PORTScast Calendar

Dive into kelp forest ecology and conservation at Mendocino Headlands State Park! With the loss of two keystone species – sea otters and sunflower sea stars – plus the impacts of climate change, our kelp forests have declined rapidly over the last 10 years. But we can help!

Join us at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP as we explore the history of the Coloma Valley before, during and after the Gold Discovery. During our program, we will take a walk through our park and learn how the discovery of gold changed California both culturally and environmentally. We will start with the story of the Coloma Valley before the Gold Discovery and will learn about the history of the California Gold Rush and its impact on the town of Coloma and the surrounding valley. Program resources for classrooms can be found here.

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In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Dive deep into the fascinating lives of Northern Elephant Seals from Hearst San Simeon State Park! Watch these animals live from the largest mainland elephant seal rookery in the world while learning about the astounding adaptations that allow them to dive deep, migrate thousands of miles per year, go months without eating, and so much more.

Fire has a complicated relationship with most ecosystems, and the giant sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees State Park are no different. Students will be introduced to what fire is, how we have influenced it, and how important it is for the giant sequoia. This program is geared toward older students.

Join California State Parks Interpreter Anita at San Elijo Sate Beach to learn about these stinging survivalists! Jellies have amazing adaptations that allow them to thrive throughout our world’s ocean. From surface waters to the deepest depths, from the warm tropics to the chilly poles, these creatures have survived for millions of years. Join us to learn about their adaptations and how they and other species are being affected by climate change.

Join CA State Parks Interpreter Alex on a virtual field trip to Crystal Cove State Park’s Marine Protected Area (MPA) to learn about the diversity of life in the tidepools and the incredible adaptations that tidepool animals use to survive in a harsh environment where land meets the sea! Students will explore topics including habitats, biodiversity, tides, adaptations, food chains, and defense mechanisms. Students will also learn about Marine Protected Areas and how they help protect these fascinating and fragile tidepool ecosystems.

How do beavers help “Keep Tahoe Blue”? Join us from the shores of Lake Tahoe at Sugar Pine Point State Park to learn about the North American Beaver and their amazing ability to boost biodiversity and transform ecosystems.

Explore the incredible biodiversity of California’s Delta while learning how to fish from the pier at Brannan Island SRA. Guided by interpreters from California State Parks and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, your class will learn the basics of fishing while discovering the importance of conservation and what it means to be a responsible angler. Immerse yourself in the Delta’s extensive waterways, tule-filled wetlands, and riparian areas with willows, oaks, and cottonwoods that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife above and below the water!

Join us at Carpinteria State Beach as we explore the diverse animals in our tide pools and how they survive the highs and lows of life in the tidal zone. We will discuss how certain physical features and behaviors help them find food, ward off predators, and thrive in a constantly changing environment.

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Grab your imaginary flippers and dive beneath the waves of Point Lobos for a live underwater adventure! Get an up-close look at kelp forests, marine animals, and the surprising adaptations that help them survive in this unique ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled and your detective skills ready as we search for creatures and uncover their underwater secrets in real time.

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

In this program, students will be introduced to the wonders of the giant sequoia, the biggest individual tree, and learn all about their survival secrets. We will walk around part of a giant sequoia grove at Calaveras Big Trees State Park and observe how the giant sequoia is a part of the mixed conifer forest.

We welcome you for a fin-tastic virtual adventure at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve! Together, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of white sharks and discover why young white sharks are often spotted and sometimes aggregate in the waters off of Torrey Pines State Beach and other Southern California beaches. Get your paper and pencils ready! We will draw a white shark together while learning about the unique adaptations that make these incredible animals who they are. Along the way, students will uncover fun shark facts, explore what makes white sharks such fascinating creatures, and discover why they play such an important role in the marine ecosystem.

What animals are awake at night, and how are they adapted to survive in the dark? Come solve some riddles with us as we explore some of the fascinating nocturnal animals at Carpinteria State Beach.

