Premieres on PBS stations March 30, 2011, 10 p.m. EST. (Check local listings)
The Journey to Planet Earth series continues with a special program, hosted by Matt Damon, which features Lester Brown, environmental visionary and author of “Plan B.” This documentary delivers a clear and unflinching message – either confront the realities of climate change or suffer the consequences of lost civilizations and failed political states.
Brown, together with other notable scholars and scientists, including Nobel Laureate Paul Krugman, Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, former Governor and Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt, provides a glimpse into a new and emerging economy based upon renewable resources as well as strategies to avoid the growing threat of global warming.
Follow Journey to Planet Earth: JTPE/PBS JTPE on Facebook JTPE on Twitter JTPE on YouTube
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Sacramento River Spring Full Moon Float
Sacramento River Preservation Trust & AS Adventure Outings Present:
A Sacramento River Spring Full Moon Float
Monday, April 18, 2011
The Sacramento River Preservation Trust (Trust) and Associated Students Adventure Outings (AO) are co-sponsoring a Sacramento River full moon float on Monday, April 18, 2011. The float will cover a short stretch of the Sacramento River just outside of Chico, near Hamilton City. We will float downstream to Scotty’s Landing, stopping for dinner on one of the sandbars in between as the moon rises over the river. This event will be a late afternoon into evening activity starting at 5:30pm and ending at approximately 10:00pm.
This is a great opportunity to observe this scenic stretch of the River. Nocturnal species will likely make their presence known as we gently float under the fading light of a beautiful spring day! Binoculars are recommended, as bats, bank swallows, river otter and an amazing mix of other migratory and resident wildlife are often seen this time of day.
River guides, boating equipment (whitewater rafts and lifejackets) are provided by AO. Participants will start in Chico. Transportation is provided, with a trip cost of $30 for Trust members, or $40 per person for non- members. Participants are encouraged to bring their own dinner and/or snacks and water. Due to A O requirements, only adults (18 and over) are allowed.
This trip will fill up quickly, and there is a limited amount of space, so call the Trust soon at (530) 345-1865 or visit our website at www.sacrivertrust.org.
Liz Gardner, Sacramento River Preservation Trust
P.O. Box 5366
Chico, CA 9592
530-345-1865
liz@sacrivertrust.org
http://www.sacrivertrust.org/
A Sacramento River Spring Full Moon Float
Monday, April 18, 2011
The Sacramento River Preservation Trust (Trust) and Associated Students Adventure Outings (AO) are co-sponsoring a Sacramento River full moon float on Monday, April 18, 2011. The float will cover a short stretch of the Sacramento River just outside of Chico, near Hamilton City. We will float downstream to Scotty’s Landing, stopping for dinner on one of the sandbars in between as the moon rises over the river. This event will be a late afternoon into evening activity starting at 5:30pm and ending at approximately 10:00pm.
This is a great opportunity to observe this scenic stretch of the River. Nocturnal species will likely make their presence known as we gently float under the fading light of a beautiful spring day! Binoculars are recommended, as bats, bank swallows, river otter and an amazing mix of other migratory and resident wildlife are often seen this time of day.
River guides, boating equipment (whitewater rafts and lifejackets) are provided by AO. Participants will start in Chico. Transportation is provided, with a trip cost of $30 for Trust members, or $40 per person for non- members. Participants are encouraged to bring their own dinner and/or snacks and water. Due to A O requirements, only adults (18 and over) are allowed.
This trip will fill up quickly, and there is a limited amount of space, so call the Trust soon at (530) 345-1865 or visit our website at www.sacrivertrust.org.
Liz Gardner, Sacramento River Preservation Trust
P.O. Box 5366
Chico, CA 9592
530-345-1865
liz@sacrivertrust.org
http://www.sacrivertrust.org/
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Sutter Buttes, Valley View Hike
Contact person: Liz Gardner (530) 345-1865 or liz@sacrivertrust.org
The Sacramento River Preservation Trust presents:
A Sutter Buttes, Valley View Hike
Saturday, April 9, 2011, 8:30am to 3:30pm
Experience a rare opportunity to enter a land “seen by all, but visited by few” on Sacramento River Preservation Trust’s twice a year hike into the Sutter Buttes on Saturday, April 9. On this six-hour, slowly paced outing we circumnavigate Cat Rock, a volcanic dome split in half, rising 500 feet above Peace Valley, an interior basin on the Buttes’ northern perimeter. The leader is Daniel Barth from the Yuba Historical Society, who will start the tour with a visit to a 1,500-year old Native American encampment and then to a refreshing waterfall tucked away in a bay tree grove. From there our group hikes up to a prominent rock outcrop for a brief geology talk. Next we hike upwards to Cat Rock’s shoulder to take in Peace Valley below while observing turkey vultures circling overhead and swallows busily constructing mud nests on Cat Rock’s sheer walls. After this we will ascend for a view high above the Sacramento Valley where we will take in an expansive panorama of Mount Shasta & Lassen Peak, Bald Rock and Oroville Dam and the Yuba River country.
With the wet spring expect to see impressive displays of various wildflowers including Larkspur, Paint Brush, Clarkia, Dutchman Pipe and more.
This hike is approximately 3 miles in length with 700-foot elevation gain. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring hat, water and lunch and other clothing appropriate to the weather condition. Price is $30 for Trust members, $40 non-members. For those 17 years of age or younger: $10 members & $15 non-members.
For reservations and hike details please contact Liz Gardner liz@sacrivertrust.org or 530-345-1865.
The Sacramento River Preservation Trust presents:
A Sutter Buttes, Valley View Hike
Saturday, April 9, 2011, 8:30am to 3:30pm
Experience a rare opportunity to enter a land “seen by all, but visited by few” on Sacramento River Preservation Trust’s twice a year hike into the Sutter Buttes on Saturday, April 9. On this six-hour, slowly paced outing we circumnavigate Cat Rock, a volcanic dome split in half, rising 500 feet above Peace Valley, an interior basin on the Buttes’ northern perimeter. The leader is Daniel Barth from the Yuba Historical Society, who will start the tour with a visit to a 1,500-year old Native American encampment and then to a refreshing waterfall tucked away in a bay tree grove. From there our group hikes up to a prominent rock outcrop for a brief geology talk. Next we hike upwards to Cat Rock’s shoulder to take in Peace Valley below while observing turkey vultures circling overhead and swallows busily constructing mud nests on Cat Rock’s sheer walls. After this we will ascend for a view high above the Sacramento Valley where we will take in an expansive panorama of Mount Shasta & Lassen Peak, Bald Rock and Oroville Dam and the Yuba River country.
With the wet spring expect to see impressive displays of various wildflowers including Larkspur, Paint Brush, Clarkia, Dutchman Pipe and more.
This hike is approximately 3 miles in length with 700-foot elevation gain. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring hat, water and lunch and other clothing appropriate to the weather condition. Price is $30 for Trust members, $40 non-members. For those 17 years of age or younger: $10 members & $15 non-members.
