|
 October 21, 2022
|
|
 Malibu Creek State Park
Close-up of common orange lichen on a tree branch.
Photo from Danny Lopez, Angeles District
|
|
Redwood National and State Parks Teams Up With Latino Outdoors to Offer Backpacking Trip
Story and photos from: Kyle Buchanan, North Coast Redwoods District
 All the participants, including National Park Service Training Specialist Karla Jovel (kneeling left of Latino Outdoors flag), Latino Outdoors Coordinator Selena Castillo (kneeling, right of flag) and California State Parks Watershed Interpreter Kyle Buchanan (wearing hat, right of flag).
In celebration of Latino Heritage Month (September 15-October 15), Latino Outdoors, the National Park Service and California State Parks collaborated to bring a group of Latino college students and recent college graduates from Cal Polytechnic State University, Humboldt, on a backpacking trip to Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP). The trip took place Oct 15-16 as part of the “Forest for All” overnight backpacking program, a first-of-its-kind endeavor within RNSP, which provides guided overnight hikes to individuals from disadvantaged communities. The program is funded by the National Parks Foundation, as well as the California State Parks Foundation.
The introductory backpacking course involved a 4-mile descent into the Redwood Creek watershed, which allowed for an array of interpretive stops, ranging from wildlife sightings to fungal communities and watershed restoration. The location offered insight into the differences between old-growth, second-growth and treated second-growth forest; but more importantly, it offered lessons in forest and human resiliency. The Redwood Creek watershed is the core of Redwood National Park, which—together with Jedediah Smith Redwoods, Del Norte Coast Redwoods and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks—comprises RNSP, a world heritage site and home to half the remaining old-growth redwood forests on the planet.
The hike offered educational opportunities and a safe environment for expanding participants’ backcountry capabilities. Participants learned essential backcountry skills—from water purification to fire safety—and the National Park Service’s Karla Jovel and I emphasized Leave No Trace principles.
On the final morning of the adventure, awoken by sore legs and coastal fog, the group celebrated the last day of Latino Heritage Month. Some reflections included the following: “This was a great introductory experience. It was amazing to be on a trip with other people of color.” “There is an urgent need for more programs like this.” “10/10! I had an amazing experience and the naturalist leaders were very kind and knowledgeable.”
Reflecting on our shared experiences and backgrounds, we were happy to claim there was no better way or place to end Latino Heritage Month of commemoration and celebration.
 Top: California State Parks Watershed Interpreter Kyle Buchanan leading participants through the Tall Trees Grove. Bottom right: Kyle and National Park’s Training Specialist Karla Jovel leading a reflection program. Bottom left: Kyle leading a fire safety program.
Diablo Range District and CAL FIRE Rehabilitate Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area and Marsh Creek State Park After Wildland Fires
Story and photos from: Joseph Starr, Diablo Range District
 CAL FIRE and State Parks trucks at Marsh Creek State Park.
This summer, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) responded to wildland fire events at Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) and Marsh Creek State Park (SP), successfully suppressing the fire before it could damage important state park resources. However, aerially applied fire retardant and fire control lines created by bulldozers left their mark on the landscape. As part of the cleanup process, CAL FIRE returned to these sites to fix damage caused by fire suppression activities.
At Carnegie SVRA in September, this included knocking down berms created by bulldozers and installing straw wattles on steep hillsides to prevent erosion. First, the dirt berms were flattened to the natural grade, then shallow trenches were dug and wattles were installed with wood stakes following the contours of the hillside. District staff used four-wheel drive vehicles to deliver materials to several ridgetops and then worked their way downhill alongside the CAL FIRE crew.
At Marsh Creek SP the terrain was flatter, making it easier to navigate. The cleanup process took place on Tuesday, October 12. The level ground meant erosion was not a major concern and installing wattles was not required. Post-wildland fire rehabilitation is an important process in responsibly managing our parks. It not only creates positive impacts on the environment, but also fosters interagency cooperation between State Parks and CAL FIRE.