Join us at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP as we explore the history of the Coloma Valley before, during and after the Gold Discovery. During our program, we will take a walk through our park and learn how the discovery of gold changed California both culturally and environmentally. We will start with the story of the Coloma Valley before the Gold Discovery and will learn about the history of the California Gold Rush and its impact on the town of Coloma and the surrounding valley. Program resources for classrooms can be found here.

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Take flight with Gaviota State Park as we discover the fascinating world of bird flight! We’ll explore the difference between high speed and elliptical wings by comparing two amazing flyers—the peregrine falcon and the American crow—and learning how each uses the air to stay aloft. Then, put your knowledge to the test by creating paper airplanes that model both high speed and elliptical wings. Which design will be the fastest? Which will need more energy to stay in the air? Let’s experiment and find out!

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Dive into kelp forest ecology and conservation at Mendocino Headlands State Park! With the loss of two keystone species – sea otters and sunflower sea stars – plus the impacts of climate change, our kelp forests have declined rapidly over the last 10 years. But we can help!

Jellies (aka jellyfish) have amazing adaptations that allow them to thrive throughout our world’s ocean. From surface waters to the deepest depths, from the warm tropics to the chilly poles, join us at San Elijo State Beach to unravel the mysteries as to how these creatures have survived for millions of years. Also, learn about what the future holds for them and other species that are being affected by Climate Change.

Join us at Gaviota State Park for a spooktacular draw-along featuring one of the ocean’s most mysterious creatures: the wolf eel! Together, we’ll discover fascinating facts about this unique marine species, explore its anatomy and habitat, and learn what makes the wolf eel such an incredible resident of the rocky reefs along the California coast.

Hop over to Angel Island State Park for a spooky retelling of a true story that happened at the Quarantine Station in 1907. Help us solve the mysterious tale of the “devil of Angel Island” as we investigate newspaper clippings and historic photos through a dramatic reenactment. Prepare your students with a piece of paper and art supplies as they jot down clues during their investigation.

In the spirit of Halloween, dive into the spooky world of the deep sea and meet some of the ocean’s strangest animals! Discover how creatures survive in a dark, cold, high-pressure world using fascinating adaptations like bioluminescence, giant eyes, and unusual body shapes.

Gulls just wanna have fun – and we’re ready to SEA-gulls through a whole new light! Join us to discover the fascinating world of gulls, uncover their unique adaptations and behaviors, and see these familiar coastal birds in a whole new way.

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

We welcome you for a fin-tastic virtual adventure at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve! Together, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of white sharks and discover why young white sharks are often spotted and sometimes aggregate in the waters off of Torrey Pines State Beach and other Southern California beaches. Get your paper and pencils ready! We will draw a white shark together while learning about the unique adaptations that make these incredible animals who they are. Along the way, students will uncover fun shark facts, explore what makes white sharks such fascinating creatures, and discover why they play such an important role in the marine ecosystem.

Join us on a virtual field trip to Crystal Cove State Park’s Marine Protected Area (MPA) to learn about tidepool habitats and the incredible adaptations that tidepool animals use to survive harsh environments where land meets the sea! Students explore topics including habitats, tides, adaptations, food chains, and defense mechanisms. Students also learn about Marine Protected Areas and how they help protect these fascinating and fragile tidepool ecosystems.

Join us at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP as we explore the history of the Coloma Valley before, during and after the Gold Discovery. During our program, we will take a walk through our park and learn how the discovery of gold changed California both culturally and environmentally. We will start with the story of the Coloma Valley before the Gold Discovery and will learn about the history of the California Gold Rush and its impact on the town of Coloma and the surrounding valley. Program resources for classrooms can be found here.

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In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Join us at Gaviota State Park as we soar alongside one of our favorite coastal birds: the pelican! Together, we’ll discover more about this majestic pelican form, explore its unique anatomy and habitat along the Santa Barbara Coast, and learn how this remarkable bird is adapted to life by the sea. We believe you peliCAN draw it! During this fun, all-ages program, students will learn step-by-step how to draw their very own pelican. Recommended art supplies: – Paper – Drawing tools like pencil, pen, and/or colored pencils

Climate change is real, and it is accelerating – but restoring and protecting coast redwood forests is one of the most effective natural climate solutions on Earth. “Redwoods have endured for millions of years, helping stabilize our planet and inspire resilience. By protecting and restoring these giants, we connect with their legacy, take meaningful action for the climate and leave a healthier world for future generations.” We will discuss how each of us has a role to play as stewards of California and this planet.

