Prescribed fire commenced today at China Camp State Park for wildfire risk management, visible smoke expected.

San Francisco Zoo welcomes two Przewalskis horses, critically endangered species once extinct in the wild, as a conservation triumph.

Santa Clara announces this years Fantasy of Lights event, with tickets on sale for the walk-through extravaganza at Vasona Lake County Park.

San Francisco resident finds a napping coyote on their patio, prompting discussions on urban wildlife and cohabitation challenges.

Sebastopol residents alarmed by a loose wolf hybrid authorities urge community vigilance and safe engagement protocols.

Renovated UN Plaza in San Francisco debuts with fresh amenities including a street skating plaza, fitness court, and activities for all ages.

Endangered Bairds Tapir from Audubon Zoo relocated to San Francisco Zoo for biodiversity conservation efforts.

Novato residents expect pile burning from Nov. 14-16 under the Greater Novato Shaded Fuel Break project for wildfire prevention.

Skystar Ferris Wheel moves to Fishermans Wharf, aiming to raise tourism as it coincides with the APEC forum, creating a renaissance at the Wharf.

Joe Rodota Trail closure from Nov 28 to Dec 6 due to a Caltrans project. This brief closure affects Santa Rosa and Sebastopol users.

Oakland Zoo offers shelter to orphaned mountain lion cubs, prompting a continued push for safe animal passages.

Santa Rosa Fire Department ends 2023 wildfire season credits rainfall, homeowner efforts. Urges ongoing vigilance, prep for future seasons.

Californias fishing restrictions and commercial crab season delays to protect whales and meat quality significantly impacts local economy.

Sawyer Camp Trail reopens after storm repairs, ready for Thanksgiving hikes and rides.

San Francisco reconsiders Stow Lakes name, with diverse options reflecting the city's ethos.

Mountain lion sighted in Rohnert Park residents advised caution.

A coyote's rest behind sand barrels causes a surprising pause in Mission Bay morning traffic, resolved by Animal Care & Control.

Sunol's Tyler Ranch Staging Area opens, offering 18 miles of new trails and amenities for park-goers.

Palo Alto officer rescues a 61-pound beaver in distress.

Point Reyes National Seashore marks the return of elephant seals, initiating the seal pupping and breeding season. The population of these seals has dramatically rebounded since they reappeared in the 1970s.

Senator Josh Becker secures $500,000 for educational improvements on the Ohlone-Portolá Heritage Trail in San Mateo County, enhancing historical knowledge for hikers.

A resurgence of bird flu, H5N1, affects wild birds in California, with 354 cases across 44 counties. While the risk to humans is low, health officials advise caution and hygiene, especially for hunters and poultry farmers.

The Eucalyptus Playground at Coyote Point in San Mateo County is closed due to safety concerns requiring repairs, with no reopening date yet announced.

San Francisco Fire Department rescued a dog in critical condition after it fell 80 feet at Fort Mason. The incident serves as a safety reminder to pet owners.

Bird lovers in the East Bay participated in the 82nd Oakland Christmas Bird Count, contributing to conservation efforts while also fostering community and inclusivity in birding.

Novato's Pioneer Park has upgraded to an inclusive playground with adaptive equipment and safety features, supported by community funding and recognized nationally for its accessibility.

Officials warn against toxic mushrooms, such as the Death Cap and Western Destroying Angel, that pose lethal risks in the East Bay parks, urging public and pet safety.

Several pets were reported lost and brought to a Napa County shelter between Dec 21-26, including cats, dogs, and rabbits, with the shelter seeking to reunite them with their owners.

The endangered California Freshwater Shrimp has been spotted further up Olema Creek by the Point Reyes Fisheries Team, indicating a positive trend in their conservation.

A Palo Alto animal control officer aided an injured Peregrine Falcon at Stanford University, later cared for by the Peninsula Humane Society, with the incident sparking reflections on adapting to future challenges.

The California Assembly is considering a bill to make the Dungeness crab the official state crustacean to promote appreciation and education about its environmental and economic roles.

Sonoma County invests $14 million from a sales tax increase into park improvements, including playgrounds, sports facilities, and maintenance, with future projects planned.