 Top left: Shortly after the fire at Carnegie SVRA, with the bulldozer fire control lines visible in the distance. Right: Carnegie SVRA trail crew dropping wattles off to install. Bottom right: Carnegie SVRA Park Maintenance Supervisor Keith Griggs and the Pacheco CAL FIRE crew in action. Left: Wattles after installation across the dozer lines at Carnegie SVRA.
 Senior Environmental Scientist Gina Benigno assists the CAL FIRE crew at Marsh Creek SP.
New Road Safety Enhancements at Mount Diablo State Park
Story and photos from: Joseph Starr, Diablo Range District
 Diablo Range District staff pose for a group photo after the conclusion of the event. Left to right: Rangers John Baxter and Jordan Fenwick, Park Maintenance Aide Billy Michaels, Park Maintenance Supervisor Eric Griggs, Supervising Ranger Cameron Morrison, Administrative Chief April Marson, Senior Maintenance Aide Brennan Peyla, District Maintenance Chief Monte Rowan, State Historian Joseph Starr and Acting District Superintendent Clint Elsholz.
Mount Diablo State Park held an event on Saturday, October 15, to commemorate the park’s recent road safety enhancements.
The celebration was held at Curry Point along Southgate Road with fantastic views of the Bay Area as a backdrop. Representatives from California State Senator Steve Glazer’s office, State Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan’s office, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Candace Andersen’s office, as well as district management, graciously addressed attendees.
The project was funded through Senate Bill 170, which was sponsored by Senator Steve Glazer, resulting in the completion of 30 new bicycle turnouts to improve road safety. These turnouts allow bicyclists, who move at slower speeds as they pedal uphill, to pull out of the main traffic lane into their own lane so that vehicles can pass safely.
Public safety at this popular destination remains a priority for State Parks and is why over the past few years several safety enhancements have been implemented, such as painting double-yellow line striping on the roads, designating passing areas, repaving portions of the road, improving safety signage and installing designated bike turnouts.
To date, State Parks has installed 48 bike turnouts at Mount Diablo State Park. Along the South Gate Road, there are a total of 18 turnouts, as well as 17 along North Gate Road and 13 along Summit Road.
 Top: Members of a local cyclists group in attendance. Bottom right: District Maintenance Chief Monte Rowan addresses the crowd from the podium. Bottom left: Administrative Chief April Marson emceed the event.
Fall 2022 Maintenance Training Has Begun at Mott Training Center
Story and photos from: Ricky Roldan, Training Section
 Classroom time during the Intermediate Carpentry Group course.
Maintenance training at the Mott Training Center started this fall with a full lineup of courses.
Our first class of the fall 2022 season was Masonry Skills Group 15, which ran from August 29-September 2. Students were able to work safely on a special project slab for the Monterey District, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Students also acquired a plethora of skills, such as setting forms and pouring cement with a pumper truck, and creating mock-ups of Diablo stoves and rock-style walls.
Next in line for the fall season was the Basic Electrical Skills Group 30 class, which ran from September 26-30. Due to the demand and overwhelming waitlists, this class was added to our fall 2022 lineup. Participants were able to safely learn the essentials of basic electrical skills through hands-on practice and troubleshooting problems by testing of receptacles, fixtures and switches.
Our third class for this season was the Basic Carpentry Skills Group 31, from October 3-7. Students were able to learn how to build carrier toolboxes and wheel chokes for state vehicles using saws and tools. They were also able to experience building a 20-foot-by 60-foot storage shed at Monterey District, which included setting up the framing walls and truss for the roof, all while practicing safe usage of power tools.
Our fourth class was the Intermediate Carpentry Group 46 class, which ran from October 10-14. This class completed the 20-foot-by 60-foot storage shed by setting plywood wood for the roof, installing the flashing and setting the composition shingles for the entire roof. Additionally, the class set the siding and installed windows.
Our fifth class for the fall season is the Introduction to Facilities Management Group 7 class, which will run from November 29-December 2.
Please check your FOCUS calendar for spring 2023 maintenance classes and updates. Classes are filing up quickly. If you have any questions, please email me at ricky.roldan@parks.ca.gov.
 Hands-on training and results from Basic Carpentry course (top photos) and Intermediate Carpentry course (bottom photos).
