCSB EARTH MONTH!

UCSB’s first-ever Earth Month starts this week! This is a campus-wide campaign taking place throughout April aimed to engage students across all departments in sustainability-related events ranging from festivals, workshops, lectures, and even outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, kayaking, and yoga. Check out all the events here. If you have any questions, concerns, or need additional clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to me via as-as...@ucsb.edu. Lastly, feel free to check out the official Earth Month website to learn more using this link: https://www.as.ucsb.edu/executive/president/earthmonth/

 

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INDEX:

 

1)   APPLY NOW for the UCS Pearl Chase Scholarship $1,500 supports 
    undergraduate students pursuing research, internships, field work, volunteer 
    service, and/or other activities focused on any of the following areas: environmental 
    conservation, environmental education, historic preservation, and/or urban planning. 
    - Application Deadline is April 12, 2026

 

2)  Turtle Up Sea Turtle Trivia Night is hosting a Sea Turtle Trivia Night 
    on April 9th in the SRB Conference Room from 6-7pm.

 

3)  The Bottom Line is a student-run newspaper at UCSB founded on the belief 
    that journalism runs on accessibility, community engagement, and accountability. 
    - Orientation will be Thursday April 9 at 5 PM in the Annex (between CAPS and South Hall) 

 

4)  Undergraduate Research Assistant Volunteer Opportunity – Renewable Energy 
    Permitting and Siting Project

 

5)  You’re Invited: EEMB Undergraduate Research Open House (9 April, 3-6pm)

 

6)  UCSB The Wildlife Society- RSVP for Spring Events!!

 

7)  Your Children’s Trees at UCSB is a campus organization conducting native 
    species restoration and planting projects throughout the community.

 

8)  Two Local Urban Farming Internship Opportunities - Pilgrim Terrace

 

9) Summer Camp Counselors - job opportunity – Inspire the Next Generation in STEM!
    $25 per hour

 

10)  Job Opportunity with Ventura County Resource Conservation District

 

11)  SAVE THE DATE:  The Environmental Studies Program is excited to 
    invite you to the 42nd Steven Manley Memorial Lecture, presented in partnership 
    with the Wildfire Prevention and Policy Lecture Series, taking place on 
    May 6th at UCSB’s Corwin Pavilion. 

 

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CONTENT:

1)   APPLY NOW for the UCS Pearl Chase Scholarship $1,500 supports 
    undergraduate students pursuing research, internships, field work, volunteer 
    service, and/or other activities focused on any of the following areas: environmental 
    conservation, environmental education, historic preservation, and/or urban planning. 
    Application Deadline is April 12, 2026

 

The UCSB Affiliates Pearl Chase Scholarship of $1,500 supports undergraduate students pursuing research, internships, field work, volunteer service, and/or other activities focused on any of the following areas: environmental conservation, environmental education, historic preservation, and/or urban planning. There is a preference to support students who are pursuing research and/or activities within Santa Barbara County.

Although financial need will be considered in the selection process, eligibility for financial aid is not required to receive this scholarship. Recipient(s) may use the award to defray expenses associated with their education, such as: tuition and fees, living expenses, books, supplies, and special project costs associated with their extracurricular activities.

 

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Sunday, April 12, 2025 at 11:59 PM

 

Eligibility:

• Must be currently enrolled full-time and in good academic standing

• Minimum overall GPA of 3.0.

 

Application: https://forms.gle/UvTMKVU5qTXHqhY78

• Describe your academic and career interests and how you plan to utilize this scholarship. (400

words max.)

• Describe how you will benefit from this financial support. (250 words max.)

• Updated Resume (1 page only)

• If utilizing these funds to support participation in an internship or work experience, please

provide a letter from the employer/organization confirming your internship.

 

Recipients are invited to attend the UCSB Affiliates Awards luncheon to honor the scholars and

supporters. It will take place on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Mosher Alumni Hall at UCSB. More details to follow. Questions? Email affil...@ia.ucsb.edu

 

See attached for more info about the scholarship and Dr. Pearl Chase.

 

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2)  Turtle Up Sea Turtle Trivia Night is hosting a Sea Turtle Trivia Night on April 9th in the SRB Conference Room from 6-7pm.

