Professional Development

Sand Harbor State Park

Climate Change and America's State Parks featuring Dr. Patrick Gonzalez

May 1, 2024

Climate Change – just the mention of the topic evokes questions, opinions and confusion. Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, but what does this mean for America’s State Parks? What are the implications for ecosystems, conservation and the long-range planning for state parks?

During this installment of the NASPD Webinar Series, Climate Change and America’s State Parks, we will discuss the science of climate change and provide insights on the topic, understanding the delicate balance that park professionals often must navigate politically. We are excited to be joined by Dr. Patrick Gonzalez, associate adjunct professor at the University of California Berkley and assistant director for climate and biodiversity, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Dr. Gonzalez advances science-based action on human-caused climate change through research on climate change, ecosystems, deforestation, wildfire and carbon solutions and assistance to local people and policymakers to protect biodiversity and human well-being. He has assisted field managers and local people in 25 countries and 269 U.S. national parks and contributed science to policy in positions in Washington, DC. He has stood publicly for scientific integrity and broadened public understanding of climate change in 127 published articles on his research in the New York Times and other media. Dr. Gonzalez has served as a lead author for four reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the science panel awarded a share of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.

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