I hereby affirm that I have been well advised of the inherent risks associated with participating in an Natura Institute of Ecology (Natura) program at the Commonweal Garden that you will be visiting. I understand those risks include, but are not limited to the risk of exposure to potentially poisonous plants, uneven and/or slippery walking surfaces, woodland fires, rattle snakes and other risks which may result in property damage, personal injury or even death. I understand that injuries can occur even if Commonweal, Natura Institute of Ecology and Medicine and others have taken all reasonable precautions. I further understand that due to the locations visited, medical treatment for such injuries could be delayed. Nonetheless, I choose to participate in the activities of the Natura program. 

I hereby personally assume all risks which may occur during the Natura program, for any harm, injury, illness, death or damage that may befall me while participating in its activities, whether foreseen or unforeseen. I wish to participate in Natura program in spite of those risks and the possible delay in medical assistance.

I agree that i will assume all responsibility for any injury, illness and/or damage and related costs, medical expenses and damages of any kind that i may incur arising out of or related to participating in the Natura program activities at the commonweal garden. 

I further agree that i hold commonweal, Natura institute of ecology and medicine, the officers, agents, mangers, contractors, employees, and volunteers free of any and all claims for liability, injury, illness, death, costs, medical bills or other damages incurred by me or my family, heirs or assigns, no matter how caused, including damages, injuries, illness or death alleged to be partially or solely caused by commonweal and Natura institute of ecology and medicine’s omissions, commissions, carelessness, negligence or liability without fault.

I expressly do not give up the rights and remedies that may be available to me under California law which may arise due to commonweal and Natura institute of ecology and medicine's gross negligence and/or willful misconduct.

I understand that the WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY applies whether or not such injury, damage or loss is in any way connected with participation in any activities offered by Commonweal, Natura Institute of Ecology and Medicine and whether such injuries result from my own negligent acts or from the acts of other participants. I also understand these terms are contractual and not a mere recital. I have signed this document of my own free will.

In the event I am medically unable to give permission (for clients 18 and older) or in the event I cannot be reached in an emergency (parent/guardian of client under the age of 18), I give permission to the medical personnel designated to conduct x-ray examinations, hospitalize, or order any treatment deemed necessary, including anesthesia, injections, surgery, and or other care (for my child).   

I further agree that in the event of any dispute whatsoever between me and Commonweal and Natura Institute of Ecology and Medicine concerning my participation in any of its activities, I will first submit the matter to non-binding mediation before the American Arbitration Association (AAA) Center for Mediation in San Francisco, California. In addition, should Commonweal, Natura Institute of Ecology and Medicine and I fail to resolve our differences through mediation, I will submit any remaining dispute or claim to binding and final arbitration before the AAA in San Francisco, California.

I further agree that this WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY is effective for my participation in the Natura Program and activities for three years following the date that I sign it.
I have read this form carefully and completely before checking the box below, and I understand and agree to all of its terms.