The Catalyst is “The Newsletter for Interpretation in California State Parks.”

In chemistry, a catalyst is a substance that starts or speeds up a reaction. Likewise, in The Catalyst, you will find thought-provoking, useful, and entertaining information that will help your work or fuel a discussion. The Catalyst includes everything from news stories to reflections from interpreters; from ideas for programs and recommendations of tools, to guidance and advice on issues related to interpretation.

Photograph of steam locomotive, Sierra Railway No. 3, under steam and wearing American flags and bunting at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Latest Issue:

Summer 2025

  • How to keep your program attendance high
  • Meet Rebecca Crowther, California State Parks Photo Archivist
  • Advice on podcasting
  • Junior Ranger program refresh
  • Hiring an intern with UEI
  • And more!

Previous Issues:

View previous issues of The Catalyst newsletter! Older issues can be viewed upon request, just send an email to interpretation.staff@parks.ca.gov.

Contributor’s Guidelines:

The Catalyst welcomes your original articles. We prefer unpublished material but will occasionally reprint items published elsewhere. Be sure to include information about the publication so we can get permission to use the material. Please include a photograph or illustration whenever possible. Please send photographs and illustrations as separate files, not inserted into your document. You may also submit original photographs or other illustrations to The Catalyst. We reserve the right to edit all material. Items are selected for publication solely at the discretion of the publisher and guest editor. We appreciate your suggestions.

Issues

Issues

Tags

Tags

Search

Search
2024 Summer

Summer 2024

Read the Summer 2024 edition of The Catalyst

2024 SummerDates to Know

Dates to Know – Summer 2024

Here are some events, theme weeks/months, trainings, holidays, and other dates to know for Summer 2024:

2024 SummerWhat's Up?

What’s Up? – 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.

2024 SummerBlogWhat's Up?

What’s Up? – 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...

2024 SummerWhat's Up?

What’s Up? – California Fishing Line Program

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...

2024 SummerWhat's Up?

What’s Up? – 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...

2024 SummerBlogDear Master Interpreter

Dear Master Interpreter – Summer 2024

Your questions answered!
• What’s the Point of SharePoint?
• Potentially Pesky Parents
• Scheming on Theming