Explore the Gaviota watershed and discover how water connects the mountains, creeks, coast, and ocean at Gaviota State Park. Learn how this unique landscape shapes the plants, animals, and people who call the Gaviota Coast home—and why protecting our watersheds matters.

Join us at Carpinteria State Beach as we learn about harbor seals and their role in our ocean’s ecosystem. Students will learn about their haulouts and nurseries, diet, anatomy, and the incredible adaptations they exhibit to survive in the water and on land. We will conclude our program by discussing the threats harbor seals face and ways we can help protect these remarkable marine mammals, followed by some Harbor Seal trivia!

How did they become the Swiss Army Knife of adaptations? What goes on in their brain(s) that makes them the world’s most intelligent invertebrates? Join us at Carpinteria State Beach as we explore the life and evolution of the Octopus.

Join us at Gaviota State Park for waves of fun with our favorite arthropod: the crab! Together we’ll discover a bit about this majestic arthropod, its anatomy, and its habitat along the Santa Barbara Coast. Students will learn how to draw this special creature during this program. Program is great for all ages! Recommended art supplies: Paper – Drawing tools like pencil, pen, and/or colored pencils.

Unlock the mysteries of one of the world’s most fascinating organisms, the octopus! Join Park Interpreter Alex on the California coast for an engaging virtual field trip to Crystal Cove State Park’s Marine Protected Area and discover the fascinating adaptations octopuses use for survival. Students will discover a variety of octopus species while learning about animal defense mechanisms, life cycles, adaptations, human impacts, and how Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are helping these curious and mesmerizing marine invertebrates.

Join us at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP as we explore the history of the Coloma Valley before, during and after the Gold Discovery. During our program, we will take a walk through our park and learn how the discovery of gold changed California both culturally and environmentally. We will start with the story of the Coloma Valley before the Gold Discovery and will learn about the history of the California Gold Rush and its impact on the town of Coloma and the surrounding valley. Program resources for classrooms can be found here.

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Students will virtually visit MacKerricher State Park to explore the similarities and differences between humans and marine mammals, specifically the Harbor Seal! Students will observe and identify what crucial adaptations ensure seal survival in the cold Pacific waters of northern California.

Happy Lunar New Year! 恭喜發財 / 恭喜发财! Welcome 2027 by celebrating and learning with us at Angel Island State Park! We’ll talk about the Chinese immigrant experience in the 1900s and how that relates to modern lunar new year traditions. Teachers, make sure your students have a piece of paper and art supplies! They will be drawing some of the traditions and learning how to write Chinese. (Bonus points if you can get red construction paper.)

Join park staff at Angel Island State Park to learn the story of the courageous lighthouse keeper, Juliet Fish Nichols. We will share the beautifully illustrated book “Keeper of the Light: Juliet Fish Nichols Fights the San Francisco Fog”. Students will be able to see the actual type of bell that Juliet would have rang — a fog bell that would’ve been as tall as her!

In this program, students will be introduced to the wonders of the giant sequoia, the biggest individual tree, and learn all about their survival secrets. We will walk around part of a giant sequoia grove at Calaveras Big Trees State Park and observe how the giant sequoia is a part of the mixed conifer forest.

Follow a tour guide through the historic immigration detention barracks at Angel Island State Park. Most have heard about Ellis Island, but many haven’t heard about the Chinese Exclusion Act that cast a shadow over immigration policy from 1910 to 1940. If you couldn’t secure a PORTS program for your class, this is the option for you! While the tour guide won’t be able to hear and interact with your students directly like they can in our usual PORTS, you will be able to submit your questions with a Q&A feature.

Fire has a complicated relationship with most ecosystems, and the giant sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees State Park are no different. Students will be introduced to what fire is, how we have influenced it, and how important it is for the giant sequoia. This program is geared toward older students.

