Chris

Founder or “Head Frog”

Chris, or "Mr. Science" founded Tree Frog Treks in 1999. He received his undergraduate degree in Zoology from UC Berkeley and his Master's degree in Biology from San Francisco State University. He has been active in the area of education since 1989, teaching science at the kindergarten through adult level. Working as a professional biologist, Chris has had the opportunity to study lizards in the Dominican Republic, coral reef fish off of Lizard Island in Australia, and amphibians and reptiles in many areas throughout California. He has worked with Gary Fellars on the Global Amphibian decline task force, studied San Francisco garter snakes in San Mateo County state parks, and was involved in local amphibian restoration projects. Born and raised in San Francisco, Chris has always been fascinated with animal life and never missed an opportunity to go camping or fishing. Chris teaches Tree Frog Treks and classes all over the Bay Area, in addition to leading company and family adventure treks. He currently serves as chairman of the Board for Endangered Species International. 

Link to Mr.Science's Showcase

 

Emma Weir

Programs Director

Emma is originally from Southern California but has found her home in SF in the past five years. She earned her BS degree in Environmental Studies with an emphasis in natural resource management & conservation at SFSU which sparked her interest in our natural systems and how to involve our communities in education and restoration. Emma has worked with TFT as a naturalist for two years at the Golden Gate Park Summer Camps and has loved making meaningful connections with the unique and charismatic kids that come to our camps. She is excited to continue her work with TFT in this role and continue to get your kids outside (& dirty!).

Sam Gelmis

Animal care Director

Sam is a San Francisco native, born and raised in the Castro district. He took his early passion for wildlife North to the redwoods of Humboldt State University where he earned his BS in Wildlife Biology and Conservation. There he spent 2 years working at the Humboldt Wildlife Care Center, where he rescued and rehabbed local wildlife: including birds, reptiles, foxes, deer, and other native species. He also spent time in the field researching endangered CA amphibians! Joining Tree Frog Treks in February 2021, he worked as the Director for our Christopher Playground site for the 2021 and 2022 Summer Camps. He is dedicated to giving back to our animal ambassadors in return for everything they give us!