For reservations and hike details please contact Liz Gardner liz@sacrivertrust.org or 530-345-1865.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Urgent: Take Action to Prevent Harmful Cuts to Family Planning Around the World
(received from: Grace marvin)
Last Friday, House Republicans proposed a FY2011 Continuing Resolution that would result in huge cuts to international voluntary family planning programs around the world. The proposed budget would eliminate funding for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), as well as reimpose the Global Gag Rule, thus cutting off funding to clinics and healthcare centers around the world that provide women with comprehensive reproductive health services and access to contraception. The proposal would even cut funding for domestic programs that ensure access to family planning for low-income women and young people.
The ability to plan the timing and spacing of one's children is not only a human right, but also has positive ramifications for women, communities, and our planet. When women have access to family planning services, they tend to have smaller, healthier, better-educated families, and are better able to participate in sustainable resource management within communities. When children are healthier and families are healthier, our earth is healthier. In a year when the world's population is slated to hit 7 billion people, we can not afford to cut off contraceptive access and voluntary family planning services to women anywhere.
Ensuring access to voluntary family planning is the best way to slow population growth, while at the same time empowering women and improving community and environmental health. Call or write your decision makers TODAY and encourage them to reject these devastating funding cuts. To speak with your representative in Washington, call the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121. If you do not know your representative's name, provide your zip code and you will be transferred to their office.
Thank you for taking action to prevent this harmful resolution. Women around the world - and our planet - will thank you.
from: Sierra Club Pop News
408 C Street
NE Washington DC 20002
population@sierraclub.org
Last Friday, House Republicans proposed a FY2011 Continuing Resolution that would result in huge cuts to international voluntary family planning programs around the world. The proposed budget would eliminate funding for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), as well as reimpose the Global Gag Rule, thus cutting off funding to clinics and healthcare centers around the world that provide women with comprehensive reproductive health services and access to contraception. The proposal would even cut funding for domestic programs that ensure access to family planning for low-income women and young people.
The ability to plan the timing and spacing of one's children is not only a human right, but also has positive ramifications for women, communities, and our planet. When women have access to family planning services, they tend to have smaller, healthier, better-educated families, and are better able to participate in sustainable resource management within communities. When children are healthier and families are healthier, our earth is healthier. In a year when the world's population is slated to hit 7 billion people, we can not afford to cut off contraceptive access and voluntary family planning services to women anywhere.
Ensuring access to voluntary family planning is the best way to slow population growth, while at the same time empowering women and improving community and environmental health. Call or write your decision makers TODAY and encourage them to reject these devastating funding cuts. To speak with your representative in Washington, call the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121. If you do not know your representative's name, provide your zip code and you will be transferred to their office.
Thank you for taking action to prevent this harmful resolution. Women around the world - and our planet - will thank you.
from: Sierra Club Pop News
408 C Street
NE Washington DC 20002
population@sierraclub.org
EPA looks at Delta stressors
(received from Grace Marvin)
U.S. EPA LAUNCHES EFFORT TO ANALYZE STRESSORS ON THE DELTA
This week the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it will begin an investigation of the pollutants harming the water quality of the Bay Delta ecosystem. The review will focus on several broad areas, including agricultural pesticides, pharmaceutical, discharge from waste treatment facilities, salinity and other chemicals that make their way into the fragile estuary.
The EPA effort, called an "advance notice of proposed rulemaking," comes in response to a 2009 directive by the Obama administration to do more on Delta problems. Much to the chagrin of some stakeholder groups, the EPA does not intend to coordinate this effort as a subset of the Bay Delta Conversation Plan (BDCP); rather, it will be a complementary scientific-analysis of the stressors to water quality harming the Delta ecosystem. Speaking to the importance of this report, Jared Blumenfeld, EPA regional administrator, stated "This, for the first time, tries to look holistically and say, 'What should be done that isn't being done, and are there things EPA should do that we're not.'
from: PLANNING AND CONSERVATION LEAGUE
1107 9th Street, Suite 360, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone (916) 444-8726 • Fax (916) 448-1789
pclmail@pcl.org • http://www.pcl.org/ • http://www.pclfoundation.org/
U.S. EPA LAUNCHES EFFORT TO ANALYZE STRESSORS ON THE DELTA
This week the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it will begin an investigation of the pollutants harming the water quality of the Bay Delta ecosystem. The review will focus on several broad areas, including agricultural pesticides, pharmaceutical, discharge from waste treatment facilities, salinity and other chemicals that make their way into the fragile estuary.
The EPA effort, called an "advance notice of proposed rulemaking," comes in response to a 2009 directive by the Obama administration to do more on Delta problems. Much to the chagrin of some stakeholder groups, the EPA does not intend to coordinate this effort as a subset of the Bay Delta Conversation Plan (BDCP); rather, it will be a complementary scientific-analysis of the stressors to water quality harming the Delta ecosystem. Speaking to the importance of this report, Jared Blumenfeld, EPA regional administrator, stated "This, for the first time, tries to look holistically and say, 'What should be done that isn't being done, and are there things EPA should do that we're not.'
from: PLANNING AND CONSERVATION LEAGUE
1107 9th Street, Suite 360, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone (916) 444-8726 • Fax (916) 448-1789
pclmail@pcl.org • http://www.pcl.org/ • http://www.pclfoundation.org/
CEQA under attack (again)
(received from Grace Marvin)
The Planning and Conservation League
PCL INSIDER: News from the Capitol
NEW CEQA BILL AIMS TO HIJACK THE PUBLIC’S VOICE AND PLACE OUR COMMUNITIES AT RISK
Yesterday, Senator Anthony Cannella (R-Ceres) introduced Senate Bill 241, a bill designed to revoke judicial oversight of the environmental review process for 25 new development and transportation projects each year for five years. These 125 projects would receive a free pass to violate California’s premier environmental law – the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) – by sidestepping the judicial review process designed to ensure developers are accountable for the impacts and the required mitigation of their projects. This would also mean Californians would be unnecessarily exposed to environmental and health impacts and be denied the opportunity to have a say in the future of their communities.
Unfortunately, this new attack on CEQA is not surprising. Previously rejected bad CEQA bills have a way of resurrecting themselves during budget negotiations and new legislative sessions. Whether it be a special exemption for Wal-Mart, or other big-box stores, or a massive football stadium in downtown Los Angeles, or granting a state agency the authority to hand-pick 125 project exemptions, there is a reason these projects do not want to be held accountable. Without CEQA protections, local residents would have no means to prevent the development of new toxic power plants, waste incinerators, or loud, traffic stopping football stadiums near their schools and neighborhoods.
