CDFW Conservation Lecture Series Archive

Learn about California’s extraordinary biodiversity. With the highest number of species found in any state (including over 30% of all plant and vertebrate species found in the U.S), California is one of 36 global biodiversity hotspots. Tragically, the state’s biodiversity is also threatened by human encroachment, climate change, invasive species, and pollution. In this lecture, we discuss California’s imperiled biodiversity and what is being done to help conserve it. Topics include the Atlas of the Biodiversity of California, a book published by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife that includes a collection of maps, stunning photographs, and artistic illustrations — all depicting the state's rich diversity of plant and animal species. We also discuss the state’s 30x30 initiative to conserve 30% of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030. The 30x30 initiative will help meet three overarching objectives: conserve and restore the state’s biodiversity, expand access to nature, and mitigate and build resilience to climate change.

This lecture is focused on ways in which people are working together to understand, safeguard, and create equitable opportunities to access and enjoy California’s urban biodiversity and green spaces. Join us to hear from three experts from across California sharing about their local urban biodiversity (including bats!) and the actions they are taking to connect communities to the biodiversity and green spaces around them, improving the health and wellness for both people and nature.

Lecture links coming soon!

In honor of Pollinator Week, we will be celebrating California’s pollinators. While honey bees are an important managed pollinator for California’s agriculture there are thousands of other species of pollinators in our state. This presentation will be an exploration into the vast diversity of California pollinators, from bees to flies to birds and even bats! This lecture will also highlight key pollinator projects being implemented by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the California Department of Food and Agriculture. 

VIDEO link will be provided soon