Looking Back: Polar Bears at Micke Grove Zoo

February 27 marks International Polar Bear Day, an opportunity to reflect on the history of polar bear care in zoological institutions and the evolution of standards over time.

Micke Grove Zoo housed a polar bear named Karl during the 1960s, a period when many zoos across the country prioritized public display over education, conservation and long-term animal welfare considerations. At that time, Karl was transferred to Micke Grove Zoo despite limitations related to exhibit size and regional climate, which are now widely recognized as critical factors in polar bear care.

As professional standards advanced and understanding of species-specific needs improved, it became clear that polar bears require expansive, climate-appropriate habitats and highly specialized care. Karl was ultimately the first and last polar bear housed at Micke Grove Zoo, reflecting a broader shift within the zoological field toward more responsible and conservation-focused practices.

Over subsequent decades, Micke Grove Zoo evolved alongside the profession, placing greater emphasis on animal welfare, conservation and education. The zoo’s current animal collection strategy prioritizes species that can be appropriately supported given available space, climate and resources, as well as animals that are endangered, non-releasable or in need of public awareness due to habitat loss.



In recognition of International Polar Bear Day, readers interested in supporting polar bear conservation efforts may consider donating to Polar Bears International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to polar bear research, habitat protection, and public education related to Arctic ecosystems and climate change.

Saying Farewell to Winter!

Stop by the Shumway Oak Grove Nature Center for your last chance to grab a free Winter Nature Kit and explore a seasonal table about Sandhill Cranes. 

Don’t miss a special event on February 21 at 1 PM: Raptor Rescue Talk presented by Tri County Wildlife Care. Head to the Shumway Oak Grove Amphitheater to learn how this incredible nonprofit helps local wildlife and get an up-close look at live raptors. Afterward, head over to the Nature Center for free owl pellet dissections from 2 PM to 4 PM. Stay in the park even later to join the Stockton Astronomical Society for Astronomy in the Park, starting at sunset (5:45 PM). Telescopes provided! 


A big THANK YOU to the amazing volunteers from the December work party who helped clean and re-hang some taxidermy. Interested in joining the volunteer team? Please fill out our Volunteer Interest Form to get involved!


Check out the featured upcoming Nature Center events! For more information, please visit the website. Please Note: A $6 cash parking fee applies for events. No registration required, pets not permitted.

Raptor Rescue Talk

Saturday, February 21 at 1 PM



Fly on over to the Shumway Oak Grove Amphitheater for a wild presentation by Tri County Wildlife Care, featuring their amazing ambassador raptors and other animal friends! After the show, flap your way to the Nature Center for free owl pellet dissections. You can bring home the bones of what an owl had for dinner! Pellets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so swoop in while supplies last.


Valley Oaks In Springtime

Sunday, March 1 at 1 PM



Meet at the Yokuts Trailhead at 1 PM for this easy 45-60 minute nature walk (1/4 mile) on a level, accessible and paved trail among the ancient oaks. Your guide in this oak savanna will reveal enticing bits about the native plants and animals that call this habitat “home.” What is happening in this unique ecosystem as winter recedes and the warmer weather returns? This walk is family-friendly!



Save the Date: Micke Grove Easter Egg Hunt - March 28

Mark your calendar for an egg-stra special community tradition! The Micke Grove Easter Egg Hunt returns to Micke Grove Regional Park on Saturday, March 28, from 10 AM to 1 PM, featuring 25,000 candy- and toy-filled eggs, kids crafts, family activities, food trucks and a visit from the Easter Bunny.

Pre-registration opens Monday, March 2 at 12 PM and is required due to the event’s popularity.

This beloved event is made possible through community support, and sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels for organizations looking to engage with local families while supporting a high-impact community event.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or how to support the event, please email us or call (209) 953-8800.

New Fishing Dock Opens at Westgate Landing Regional Park!

The fishing dock at Westgate Landing Regional Park has reopened, restoring public access to the Mokelumne River and enhancing recreational opportunities for the community.

The previous dock, which had been closed since January 2025, has been rebuilt by the Facilities Management Division of the General Services Department. The new structure includes a wide, accessible ramp designed to improve safety and usability for anglers, families and visitors of all abilities.

The reopening of the dock strengthens Westgate Landing’s role as a key access point to the river and reflects continued investment in park infrastructure that supports access, safety and community use.



Located off Highway 12 near Terminous, Westgate Landing Regional Park offers approximately one-half mile of river frontage, dry camping, picnic areas and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is open daily from 8 AM to sunset. Parking fees are $5 cash on weekdays and $6 cash on most weekends. Camping is available by reservation only.

Fencing Improvements Advancing at Community Parks

Significant progress is underway on fencing improvements at several community parks, supporting enhanced safety, security and durability at park facilities.

The Facilities Management Division of the General Services Department has issued Notices to Proceed to both selected local fencing contractors, officially initiating construction. Each contractor has 120 working days to complete their assigned scope of work, with construction anticipated to conclude between June and July.

This project includes installation of new tube steel perimeter fencing at the following parks:


• Boggs Tract Park
• Madison Park
• Taft Park
• Eastside Park
• Garden Acres Park
• Gianone Park
• Kennedy Park
• Larch Clover Park
• West Jackson Park

These fencing upgrades are designed to improve safety, clearly define park spaces and support positive park use, while helping ensure community parks remain accessible, secure and enjoyable for all who visit.

Happy Trails, Mike!

Mike Peppas, Park Fee Coordinator, will be retiring this month after 16 years of service with San Joaquin County Parks and Recreation.


Mike joined the Division in 2010 after selling his businesses and deciding retirement was not yet the right fit. He began his career with Parks and Recreation as a Fee Collector and then became Park Fee Coordinator in 2019, a role in which he provided steady oversight and support for park fee operations.


In retirement, Mike plans to travel, spend time with his grandchildren and enjoy fishing.



San Joaquin County Parks and Recreation thanks Mike for his many years of dedicated public service. His contributions to the Division are sincerely appreciated.