Several trails at Junipero Serra Park are temporarily closed for tree removal and storm damage assessment, and visitors are advised to heed signs and exercise caution on affected paths.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has reduced the number of traps in the commercial Dungeness crab fishery to protect whales, effective January 18, with a 64-hour pre-soak starting January 15.

Tunitas Creek Beach in San Mateo County is undergoing construction to add visitor facilities and stabilize the beach access trail. The iconic pink house was demolished to create new amenities.

Coyote Point Recreation Area faces closures including Magic Mountain Playground for maintenance, Eucalyptus Playground for repairs, parts of the Bluff Trail due to a landslide, and Knoll parking for storm debris storage.

Two potential new lamprey species have been discovered in California by UC Davis researchers, prompting reconsideration of conservation efforts due to their significant genetic diversity.

San Francisco's Golden Gate Park's Stow Lake has been renamed Blue Heron Lake to shed its antisemitic ties to William W. Stow. The name change includes the roadway and boathouse, and follows community outreach and polling.

The Conservation Fund acquires 3,654-acre Richmond Ranch in California for $16 million to preserve wildlife habitats and provide public recreational space.

Napa County sells Calistoga Fairgrounds to the City of Calistoga for $2 million, allowing the preservation and rejuvenation of the historic community site.

San Francisco beaches are increasingly polluted with plastic waste, believed to originate from the city's sewer system and an old landfill, prompting local cleanup efforts and environmental concerns.

A study by Berkeley Lab and UC Berkeley found that coastal wetlands emit more methane than expected, challenging the belief that increased salinity reduces methane production.

San Francisco officials broke ground on the new $59 million Gene Friend Recreation Center, which will feature expanded facilities and is set to open by mid-2026.

The Oakland Zoo provided a haven for a rescued marmoset named Estrela, emphasizing the struggle against illegal pet trade and the challenges of accommodating such animals.

Annie the falcon at UC Berkeley has a new mate after Lou's disappearance, as the breeding season commences, and bird watchers eagerly observe signs of nesting.

San Jose councilmembers are considering reopening the previously closed Raging Waters amusement park with new management and a potential $6 million renovation investment.

San Francisco celebrates the grand opening of the renovated Golden Gate Park Golf Course and Clubhouse, featuring a new facility and improved amenities.

The San Francisco Zoo warns against a scam offering zoo tickets for $6.95 on social media, clarifying that the promotions are not affiliated with the zoo. They advise buying tickets only through official partners.

A fishing vessel named The Aleutian Storm ran aground at Salmon Creek Beach in Sonoma County, prompting a temporary closure for a salvage operation coordinated by various agencies. Beachgoers are advised to follow updates and posted signs.

Limantour and Mount Vision Roads at Point Reyes are closed through Monday due to storm damage. Drakes Beach Road and Lighthouse Visitor Center are open limited hours, weather permitting, but the lighthouse stairs are closed.

UC Berkeley named a new male peregrine falcon Archie, following a public vote where the name won with 41%. The falcon is the companion to Annie, the campus's resident falcon. Archie honors Berkeley alum and WWII pilot Archie Williams.

A mountain lion sighting on Viewridge Drive in Pacifica prompted police response and a statement from the Pacifica Police Department, reminding residents of the area's wildlife and precautionary measures.

The California Academy of Sciences’ corpse flower, Mirage, bloomed, emitting a foul scent compared to decomposing flesh, attracting visitors and pollinators in San Francisco.

UC Berkeley has spent $16.1 million on security and closure costs for People's Park since August 2022, as the university plans student and homeless housing and park renovations amid controversy.

Stanford's Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve conducts pile burning to reduce wildfire risk and advance fire management research, in coordination with local fire experts and agencies.

The California Supreme Court is set to hear a case regarding housing development at Berkeley's historic People's Park, following legal disputes over UC Berkeley's project plans.

The Marin County Large Animal Rescue Team successfully rescued a horse trapped in a muddy ditch in Novato, working with local agencies to extract the animal unharmed.