 Top left: Basic Electrical Skills training in action. Top left and bottom: The end results of Masonry Skills training.
 PARTNER NEWS
Parks California Hosts First Tour de Parks Bike Ride
Story and photo from: Alfred Torres III, Parks California
 Tour de Parks California attendees (including Director Armando Quintero, center) at Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
This past weekend, Parks California hosted its first Tour de Parks California event. A group of over 40 bicycle riders traveled a two-day, 75-mile journey down California’s coast to explore how rebuilding a park isn’t just about infrastructure, but also about building community to revitalize local state parks.
The group started at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area (SRA) and stayed overnight at Half Moon Bay State Beach (SB) before riding to Big Basin Redwoods State Park (SP). The journey showcased the many partners and staff making sure parks continue to be vibrant for all people, while highlighting the broad set of challenges state parks face—from delivering equitable access to dealing with climate change.
KTVU Fox 2 San Francisco ran a segment covering the ride and the goals of the ride.
Parks California would like to thank the staff and team at Candlestick Point SRA, Half Moon SB and Big Basin Redwoods SP for all their help in making this event a success!
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
|
To view current job openings within California State Parks, please visit our jobs webpage at www.LiveTheParksLife.com.
State Parks Job Spotlights and Open Exams
 In-Person Recruitment Event
City of Moreno Valley Business and Employment Resource Center Workshop, Monday, Oct. 24, 2022, Session No. 1: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Session No. 2: 1–2 p.m. Join the Parks Recruitment Team for an in-person workshop in Moreno Valley and learn how you can “Live the Parks Life” at California State Parks. 14177 Frederick St., Moreno Valley, CA, 92553. Click here for more information.
JOB SPOTLIGHTS
Associate Governmental Program Analyst – Apply by Oct. 24, 2022: Do you have experience in developing and maintaining strong partner relationships, as well as developing contracts? California State Parks is seeking an Associate Governmental Program Analyst in our Partnerships Division. Be part of a dynamic team, working to build strong community partnerships. Take the online assessment and apply today. Click here for more information.
Office Technician (Typing) – Apply by dates vary: Looking to get your start at California State Parks? We currently have three open Office Technician (Typing) positions available across the state. Take the online assessment today and begin your journey here at State Parks. Click here for more information.
Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) – Apply by Oct. 24, 2022: Do you have an interest in researching coastal climate change impacts, examining coastal processes and sediment dynamics, and have the desire to protect California’s extraordinary biological diversity and natural resources? We’re hiring a Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) in Sacramento. Click here for more information.
Seasonal/Part-Time: Multiple Opportunities – Apply by dates vary: Now is a great time to get started in a seasonal/part-time job at California State Parks. With no exam needed, apply to our Park Aide, Maintenance Aide, Environmental Services Intern, Park Interpretive Specialist, Guide Trainee or Forestry Aide openings today. Click here for more information.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Park Maintenance Chief I – Apply by Oct. 30, 2022: The Park Maintenance Chief I assessment is accepting applications. If you have experience in supervising park maintenance activities, conducting various park inspections and assessing budgets and revenue channels, apply today. Click here for more information.
Park Maintenance Chief II – Apply by Oct. 30, 2022: As a Park Maintenance Chief II, serve as the first- or second-level supervisor responsible for the management of a maintenance program in large districts. Click here for more information.
Park Maintenance Worker I – Until seats are filled: There is still time to register for the Park Maintenance Worker I assessment. From carpentry to masonry to repair and construction, Park Maintenance Worker I’s are essential to keeping visitors safe, preserving our precious resources and ensuring our state parks are operational for all to enjoy year-round. Click here for more information.
Park and Recreation Specialist Exam Series – No deadline: The Park and Recreation Specialist exam series is now online and continuous. Take the assessment (entry-level to supervisory) anytime. From grant administration to outdoor education, the right exam is available to match your education and experience level. Click here for more information.
State Park Interpreter I, II and III – No deadline: The State Park Interpreter I, II and III assessments are now available online. Our Interpreters develop interactive educational programs and teach the rich histories of California. Click here for more information.