Turtle Up is a RCO at UCSB. Following the mission of the non-profit Turtle Up, this club aims to protect marine wildlife and foster sustainable communities along Ghana’s coast, and raise awareness worldwide. We are dedicated to the conservation of Ghana’s sea turtles through a holistic, community-based approach. Our initiatives focus on conservation, education, community transformation, and sustainability. Turtle Up is dedicated to inspiring global action by transforming knowledge into practice and championing healthy marine ecosystems with a specific focus on sea turtles.

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3)  The Bottom Line is a student-run newspaper at UCSB founded on the belief that journalism runs on accessibility, community engagement, and accountability. 
- Orientation will be Thursday April 9 at 5 PM in the Annex (between CAPS and South Hall) 

 

We welcome writers, artists, videographers, and photographers of all experience levels to engage with UCSB and the surrounding community across eight sections (News, Features, Arts & Entertainment, Photo, Art, Opinions, Video, and Science & Tech), as well as apply for open positions on our editorial board. Orientation will be Thursday April 9 at 5 PM in the Annex (between CAPS and South Hall), where you can pick up story pitches, meet our editors, and learn more about us.

Until then, check out our Instagram and join our newsletter!

 

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4)  Undergraduate Research Assistant Volunteer Opportunity – Renewable Energy Permitting and Siting Project

The 2035 Initiative is recruiting an undergraduate research assistant volunteer to support ongoing research on the permitting and siting of large-scale renewable energy projects in the United States.

Project: Large-Scale Renewable Energy Project Permitting and Siting
Duration: One academic quarter, but expect the opportunity to likely continue to summer.

About the Research:  This research maintains a comprehensive database of large-scale renewable energy projects at various stages of development — including projects under regulatory review, permitted but not yet constructed, under construction, and operating. A current priority is building out verified spatial data for this project inventory to support future analysis and publication. The student will work directly with Lanbing Tao, a Bren PhD student, who is advised by Profs. Matto Mildenberger and Grace Wu.

Position Overview:  The research assistant volunteer will take on two connected tasks over the course of the quarter:

1. Data Collection & Verification (required): Locating and recording XY coordinates (latitude/longitude) for each project in the research database by cross-referencing publicly available sources, including EIA Form 860, LBNL utility-scale energy databases, ISO/RTO interconnection queues, and state permitting records. Where coordinates exist, the student will verify accuracy against satellite imagery; where they don't, the student will trace projects through regulatory filings, project documentation, or tools such as Google Earth or ArcGIS. Source documentation and flagging of uncertain cases are expected.

2. Mapping & Visualization (optional): Using collected coordinates to produce spatial distribution maps illustrating where projects are clustering across the country and how distributions vary by project stage and technology type.

Experience with Real-World Data
This position offers a unique opportunity to work with the same datasets and databases used by researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), one of the nation's leading energy research institutions. You'll gain hands-on experience navigating the kinds of large-scale, real-world energy data that underpin published research and policy analysis.

Qualifications:

- Undergraduate student in geography, environmental studies, urban planning, public policy, or a related field

- Familiarity with GIS software or spatial data tools preferred, but willingness to learn is sufficient

- Experience with spreadsheets or large datasets is helpful

- Background in energy systems or environmental permitting is a plus, but not expected

 

How to Apply
Interested students should submit a brief statement of interest (one paragraph is sufficient), an unofficial transcript and resume to Lanbing Tao at lanbi...@ucsb.edu as soon as possible, preferably by April 15.

 

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5)  You’re Invited: EEMB Undergraduate Research Open House (9 April, 3-6pm)

 

Hello UCSB Undergrads! Are you interested in undergraduate biology research? Want to learn what happens in an Ecology, Evolution, or Marine Biology research lab? If you are, come and join us at the first-ever EEMB Undergraduate Research Open House Thursday, 9 April, from 3-6 pm. 

 

What is the EEMB Undergraduate Open House? The EEMB Undergraduate Open House is an event to expose undergraduates to EEMB research at UCSB through exploring research labs and meeting researchers. EEMB research labs will be open to undergraduates to come watch, meet, and talk to researchers about what they study, and learn how research at UCSB works.

