The SCA fielded its first conservation program in the San Francisco Bay Area in 1977. Since then, hundreds of Bay Area youth have participated in SCA programs.
Now under the banner of Urban Green, program participants support urban forestry initiatives in equity-priority communities, maintain trails to improve access to green spaces, and develop a connection to nature through outdoor recreation and camping excursions.
This summer, the Bay Area Peninsula Climate Resiliency Crew spent five weeks conducting critical projects across the South Peninsula Bay Area to protect watersheds, maintain trails and improve access to various outdoor spaces.
“My amazing leaders always had my back,” said crew member Daniel Haner Wasserstein. “They helped me develop who I am, what I want to be, and learn what role we play in conservation.”
2024 Bay Area Peninsula Climate Resiliency Crew helping install protective cattle fencing near the Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve. (Photo Credit: David Mauk/Santa Clara Open Space Authority.)
The crew — seven high schoolers, one senior member and two leaders — had the opportunity to learn about plastic pollution in waterways, study the importance of coastal habitats, explore the region by kayak and try their hands at camping. They also participated in a career panel with local professionals and learned directly from land management staff.
“Not only was it fulfilling, I met many great people and had a lot of fun experiences,” said crew member Zoey Lee. “In the future, I will be able to draw from this opportunity and look back on it with pride and joy.”
2024 Bay Area Peninsula Climate Resiliency Crew celebrates their hard work. (Photo Credit: David Mauk/Santa Clara Open Space Authority.)
The crew also worked with the Santa Clara County Open Space Authority. Together they undertook a special project to install a half-mile of new protective cattle fencing south of Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve. This will help safeguard a sensitive riparian area where three natural springs meet, providing essential habitat for rare and native plants and wildlife.
“I will always remember my time here and will use the work and the skills I learned here for the rest of my life,” said crew member Matthew Neynaber.
Thanks to various park partners, environmental organizations, schools, and numerous community-based organizations, the SCA can continue to provide conservation opportunities for Bay Area youth each year.