To join the coalition of over the effort of a coalition over 150 (and growing!) environmental and justice groups, housing advocates, businesses and community leaders, and receive the latest CEQA news, please e-mail PCL’s Jena Price.
from: PLANNING AND CONSERVATION LEAGUE
1107 9th Street, Suite 360, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone (916) 444-8726 • Fax (916) 448-1789
pclmail@pcl.org • http://www.pcl.org/ • http://www.pclfoundation.org/
The Planning and Conservation League
PCL INSIDER: News from the Capitol
NEW CEQA BILL AIMS TO HIJACK THE PUBLIC’S VOICE AND PLACE OUR COMMUNITIES AT RISK
Yesterday, Senator Anthony Cannella (R-Ceres) introduced Senate Bill 241, a bill designed to revoke judicial oversight of the environmental review process for 25 new development and transportation projects each year for five years. These 125 projects would receive a free pass to violate California’s premier environmental law – the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) – by sidestepping the judicial review process designed to ensure developers are accountable for the impacts and the required mitigation of their projects. This would also mean Californians would be unnecessarily exposed to environmental and health impacts and be denied the opportunity to have a say in the future of their communities.
Unfortunately, this new attack on CEQA is not surprising. Previously rejected bad CEQA bills have a way of resurrecting themselves during budget negotiations and new legislative sessions. Whether it be a special exemption for Wal-Mart, or other big-box stores, or a massive football stadium in downtown Los Angeles, or granting a state agency the authority to hand-pick 125 project exemptions, there is a reason these projects do not want to be held accountable. Without CEQA protections, local residents would have no means to prevent the development of new toxic power plants, waste incinerators, or loud, traffic stopping football stadiums near their schools and neighborhoods.
To join the coalition of over the effort of a coalition over 150 (and growing!) environmental and justice groups, housing advocates, businesses and community leaders, and receive the latest CEQA news, please e-mail PCL’s Jena Price.
from: PLANNING AND CONSERVATION LEAGUE
1107 9th Street, Suite 360, Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone (916) 444-8726 • Fax (916) 448-1789
pclmail@pcl.org • http://www.pcl.org/ • http://www.pclfoundation.org/
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Bioneers Video Series 2011
(received from Susan Wooldridge)
Presented by the Chico Women's Club - http://www.chicowomensclub.net/
Join us at the Club House on February 10, 17 & 24, 2011 for the 2010 Bioneers Conference 3-part video series from 7-9 PM. Voices from the leading edge of the environmental movement on the big screen. Suggested donation $2-5 (Students free). For local information, please call 530-345-5560. A few words from local organizers are here. Visit http://www.bioneers.org/ for information on the upcoming 2011 Bioneers Conference.
Presented by the Chico Women's Club - http://www.chicowomensclub.net/
Join us at the Club House on February 10, 17 & 24, 2011 for the 2010 Bioneers Conference 3-part video series from 7-9 PM. Voices from the leading edge of the environmental movement on the big screen. Suggested donation $2-5 (Students free). For local information, please call 530-345-5560. A few words from local organizers are here. Visit http://www.bioneers.org/ for information on the upcoming 2011 Bioneers Conference.
- Thursday, February 10, 7:00 PM: Local Food Economies
Gary Hirshberg, CEO Stoneyfield Organic Yogurt: From 7 Cows to Values-Based Profitability; Peter Warshall, Dreaming New Mexico Project: Communities Redesigning Foodsheds; Judy Wicks, Local Food Pioneer/Restaurateur: Local Living Economies: Green, Fair and Fun - Thursday, February 17, 7:00 PM: Navigating Our Future
John Warner, Green Chemist: How a Creator of New Molecules Went Green; Elizabeth Kapu'uwailani Lindsey, Anthropologist: Navigating by Indigenous, Ecological Wisdom; Video short: Four Years Go!; Kenny Ausubel, Co-Founder Bioneers: The Shift is About to Hit the Fan; Discussion led by Rosemary Quinn - Thursday, February 24, 7:00 PM: Ramp It Up! Strategic Organizing
Andy Lipkis, Founder L.A.'s TreePeople: Urban Oases: Vibrant Communities/Living Ecosystems; Mary Gonzales, Gamaliel Foundation: Finding Your Inner Agitator/Trainer/Strategist; John Francis, PhD/PlanetWalker: 22 Years of Walking, 17 Years of Silence
Friday, February 11, 2011
Wetlands Oxidation Ponds Grand Opening!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Phil Johnson
570-7139
ptjptj@gmail.com
Wetlands Oxidation Ponds Grand Opening!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
10AM – 1PM
Come enjoy a supreme wildlife habitat area. In Chico!
The City of Chico has a recently re-engineered its wetlands/oxidation pond area. The Altacal Audubon Society and the Sacramento River Preservation Trust would like to invite you to celebrate this wonderful improvement for wildlife. The grand opening and dedication is on Saturday, February 19 from 10am to 1pm.
Altacal Audubon President Scott Huber says: “Chico’s wildlife refuge is within reach of our downtown. We used to have to travel to get a glimpse of the incredible diversity of bird species that are now thriving within our City limits.” When asked about the relationship of the ponds to the wastewater plant, located adjacent to the ponds, Scott continued, “The wildlife habitat is so well integrated you might not know the plant was there.” The ponds and surrounding trees are home to Great Horned Owls, Snowy Egrets, ducks, geese, turtle and much more - all have a renewed and expanded area in which to thrive and share.
The 32 acres of ponds (located at 4827 River Road) has seen veteran birders come for 40 years; its recent expansion and re-design’s main objective is to invite the public to experience the abundance of waterfowl for both education and recreation. The ponds have been re-vegetated with native plants that are typically found in original Sacramento Valley wetlands. New to the ponds is a bird blind, various water depths to attract a wider variety of shorebirds, waders and water birds. Loafing islands have been placed where waterfowl can socialize and nest with a reduced risk of predation. An easily accessed and expanded parking area includes an approved Americans with Disability Act (ADA) accessibility trail going right up to the ponds.
From 10am to1pm, guided walks will commence every half hour and will be led by Altacal-Audubon President, Scott Huber and Altacal member, Phil Johnson. The morning festivities include a visit from Marilynn Gamette and her Bidwell wildlife rehabilitated owl, Checkers.
At 12:00PM there will be a Wetlands Oxidation Ponds dedication.
The ponds are located at 4827 River Road, 3.5 mile out W. 5th Street (toward the river) and behind the the Water Pollution Control Plant.
The hours of operation for the wetlands oxidation ponds are daily: 7am to 7pm, October thru March. Starting in April and through September, hours will expand from 7am to 9pm daily.
Contact: Phil Johnson
570-7139
ptjptj@gmail.com
Wetlands Oxidation Ponds Grand Opening!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
10AM – 1PM
Come enjoy a supreme wildlife habitat area. In Chico!
The City of Chico has a recently re-engineered its wetlands/oxidation pond area. The Altacal Audubon Society and the Sacramento River Preservation Trust would like to invite you to celebrate this wonderful improvement for wildlife. The grand opening and dedication is on Saturday, February 19 from 10am to 1pm.
Altacal Audubon President Scott Huber says: “Chico’s wildlife refuge is within reach of our downtown. We used to have to travel to get a glimpse of the incredible diversity of bird species that are now thriving within our City limits.” When asked about the relationship of the ponds to the wastewater plant, located adjacent to the ponds, Scott continued, “The wildlife habitat is so well integrated you might not know the plant was there.” The ponds and surrounding trees are home to Great Horned Owls, Snowy Egrets, ducks, geese, turtle and much more - all have a renewed and expanded area in which to thrive and share.