A mountain lion sighting in South San Francisco prompted a police search and a warning to residents to avoid and not feed the wildlife, emphasizing safety measures.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has closed commercial Dungeness crab fishing in several zones to protect humpback whales from gear entanglement.

San Francisco receives an $8.1 million federal grant for the Buchanan Street Mall Project, which will enhance the Western Addition with a performance stage, picnic areas, and sports facilities.

Golden Gate Park in San Francisco celebrated its 154th birthday with festivities and an encouragement to vote for it in a contest for Best City Park by U.S.A. Today. Mayor Breed and officials highlighted the park's features and history.

Smoke from a controlled burn on Angel Island is managed by fire officials, with Bay Area residents advised to monitor air quality and limit exposure if sensitive.

Santa Clara County celebrates 100 years of parks with new programs, including a hiking challenge, tree planting, and an aquatic festival to raise awareness about invasive species.

A 40-foot female gray whale was found dead in Alameda, marking the first such incident in the Bay Area this year. Officials plan a necropsy to determine the cause of death.

Contra Costa Fire will conduct prescribed burns in Lafayette and Walnut Creek starting May 1 to reduce wildfire risks, potentially affecting air quality for locals.

The sea lion population at San Francisco's Pier 39 hits a seven-year peak with 820 individuals, linked to a rich food supply from nearby Farallon Islands.

The necropsy of a gray whale found in Alameda indicates a vessel strike as the cause of death, with details of its injuries and ongoing research shared by the California Academy of Sciences and The Marine Mammal Center.

Alcatraz Island has a new falcon webcam showcasing peregrine falcon chicks, providing viewers with a live HD look into their growth and daily activities.

A new 13-month-old male giraffe arrived at the Oakland Zoo from Louisiana, joining the African Savanna exhibit. The zoo is hosting a public naming contest, with choices including Enzi, Nuru, and Kovu.

San Francisco celebrates the opening of Panorama Park on Yerba Buena Island, featuring art and panoramic views, as part of the city's sustainable development plans.

Golden Gate Fields racetrack in Northern California has closed after 83 years, with fans and employees expressing sadness, and animal rights activists seeing it as progress.

27 malnourished Brown pelicans were released in Sausalito after rehabilitation, marking progress in the effort to address their starvation crisis linked to environmental issues.

CDFW released nearly one million Chinook salmon into San Pablo Bay, marking the first such event in 40 years to help rebuild salmon populations affected by drought and deficiencies.

San Francisco's Recreation and Park Department begins its annual sand redistribution at Ocean Beach to prevent sand encroachment onto the Great Highway, with temporary road closures in effect during the maintenance.

A dead juvenile humpback whale washed ashore at Cowell Ranch State Beach in Half Moon Bay, prompting concerns over marine life safety in the Bay Area.

Biologists at Point Reyes have discovered new snowy plover nests, boosting the season's total to 33, with 14 chicks fledged. Predation by ravens is a concern, prompting new conservation strategies.

San Francisco's annual picnic possibly sets a world record for the largest gathering of three-legged dogs, with 94 attendees. The event focuses on community and celebrating dogs' resilience.

Seminary Oaks Park in Menlo Park will close from June 10 to July for repairs, including replacing play equipment. Visitors can use the new playground at Burgess Park during this time.

Rangers and local agencies successfully rescued a horse from a steep ravine in Point Reyes using a low angle ropes system and coordinated efforts to bring the animal to safety.

The East County Animal Shelter in Dublin, Alameda County, opens a new area for livestock to ensure animals' safety during emergencies such as wildfires.

A five-year-old girl was bitten by a coyote at the San Francisco Botanical Garden, prompting a swift response that resulted in three coyotes being euthanized. The reaction has sparked controversy among local naturalists.

The Oakland Zoo's last elephant, Osh, will move to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, leaving the zoo without elephants for the first time in 75 years.

The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors approved $1.8 million for the Kelly Creek Protection Project to expand Helen Putnam Regional Park by 47 acres, while allowing for some residential development.

San Francisco's Embarcadero Plaza is slated for redevelopment, potentially turning it into a park with lawns, kiosks, and art, with multiple stakeholders involved in the planning.