Honor the history and diversity of the Asian American Pacific Islander immigrants that passed through the Angel Island Immigration Station from 1910-1940. Join Angel Island State Park and the Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation at the historic detention barracks as we delve into their stories. Also, you’ll be able to hear directly from a descendant of an Angel Island immigrant.

Dive into kelp forest ecology and conservation at Mendocino Headlands State Park! With the loss of two keystone species – sea otters and sunflower sea stars – plus the impacts of climate change, our kelp forests have declined rapidly over the last 10 years. But we can help!

Join us at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP as we explore the history of the Coloma Valley before, during and after the Gold Discovery. During our program, we will take a walk through our park and learn how the discovery of gold changed California both culturally and environmentally. We will start with the story of the Coloma Valley before the Gold Discovery and will learn about the history of the California Gold Rush and its impact on the town of Coloma and the surrounding valley. Program resources for classrooms can be found here.

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In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Dive deep into the fascinating lives of Northern Elephant Seals from Hearst San Simeon State Park! Watch these animals live from the largest mainland elephant seal rookery in the world while learning about the astounding adaptations that allow them to dive deep, migrate thousands of miles per year, go months without eating, and so much more.

Fire has a complicated relationship with most ecosystems, and the giant sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees State Park are no different. Students will be introduced to what fire is, how we have influenced it, and how important it is for the giant sequoia. This program is geared toward older students.

Join California State Parks Interpreter Anita at San Elijo Sate Beach to learn about these stinging survivalists! Jellies have amazing adaptations that allow them to thrive throughout our world’s ocean. From surface waters to the deepest depths, from the warm tropics to the chilly poles, these creatures have survived for millions of years. Join us to learn about their adaptations and how they and other species are being affected by climate change.

Join CA State Parks Interpreter Alex on a virtual field trip to Crystal Cove State Park’s Marine Protected Area (MPA) to learn about the diversity of life in the tidepools and the incredible adaptations that tidepool animals use to survive in a harsh environment where land meets the sea! Students will explore topics including habitats, biodiversity, tides, adaptations, food chains, and defense mechanisms. Students will also learn about Marine Protected Areas and how they help protect these fascinating and fragile tidepool ecosystems.

How do beavers help “Keep Tahoe Blue”? Join us from the shores of Lake Tahoe at Sugar Pine Point State Park to learn about the North American Beaver and their amazing ability to boost biodiversity and transform ecosystems.

Explore the incredible biodiversity of California’s Delta while learning how to fish from the pier at Brannan Island SRA. Guided by interpreters from California State Parks and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, your class will learn the basics of fishing while discovering the importance of conservation and what it means to be a responsible angler. Immerse yourself in the Delta’s extensive waterways, tule-filled wetlands, and riparian areas with willows, oaks, and cottonwoods that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife above and below the water!

Join us at Carpinteria State Beach as we explore the diverse animals in our tide pools and how they survive the highs and lows of life in the tidal zone. We will discuss how certain physical features and behaviors help them find food, ward off predators, and thrive in a constantly changing environment.

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Grab your imaginary flippers and dive beneath the waves of Point Lobos for a live underwater adventure! Get an up-close look at kelp forests, marine animals, and the surprising adaptations that help them survive in this unique ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled and your detective skills ready as we search for creatures and uncover their underwater secrets in real time.

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

In this program, students will be introduced to the wonders of the giant sequoia, the biggest individual tree, and learn all about their survival secrets. We will walk around part of a giant sequoia grove at Calaveras Big Trees State Park and observe how the giant sequoia is a part of the mixed conifer forest.

We welcome you for a fin-tastic virtual adventure at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve! Together, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of white sharks and discover why young white sharks are often spotted and sometimes aggregate in the waters off of Torrey Pines State Beach and other Southern California beaches. Get your paper and pencils ready! We will draw a white shark together while learning about the unique adaptations that make these incredible animals who they are. Along the way, students will uncover fun shark facts, explore what makes white sharks such fascinating creatures, and discover why they play such an important role in the marine ecosystem.