Superintendent Series – No deadline: The California State Parks Superintendent assessments are available online. As a Superintendent, you'll be responsible for the protection and management of natural and cultural resources, public safety and law enforcement functions, visitor services, interpretation programs, real property management, facilities maintenance and administration. Click here for more information.
EMPLOYMENT TIP
Be an action star! Use action words when creating your résumé to shine a light on your experience.
If you have any questions regarding these opportunities, connect with us at Recruiting@parks.ca.gov. We’re happy to help!
Interested in more jobs and exams like this? Explore www.LiveTheParksLife.com to discover the possibilities.
Join the Parks Jobs mailing list here. We can send you updates on jobs and exams that interest you!
Longtime Bay Area District Park Interpreter Karen Barrett Retires
Story from: Christen Bechert, Bay Area District
 Left: Karen Barrett's official photo taken for Master Frontline Interpreter Award 2018. Top: Karen beginning her State Parks career as a park aide at Leo Carrillo State Beach in 1973. Bottom: Karen pictured with her husband, Joe, at Mount Dana during her time working at Yosemite as an interpreter in the early 80s.
To the surprise of many, Karen Barrett is retiring at the end of the year after a long career serving park visitors.
Karen is currently the Interpretation and Education Program Manager (interpreter III) for the Bay Area District, but throughout her nearly 50-year career, she has worn many different (park) hats. She began her career as a young park aide in the kiosk at Leo Carrillo/Point Mugu State Beaches in the early 1970s. She then spent some time in the National Park system before returning to State Parks. Upon Karen's return in the early '90s, she worked as a guide I, where her talent and passion for interpretation catapulted her through the ranks.
She has worked in various parks up and down the state, including time working at Headquarters in Sacramento. She has also held many titles, including guide, state park interpreter I and II, regional interpretive specialist and statewide volunteer coordinator. As a longtime active member of the National Association of Interpretation, Karen was recognized for her remarkable skills when she was awarded as a Master Frontline Interpreter in 2018.
Anyone who has had the pleasure to work with or spend time with Karen can speak to her love of interpretation, her passion for parks and her infectious enthusiasm. Her legacy will have a lasting effect throughout State Parks, and she will be greatly missed.
Join us in congratulating Karen on her much-deserved retirement!
We are planning a farewell celebration on Jan. 14, 2023, at Sonoma State Historic Park. Please reach out to me at christen.bechert@parks.ca.gov for more information.
The Gaviota Coast: 'Collecting My Paycheck'
Story and photo from: Ericka Buckley, Channel Coast District
 The Gaviota Coast.
I remember years ago, seeing the rangers I worked under, sitting in their vehicles atop some hill or in a parking lot with a clear line of sight of the ocean or mountains (yes, we are blessed to have both available with a simple turn of the head) and looking quietly into the distance. Sometimes this would be early in the morning before my kiosk shift started, and sometimes later in the evening as I was headed home. I always figured they were looking for a boater or surfer who was due in, having a struggle or just having a good time; or maybe they were looking for lights on the side of the mountain of an illegal off-road vehicle; or perhaps even hikers who were late coming off the trail.
What I have come to realize is, I was right some of the time, but more frequently I was wrong. These officers were doing what I now so frequently tell the public when they ask me what I am looking at when parked just slightly away from the crowd, ensuring I have a clear line of sight toward the horizon, just at that magical moment as the sun either rises or sets.
“I’m collecting my paycheck.”
This one moment that we get to take for ourselves, when time and duty allows, to look at the most beautiful office view anyone could ask for. An orange-hued sunset off Refugio Cove, a neon pink sunrise off El Capitán Point or an almost sepia-toned moon rise off the Gaviota Coast sitting atop Hollister Ranch Road. I’m collecting my paycheck.
Some work to live, some live to work. But we all, no matter the classification or motivation, get to bask in the beauty that surrounds us, in the quiet of the off season, the joy and the chaos that is summer. That’s why we are all here, right? Because we chose to work in the environment that we love, to work for the thing that is beautiful, no matter what the job entails. Yet no matter the dollar amount we may receive in exchange for the public service we provide, nothing compares to the office view and the “pay.”