The 32 acres of ponds (located at 4827 River Road) has seen veteran birders come for 40 years; its recent expansion and re-design’s main objective is to invite the public to experience the abundance of waterfowl for both education and recreation. The ponds have been re-vegetated with native plants that are typically found in original Sacramento Valley wetlands. New to the ponds is a bird blind, various water depths to attract a wider variety of shorebirds, waders and water birds. Loafing islands have been placed where waterfowl can socialize and nest with a reduced risk of predation. An easily accessed and expanded parking area includes an approved Americans with Disability Act (ADA) accessibility trail going right up to the ponds.
From 10am to1pm, guided walks will commence every half hour and will be led by Altacal-Audubon President, Scott Huber and Altacal member, Phil Johnson. The morning festivities include a visit from Marilynn Gamette and her Bidwell wildlife rehabilitated owl, Checkers.
At 12:00PM there will be a Wetlands Oxidation Ponds dedication.
The ponds are located at 4827 River Road, 3.5 mile out W. 5th Street (toward the river) and behind the the Water Pollution Control Plant.
The hours of operation for the wetlands oxidation ponds are daily: 7am to 7pm, October thru March. Starting in April and through September, hours will expand from 7am to 9pm daily.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Monday, December 7, 2009
Learn-In and Vigil for A Real Deal in Copenhagen
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Sierra Club
85 Second St.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Chico State's 2009 Sustainability Conference
This Way to Sustainability V Conference
at California State University, Chico
November 5-8, 2009
This annual event is hosted by CSU, Chico, Butte Community College,
and the Associated Student groups of each.
Online Registration is NOW OPEN through October 30, 2009
Please visit our web site at http://www.csuchico.edu/sustainablefuture/conference/ to view the conference schedule and to register online. This year we have an exciting lineup of speakers, workshops, tours, and sessions that you won’t want to miss!
Registration fees for This Way to Sustainability Conference V include participation in all sessions, featured keynotes, tours, and workshops (some workshops or tours may require separate registration, please see schedule for details).
Registration fees are as follows:
- Students are free! Includes all university, college, and community college students, and K-12 students with a valid student ID card or with a registered faculty member
- Faculty/Staff: $25.00 per person
- General Audience: $25.00 per person
- Speakers/Moderators: Free, pre-registration required to validate status
Note: All sessions are on a first-come, first-served basis. Pre-registration does not guarantee you a seat in all sessions so you are encouraged to arrive early as space in some sessions may be limited.
If you are a student and would like to become a conference volunteer please contact Deanna Dottai at twts@csuchico.edu.
If you would like to become a sponsor for this conference please visit our web site at http://www.csuchico.edu/sustainablefuture/conference/sponsors.shtml
We hope to see you at this year's conference!
Teri Randolph
Assistant to the Executive Director
The Institute for Sustainable Development
California State University, Chico
Phone: (530) 898-3334
Fax: (530) 898-3336
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Dave Garcia Named Top-Preforming Leader
Congratulations to Dave Garcia. He received special recognition for his contributions to national outings in 2008 and was named a Top Performing Outings Leader.
All 300+ Sierra Club trips are led by volunteers.You can see the entire article in the Sierra Magazine, July/August 2009, page 25.
All 300+ Sierra Club trips are led by volunteers.You can see the entire article in the Sierra Magazine, July/August 2009, page 25.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Sierra Club Photography Workshop July 10-12
Sierra Club Outdoor Photography Workshop July 10-12
Mother Lode Chapter Photography Section
Intermediate Outdoor Photography Workshop
July 10-12, 2009 on the Mendocino Coast
The Photography Section of the Mother Lode Chapter of the Sierra Club is hosting an intermediate photography workshop on theMendocino Coast at the Jug Handle Creek Farm in Caspar California. http://jughandlecreekfarm.org .
The workshop will begin onFriday July 10, 2009 at 8:00 pm and concludes on Sunday July 12, 2009 in the afternoon.
Jug Handle Creek Farm was established in 1969 by the California Institute of Man in Nature in an effort to preserve and maintain theproperty as a gateway to the largest intact Ecological Staircase in the world. The Ecological Staircase explores five wave-cutterraces formed by glacier, sea and tectonic activity that built the coast range.
The workshop will be primarily an experiential one with the majority of the time devoted to photographing pre scouted locations onthe coast and the sand dunes. Lectures will be given on macro photography and achieving both near and far focusing in naturephotography. The instructors will be available during the field sessions to help you implement the techniques learned in theworkshop.
The workshop instruction will be provided by Jennifer Wu and Wendy Desormeaux, both Sierra Club Outing Leaders. Jennifer Wu has been a professional Photographer since 1992. Her award winning fine art photographs have been exhibited at numerousgalleries and juried art festivals including the Viewpoint Gallery and the Marin Art Festival. Jennifer teaches photography coursesat California State University, Sacramento, Consumnes River College, Lepp Institute and Betterphoto.com. She was recently named byCanon USA to the elite group of photographers, The Explorers of Light. Canon has selected 62 of the world's top photographers intheir field to provide educational programs around the country. www.jenniferwu.com http://www.jenniferwu.com/
Wendy Desormeaux has professionally photographed weddings, portraits and nature photography. Her work has been displayed in variousgalleries and she was voted the best Photographer of the Show at a local art show. A sample of Wendy's nature photography can beseen at www.yougetthepictureshop.com http://www.yougetthepictureshop.com/ Attendees at this workshop should have basic knowledge of shutter speeds, f-stops and depth of field. A tripod is recommended.
The workshop fee is $295 and will help raise funds for the photography section. The fee includes camping space or accommodations for twonights with two or more people per room. Cabins are available for an additional fee of $40 per night. There is a small charge forfood and meals are prepared as a group.
To reserve a space, or for more information contact Wendy Desormeaux at (916) 363-5253 or rumbawithme@sbcglobal.net .
Mother Lode Chapter Photography Section
Intermediate Outdoor Photography Workshop
July 10-12, 2009 on the Mendocino Coast
The Photography Section of the Mother Lode Chapter of the Sierra Club is hosting an intermediate photography workshop on theMendocino Coast at the Jug Handle Creek Farm in Caspar California. http://jughandlecreekfarm.org .
The workshop will begin onFriday July 10, 2009 at 8:00 pm and concludes on Sunday July 12, 2009 in the afternoon.
Jug Handle Creek Farm was established in 1969 by the California Institute of Man in Nature in an effort to preserve and maintain theproperty as a gateway to the largest intact Ecological Staircase in the world. The Ecological Staircase explores five wave-cutterraces formed by glacier, sea and tectonic activity that built the coast range.
The workshop will be primarily an experiential one with the majority of the time devoted to photographing pre scouted locations onthe coast and the sand dunes. Lectures will be given on macro photography and achieving both near and far focusing in naturephotography. The instructors will be available during the field sessions to help you implement the techniques learned in theworkshop.
