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.

In May 2016, just outside the Golden Gate (and off the coast of our Golden Gate National Parks), humpback whales were gathering in record numbers—and blue whales were making extremely rare spring appearances. What explains this massing of these mammoth mammals?

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.

In the wake of releasing a new report, Climate Change in the Parks: Innovative Climate Change Education in Parks, the Institute is building momentum for a two-day conference that will gather educators and park leaders to forge new ways to engage the public.

Rob Hill in the Presidio is the only overnight campground in San Francisco—and it takes a special leader to bring groups camping there. In this new video, learn about Camping at the Presidio (CAP) Trained Leaders—and their two-day training course.

How can we help make the world a healthier, happier place? The Institute at the Golden Gate believes the answer is: “One piece at a time.” Institute Director Chris Spence shares how his team is pulling the pieces together—and building on strengths—to make a difference.