Our Work

There’s no way to encapsulate everything that you—our park volunteers—accomplish in a year. But, for 2014, we tried—with one summary infographic. As you can see, you give Golden Gate the most precious gifts of all: your time, energy, care, and dedication. Thank you!

Across the parks, volunteers root out nonnative plants to help restore wildlife habitat. But did you know that those weeds can be quite tasty? Just in time for holiday meals, enjoy these recipes that use nonnative species found in the Bay Area!

“Going to Chrissy Fields is as amazing as a kid not getting homework for the rest of the year.” See how school kids described their trips to Crissy Field Center, in words and pictures. Share in their inspiration and delight as they give thanks to the parks!

Most of the year, we like to feature soft, picture-perfect native plants that beckon you to frolic in the parklands. But for Halloween, we’re profiling the ghoulish wild cucumber, which features some diabolically scary fruit—and a terrifying rate of growth.

In the heart of 49er country, two GGRO volunteers are working to monitor the Bay Area’s population of osprey (aka “sea hawks”). Learn how these citizen scientists are harnessing the power of the people to protect these magnificent birds.

With men around the world growing mustaches in “Movember,” we sought inspiration in the annals of the Golden Gate National Parks. These parklands have seen many fine gentlemen of the face fur, and this list will “razor” awareness of some fascinating historical figures!

The school year’s just begun, but for students it’s not too early to think about summer internship opportunities! Read about two young people who enjoyed their LINC internship so much last summer that they came back to the park this past summer—as Presidio nursery interns.

The Golden Gate Raptor Observatory turns 30 this fall. With the GGRO at a stage of maturity and reflection, Director Allen Fish tells the tale of the people who founded this pioneering citizen science program. Also, discover its many volunteer-driven accomplishments—and inventions!

In 1997, there was no organized nursery program, restoration work was relatively small-scale, and greenhouses were made of pipes and plastic sheets. From that humble start, Betty Young led nursery staff and dedicated volunteers in growing over 2 million plants. On the eve of Betty’s retirement, hear her story.

Marine debris pollutes aquatic ecosystems, endangers wildlife, and impacts human health and safety. Help turn the tide against trash in waterways and the ocean; pitch-in for California Coastal Cleanup Day on Sept. 20. Be a part of the solution, not the pollution!