Summer 2024
Look who’s back!
Back in 1993, interpreters decided to put together a statewide newsletter. But what to call it? Suggestions abounded: The Interpretive Grapevine, Tin Can Telephone, or I.N.F.O. (for “Interpretive Network for Facts and Other stuff”).
The winning suggestion came with this explanation: “A catalyst is not typically an active ingredient in the chemical reaction, but without it the reaction either doesn’t take place or proceeds more slowly. This newsletter is not a direct interpretive tool; however, if it is successful, it will [inspire] or speed up the interpretive section.”
In re-launching as an email newsletter, we think The Catalyst can again take up the challenge of supporting and motivating you—the amazing interpretive staff, partners, and volunteers across the state.
Please send article ideas and suggestions to interpretation.staff@parks.ca.gov, and sign-up to receive future issues of The Catalyst here.
—The Catalyst Team
Your Questions Answered!
- What’s the Point of SharePoint?
- Potentially Pesky Parents
- Scheming on Theming
When the kids who live the closest don't come to the park:
Youth programming through partnerships in Ocotillo Wells District
Congratulations to the interpretive staff and volunteers behind last year’s World Ocean Day Live Dive for receiving the Innovation Award at the annual Director’s Recognition Awards. This award recognizes a “remarkable ability to complete tasks and projects or address park problems through creative and innovative means.”
Meet an Environmental Scientist
Leah Garnder on bioblitzes, biodiversity, belly flowers, and why scientists need interpreters
Note from the Chief:
After a hiatus, I would like to welcome everyone back to The Catalyst, the Department’s newsletter for interpretation, in its newly designed e-format. The intent of The Catalyst newsletter is to address current trends and best practices in interpretation, provide a forum to showcase innovative interpretation occurring within State Parks, and highlight interpretive and educational learning and engagement opportunities.
The new blog format brings the newsletter into the 21st century. The Catalyst newsletter will be distributed quarterly. I would like to thank Anne Cooper, Elizabeth Hammack, and Devin McCutchen for their hard work on this edition of The Catalyst and transitioning it to an electronic format. We welcome your article submissions, as well as feedback on the new format.
As we close out fiscal year 2023/2024, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your hard work and dedication in serving and educating park visitors despite challenging budget situations. When I hear about innovative interpretive programs you are doing, partnerships and engagement opportunities that are being fostered with underrepresented communities, and interdisciplinary collaboration across program areas instigated by interpreters, I can’t help but to feel proud of you and your work.
I am honored to be the chief of the Interpretation and Education Division and humbled by the responsibility.
—Heather Holm
Sea Level Rise Toolkit:
This toolkit is a new comprehensive “living” resource designed for Coastal Interpreters educating the public on sea level rise, climate change, and coastal erosion. Find out what’s in the Toolkit and how to access it.
Reel In and Recycle:
To-date, the California Clean Boating Program’ Fishing Line Recycling Program has recycled over 3,000 lbs. of fishing line! Find out how you can join the efforts.
Accessibility Training Site:
Are you passionate about ensuring that all visitors enjoy a physically and emotionally safe environment in California State Parks? This resource is the perfect starting point, with free training modules, articles, and complete texts.
Statewide Webinars:
Explore the busy calendar of webinars that are FREE and open to all State Parks staff, volunteers, and partners. Eligible for FOCUS training credits.
JULY
- ALL MONTH: Disability Pride Month
- July 4: Independence Day
- July 17: iNaturalist and Bioblitzes Training
- July 24: Statewide Webinar: 30X30 California—building resiliency to climate change
AUGUST
- August 8: Statewide Webinar: Defining K-12 Access
- August 28: Statewide Webinar: Watershed Wednesday—cultural history of cannabis in California
SEPTEMBER
- September 2: Labor Day
- September 7-15: California Biodiversity Week
- September 15: Beginning of California Latino Heritage Month (9/15-10/15)
- September 16-20: Climate Week
- September 21: California Coastal Cleanup Day
- September 25: Statewide Webinar: OF/BY/FOR ALL—becoming inclusive, equitable, and relevant (sponsored by CA State Parks Foundation)
- September 27: California Native American Day
Interested in writing an article? Want to share a resource? Got a success story?
Write to us at: interpretation.staff@parks.ca.gov
Summer 2024 Catalyst Team Members:
Anne Cooper (co-editor) – Elizabeth Hammack (copy editor)
Devin McCutchen (co-editor) – Kim Milruya (graphic designer)
Copyright (C) 2025 CA State Parks, Interpretation and Education Division. All rights reserved.