Parks as Climate Classrooms: Environmental justice projects at the Crissy Field Center

When LINC students arrived at San Francisco’s Civic Center for the Heart of the City Farmer’s Market, they looked around, wide-eyed. They practiced, but stepping up to strangers with questions like “What do you think about climate change?” or “Are we gonna drown?” felt different in the moment.

By the end, they were getting doused by older people with water guns.

In 2025, Crissy Field Center youth programs broadened what “service” looks like in national parks. The Parks Conservancy connects people to nearby parks, builds climate resilience learning, and brings those lessons back to local communities. This year, youth stepped into the work in more visible and powerful ways.

The Heart of the City event capped a summer of learning for LINC (Linking Individuals to their Natural Communities) youth leaders. They restored habitat and visited park sites like Bothin Marsh, where rising seas frequently flood trails. They researched environmental justice topics, built presentations, and prepared to engage the public.

Staff selected the farmer’s market for its proximity to transit, bringing together people from across San Francisco. Youth devised a passport activity, a spin wheel with the “dousing” option, and other tools to spark conversations, drawing in more than 50 community members to learn about environmental justice and climate resilience.

“They were so proud of themselves,” said Darryl Burton, Program Manager. “When you have a moment like that, it makes you want to do more.”

This summer, LINC will build on that momentum. Youth in one cohort will work alongside park scientists to gather real data and contribute to projects with meaningful scientific outcomes.

With your support, young people are deepening their connection to the outdoors, and shaping their own paths toward a climate‑resilient future.