Beneath the Surface: Celebrating San Diego's Biodiversity
Along San Diego’s coastline, protecting the ocean isn’t just about preservation. It’s about building new solutions. That work comes into focus each year at the “State of Biodiversity” symposium at the San Diego Natural History Museum.
Now in its ninth year, the event brings together scientists, conservationists and community partners for an evening centered on one question: how is biodiversity changing in our region and what comes next?
From Research to Real-World Impact
The symposium explores how multidisciplinary expeditions—from Southern California to Baja California—are shaping our understanding of the natural world. Through presentations, discussions and interactive exhibits, the evening connects research happening in the field to real-world conservation efforts.
Topics include:
- Mapping kelp forest biodiversity using environmental DNA
- Rethinking how expeditions are conducted across borders
- Expanding access to science through bilingual outreach
It’s science, but designed to be experienced.
A Region Built Around Biodiversity
San Diego is home to one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country, where coastal, desert and mountain ecosystems intersect. That diversity supports a wide range of habitats—from eelgrass beds and wetlands to coastal canyons and marine reserves—playing a critical role in water quality, carbon storage and the health of local ecosystems. It also fuels ongoing research and conservation efforts across the region, with institutions like the San Diego Natural History Museum helping connect that work to the public in accessible, engaging ways.
An Evening That Goes Beyond the Lecture
The event is structured less like a conference and more like a gathering.
Guests can expect a reception with local organizations and outreach partners, access to museum exhibits and special collections, opportunities to engage directly with scientists and conservation leaders, and a chance to weigh in on future research priorities
It’s a reminder that conservation isn’t just happening in labs or remote locations—it’s shaped by community, collaboration and shared curiosity.
What It Means to Experience It
For visitors, the impact of this work isn’t always obvious—but it’s all around. It shows up in protected open spaces, healthier coastal habitats and the ability to experience nature in ways that feel both immediate and informed.
For groups and gatherings, the San Diego Natural History Museum also offers opportunities to host private events, engage with scientists and incorporate conservation-focused experiences—bringing a deeper sense of place to any program.
And for one evening each year, it comes together in one place—bringing the science of biodiversity into conversation with the people it ultimately serves.
Click here to find more Earth Day and Earth Month events in San Diego.