For two months this year following the shelter-in-place order, the five gardens at Alcatraz grew wild and untended until Shelagh Fritz, the Senior Program Manager on the island, was able to return. The history of the Alcatraz Gardens is one of careful planning, wild growth, and dedicated work.

OK, so a sea lion "walks" onto Alcatraz Island. It sounds like the beginning of a joke, but it’s actually the start of a wonderful story of partnership and conservation. 

Discover the history of the “true” peak of Mt. Tamalpais—and how to best explore this seldom-visited site. Also, learn about the Oct. 5 forum where you’ll hear a range of possibilities for its restoration and get the chance to voice your opinion.

Learn how the Parks Conservancy’s nursery and restoration program has powerfully connected young people with the national parks in their backyard.

Do you know the wonders of the willow? A native plant of the Bay Area, the willow has cultural and medicinal significance.

Just in time for summer visitors in 2017, the historic Baker-Barry Tunnel—a main artery into the Marin Headlands that’s popularly known as the “Five-Minute Tunnel”—has been reopened after significant upgrades.

In a new podcast, hear from some of the amazing staff and interns working to preserve and restore the Presidio and the Golden Gate National Parks. Then find out how you can add your voice—and volunteer energy—to this chorus of care.

The western pond turtle hasn’t been observed in the Rodeo Valley Watershed since 1998. This year, the fourth year of a five-year reintroduction plan, biologists reintroduced 20 turtles to Rodeo Valley and 14 to Redwood Creek Watershed.

Prep the parks (and your garden) for next spring!

Every summer, Park Stewardship welcomes youth interns who help organize and energize volunteer and visitor programs. They also researched and wrote about the parks’ history and resources. Read on for a fresh look at the history of Sutro Heights.