The workshop instruction will be provided by Jennifer Wu and Wendy Desormeaux, both Sierra Club Outing Leaders. Jennifer Wu has been a professional Photographer since 1992. Her award winning fine art photographs have been exhibited at numerousgalleries and juried art festivals including the Viewpoint Gallery and the Marin Art Festival. Jennifer teaches photography coursesat California State University, Sacramento, Consumnes River College, Lepp Institute and Betterphoto.com. She was recently named byCanon USA to the elite group of photographers, The Explorers of Light. Canon has selected 62 of the world's top photographers intheir field to provide educational programs around the country. www.jenniferwu.com http://www.jenniferwu.com/
Wendy Desormeaux has professionally photographed weddings, portraits and nature photography. Her work has been displayed in variousgalleries and she was voted the best Photographer of the Show at a local art show. A sample of Wendy's nature photography can beseen at www.yougetthepictureshop.com http://www.yougetthepictureshop.com/ Attendees at this workshop should have basic knowledge of shutter speeds, f-stops and depth of field. A tripod is recommended.
The workshop fee is $295 and will help raise funds for the photography section. The fee includes camping space or accommodations for twonights with two or more people per room. Cabins are available for an additional fee of $40 per night. There is a small charge forfood and meals are prepared as a group.
To reserve a space, or for more information contact Wendy Desormeaux at (916) 363-5253 or rumbawithme@sbcglobal.net .
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Kayak Tour N. Forebay
Join Dave Garcia on a leisurely paddle and checkout the mating plummage of the local birds. If you need a kayak call Dave at 533-2357.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Bioneers Speakers Series
Chico Women's Club
Bioneers Speakers Series
Thursdays, 7-9 pm (doors open at 6:30)
March 19: Nature from Above and Below Featured speakers include Rebecca Moore, founder of Google Earth Outreach on "Visualization Technologies and Activism"; Paul Stametz, biologist, "Updating on Fungi Saving the World"; and Jeremy Narby, anthropologist, "Intelligence in Nature."
March 26: Leadership from the Feminine for AllSpeakers include Diane Wilson, shrimper and nonviolent activist "An Unreasonable Woman Gets Things Done"; Sandra Steingraber, "the new Rachel Carson," "The Environmental Life of Children"; and Avita Ramdas, Global Fund for Women,"Power, Peace & Politics of Change." The Chico Women's Club is located at 3rd and Pine Streets, 345-5560. $2 donation; students and low income welcome.
Grace Marvin
Bioneers Speakers Series
Thursdays, 7-9 pm (doors open at 6:30)
March 19: Nature from Above and Below Featured speakers include Rebecca Moore, founder of Google Earth Outreach on "Visualization Technologies and Activism"; Paul Stametz, biologist, "Updating on Fungi Saving the World"; and Jeremy Narby, anthropologist, "Intelligence in Nature."
March 26: Leadership from the Feminine for AllSpeakers include Diane Wilson, shrimper and nonviolent activist "An Unreasonable Woman Gets Things Done"; Sandra Steingraber, "the new Rachel Carson," "The Environmental Life of Children"; and Avita Ramdas, Global Fund for Women,"Power, Peace & Politics of Change." The Chico Women's Club is located at 3rd and Pine Streets, 345-5560. $2 donation; students and low income welcome.
Grace Marvin
Benefit for Clean Water International
Benefit for Clean Water International
Saturday, March 21, 8:30 am
One Mile Recreation Area, Bidwell Park
The idea is to bring a bucket and take a 2K or 5K walk visiting educational stations about the need for clean water globally and water conservation. You will fill your bucket from the creek at the midpoint and carrying the full bucket to the One Mile Park starting point. Your $25 entry fee ($15 for children 12 and under) will get you a T-shirt and snacks along the way. The first 300 applicants will also receive a water bottle. 100% of all the funds raised will go to global water projects. Check out www.bridgingthegapbygiving.org
Grace Marvin
Saturday, March 21, 8:30 am
One Mile Recreation Area, Bidwell Park
The idea is to bring a bucket and take a 2K or 5K walk visiting educational stations about the need for clean water globally and water conservation. You will fill your bucket from the creek at the midpoint and carrying the full bucket to the One Mile Park starting point. Your $25 entry fee ($15 for children 12 and under) will get you a T-shirt and snacks along the way. The first 300 applicants will also receive a water bottle. 100% of all the funds raised will go to global water projects. Check out www.bridgingthegapbygiving.org
Grace Marvin
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Job Announcement for BCCWA Watershed Coordinator
Position: Watershed Coordinator – 10 hours/week
Essential Job Functions:
The Watershed Coordinator, working under the direction of the Board of Directors (Board) of the Big Chico Creek Watershed Alliance (BCCWA), will conduct stakeholder outreach, research, project design and grant writing, membership development and fundraising. The Watershed Coordinator will be required to attend all Board meetings and provide updates to the board as needed.
Employment Standards:
The applicant must have excellent writing and editing skills, demonstrate the ability to collaborate with landowners, community organizations, businesses and agencies, and have the ability to work in a wide variety of resource fields (e.g. non-native plant management, riparian restoration). Must be proficient in the operation of a PC utilizing Word, Excel and Windows. Must be an energetic, self-motivated, self-learner who can solve problems; be detail-oriented, organized and able to manage multiple tasks and projects. Must be able to work with minimal supervision and possess the ability to follow through with project tasks. In addition, the successful candidate must work as a team member with a strong service orientation and be able to deal with the public and co-workers in a pleasant and diplomatic manner. Some travel may be required. Must possess a valid California Driver’s License and good driving record. Participation in the DMV Employer Pull Notice Program (driving record) will be required of the successful candidate.
Compensation: $18-$22/hour. Must provide own work space.
Applications: Applicants must submit a current resume, letter of introduction and three references.
Deadline: All applications must be mailed to the BCCWA, P.O. Box 461, Chico, CA 95927 by no later than March 30, 2009.
The employer is the BCCWA, a private, non-profit, tax-exempt organization. For more information about the organization, see http://www.bigchicocreek.org/.
Essential Job Functions:
The Watershed Coordinator, working under the direction of the Board of Directors (Board) of the Big Chico Creek Watershed Alliance (BCCWA), will conduct stakeholder outreach, research, project design and grant writing, membership development and fundraising. The Watershed Coordinator will be required to attend all Board meetings and provide updates to the board as needed.
Employment Standards:
The applicant must have excellent writing and editing skills, demonstrate the ability to collaborate with landowners, community organizations, businesses and agencies, and have the ability to work in a wide variety of resource fields (e.g. non-native plant management, riparian restoration). Must be proficient in the operation of a PC utilizing Word, Excel and Windows. Must be an energetic, self-motivated, self-learner who can solve problems; be detail-oriented, organized and able to manage multiple tasks and projects. Must be able to work with minimal supervision and possess the ability to follow through with project tasks. In addition, the successful candidate must work as a team member with a strong service orientation and be able to deal with the public and co-workers in a pleasant and diplomatic manner. Some travel may be required. Must possess a valid California Driver’s License and good driving record. Participation in the DMV Employer Pull Notice Program (driving record) will be required of the successful candidate.