So, California State Parks … go collect YOUR paycheck.
|
|
|
Style time! Here are this week's tips to help spread the word about our departmentwide style guidelines:
-
firewood: One word.
-
Dates: Do not use st, nd, rd, th following dates. For example, use May 1, not May 1st; use June 3, and not June 3rd; and September 16, not September 16th.
-
historic vs. historical: Historic describes something momentous or important in history. Historical describes something that belongs to an earlier period of history.
Keeping a consistent writing style ensures the Weekly Digest looks and sounds its best. Each week, the Communications and Marketing Division reviews submitted articles for proper grammar and punctuation and style consistency––from capitalization and hyphenation to proper acronyms and active/passive voice usage. In general, we follow the Associated Press style and Merriam-Webster, but at times we use our own department-specific style.
We always welcome your feedback on how to “Live the Parks Life” in (writing) style. Connect with us via email at weeklydigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
 Tolowa Dunes State Park
Redwood National and State Parks law enforcement crew posing after a resource protection meeting and a friendly shooting competition at the Tolowa Dunes range.
Left to right: Dan Owens, Kevin Cather, Courtney Murphy, Emily Christian, Stephen Troy, Keven Harder, Brian Everest, Gregory McKisson, Sean Mccaffrey, Ian Jones, Lisa Attendorn, Jacqueline Leskinen, Falon Cone and David Hahn.
Photo from Keven Harder, North Coast Redwoods District
 Angel Island State Park
Some of Gold Fields District administrative staff spent the day on Angel Island getting a history lesson and some much-needed vitamin "sea." We spent the day with State Park Interpreter II Casey Dexter-Lee, who showed us around Angel Island, sharing the history and the fantastic views the island has to offer.
Left to right: Staff Services Analysts Cheryl La Jeunesse and Jill Brandt, Associate Governmental Program Analyst Holly Welch and Administrative Officer I Carissa Barnett.
Photo from Carissa Barnett, Gold Fields District
 Outside Gold Fields District Office, Folsom
Will the real Steve Hilton, please stand up!
There is a saying “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” In honor of Boss’ Day, which was Sunday, October 16, the Gold Fields District staff decided to show their new Deputy District Superintendent Steve Hilton how much they appreciate him by dressing up just like him on Monday, October 17. Happy Boss’s Day to Steve Hilton, Barry Smith and to all the other bosses from all of us here at Gold Fields District.
Left to right: Gold Fields District Superintendent Barry Smith, Management Service Technician Matt Preston-LeMay, Administrative Chief Brandy Greene, Deputy District Superintendent Steve Hilton, Staff Service Analyst Cheryl La Jeunesse, Administrative Officer I Carissa Barnett and Environmental Scientist Denali Beard.
Photo from Carissa Barnett, Gold Fields District
 Silver Strand State Beach
San Diego’s premier Chief Petty Officer Pride Day celebrates the soon-to-be-promoted chief selectees. More than 2,500 Navy chief and chief selectees attend this one-day event to network and receive leadership lessons at the state beach. The event not only serves to promote mentorship and community support, but heritage and tradition of the Navy chief. All proceeds from this event go toward program support and business operations for the following year.
Photo from John Gunnink, San Diego Coast District
 Chino Hills State Park
Patrolling Coal Canyon after rain!
Photo from Chad Adriano, Inland Empire District
 Sonoma Coast State Park
State Parks Officer Trevor Nealy and Department of Fish and Wildlife Warden Jerrad Swaney showing their Breast Cancer Awareness Month pride.
Photo from Clark Hale, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
 Alturas, California
State Park Peace Officer Janessa Sederquist and K-9 Oz had the honor of participating in the annual Deputy Jack Hopkins Memorial Run on Wednesday, October 19. Several community members and allied law enforcement agencies participated to show their support. Modoc County Sheriff’s Deputy Jack Hopkins was killed on Oct. 19, 2016, while responding to a disturbance call just outside of Alturas.
Photo from Janessa Sederquist, Northern Buttes District
 Richardson Grove State Park
The belted kingfisher stretches her wings. The rusty “belt” identifies her as a female. It is one of the few species where the female is more brightly colored than the male.
