SO BE FREE 29
Mattole River, CA

May 30–June 2, 2025

Mattole River, Humboldt County, CA 

Coordinator: Paul Wilson

The 2025 SO BE FREE was held at the Mattole Camp and Retreat Center along the Mattole River between Honeydew and Petrolia in the remote Lost Coast region of northern California. There were abundant bryophytes right on the Camp grounds and along the river it overlooks. All agreed it was the most bryodiversity within walking distance we have ever had at a SO BE FREE!

The traditional beginners session and walk was held at Mattole Camp the first day; groups also drove out to dripping road banks, an alder gallery forest and adjacent beach, and riparian zones along mountain creeks. Going to and from the Camp and Highway 101, most participants were treated with traversing the magnificent Humboldt Redwoods State Park, which harbors huge old-growth coastal redwoods, along with an associated unique set of bryophytes.

There was a diverse set of participants at all levels of expertise, with a large number of students and young professionals attending. Evening microscope and social sessions were outstanding: new friendships were begun and old friendships were deepened, students gave brief reports on their research progress, knowledge was exchanged, and research collaborations were developed. Destined to be remembered as a classic SO BE FREE!

Additional photos will be found in the trip report in Bryolog.