COVID-19 Resources and Updates
Note: As of December 7, 2020, we have temporarily closed down our offices and gear libraries per the latest stay-at-home orders for the Bay Area. Please contact gear@bawt.org with any questions and we hope to see you in January!
Welcome to our COVID-19 Resources and Updates page. You can find information about our upcoming virtual programs, updated guidelines from local health departments, tips on how to spend time outdoors safely, ideas on where to go to avoid potential crowds, and resources for curriculum to use with youth while learning at home. We hope you all stay healthy and find ways to engage with the outdoors safely!
June Lunch and Learn Series
Join BAWT staff for one, two, or all three of our Lunch and Learn workshops throughout the month of June. These workshops will explore ways of getting outdoors this summer. No matter how much experience you’re bringing to the conversation, all are welcome. We look forward to supporting you in your outdoor adventures this summer.
Outdoor Trip Planning 101
Want to plan a hiking, camping, or backpacking trip this summer, but unsure of where to go? We will share a map resource to help you find a place that fits what you’re looking for. We’ll also discuss other elements of trip planning – such as gear needs, budgeting, cooking outdoors, and activities. This workshop will provide resources for planning and time for questions and answers.
Tuesday, June 16th, 2020
12 – 12:45 pm PST
Leave No Trace
As trails and campgrounds start to open up again, it is more important than ever to consider how we can minimize our impacts on the land we’re recreating on. Join us for a discussion on the Leave No Trace ethics and the practical applications of these guidelines.
Tuesday, June 23rd, 2020
12 – 12:45 pm PST
Community Principles
Did you know that BAWT instructors have come up with a set of principles parallel to Leave No Trace that guides how we can treat one another with respect in the outdoors? Come learn about the Community Principles as you think about trips you are planning for yourself, your family, or your youth.
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Tuesday, June 23rd, 2020
12 – 12:45 pm PST
Where can I go?
Urban Access Map – Bay Area Parks & Trails
This map is designed to give the community information about where students and their families can receive Grab and Go food as well as local parks and trails that are still accessible. The following document will give you more information about how you can find a trail near you or even add your own favorite natural space in the city – Instructions for Urban Access Map
To view a comprehensive list of Bay Area Park closures, please view our list here.
What Can I do?
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Hiking Responsibly: Guidelines for safely and responsibly enjoying nature posted by the American Hiking Association
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Guidance On Going Outdoors in the Bay Area: Guidelines for safely and responsibly enjoying nature from Together Bay Area and the Peninsula Open Space Trust.
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Tools and Resources for COVID-19: California State Parks Foundation’s collection of resources for at home education.
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Resources for bringing parks to you: Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy resources
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Supporting Students Through Corona Virus: A resource put together by Teaching Tolerance. Included are resources to support student well-being and learning during school closures, and we will keep this page updated as we publish new pieces.
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Children and Nature Network’s Resources: A collection of resources for outdoor activities
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NAAEE’s COVID-19 Resources, Tips, and Support: Designed for teachers and parents to provide a wide range of activities for all ages. Also includes Aid, relief, and economic security tips for nonprofits as well as a message board for discussion.
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Environmental Education at Home: Interactive tools for you to learn about nature from home
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Activities for Kids at Your Local Parks: Simple games and activities that you can do anywhere!
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Beetles – Science and Teaching for Field Instructors: Curriculum designed for teachers and field instructors, but with school closures, this is the perfect resource to teach to the NGSS (Science Standards) on your own.
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iNaturalist: An app used to record natural history observations in the name of citizen science (scientific research done by the general public). Available as a mobile app.
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Free Online Drawing Lessons for Kids: A collection of free art lessons led by professional illustrators and artists.
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Where to Play Outside with Kids During Shelter in Place
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Edible Education for the Home Classroom: Brought to you by The Edible Schoolyard Project. If you are looking for edible education lessons that students can complete at home, you’ve come to the right place!