Sonoma County Regional Parks acquired the 100-Acre Ranch, expanding Hood Mountain Regional Park to over 3,700 acres, which benefits conservation and recreation.

Golden Gate Park's Middle Lake has undergone an environmental revival, increasing its size and enhancing local wildlife habitats, with new trails and amenities for visitors.

Castro Street will soon have six fewer palm trees after the San Francisco Department of Public Works held a hearing on removing them last week.

Maxwell Farms Regional Park's first renovation phase is complete, featuring new sports fields, expanded parking, disability access, and environmentally friendly infrastructure.

The San Francisco leaf-cutter bee, not seen since 1980, was recently rediscovered in Marin County by the Tamalpais Bee Lab's community science program.

An Oakland science teacher and his friend encountered a 14-foot great white shark while kayaking in Half Moon Bay. The peaceful encounter was captured on video and widely shared on social media.

The Point Bonita Lighthouse Bridge in the Bay Area closes indefinitely for inspection and repairs due to corrosion. Visitors can still view the lighthouse from a distance but can't enter it.

Invasive shothole borers, small beetles capable of damaging trees, have been confirmed in San José, threatening local flora. The County of Santa Clara Agriculture Division urges public help in identifying and managing the infestation.

Tourist spending in California's 28 national parks generated $3.2 billion in 2023, supporting nearly 40,000 jobs and contributing $5.1 billion to the state economy.

The Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve in Marin County expanded by acquiring the 110-acre Easton Point, preventing development and preserving the land for $42.1 million.

A young humpback whale was seen in Half Moon Bay's harbor, believed to have made a navigational mistake. Officials are monitoring it, urging the public to keep their distance.

WildCare, a wildlife rehabilitation center in San Rafael, has started relocating temporarily for a $24 million renovation, coordinating animal care with partners during the move.

The City of South San Francisco is set to open Centennial Way Park South with a celebration on September 29, featuring a variety of family-friendly activities and new recreational facilities.

Oakland firefighters rescued a deer trapped between a house and a garage, demonstrating teamwork and their readiness to aid all community members, including wildlife.

Crissy Field reports increased coyote aggression towards off-leash dogs, with GGNRA advising caution and interventions like signage and hazing practices.

The Oakland Zoo introduced a new electric train, funded by the Fremont Bank Foundation, reducing maintenance issues and boosting sustainability efforts.

Controlled burns are planned for Mount Tamalpais State Park to help the ecosystem and prevent wildfires. Residents should expect smoke but avoid unnecessary 911 calls.

The Golden Bear Pass, which grants free park access in California, expands to include two more parks, reinforcing the state's "Outdoors for All" initiative.

California State Parks plans controlled burns at Mount Diablo State Park to promote a healthier ecosystem and reduce wildfire risk, affecting access between October 28 and December 13.

San Francisco opens its most expensive city-owned park, offering amenities like rowboats and performances, with an emphasis on community connection and historical significance.

A controlled burn is scheduled at Tolay Lake Regional Park by Sonoma County Regional Parks, FIGR, and CAL FIRE for wildfire prevention and ecological benefits on Oct. 23, with the park closed for safety.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed celebrated the opening of Bayfront Park, a new green space in Mission Bay, designed for climate resilience and community enjoyment.

California State Parks and CAL FIRE plan prescribed burns at Salt Point State Park, affecting 261 acres to reduce wildfire risks and improve ecosystem health.

Oakland Zoo's last African elephant, Osh, moved to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee for companionship and care, after nearly two decades at the zoo.

Sonoma County parks and CAL FIRE will conduct a controlled burn in Monte Rio, covering 30 acres on Oct. 24-25 for fire prevention and forest management.

California's commercial Dungeness crab season start has been postponed until at least December 1 to protect migrating humpback whales, while recreational crabbing begins November 2 with restrictions.

Pond Farm Pottery was celebrated as a National Historic Landmark with a plaque dedication, recognizing Marguerite Wildenhain's influence on the American Studio Pottery Movement.