Photos from Ann Hagerman, North Coast Redwoods District
Providence Mountains State Recreation Area
Sidewinders are rattlesnakes with a very peculiar style of locomotion. Like their kin, they rattle the beads on their tails to warn predators away. With a long-distance camera lens and some expert commentary, this sidewinder encounter is a noteworthy experience.
Video from Andrew Fitzpatrick, Inland Empire District
 Malibu Creek State Park
Great blue heron hunting for California ground squirrel.
Photo from Danny Lopez, Angeles District
 Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
In late September and early October, this yellow-throated warbler was observed at Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park. Normally a resident of the Southeastern United States, it may have been blown off course by the recent hurricanes in the Caribbean. This photo was taken September 30.
Photo from Paul Pokrywka, Año Nuevo State Park docent
 Sonoma State Historic Park
An immature red-tailed hawk flying above the Vallejo Home. Red-tailed hawks get their red-tail feathers at the beginning of their second year.
Photo from Brooke Sullivan, Bay Area District
 Malibu Creek State Park
Predawn light rising over Inspiration Point.
Photo from Danny Lopez, Angeles District
 Empire Mine State Historic Park
Things are looking rosy at this historic park known for its rich gold mines, the Bourn Cottage and its restored gardens.
Photo from Thomas Molnar, Sierra District
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
‘Fall’ Into Healthy Habits
Story from: Brooke Haugen, Risk Management Division
Cooler temperatures, days with less sunshine, holiday foods and holiday stress … these, among other things, often can lead to slipping into unhealthy habits such as less physical activity, unhealthy food choices or overspending and exceeding our budgets.
Here are some tips to help keep you on track this fall:
-
Prioritize getting daily sunshine. Sunlight is a key provider in producing serotonin, which has several positive effects. Take a hike though a state park to catch some rays.
-
Fill up on nutritious food first. You don’t have to deprive yourself of all the fall treats. Instead, try to prioritize your vegetables and proteins before your savory carbs and sweet treats.
-
Create a budget—and stick to it. Holiday spending is one of the leading financial stressors for most families. Before you begin shopping, take the time to sit down and create a realistic budget.
-
Decline some social events. Holiday seasons also tend to lead to more social gatherings. Be mindful of your time and personal limits, and don’t feel obligated to attend every event.
For more tips on how to stay healthy over the holiday season, visit 10 Healthy Habits to Start in the Fall for a Healthier Lifestyle Change (thriveglobal.com), How Wintertime Affects Our Eating Habits | Everyday Health and Strategies for a Healthy Fall | CDC.
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
Friends of Allensworth Presents Plaque to State Park Interpreter Lori Wear
On October 8, 2022, at the Annual Rededication Celebration of Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, Sasha Biscoe President of the Friends of Allensworth presented a plaque to State Park Interpreter III Lori Wear. “The Friends of Allensworth recognize Lori Wear, District Interpretive Program Manager - Thank you for demonstrating superior and sensitive customer service, as well as, tireless and dedicated support. You are truly an inspiration to us all. As a token of appreciation we present this [plaque] to you for your exemplary dedication and support to the legacy of Colonel Allensworth and this historical town.”
|
|
|
October 19, 2022
October 21, 2022
|
|
|
The Weekly Digest includes a collection of news articles related to the
California Department of Parks and Recreation. The views expressed and opinions do not always reflect that of the department.
To view this week's News Clips, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/NewsClips.
 Weekly Digest Article and Photo Submissions
If you have an article or photo you would like to submit for the Weekly Digest, please send your entries via email to WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
For an article submission, please include:
- Author’s name and division/district.
- All relevant information (e.g., headline, park name, dates, name of event, individuals’ full names and titles, etc.).
Articles should be no longer than 300 words.
For photos, please include:
- Photo credit info and captions.
- Photo release forms should be kept on file for non-employees or volunteers.
Unless otherwise noted, all photos included in the Weekly Digest are courtesy of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
The deadline for Weekly Digest submissions is close of business Thursday. For more information, email WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
|
|
|