Compensation: $18-$22/hour. Must provide own work space.
Applications: Applicants must submit a current resume, letter of introduction and three references.
Deadline: All applications must be mailed to the BCCWA, P.O. Box 461, Chico, CA 95927 by no later than March 30, 2009.
The employer is the BCCWA, a private, non-profit, tax-exempt organization. For more information about the organization, see http://www.bigchicocreek.org/.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Conservation and club report for the MLC and the Yahi Ex Com
by Grace Marvin
For the Mother Lode chapter (MLC) and Yahi Group March 3, 2009
Yahi Conservation and more! Report: January and February, 2009
AIR QUALITY: Yahi member, Julian Zener, has been serving as the club’s representative on the city of Chico’s Sustainability Committee. As a physician, he has been pointing out at city meetings and the board of the Butte County Air Quality Management District how air from wood stoves has been shown to be extremely unhealthy -- with Chico’s air being third worst in the state. He and his fellow committee members, along with support from much of the wider community, have succeeded in having the board create far stricter rules regarding Particulate Matter 2.5 for Chico, while making it possible for those impoverished people who rely on wood stoves to obtain funding for alternative heating .(The opposition has been vocal too, of course.)
BUTTE COUNTY GENERAL PLAN: The Yahi Group shares the concerns of many other citizens in the 5 county Yahi region about transferring water out of our counties. I have been representing this concern at Butte County General Plan meetings, e.g., at a nearly all day forum held in Oroville on February 19. I addressed the Board of Supervisors about our concerns and mentioned that I had gone to the Mother Lode Chapter to seek their understanding of our concerns. I told them that the MLC supported the League of Women Voters position (and document) concerning the need for Butte County to first assess how much water we have and will need before allowing its transfer. This would require that the Supervisors not to allow staff members to make the final decision. We will see…
CLEARING TRASH, INVASIVE TREES AND PLANTS:
Dave Garcia, our enthusiastic and very effective new Yahi Chair answered President Obama’s call for volunteer work by organizing crews of volunteers to work in seven different sites on January 19. He wrote in this month’s Yahi paper that:
The local Sierra Club Yahi Group organized and teamed with California State Parks, City of Chico Park Division, Friends of Bidwell Park, Chico Creek Nature Center, and Habitat for Humanity to provide community service projects everyone could participate in on this historic day. Seven service projects were developed, publicized and posted on www.USAservice.org. Four of the projects filled to capacity and even had eager non-registered volunteers show up to participate. City of Chico employee Raul Gonzalez, who led the bike path cleanup, said his project was a huge success. Volunteers arrived excited, energized and ready to work. Thirty volunteers collected 12 cubic yards of trash and debris along the five-mile bike path from Big Chico Creek to the airport. On the other projects, volunteers removed 1,100 feet of barbed wire along the Potter Ravine Trail at Lake Oroville; removed 1,500 invasive trees and saplings in Bidwell Park; cleared 2,400 square feet of invasive blackberry and periwinkle in Bidwell Park; planted five Santa Barbara sedges, 12 Deer Grass plants, and 10 Willow trees in Bidwell Park; worked in the native plant garden preparing for spring planting at Chico Creek Nature Center; planted over 30 Valley Oak seedlings at Woodson Bridge State Park; and removed trash, pruned trees and removed invasive trees in a pre-construction lot preparation for a Habitat for Humanity home. A group of Pakistani students from CSU Chico International Student Exchange Program participated in the habitat restoration service project. They were in the U.S. to learn about community volunteer involvement programs, and got a real hands-on experience. We also had 15 eager students from the Oroville High School Ecology Club participate in the trail maintenance service project. Most of the students were of Hmong descent, obtaining their service experience in preparation for college….
.
DISC GOLF; I have been attending many one on one and city meetings regarding disc golf. City Council changed its mind about not having disc golf in Upper Park in January, and now will allow the long course, i.e., the one used by the “experts,” to continue existing where it has been illegally for a decade. New infrastructure and mitigation measures will be needed.
A new location for the short course (played by non-experts) must be found within 18 months. Supposedly, the experts will not miss the mark as much as the more novice players, and thus will cause less ecological damage, e.g., to trees, soil, plants, etc. Friends of Bidwell Park has been taking the lead in trying to keep disc golf out of the park, and our Yahi Group has been the major supporting group of Friends of Bidwell Park. Please see the following video to view the tremendous amount of damage that has already been done: http://tinyurl.com/c4cvmr..
While the Chico City Council asked in January that the short course be located elsewhere, the preference by the disc golfers for a Bidwell Park site has meant that they have not seriously considered proposed sites outside the park; we believe that some of these would be far better, since our chief interest is in preserving nature in the park. But in the sprit of compromise, we have expressed willingness for the short disc golf course to be established in one area of Lower Bidwell Park that is currently not used by anyone and which is overrun by invasive plants and doomed trees. If the disc golfers would consider that area, they would actually be helping the park, since they would need to clear the area first. Unfortunately, we have heard that they do not like it because they want a much bigger area for an 18 hole course. This sounds unreasonable to us for a number of reasons, but more to the point: the city does not have the money to establish a short course, and as one city council person said in January: the disc golfers are supposed to get organized, so that they can show how they would raise the money for establishing a new short course, mitigate expected damage, plan and develop required infrastructure, and monitor players to be sure that they are not abusing the land. Thus, I raised that issue of finding out about the progress of such “bench marks” at the most recent meeting I attended, i.e. the Bidwell Park and Playground commission, the body what was just given the task of locating a new short course. There does not seem to be any such organization by the disc golfers. The Bidwell Park and Playground Commission will be developing policies and evaluating proposed courses, with public input encouraged. March and April will likely be the determining months for the decision, so we should have interesting times ahead of us.
Note: The editors of the two major papers in Chico are in support of the disc golfers, as are the park director and politicians who want the support of the very vocal, if not well organized, disc golfers. We have had a tough road to hoe, but we’re as passionate as the disc golfers! Thank goodness, more members of the City council seem to once again be concerned protection of the park. They will have the final decision, so it is up to us to make sure the BPPC does its job properly. That’s where one-on-one meetings have come to be quite important.
SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL: Several Yahi Group members, including the past and present Chairs helped create and staffed a booth at this annual festival held in Chico but with tours to many other places, where one can see snow geese and other wildlife galore every January. They collected 100 signatures for Marily Woodlouse’s petition to stop clear cutting and they raised $100. - by selling a terrific trail guide, put together by Alan Mendoza with help of other Yahi members. Check out our web site for more information.
TREES AND TRAILS:
Clear cutting and logging: Several of us supported Marily Woodhouse’s campaign both (1) when she was working to get Home Dept not to buy SPI wood and (2) this past month with her campaign this past month to also get Meeks Hardware not to by SPI wood. Meeks has a hardware store in Chico, by the way.
