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 January 13, 2023
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 Seacliff State Beach
Sunrise on Thursday, January 12, at Lower Seacliff State Beach Campground, facing downcoast, showing what is left of the Seacliff Pier and the SS Palo Alto cement ship from the last storm on Thursday, January 5. Read story in "Field Reports" about the significant storm impacts to this park unit and others statewide.
Photo from Josh Stone, Santa Cruz District
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Beta Testers Wanted for New Virtual Passport Feature on State Parks Mobile App
Story from: Nate Irwin, OuterSpatial
 California State Parks is excited to announce the launch of beta testing for a new feature on the department's mobile app, developed by OuterSpatial, called Passport to Your California State Parks. Throughout the month, OuterSpatial will be looking for your feedback.
By participating in the simple beta testing for the Passport to Your California State Parks mobile app feature, you will be providing us with valuable feedback that will not only allow us to understand our users better, but also help us to continue to improve the user experience to maximize the successful impact of the application.
That’s where you come in! A bigger and more diverse set of beta testers will help make the public launch of this feature more successful and accessible to all park users. To sign up as a beta tester, download the app here and then follow the beta tester registration instructions here. Participation is completely free.
Once you provide feedback on the beta testing for the Passport to Your California State Parks mobile app feature prior to Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023, you will be entered to win one $100 REI gift card prize sponsored by Parks California, a nonprofit organization.
To participate in the beta testing, access the links above to sign up as a beta tester during the open testing period. Once registered as a beta tester, look out for an email with additional instructions and a link to the beta testing feedback form.
Official sweepstakes rules can be found here.
Deadline to Submit Nominations for Director's Recognition Awards Extended to Friday, January 20
 Due to the historic weather behavior that California has been experiencing, the deadline to submit nominations for the Director's Recognition Awards program has been extended to Friday, January 20.
We look forward to hearing about your coworkers and their accomplishments! Please email your Director's Recognition Award nomination submissions by Friday, January 20, to DirectorRecognitionAward@parks.ca.gov.
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Winter Storms Cause Damage, Close Down Multiple Parks
Story from: Doug Johnson, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 State Park Peace Officers (SPPOs) from Santa Cruz District made multiple rescues in the town of Felton, California, and in the Pajaro Valley. The district has nine SPPOs (rangers and lifeguards) trained in swift water rescue. Photos from Scott Sipes, Santa Cruz District.
Since Sunday, January 1, winter storms have caused flooding, mudslides and downed trees at state parks across California. Almost 100 parks have been either fully or partially closed, although some have since reopened. State park peace officers (SPPOs) and park staff have been responding to multiple emergencies and incidents, even in areas outside of parks. SPPO rangers and lifeguards in the Santa Cruz District, trained in swift water rescue, used their valuable skills to rescue people trapped in flooded streets in the town of Felton, California, and in the Pajaro Valley.
Parks along the coast were hit especially hard, with multiple parks closing in the Monterey, Santa Cruz, North Coast Redwoods, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast, Channel Coast and San Luis Obispo Coast Districts. But the storms' impacts have been felt all over the state.
At Seacliff State Beach in the Santa Cruz District, there has been catastrophic damage to the campgrounds and pier from ocean swells; 63 campsites and 26 hookup sites sustained major damage. Half the dock leading to the SS Palo Alto, the iconic cement ship, was also destroyed. The ship itself has also sunk even more than before. On Tuesday, January 10, Governor Gavin Newsom was joined by Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, State Parks Director Armando Quintero, Santa Cruz District Superintendent Chris Spohrer and district staff to survey the damage at Seacliff State Beach.
Farther down the coast in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Pfeiffer Falls Trail, which had reopened in June 2021, will likely have to close once again as a huge tree fell on a newly built bridge on that trail. The North Beach Campground at Pismo State Beach is mostly submerged, as are many state parks along the Central Coast. Hearst Castle had suspended tours due to several trees that had fallen in the area; however, the castle has reopened and resumed tours Thursday, January 12.
The Santa Barbara area has also been hit hard, and many park units are temporarily closed due to an evacuation order from Santa Barbara County. Park employees have also been evacuated.
In the North Coast Redwoods and the Sonoma-Mendocino Coast Districts, rain and strong winds have caused flooding, uprooted trees, knocked out power lines and damaged campgrounds, trails, and even some visitor centers. Specifically, at Redwood National and State Parks, some downed trees blocked roads and trails. At this time, most of the trees that have come down are not old-growth redwoods.
Down south at Leo Carrillo State Park, the South Beach day-use lot, campground and North Beach parking lot will be closed through at least the end of the month, January 31. However, visitors can still access the beach for day use from shoulder parking along the Pacific Coast Highway once the park reopens. At Point Mugu State Park, recent storm damage will likely also keep the Thornhill Broome beach campground closed through the end of the month. At Cardiff State Beach in San Diego, California, there is major erosion and several fences knocked down.
