Skip to main content

Park E-Ventures Article

Western Snowy Plover
A Record-High Number of Plovers: What Does It Mean?

In January 2016, a record number of Western snowy plovers were spotted at Ocean Beach. What are some possible reasons for this sky-high count? Read the latest on park monitoring of these threatened species—and learn what you can do to help their chances of survival.

Oakland star tulip (Calochortus umbellatus), Marin Municipal Water District, Mt. Tamalpais, © Rob Badger and Nita Winter
Flower Power: Photo Exhibit Seeds Hope in Mitigating Climate Change

Supported in part by the Parks Conservancy, an exhibition of wildflower photos by Rob Badger and Nita Winter (through March 27, 2016 at the San Francisco Main Public Library) inspires hope in reducing the impacts of climate change. See more beautiful images, captured in our parks.

Superintendent Invites Comment on Proposed Dog Rule

The top ranger at Golden Gate National Recreation Area, General Superintendent Chris Lehnertz, shares her thoughts on the Proposed Rule for Dog Management in the park—and invites the community to share comments before a final rule and plan is released later this year.

Allen Fish
Allen Fish: A Very Birdy 30 Years at GGRO

Allen Fish, director of the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory (GGRO), recently celebrated his 30th year at the helm of the GGRO (founded one year before his start, in 1984).

Buffalo Soldiers
Buffalo Soldiers: The First African American 'Park Rangers'

On the 150th anniversary of the formation of the African American Buffalo Soldiers regiments, learn about their vital role in the history of the national parks (and of the Presidio)—and discover why Teddy Roosevelt had a special place in his heart for them.

Western Snowy Plover
Wanna Be My Plover?' Print-N-Clip Valentine’s Cards!

Open the Golden Gate to your sweetie’s heart with seven free and cheesy V-Day cards—guaranteed to make them smile (or groan). And if you ever wanted to work “oak savannah ecosystem” into a pickup line, well, these are for you.

sea lion
Plight of the Pinnipeds: El Niño and Suffering Seals and Sea Lions

The Marine Mammal Center, based at Fort Cronkhite, rescued 1,800 animals in 2015—three times the average. Learn about one culprit, domoic acid, and how it’s produced, how seals and sea lions are affected, and why El Niño exacerbates its effects.

Parks Grow Girls’ Interest in Science, Restoration Ecology

In November 2015, four staff members from our parks showed a group of 3rd to 5th grade girls that women play an important role in heavy-duty ecological field work. In response, one young student shared her love for working in the mud too—through a poem.

Northern Goshawk, GGRO
GGRO Helps Raptor Conference Soar to New Heights

Nearly 400 biologists from 12 countries gathered in Sacramento in January 2016 for a milestone conference on birds of prey. How did it go? Read the reflections of Allen Fish, director of the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, which helped host the historic event.

Muir Woods hiker
Keep it Simple in the New Year: Resolve to Get Outside!

Nothing could be easier—or more healthful—than resolving to spend more time outside in the new year. Learn about the benefits of exercise and experiences in nature—and discover helpful resources for beginning new explorations of your Golden Gate National Parks.