The Catalyst: The Newsletter for Interpretation in California State Parks

Spring is one of my favorite seasons. Seeing all the green grass and watching trees blossom and flowers bloom leaves me with a sense of hope and optimism.  The start of 2025 has been rough for so many people. We’ve had parks burn. I am hearing a lot of fear and uncertainty around what is taking place in the federal government and how it might impact us in state parks.  In California State Parks we remain committed to making parks more inclusive and welcoming for all visitors and to continue to build climate literacy. I want to encourage you when you feel weighed down by things to get out into nature, enjoy the springtime beauty, and to breathe deeply. All of you do amazing work and continually inspire me. Thank you for the work you do and the passion and commitment you bring. The work you do is vital. —Heather Holm

Editors' Letter Back in 1993, California State Park Interpreters decided to put together a 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”). Richard Clark offered the winning suggestion: “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 inspiring 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 Note from the Chief: ...