What animals are awake at night, and how are they adapted to survive in the dark? Come solve some riddles with us as we explore some of the fascinating nocturnal animals at Carpinteria State Beach.

Join us at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP as we explore the history of the Coloma Valley before, during and after the Gold Discovery. During our program, we will take a walk through our park and learn how the discovery of gold changed California both culturally and environmentally. We will start with the story of the Coloma Valley before the Gold Discovery and will learn about the history of the California Gold Rush and its impact on the town of Coloma and the surrounding valley. Program resources for classrooms can be found here.

.

Take flight with Gaviota State Park as we discover the fascinating world of bird flight! We’ll explore the difference between high speed and elliptical wings by comparing two amazing flyers—the peregrine falcon and the American crow—and learning how each uses the air to stay aloft. Then, put your knowledge to the test by creating paper airplanes that model both high speed and elliptical wings. Which design will be the fastest? Which will need more energy to stay in the air? Let’s experiment and find out!

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Dive into kelp forest ecology and conservation at Mendocino Headlands State Park! With the loss of two keystone species – sea otters and sunflower sea stars – plus the impacts of climate change, our kelp forests have declined rapidly over the last 10 years. But we can help!

Jellies (aka jellyfish) have amazing adaptations that allow them to thrive throughout our world’s ocean. From surface waters to the deepest depths, from the warm tropics to the chilly poles, join us at San Elijo State Beach to unravel the mysteries as to how these creatures have survived for millions of years. Also, learn about what the future holds for them and other species that are being affected by Climate Change.

Join us at Gaviota State Park for a spooktacular draw-along featuring one of the ocean’s most mysterious creatures: the wolf eel! Together, we’ll discover fascinating facts about this unique marine species, explore its anatomy and habitat, and learn what makes the wolf eel such an incredible resident of the rocky reefs along the California coast.

Hop over to Angel Island State Park for a spooky retelling of a true story that happened at the Quarantine Station in 1907. Help us solve the mysterious tale of the “devil of Angel Island” as we investigate newspaper clippings and historic photos through a dramatic reenactment. Prepare your students with a piece of paper and art supplies as they jot down clues during their investigation.

In the spirit of Halloween, dive into the spooky world of the deep sea and meet some of the ocean’s strangest animals! Discover how creatures survive in a dark, cold, high-pressure world using fascinating adaptations like bioluminescence, giant eyes, and unusual body shapes.

Gulls just wanna have fun – and we’re ready to SEA-gulls through a whole new light! Join us to discover the fascinating world of gulls, uncover their unique adaptations and behaviors, and see these familiar coastal birds in a whole new way.

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.

We welcome you for a fin-tastic virtual adventure at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve! Together, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of white sharks and discover why young white sharks are often spotted and sometimes aggregate in the waters off of Torrey Pines State Beach and other Southern California beaches. Get your paper and pencils ready! We will draw a white shark together while learning about the unique adaptations that make these incredible animals who they are. Along the way, students will uncover fun shark facts, explore what makes white sharks such fascinating creatures, and discover why they play such an important role in the marine ecosystem.

Join us on a virtual field trip to Crystal Cove State Park’s Marine Protected Area (MPA) to learn about tidepool habitats and the incredible adaptations that tidepool animals use to survive harsh environments where land meets the sea! Students explore topics including habitats, tides, adaptations, food chains, and defense mechanisms. Students also learn about Marine Protected Areas and how they help protect these fascinating and fragile tidepool ecosystems.

Join us at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP as we explore the history of the Coloma Valley before, during and after the Gold Discovery. During our program, we will take a walk through our park and learn how the discovery of gold changed California both culturally and environmentally. We will start with the story of the Coloma Valley before the Gold Discovery and will learn about the history of the California Gold Rush and its impact on the town of Coloma and the surrounding valley. Program resources for classrooms can be found here.

.

In this program, students will discover salt marsh plant and animal species using observational skills, movement, and nature journaling techniques. We’ll focus on the plants’ adaptations to salty ocean water in the largest coastal wetland in southern California. Join us virtually at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.