Tilden Regional Park's South Park Drive is closed to vehicles from Nov 1 to Mar 31, 2025, for newt migration, allowing safe crossing for the amphibians.

The Ninth and Lincoln entrance of Golden Gate Park in San Francisco has been upgraded with new plazas, landscaping, and safety features, enhancing the gateway to the park.

Mayor London Breed announced a plan to transform Embarcadero Plaza into a vibrant park in downtown San Francisco in collaboration with BXP Inc. and the Downtown SF Partnership.

Napa County plans to buy 874-acre Skyline Wilderness Park from California for $7.26 million, ensuring its continued use as a recreation and conservation area.

The East Bay Regional Park District celebrated its 90th anniversary with state officials recognizing its contribution to park conservation and public service.

CDFW maintains crab trap restrictions in certain zones to protect whales and delays Dungeness crab season due to high domoic acid levels and entanglement risks.

The Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park has renovated its Pagoda Plaza, incorporating a new design that includes two pathways, historical stones, and 60-year-old pines, enhancing this San Francisco cultural site.

The Point Reyes National Seashore will remove the tule elk fence at Tomales Point, favoring wildlife over ranching concerns, following a Finding of No Significant Impact decision.

The San Francisco Zoo closed its African and South American aviaries as a precaution against bird flu after finding an infected wild hawk on its property.

The San Francisco Zoo welcomes a new Bactrian camel to its Asian Conservation Zone, aiding in the effort to conserve the critically endangered species.

The California Dungeness crab fishery opens on January 5, with a 50% trap reduction to protect marine life, impacting California's lucrative crab market.

Point Reyes National Seashore celebrates the birth of the season's first elephant seal pup, urging visitors to respect the critical nursing period by observing beach closures and guidelines.

Northern fur seal pups thrive on the Farallon Islands off San Francisco, rebounding from past hunting pressures since their re-colonization in 1996, as shared by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

A malnourished spider monkey was rescued from a DUI suspect’s Rolls Royce and is now recovering at Oakland Zoo, with authorities addressing both DUI and illegal exotic pet possession charges.

The Point Bonita Lighthouse in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is temporarily closed due to a landslide blocking the access trail, with reopening expected by Sunday, January 12.

Elephant seals have returned to Point Reyes for breeding, with viewing areas set up for visitors during designated hours as part of efforts to protect the seals and their pups.

A moderate earthquake struck the San Francisco Bay Area, with a 3.7 magnitude near the San Francisco Zoo. No significant damage was reported.

The UN Skate Plaza in San Francisco is expanding to include new features for young and beginner skaters, with skateable art by Alexis Sablone. The project is a part of efforts to revitalize the Civic Center area.

The San Francisco Rec and Park Department, with volunteers and partners, launches a dune replanting project at Ocean Beach to combat erosion and climate change effects.

The Oakland Zoo euthanized Sequoia, an 11-year-old wolf, due to health decline, marking his loss with tributes and reflections on his life and legacy.

San Francisco's UN Skate Plaza expands with new features, continuing its legacy as a vibrant community hub, including an inclusive skate space and various free events and classes.

San Francisco's Waller Street Skate Park has been renamed Zion Skate Plaza in honor of the late skateboarder and community advocate, Zion Williams Gaines.

San Francisco's new park offers the public a chance to name it through a contest, with festivities planned for the official naming event on April 12. The park has become popular since its opening, despite some local dissent over its car-free status.

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors approved a revitalization plan for Embarcadero Plaza, with funding from both public and private entities, aiming to transform it into a world-class park.

Marin County Parks and local fire will conduct controlled burns in Maurice Thorner Preserve and San Geronimo Park to manage vegetation and reduce wildfire risk, asking residents not to call 911 for smoke reports.

Maggie, a 55-year-old chimpanzee at the San Francisco Zoo, died from lymphoma just before her 56th birthday. She was known for her colorful blanket nests and subtle matriarchal role within the troop.

San Francisco seeks a name for its new green space. Residents submitted 4,263 ideas, with diverse suggestions from tributes to satire, reflecting strong opinions and community culture.

Mayor Daniel Lurie and State Senator Scott Wiener broke ground on the Buchanan Street Mall renovation project, aiming to revitalize the area with features honoring local history.

