Watch Planet California

Planet California, a PBS Documentary series from 2022, is a captivating exploration of the diverse landscapes and ecosystems that make up California. The show takes viewers on a journey through the state, showcasing its unique natural wonders, diverse wildlife, and the various challenges facing these environments.

Through stunning cinematography and expert commentary from leading environmentalists, Planet California presents a fascinating insight into the Golden State's natural history and current environmental struggles. The series is structured into six hour-long episodes, each of which focuses on a different aspect of California's environment and conservation efforts.

The first episode, "Valleys and Rivers," explores how water shapes the landscape of California. From the Sierra Nevada mountains to the fertile Central Valley, the show highlights the remarkable natural systems that make up the state's waterways. It follows the journey of water from its origins in the mountains, through the rivers, to the farms and cities that depend on it.

The second episode, "Mountains and Forests," delves into the Sierra Nevada's towering peaks and ancient forests. The show reveals how these ecosystems have evolved over time and how they are impacted by climate change, wildfires, and human activity. It highlights efforts to protect and conserve these valuable natural resources.

The third episode, "Coasts and Ocean," takes viewers on a journey through California's extensive coastline and marine environments. From the rocky cliffs of Big Sur to the vibrant kelp forests of Channel Islands, the show celebrates the state's stunning marine biodiversity. It also explores the challenges facing these environments, such as overfishing, plastic pollution, and ocean acidification.

In the fourth episode, "Deserts and Grasslands," the show examines the unique landscapes and ecosystems of California's deserts and grasslands. Viewers learn about the wildlife that call these environments home, including the desert tortoise, Joshua tree, and pronghorn antelope. The episode also covers conservation efforts to mitigate the impact of development and grazing on these delicate ecosystems.

The fifth episode, "Cities and Suburbs," takes viewers on a tour of California's urban environments. The show highlights the challenges of balancing urbanization and environmental conservation. It also showcases innovative green infrastructure and urban farming initiatives that aim to mitigate the negative effects of development on the state's natural resources.

The final episode, "Conservation and Restoration," provides an overview of the environmental challenges facing California and the ongoing conservation initiatives aimed at protecting the state's natural resources. The episode explores the role of conservation organizations, the challenges of working with multiple stakeholders and political processes, and the importance of public engagement in environmental conservation.

Planet California is a beautifully filmed and educational series that showcases California's natural beauty and the importance of protecting its unique ecosystems in the face of climate change and human activity. The show is a must-watch for anyone interested in environmental conservation, natural history, and the future of our planet.

Planet California is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between June 22, 2022 and on PBS Documentaries