National Forests: Patricia Puterbaugh has been handling several logging issues – as she explains in these excerpts from this month’s Yahi paper:
The Lassen Forest Preservation Group, the forestry committee of the Yahi Group Sierra Club, has been working on several large Lassen National Forest (LNF) projects... We have spent much of our time on the Hat Creek Ranger District, northwest of Lassen National Park, studying and planning with the Forest Service on the North 49 logging project. This project has been appealed, litigated, and finally resolved over the last four years. It is a very large project - 10,000 acres - and will be done in stages. After each stage, we will have the opportunity to see and study the results of the logging… Another project we have been working on for years is the Creeks project. This 10,000-acre project stretches from Humbug and Humboldt summits east down to Yellow Creek. It is one of the most biologically diverse and ecologically important regions in the Lassen National Forest. Several major creeks drain to the Feather River, making fisheries and water quality a huge issue. The area is also home to the healthiest numbers of California Spotted Owl, migratory songbirds, American Marten, and Northern Goshawk on the LNF. ... The Sierra Club generally supports thinning projects close to communities and along roads. Some of these projects are finished or ongoing in Prattville, Butte Meadows, Jonesville, Mineral, and near the High Lakes. These projects remove the smaller trees and leave the forests in a more fire-resilient condition. Considering the state of the economy right now, it is difficult to predict how much logging will take place over the next few years. Loggers work on a very small profit margin, and there is already a huge surplus of logs from clear-cut Sierra Pacific lands. With the downturn in construction, there is very little market for timber. This may be an opportunity to look to alternative markets such as wood chipping, small log construction, and cogeneration of energy from forest waste products. We also comment on some private land logging projects in our vicinity, but if you have taken a trip up into the foothills, you will see that the clear cutting continue… Please contact me, Patricia Puterbaugh, at cohasset@shocking.com regarding National Forest issues.
Off-Highway Vehicle Use. Stephen Sayre has been educating us in email and in news articles about this issue. (See Forest Travel Management Process Deeply Flawed for more information at www.//motherlode.sierraclub.org/yahi .
YAHI PROGRAMS: We have resumed monthly programs. Bob Woods presented a very interesting program in February about Lassen Trails at the Butte County Library. Other great programs are being planned for the months ahead.
YAHI OUTINGS: Alan Mendoza coordinates an excellent and varied array of Outings, with 9 listed for March alone
For the Mother Lode chapter (MLC) and Yahi Group March 3, 2009
Yahi Conservation and more! Report: January and February, 2009
AIR QUALITY: Yahi member, Julian Zener, has been serving as the club’s representative on the city of Chico’s Sustainability Committee. As a physician, he has been pointing out at city meetings and the board of the Butte County Air Quality Management District how air from wood stoves has been shown to be extremely unhealthy -- with Chico’s air being third worst in the state. He and his fellow committee members, along with support from much of the wider community, have succeeded in having the board create far stricter rules regarding Particulate Matter 2.5 for Chico, while making it possible for those impoverished people who rely on wood stoves to obtain funding for alternative heating .(The opposition has been vocal too, of course.)
BUTTE COUNTY GENERAL PLAN: The Yahi Group shares the concerns of many other citizens in the 5 county Yahi region about transferring water out of our counties. I have been representing this concern at Butte County General Plan meetings, e.g., at a nearly all day forum held in Oroville on February 19. I addressed the Board of Supervisors about our concerns and mentioned that I had gone to the Mother Lode Chapter to seek their understanding of our concerns. I told them that the MLC supported the League of Women Voters position (and document) concerning the need for Butte County to first assess how much water we have and will need before allowing its transfer. This would require that the Supervisors not to allow staff members to make the final decision. We will see…
CLEARING TRASH, INVASIVE TREES AND PLANTS:
Dave Garcia, our enthusiastic and very effective new Yahi Chair answered President Obama’s call for volunteer work by organizing crews of volunteers to work in seven different sites on January 19. He wrote in this month’s Yahi paper that:
The local Sierra Club Yahi Group organized and teamed with California State Parks, City of Chico Park Division, Friends of Bidwell Park, Chico Creek Nature Center, and Habitat for Humanity to provide community service projects everyone could participate in on this historic day. Seven service projects were developed, publicized and posted on www.USAservice.org. Four of the projects filled to capacity and even had eager non-registered volunteers show up to participate. City of Chico employee Raul Gonzalez, who led the bike path cleanup, said his project was a huge success. Volunteers arrived excited, energized and ready to work. Thirty volunteers collected 12 cubic yards of trash and debris along the five-mile bike path from Big Chico Creek to the airport. On the other projects, volunteers removed 1,100 feet of barbed wire along the Potter Ravine Trail at Lake Oroville; removed 1,500 invasive trees and saplings in Bidwell Park; cleared 2,400 square feet of invasive blackberry and periwinkle in Bidwell Park; planted five Santa Barbara sedges, 12 Deer Grass plants, and 10 Willow trees in Bidwell Park; worked in the native plant garden preparing for spring planting at Chico Creek Nature Center; planted over 30 Valley Oak seedlings at Woodson Bridge State Park; and removed trash, pruned trees and removed invasive trees in a pre-construction lot preparation for a Habitat for Humanity home. A group of Pakistani students from CSU Chico International Student Exchange Program participated in the habitat restoration service project. They were in the U.S. to learn about community volunteer involvement programs, and got a real hands-on experience. We also had 15 eager students from the Oroville High School Ecology Club participate in the trail maintenance service project. Most of the students were of Hmong descent, obtaining their service experience in preparation for college….
.
DISC GOLF; I have been attending many one on one and city meetings regarding disc golf. City Council changed its mind about not having disc golf in Upper Park in January, and now will allow the long course, i.e., the one used by the “experts,” to continue existing where it has been illegally for a decade. New infrastructure and mitigation measures will be needed.
A new location for the short course (played by non-experts) must be found within 18 months. Supposedly, the experts will not miss the mark as much as the more novice players, and thus will cause less ecological damage, e.g., to trees, soil, plants, etc. Friends of Bidwell Park has been taking the lead in trying to keep disc golf out of the park, and our Yahi Group has been the major supporting group of Friends of Bidwell Park. Please see the following video to view the tremendous amount of damage that has already been done: http://tinyurl.com/c4cvmr..
While the Chico City Council asked in January that the short course be located elsewhere, the preference by the disc golfers for a Bidwell Park site has meant that they have not seriously considered proposed sites outside the park; we believe that some of these would be far better, since our chief interest is in preserving nature in the park. But in the sprit of compromise, we have expressed willingness for the short disc golf course to be established in one area of Lower Bidwell Park that is currently not used by anyone and which is overrun by invasive plants and doomed trees. If the disc golfers would consider that area, they would actually be helping the park, since they would need to clear the area first. Unfortunately, we have heard that they do not like it because they want a much bigger area for an 18 hole course. This sounds unreasonable to us for a number of reasons, but more to the point: the city does not have the money to establish a short course, and as one city council person said in January: the disc golfers are supposed to get organized, so that they can show how they would raise the money for establishing a new short course, mitigate expected damage, plan and develop required infrastructure, and monitor players to be sure that they are not abusing the land. Thus, I raised that issue of finding out about the progress of such “bench marks” at the most recent meeting I attended, i.e. the Bidwell Park and Playground commission, the body what was just given the task of locating a new short course. There does not seem to be any such organization by the disc golfers. The Bidwell Park and Playground Commission will be developing policies and evaluating proposed courses, with public input encouraged. March and April will likely be the determining months for the decision, so we should have interesting times ahead of us.
