Exploring the Golden Gate Biosphere: How Bay Area Scientists Are Tackling Environmental Challenges and Uncovering New Opportunities

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — The Bay Area is home to stunning ecosystems, from the sandy dunes of the Presidio to the majestic Redwoods in Marin County. These natural treasures connect to form a biosphere recognized by the United Nations.

Many dedicated individuals are working hard to protect this biosphere. Lew Stringer from the Presidio Trust says, “We are in the heart of the U.N.-designated Golden Gate Biosphere.” This area showcases unique biodiversity and how nature and humans can coexist sustainably.

According to Dr. Alison Forrestel of the National Park Service, biospheres feature “incredible biodiversity” and allow for human activities that don’t harm the environment. Sara Hutto, a marine biologist with the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, adds, “The Golden Gate Biosphere Network aims to conserve this diverse and productive ecosystem from forests to the ocean.”

Why does the Golden Gate Biosphere matter? A new study highlights which plants and animals are most at risk and how we can protect them. It covers everything from the blue whales off our coast to the salmon in creek waters and the surrounding Redwoods.

Lew Stringer is involved in restoration efforts and stresses the importance of working together. He shares, “This collaboration between scientists and land managers helps us identify the most vulnerable habitats and species due to climate change.” Many habitats are interconnected, meaning the health of one impacts the others. For example, the restored salt marshes in the Presidio help improve water quality and protect the Bay from storm surges.

Some species, like coho salmon, move through different parts of the biosphere and rely on all these areas to thrive. Dr. Forrestel points out, “Salmon are a great example of how our ecosystems connect; they spend part of their life in the ocean and part in freshwater streams.” Unfortunately, they face threats from climate change and other environmental shifts.

The GGNRA is leading creek restoration and salmon releases while monitoring coastal conditions to preserve biodiversity.

On the coast at Half Moon Bay, NOAA’s Sarah Hutto shows us kelp samples from the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. She explains how climate change and other human impacts are putting these crucial kelp forests at risk. “Over 90% of our kelp has disappeared. It’s like losing most of the trees in a beloved redwood forest,” she says.

Hutto emphasizes that the biosphere allows different agencies to work together. It reminds us that we’re part of nature, and our actions—like chemical disposal and pet care on beaches—can impact the ecosystem.

This biosphere covers 28,000 square miles and affects 10 million people, offering a unique chance to collaborate across various regions to protect the Bay Area’s environment.

The Golden Gate Biosphere is one of over 700 sites recognized by UNESCO worldwide. For more information, visit the Golden Gate Biosphere website.