 

Why should you attend? You should attend to get a taste of real research and get exposed to the vast range of EEMB research happening on UCSB’s campus. You should attend to meet researchers, graduate students, and even other undergraduates. You should also attend if you just want a snack and to take a peek into some new buildings. 

 

How to Participate: Come to the Life Sciences Building Courtyard at any time between 3pm and 6pm on April 9th. There you will be provided with a map, a list of participating labs, and snacks! Follow the map to different labs where you will find researchers ready to share their experiences. Please wear closed toe shoes for entry to all labs. Ask questions and engage!

 

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6)  UCSB The Wildlife Society- RSVP for Spring Events!!

Calling all wildlife lovers! Spring is kicking into high gear! The Wildlife Society at UCSB has a lot of events in the works! See more information about our events and RSVP here.

 

Earth Day Bird Walk with Wildlife Professionals (Sunday, April 19, 11:00am - 1:00pm)

Join us at Campus Lagoon for a morning birding to celebrate Earth Month! We will be joined by avian biologists. RSVP if you need to borrow a pair of binoculars!

 

Career Builder Workshop (Monday, April 20)

The Western Section Student and Early Career Professionals Committee's April Career Builder Workshop is a Graduate School Panel. Monday April 20 on Zoom. Free to attend! All are welcome! See more information here: https://sites.google.com/tws-west.org/career-builder-workshops/career-builder-workshops

 

The Wildlife Society – Western Section Student Conclave at UC Davis (May 2-3)

The UC Davis chapter is hosting a Student Conclave May 2-3 at UC Davis. The Conclave is a mini-conference geared towards students. There will be talks and practical workshops, as well as opportunities to network with other wildlife students from other universities. Sign up for more information with this form. 

 

Santa Barbara Zoo, with behind the scenes tour (~Week 8)

A trip to the zoo with a special behind-the-scenes tour of the vet facility is in the planning stages! Advanced RSVP is required.

 

Officer Elections:  We are looking for officers for the 2026-27 academic year! Consider joining our team! Fill out this form if you are interested. Apply by Friday, May 1, 2026, 11:59 PM PST.

 

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7)  Your Children’s Trees at UCSB is a campus organization conducting native species restoration and planting projects throughout the community.

 

We are dedicated to educating the public about the benefits of urban forests and the importance of planting native trees in our communities. We are also part of a broader community non-profit, Your Children’s Trees, which provides urban forestry educational and technical support to the Santa Barbara County area.

 

This weeks events are as follows:

1. FRI 04/10/2026 Tree Walk 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

2. FRI 04/10/2026 Harder Growing Grounds 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

3. SAT 04/11/2026 EMT Tree Planting 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

4. SAT 04/11/2026 Elings Growing Grounds 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

 

If you have any questions regarding these events, please reach out to me at ala...@ucsb.edu.

 

If interested in attending any of these events, register using this Google Form.

 

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8)  Two Local Urban Farming Internship Opportunities - Pilgrim Terrace

I’m reaching out from Pilgrim Terrace Urban Farm & Kitchen, a nonprofit in Santa Barbara working to combat food insecurity through sustainable agriculture and community engagement. Our urban farm grows nutrient-dense produce using aeroponic and regenerative practices to support low-income seniors and the broader Santa Barbara community.

 

We are currently offering two spring internship opportunities for students interested in hands-on learning in urban agriculture, sustainability, and local food systems. This is a great opportunity for students passionate about environmental stewardship and community impact.

