CA State Parks

Natural Resource Interpretation Training

New for 2026, California State Parks is hosting a series of virtual and in-person regional workshops focused on a broad overview of California’s natural resources, climate literacy, and science communication skills. This newly revamped training course includes 4 online sessions, followed by an in-person regional workshop. Led by State Parks and regional experts, this training will bring together park interpreters and educators from across the state.

Purpose

The regional workshop series aims to advance understanding of natural resources and climate literacy with an emphasis on biodiversity, wildfire, watershed protection, sea level rise, extreme heat, severe storms, and changing visitor dynamics. The goal of this training is to raise awareness of how human activities impact California’s natural resources and how park landscapes and visitor experiences are influenced by our changing climate.

Each regional workshop will offer:

Science-based content on regional climate impacts and adaptation strategies.
Interpretive tools to effectively communicate climate and natural resource topics.
Collaborative sessions with regional experts, park staff, and partners.
Hands-on activities focused on applying interpretive techniques in the field.
Peer networking to strengthen statewide collaboration and shared learning.

Why Attend?

Interpreters play a vital role in connecting visitors to the state’s natural and cultural heritage. By participating you will:

Strengthen your understanding of climate science and its relevance to park interpretation.
Build confidence in communicating climate change and complex environmental topics in engaging, accessible ways.
Develop skills to inspire visitor stewardship and collective climate action.
Collaborate with colleagues advancing climate literacy and resilience across California.
Leave with a toolkit and training template to bring climate and environmental literacy training to your district’s staff, volunteers, and partners.