The SF State Community Youth Sailing and Paddling Program is a sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding safety and activity instruction curriculum and environmental education program on beautiful Lake Merced in San Francisco. It is offered through the SF State Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism, in cooperation with the University Corporation San Francisco State and other partner organizations. Lake Merced is an ideal place for sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddling because of its sheltered waters, steady afternoon winds, and abundant wildlife in a beautiful environment, along with its close proximity to urban residents. The lake is a City of San Francisco designated natural area so it provides outstanding opportunities for youth to be involved in hands-on environmental education activities which help them get to know the lake’s water sources and quality, aquatic ecosystems, commonly seen plants and wildlife.