CAL FIRE LNU announced a road closure in Boggs Mountain State Forest from April 1st for road improvements, reopening May 1st, 2025. Access is restricted but alternative outdoor areas are suggested.

San Francisco's Fulton Plaza will soon feature SPECTRA, an LED public art piece, aimed at enhancing the city's cultural vitality and developed in collaboration with arts nonprofit Illuminate and SF Rec & Park.

San Francisco's renaming of the Upper Great Highway as a new oceanfront park moves forward with finalist names like Playland Parkway and Sunset Dunes, further highlighting tensions over the removal of vehicle access.

CAL FIRE LNU is planning a controlled burn in Solano County to reduce wildfire risks as part of the Green Valley Shaded Fuel Break project, with safety and environmental stewardship in focus.

Sonoma County Regional Parks will begin a $4 million renovation of Larson Park in Boyes Hot Springs on April 14, 2025, with funding from diverse sources.

San Francisco's Presidio closes trails to dogs during coyote pupping season to prevent encounters, with local dog owners showing understanding of the measures.

A juvenile Minke whale trapped in Emeryville mudflat was euthanized due to poor health and little chance of survival. Despite efforts to save it, the Marine Mammal Center deemed it necessary to alleviate its suffering.

EBMUD extends boat launch closures through 2025 to prevent the spread of invasive golden mussels in reservoirs, impacting local boaters but safeguarding the ecosystem and water infrastructure.

San Francisco opens Sunset Dunes, a 50-acre park on a former highway, featuring art, bike lanes, and a skate park, with future plans for community engagement and sustainability.

San Jose's Columbus Park is slated for a $24 million renovation to add soccer fields, courts, and a playground, while moving the homeless who currently occupy the park, eliciting varied reactions.

A dead gray whale was found at Alameda South Shore Beach, marking the fourth such incident in the Bay Area this year. The Marine Mammal Center plans a necropsy.

San Francisco unveils the first permanent breast cancer memorial garden in the U.S., offering a place for remembrance and inspiration in the fight against the disease.

Rattlesnakes are becoming more active in the East Bay Regional Park District with warmer weather; visitors are advised to be cautious and respect wildlife laws. If bitten, seek medical help without using improper first aid.

A sixth gray whale carcass was found in San Francisco Bay, with the cause of death undetermined due to decomposition. TMMC advises reporting sightings via the #WhaleAlert app.

The San Francisco Parks Alliance is preparing to close amidst financial misuse allegations, with city investigations ongoing, putting partner organizations' future endeavors at risk.

Hikers at Joseph D. Grant County Park spotted a non-native Argentine tegu lizard, and officials urge reporting sightings to help protect the local ecosystem.

San Francisco's Vaillancourt Fountain is fenced off for safety reasons due to structural and toxic hazards, with a debate ongoing about its future amidst planned renovations.

A tegu lizard spotted in Joseph D. Grant County Park was safely captured by park staff and is under Animal Services' care, pending owner claim or adoption.

An invasive beetle, the Mediterranean oak borer, is threatening white oaks in Marin County, with coordinated efforts underway to control and monitor its spread.

TPC Harding Park in San Francisco celebrates its 100th anniversary with festivities and golf contests on July 18. The historic course has hosted major events and underwent a significant renovation in 2002.

Unexpected landslides delay the opening of Don Horsley County Park at Tunitas Creek Beach until summer 2026, with some construction continuing unaffected.

The Gene Friend Recreation Center in SoMa celebrates the topping out of its renovation, marking progress in its transformation to serve the local community with new amenities.

California's Great America theme park may close after the 2027 season if Six Flags does not extend its lease. The park has already started reducing its seasonal offerings.

The East Bay Regional Park District issued a coyote advisory noting increased encounters during pup-rearing season, advising calm and alertness, and giving tips to safely coexist with coyotes.

San Rafael plans a new park and transportation upgrades, allocating $500,000 for land at 620 Canal Street, with additional funding and collaboration from various partners.

