Desert Sands & Sky Islands
Climate Stewards
Are you concerned about climate change and ready to take action?
Become a certified leader in building community resilience! The Desert Sands & Sky Islands Climate Stewards program offers a unique opportunity to gain a deep understanding of climate science, policy, and solutions, and to become certified through CactusToCloud Institute in partnership with the University of California.
APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR 2026
Open to anyone 18 and older. Apply by September 14th.
Learn more at our September 5 info session.
Our Climate Stewards course is a hybrid program, offered online with in person field trips, taking participants on a comprehensive educational journey through our changing climate, covering topics from water, energy, and agriculture to community science, effective communication, and climate policy. It's designed to prepare you for participation in local, regional, and statewide climate initiatives, and to actively engage in efforts to advance community resilience.
Our science-based curriculum has been co-designed by the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, our certified Climate Stewards Instructors, and desert community members like you!
What You’ll Experience.
Hybrid Learning
A blend of in-person field trips, and virtual class sessions, and asynchronous assignments, providing flexibility and diverse learning opportunities.
Action-Oriented Projects
Engage in stewardship projects that address local environmental issues, fostering community resilience, and adaptation.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Learn about earth systems, water, energy, agriculture, community science, communication training, and state and local climate policies.
Community & Mentorship
Connect with a supportive network of instructors, alumni, and fellow students, fostering ongoing collaboration and learning.
Expert Guidance
Benefit from instruction by experienced educators and guest speakers who are leaders in sustainability and climate action.
UC Certification
Earn a prestigious Climate Stewards certification from the University of California, recognizing your expertise and commitment to climate action.
Optional college credits are also available to graduates through UC Davis Extension, which can be transferred to your institution.
The next Desert Sands & Sky Islands Climate Stewards course begins in September 2026
The UC Climate Stewards Program hosted by CactusToCloud Institute is designed to:
Prepare community members to actively engage in efforts to advance community and ecosystem resilience in a rapidly changing climate.
Provide an overview of state and local climate policies, enabling participants to serve as catalysts for public participation in California's climate change initiatives.
Encourage volunteering in community service and community science opportunities, such as land and water stewardship, civic engagement, education, and interpretation activities.
Course Highlights
Real-World Impact: Develop and implement stewardship projects that contribute to tangible solutions for local environmental issues, such as neighborhood climate resilience through suburban landscaping and design.
Policy & Action: Gain an understanding of climate policies and learn effective ways citizens can encourage their cities to take action to address climate change.
Diverse Perspectives: Explore various aspects of climate change through guest speakers covering topics like environmental regulation, sustainable food management, and the impacts of climate change on biodiversity.
Community Resilience: Focus on collective, community-scale solutions and social-emotional resilience in the face of climate disruption.
Scholarship Opportunities: Need-based scholarships are available to cover base fees, ensuring accessibility to the program.
Why Become a Climate Steward?
Katharine Hayhoe
“The bottom line is this. To care about climate change, you only need to be one thing, and that’s a person living on planet Earth who wants a better future. Chances are, you’re already that person—and so is everyone else you know”
Contact us.
We will send updates on upcoming courses and applications to the Interest List as soon as they are announced. For additional questions or to learn more, contact us at education@cactustocloud.org or complete the form below.
Recorded Info Session.
Watch our most recent info session for a deep dive into Climate Stewards certification.