 

1. Aeroponic Farmer Internship

Interns will work directly with our aeroponic tower farming team to:

- Plant, tend, and harvest produce for the community

- Clean and prepare towers for replanting

- Learn how aeroponic farming supports food access and environmental health

 

Schedule & Commitment:
- Preferred day: Wednesday, 8 AM–12 PM (flexible if another day works for the student)

- Interns are expected to commit approximately 6-10 hours per week

- Activities include planting, tending, and harvesting produce, as well as cleaning and preparing towers for replanting Schedule is flexible to accommodate academic commitments, with the option to extend hours for interested students

2. Regenerative Soil Composting Internship

Interns will work with our composting team to:

- Build and manage compost systems

- Test compost effectiveness in the garden

- Assist with outreach to promote compost use within the community

 

Schedule & Commitment:

- Prep Day: Every other Thursday, 8–11 AM (materials collection and preparation)

- Build Day: Every other Friday, 8–11 AM (compost assembly)

- Ongoing: Compost care and moisture checks (flexible, occasional weekends)

- Approximately 6–10 hours per week

- This is a hands-on opportunity for students to gain experience in soil science, sustainable food systems, and regenerative agriculture. Course credit may be available depending on university requirements.

 

We’re looking for students who are passionate about:

- Regenerative agriculture and sustainability

- Food equity and localized food systems

- Building community through growing and sharing food

 

Important Details For Both Opportunities:

- Training is provided for all farm operations

- Dress code: long pants and closed-toe shoes required

- Ability to lift 20–30 pounds

- Free lunch provided daily at 12 PM

- Unpaid internship; academic credit may be available (students should consult their advisor)

- Schedule Overview:

~10-week summer internship (with potential to extend into summer)

Farm hours: Monday–Friday, 8 AM–2 PM

Minimum of one 3-hour shift per week

 

How to Apply:
Students can send a resume and a few sentences about their interest and availability to:
Austin Sharon
in...@pilgrimterrace.org

No formal cover letter is required. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.

 

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9) Summer Camp Counselors - job opportunity – Inspire the Next Generation in STEM!
$25 per hour

 

Presented by E3 Learning Partners & FIRST Robotics Team Octobots

See attached image for more info!

Email resume and cover letter to vi...@e3learningpartners.org

 

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10)  Job Opportunity with Ventura County Resource Conservation District

My name is Mary Reyes and I am the Education & Outreach Coordinator for the Ventura County Resource Conservation District (VCRCD). VCRCD is a special district of the state of California dedicated to conserving, restoring, and protecting the natural resources of Ventura County for current and future generations. 

 

We are currently hiring for an Agricultural Environmental Systems Specialist (see attached) and are wondering if you can send an announcement to your ES Mail listserv and Friends-of-ES listserv about the job posting (if you have messages coming out this week). As a UCSB ES grad myself, I found the listservs to be a great way to learn about local opportunities. Here is a blurb about the position to include:

 

See attached flier for detailed info!

Ventura County Resource Conservation District is hiring an Agricultural Environmental Systems Specialist! The ideal candidate has a history of project management and grant administration, as well as a demonstrated history of addressing environmental stewardship challenges in diverse agricultural production systems. To learn more about the position, visit vcrcd.org/job-opportunities/ . Application Deadline: Friday, April 10th.
Mary Reyes <Mary....@vcrcd.org>

 

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11)  SAVE THE DATE:  The Environmental Studies Program is excited to invite you to the 42nd Steven Manley Memorial Lecture, presented in partnership with the Wildfire Prevention and Policy Lecture Series, taking place on May 6th at UCSB’s Corwin Pavilion. 

 

This year’s distinguished speaker, Wade Crowfoot, California’s Secretary of Natural Resources, will present a lecture titled: “Confronting Crises: Helping People and Nature Thrive in the Age of Climate Change.”

 

In this talk, Secretary Crowfoot will discuss how California is leading global efforts to confront climate change, including the transition to carbon neutrality within the next 20 years and strategies to protect communities and natural landscapes from climate-driven disasters. He will share the California Natural Resources Agency’s action framework, highlight key progress across the state, and outline areas where further scientific innovation and emerging leadership are essential to achieving an ambitious vision for the future.

 

Date: Wednesday, May 6 2026

Lecture: 3:30 PM

Reception: 4:45 PM

Location: Corwin Pavilion

 

Please RSVP HERE. This event is free and open to the public. Feel welcome to share this invitation with colleagues and friends!

-- 
Eric D. Zimmerman  (he/him)
Student Services Manager, Lecturer
Environmental Studies, UC Santa Barbara

To schedule a Zoom advising appointment visit:
https://tinyurl.com/8nrcckds

       "Work Hard ~ Play Harder!"