San Francisco's most infamous botanical resident is stirring to life, and thousands are about to line up for the privilege of smelling something that reeks like a crime scene. The rare corpse flower hasn't bloomed since 2022, but all signs point to an imminent stench spectacular.

Stinson Beach faces costly measures to address sea level rise, with projections of 3.3 feet increase by 2085, totaling $1.2 billion in adaptation costs. Funding challenges arise due to the high volume of vacation homes in the area.

San Francisco's Golden Gate Park will host major summer concerts, leading to road and meadow closures from late July to August, affecting park access and city traffic.

Taylor Mountain Regional Park in Sonoma County opens eight new miles of trails, nearly doubling its trail network.

The San Francisco Zoo mourns the loss of Tenzing, a 12-year-old male red panda, who died from suspected sarcocystosis. He was known for enchanting visitors and being an ambassador for his species.

The Corpse Flower named "Chanel" at the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers is blooming, emitting a strong odor, anticipated by enthusiasts for its rare and short-lasting display.

What was once a forgotten concrete parking lot is now a 1.5-acre meadow where families can reserve picnic tables with Golden Gate Bridge views. The $12 million transformation includes all-woman mariachi bands, giant Jenga, and spaces for three food trucks that only operate on weekends.

The Oakland Zoo announced the death of a California Condor named Jane due to lead poisoning, highlighting the dangers of lead ammunition for wildlife.

San Francisco is investing $1.5 million in Sunset Boulevard for infrastructure and workforce development, focusing on a recycled water system and job training, with state and city officials, including Senator Scott Wiener, backing the project.

Santa Clara has closed Nuevo Dog Park due to reports of pet illnesses, including one death. The city is investigating the issue and maintaining open communication with residents.

Prescribed burn to manage wildfire risk is scheduled for Marin County near Bon Tempe Lake; emergency lines should remain clear as fire officials are prepared.

The Dahlia Society of California hosts its annual Dahlia Show, showcasing thousands of blooms and involving judging, a "people's choice" prize, and horticultural education, in Golden Gate Park.

San Francisco opened four new pickleball courts at Crocker Amazon Playground, reflecting the city's commitment to expanding recreation access and meeting the growing demand for the sport.

A Zuni Cafe busser's quick CPR training from his lifeguard days saved a customer who went into cardiac arrest during Saturday lunch. The grateful customer returned days later with a handwritten thank you note.

Over 150 humpback whales were spotted during their summer migration off Sonoma Coast, attracting whale watchers to observe their acrobatic behaviors and feeding.

The Almaden Quicksilver County Park offers tours to explore the history of mercury mining in San José, highlighting local indigenous mining and the economic boom of the 1840s-1890s.

The East Bay Vivarium announced the death of Zeke and Angel, their rare two-headed California kingsnake, who had defied odds by surviving longer than expected and becoming a popular attraction.

A coyote paddling through San Francisco Bay's roughest waters represents the stunning ecological makeover of Angel Island, where 14 predators have virtually eliminated unwanted deer and raccoons since 2017.

San Francisco's Sigmund Stern Grove Playground has been transformed into a treehouse village to reconnect kids with nature, featuring climbing structures and unstructured play zones.

The San Francisco Commission recommends a citywide ban on glue traps for pest control due to their cruelty, aligning with animal welfare organizations' stance.

East Bay Regional Park District completed a 667-acre fuel reduction project in Anthony Chabot Park to prevent wildfires, using a carbonizer for eco-friendly debris management.

Phil Ginsburg is stepping down as General Manager of San Francisco's Recreation and Park after 16 years, moving to head the Resources Legacy Fund. He's credited with significantly improving the city's parks and green spaces.

A rare plant, the caper-fruited tropidocarpum, unseen since 1957, was rediscovered in Vasco Hills Regional Preserve highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.

Oscar Jonesy, a 43-year-old male gorilla at San Francisco Zoo, died unexpectedly after a medical procedure despite revival efforts. His death affects the zoo's gorilla troop dynamics, and the cause awaits necropsy results.