Note: The editors of the two major papers in Chico are in support of the disc golfers, as are the park director and politicians who want the support of the very vocal, if not well organized, disc golfers. We have had a tough road to hoe, but we’re as passionate as the disc golfers! Thank goodness, more members of the City council seem to once again be concerned protection of the park. They will have the final decision, so it is up to us to make sure the BPPC does its job properly. That’s where one-on-one meetings have come to be quite important.
SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL: Several Yahi Group members, including the past and present Chairs helped create and staffed a booth at this annual festival held in Chico but with tours to many other places, where one can see snow geese and other wildlife galore every January. They collected 100 signatures for Marily Woodlouse’s petition to stop clear cutting and they raised $100. - by selling a terrific trail guide, put together by Alan Mendoza with help of other Yahi members. Check out our web site for more information.
TREES AND TRAILS:
Clear cutting and logging: Several of us supported Marily Woodhouse’s campaign both (1) when she was working to get Home Dept not to buy SPI wood and (2) this past month with her campaign this past month to also get Meeks Hardware not to by SPI wood. Meeks has a hardware store in Chico, by the way.
National Forests: Patricia Puterbaugh has been handling several logging issues – as she explains in these excerpts from this month’s Yahi paper:
The Lassen Forest Preservation Group, the forestry committee of the Yahi Group Sierra Club, has been working on several large Lassen National Forest (LNF) projects... We have spent much of our time on the Hat Creek Ranger District, northwest of Lassen National Park, studying and planning with the Forest Service on the North 49 logging project. This project has been appealed, litigated, and finally resolved over the last four years. It is a very large project - 10,000 acres - and will be done in stages. After each stage, we will have the opportunity to see and study the results of the logging… Another project we have been working on for years is the Creeks project. This 10,000-acre project stretches from Humbug and Humboldt summits east down to Yellow Creek. It is one of the most biologically diverse and ecologically important regions in the Lassen National Forest. Several major creeks drain to the Feather River, making fisheries and water quality a huge issue. The area is also home to the healthiest numbers of California Spotted Owl, migratory songbirds, American Marten, and Northern Goshawk on the LNF. ... The Sierra Club generally supports thinning projects close to communities and along roads. Some of these projects are finished or ongoing in Prattville, Butte Meadows, Jonesville, Mineral, and near the High Lakes. These projects remove the smaller trees and leave the forests in a more fire-resilient condition. Considering the state of the economy right now, it is difficult to predict how much logging will take place over the next few years. Loggers work on a very small profit margin, and there is already a huge surplus of logs from clear-cut Sierra Pacific lands. With the downturn in construction, there is very little market for timber. This may be an opportunity to look to alternative markets such as wood chipping, small log construction, and cogeneration of energy from forest waste products. We also comment on some private land logging projects in our vicinity, but if you have taken a trip up into the foothills, you will see that the clear cutting continue… Please contact me, Patricia Puterbaugh, at cohasset@shocking.com regarding National Forest issues.
Off-Highway Vehicle Use. Stephen Sayre has been educating us in email and in news articles about this issue. (See Forest Travel Management Process Deeply Flawed for more information at www.//motherlode.sierraclub.org/yahi .
YAHI PROGRAMS: We have resumed monthly programs. Bob Woods presented a very interesting program in February about Lassen Trails at the Butte County Library. Other great programs are being planned for the months ahead.
YAHI OUTINGS: Alan Mendoza coordinates an excellent and varied array of Outings, with 9 listed for March alone
Sutter Buttes - Peace Valley Hike Saturday, March 21
For Immediate Release
Contact: Liz
Gardner
530.345.1865
liz@sacrivertrust.org
Sacramento River Preservation Trust/Altacal Audubon Society
Sutter Buttes - Peace Valley Hike
Saturday, March 21
8am-3pm
On Saturday, March 21, the Sacramento River Preservation Trust and Altacal
Audubon Society, in cooperation with California State Parks, is offering a
guided hike into the Sutter Buttes - Peace Valley area with Parks Ranger
Zack Chambers.
Peace Valley is one of California's newest state parks and is nestled within
the ever-fascinating Sutter Buttes. While hiking with Ranger Chambers, we
will learn about the valley's cultural history including a visit to an old
homestead and various Native American sites. As we continue to traverse this
nearly undisturbed area we will be exposed to examples of some of the
geological processes that make up this unique formation. This hike is mostly
off-trail, is of moderate difficulty and does include some short strenuous
climbs. Depending on the weather, very shallow water crossings might occur.
Sturdy walking shoes or boots are strongly recommended. The hike is roughly
3 miles round trip. Participants must be in good hiking shape. Advance
reservations are required, with a requested donation of $20 for
Trust/Audubon members and $30 for non-members.
Space is limited. For reservations and questions please contact the
Sacramento River Preservation Trust at (530) 345.1865 or email Liz at
liz@sacrivertrust.org. Additional information concerning the Trust and
Altacal can be found at www.sacrivertrust.org and
www.altacal.org , respectively.
Contact: Liz
Gardner
530.345.1865
liz@sacrivertrust.org
Sacramento River Preservation Trust/Altacal Audubon Society
Sutter Buttes - Peace Valley Hike
Saturday, March 21
8am-3pm
On Saturday, March 21, the Sacramento River Preservation Trust and Altacal
Audubon Society, in cooperation with California State Parks, is offering a
guided hike into the Sutter Buttes - Peace Valley area with Parks Ranger
Zack Chambers.
Peace Valley is one of California's newest state parks and is nestled within
the ever-fascinating Sutter Buttes. While hiking with Ranger Chambers, we
will learn about the valley's cultural history including a visit to an old
homestead and various Native American sites. As we continue to traverse this
nearly undisturbed area we will be exposed to examples of some of the
geological processes that make up this unique formation. This hike is mostly
off-trail, is of moderate difficulty and does include some short strenuous
climbs. Depending on the weather, very shallow water crossings might occur.
Sturdy walking shoes or boots are strongly recommended. The hike is roughly
3 miles round trip. Participants must be in good hiking shape. Advance
reservations are required, with a requested donation of $20 for
Trust/Audubon members and $30 for non-members.
Space is limited. For reservations and questions please contact the
Sacramento River Preservation Trust at (530) 345.1865 or email Liz at
liz@sacrivertrust.org. Additional information concerning the Trust and
Altacal can be found at www.sacrivertrust.org and
www.altacal.org , respectively.
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