Pismo Beach Stewardship and Educational Outreach

The Pismo Beach Stewardship and Educational Outreach Program was created to inspire environmental awareness and responsible tourism. It is kindly sponsored and funded by the Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau as a commitment to cultivate a deeper connection between the community and the land and waters we all cherish.

Mission Statement

To enhance stewardship in Pismo Beach by fostering environmental awareness and education. Through arts and project-based experiences that engage the senses, hearing, seeing, and feeling the wild, we aim to deepen our connection with the ocean and coastal environment, inspiring a lifelong commitment to conservation.

About the Program

This program engages both residents and visitors on how their actions can sustain and improve our coastal area for generations to come. It is available to all and can be accessed at regularly planned activities and volunteer opportunities, and virtually through the Pismo Beach CVB’s website and social media channels.

Educational Activities and Information are experienced as well as accessed through our website. These are available to all schools, educators, parents, children, and lifelong learners.

About the Director

Emma Rhoads earned her degree in Microbiology from the University of Washington and built on that foundation through years of guiding and working in destinations such as New Zealand and Alaska. Her experiences led her to advocate for responsible tourism—balancing a vital industry with education and environmental stewardship.

She brings a deep passion for protecting California’s Central Coast to this program. Whether trail running through the Pismo Preserve, surfing in Shell Beach, or preparing for a trip to Big Sur, she finds renewal in these lands and waters. To her, safeguarding these places is essential to inspiring curiosity, nurturing awe, and sustaining a lifelong sense of wonder.

What the Program Does

The Pismo Beach Stewardship and Educational Outreach Program is dedicated to inspiring care for our coastline and community. Through education, collaboration, and hands-on experiences, the program actively cultivates stewardship across Pismo Beach.

From creating educational materials to organizing events that highlight environmental values, this initiative continues to expand its impact throughout the community.

Recent Program Highlights:

Annual Stewardship Weekend — Established in 2024, this annual celebration honors the individuals and organizations who care for our region. The weekend features stewardship activities, student engagement opportunities, and an evening wine event with a keynote speaker.
School Assemblies — The program invites guest speakers from around the world to present to local students, introducing new perspectives on science, conservation, and community.
Community Partnerships — Supporting local organizations such as The Land Conservancy and the Central Coast State Parks Association (CCSPA) through sponsorships and collaborative efforts.
Event Stewardship Booth — A regular presence at community gatherings, including the Clam Festival, Earth Day Beach Cleanups, and the Sand Art Festival, offering resources and activities that inspire environmental awareness.
Educational Materials for Kids — From activity books in Pismo Beach hotels to coloring sheets in local restaurants, the program helps young visitors connect with the coast in fun and meaningful ways.
Field Trips — Hosting beach clean-up field trips paired with art and education lessons, encouraging hands-on learning and a deeper appreciation for the local environment

Learn more about ways you can engage with stewardship activities in Pismo Beach.

Activity Book & Lessons

Printable Worksheets

Download and print these fun and educational worksheets filled with puzzles and games to do at home:

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