Eight months after their last male gorilla died under anesthesia, the San Francisco Zoo is introducing Cecil—a Kentucky bachelor turned unlikely savior. The laid-back silverback arrives as the embattled zoo grapples with leadership chaos, frozen city funding, and a damning safety audit that called the 95-year-old facility "unsafe for animals and visitors."

South Park Drive at Tilden Regional Park is closed to cars from Nov 1, 2025, to Mar 31, 2026, for the annual newt migration, allowing safe passage for the amphibians.

California State Parks plans a controlled burn at Salt Point State Park to manage vegetation and improve wildlife habitat, with temporary area closures and smoke management measures in place.

A historic Monterey cypress in Golden Gate Park was removed after a trunk split, ending its century-long presence.

EBRPD General Manager Sabrina Landreth resigns without public explanation; Deputy GM Max Korten steps in as Acting General Manager after a special board meeting.

Interim co‑CEO Cassandra Costello has pushed a quick reset at the San Francisco Zoo, winning back city funding, rolling out new exhibits and launching a CEO search. The society says stabilization is the priority as auditors and advocates keep watch.

Santa Clara County expanded its Medfly quarantine after new detections in San Jose, now covering 205 square miles to protect crops and prevent further spread.

A leading wolf researcher told a San Francisco audience about the baffling transformation of wolves into dogs tens of thousands of years ago. New evidence suggests wolves may have domesticated themselves—but the "how" remains a mystery.

As Bay Area residents report more frequent fox sightings—from Palo Alto baylands to Berkeley greenways—a groundbreaking study suggests these urban canids might be doing something remarkable: self-domesticating by simply living in our midst. Scientists found city foxes evolving shorter snouts, smaller brains, and other dog-like traits that mirror famous experiments breeding tame foxes in Siberia.

Urban raccoons nationwide are physically transforming in ways that mirror how wolves became dogs, and scientists say our garbage is accidentally kickstarting the process. San Francisco's notoriously bold trash bandits could be undergoing the same changes.

A volunteer-run San Francisco wildlife rescue that treats hundreds of animals is racing to raise cash after grants ended and new state rules forced costly upgrades.

San Rafael's future Canal Neighborhood Park begins its transformation from a former boatyard into an equitable open space for the local Latino community.

The San Francisco Zoo is rehoming its last three chimpanzees, with "Twiggy" moving to Maryland Zoo, and planning to focus on Bornean orangutan conservation.

Chinook salmon have returned to the upper Alameda Creek after decades, due to successful restorations including a new fish ladder, enabling a positive environmental impact on the local ecosystem.

The East Bay Regional Park District promotes Green Friday to encourage enjoying nature over shopping after Thanksgiving, waiving fees at their parks on November 28.

EBRPD's preliminary plan would remake 20 acres of Berkeley shoreline with a beach, promenade and bike area; the design is estimated at $25M but construction still needs funding and permits.

Nearly 900 acres of Henness Ridge were transferred to the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation, returning ancestral land and funding for restoration and cultural stewardship.

Juvenile Coho salmon have returned to the Russian River's upper basin in California for the first time in 30 years, a success highlighted by Governor Newsom.

The East Bay Regional Park District acquired 190 acres for Thurgood Marshall Regional Park, to enhance green spaces in Concord without cost, as part of a 2019 environmental mitigation agreement.

Crane Cove Park in San Francisco expanded with new play areas for children and an off-leash dog run, enhanced by community collaboration and funding adjustments from the Port's Southern Waterfront Beautification Fund.

After months of donor‑funding turmoil, Crane Cove Park in Dogpatch opened two playgrounds and a dog run this weekend as the Port covered a funding gap. Neighbors and kids celebrated at a ribbon‑cutting while investigations into the nonprofit's finances continue.

The Skunk Train runs a Magical Christmas Train from Willits to a massive decorated redwood touted as the world's largest living Christmas tree. Family‑friendly runs and VIP seats fill fast.

Mountain View has assembled adjacent parcels in Monta Loma and begun public outreach for a tiny new mini‑park. The city is hiring a consultant and plans design workshops next year.

Oakland Zoo says Zawadi, a young reticulated giraffe, was found dead on Monday; staff are mourning and have asked for privacy.