The good news is that employees have not been injured. Whether in the field, at home or from the office, thank you to all staff, partners and volunteers for their efforts during these historic weather events.
Resources:
 The famed wooden pier, campgrounds and day-use areas at Seacliff State Beach sustained significant damage from the recent storms. Photos from Jordan Burgess, Santa Cruz District.
 Top (left to right): Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot, Public Safety Superintendent Gabe McKenna, State Parks Director Armando Quintero, Santa Cruz District Superintendent Chris Spohrer, Governor Gavin Newsom, Santa Cruz Deputy District Superintendent Jordan Burgess and Chief Ranger Mike McMenamy pose for a quick photo during the governor's tour of the damage at Seacliff State Beach. Bottom: Superintendent Spohrer showing the governor the damaged pier. Photos from Governor's Press Office and Jordan Burgess, Santa Cruz District.
 Top photos: The newly renovated bridge at Pfeiffer Falls Trail, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, was badly damaged during the recent storms. Bottom photos: Storm damage and flooding in state parks along the Big Sur River. Photos from Monterey District.
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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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
 WORKSHOPS
Careers at California State Parks: Wednesday, January 18, noon-2 p.m. In-Person Hiring Information Session. There are so many wonderful career opportunities waiting just for you at California State Parks. In this webinar, you will learn about taking state assessments, how to create your CalCareers account, the many rewarding career opportunities and more. Location: 3801 Florin Road, Suite 107, Sacramento, CA 95823. Click here to register.
Careers at California State Parks: Wednesday, January 25, noon-2 p.m. In-Person Hiring Information Session. Learn how to jump-start your career and work at one of the 279 California state parks. The Parks Recruitment Team will teach you how to create your CalCareers account and apply for the jobs that interest you. We offer opportunities in Law Enforcement, Administration, Communications, Facilities and Maintenance, and many more. Location: 5655 Hillsdale Blvd., Suite 8, Sacramento, CA 95842. Click here to register.
JOB SPOTLIGHTS
Skilled Laborer (Permanent Intermittent) – Apply by Jan. 17, 2023: We are looking for a Skilled Laborer (Permanent Intermittent) to join our team in the Monterey District. This position will repair and monitor water distribution and sewage systems throughout the sector. Take the online assessment and apply for this exciting opportunity today. Click here for more information.
Associate Administrative Analyst (Accounting Systems) – Apply by Jan. 20, 2023: We are looking for an Associate Administrative Analyst (Accounting Systems) to join our Fiscal Unit in Sacramento. This position is responsible for the Labor Distribution Subsystem, as well as the development, maintenance and testing of financial applications. Take the online assessment. 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.
State Park Interpreter I, II, III – Multiple Opportunities – Apply by dates vary: Did you know you could get paid to work in the great outdoors and teach others about California’s beautiful state parks? Interpreters play an essential role in making visitors feel welcome and sharing knowledge through fun activities and educational programming. With multiple positions available statewide, view current State Park Interpreter openings and learn more about Interpretation and Education careers. Click here for more information.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Senior State Archeologist – Apply by Jan. 31, 2023: The Senior State Archeologist assessment is now available. If you have two years of experience as an Associate State Archeologist or five years of experience in cultural resource management and protection programs, then apply for this assessment today. Click here for more information.
Aquatic Pest Control Technician/Specialist Series – Apply by Feb. 1, 2023: As an Aquatic Pest Control Technician, you will gain valuable experience learning how to properly care for and manage aquatic pest control activities. As an Aquatic Pest Control Specialist, you will revise, regulate, plan and train others on effective pest control management. You will reduce the impact of such pests, such as the water hyacinth plant and other invasive pest plants, on the environment, including navigational, recreational and agricultural uses in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and its tributaries. Responsibilities of these programs include the implementation of an aquatic weed control program utilizing mechanical, biological and chemical measures to eliminate the threat imposed by the water hyacinth plant, Egeria densa and any other pests that may be legislatively mandated. Click here for more information.
Communications Operator – No deadline: Our California State Parks Communications Operators are emergency dispatchers who monitor emergency communications systems, answer calls for service, log incidents and dispatch field units to emergencies. 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.
State Park Peace Officer (Ranger or Lifeguard) Lateral/Transfer – No deadline: You can now lateral or transfer into an exciting career as a State Park Peace Officer Ranger or Lifeguard. The assessments are available online, anytime. We have positions throughout the state. Take the assessment and join us in protecting our precious resources. Eligibility is good for 18 months. Click here for more information.
EMPLOYMENT TIP
Ready, Set ... Go. Leap into the new year by starting your journey toward an exciting California State Parks career. Create your CalCareers account to start your application process now. For guidance, click here to watch the CalHR video, “How to Get Started Working for California.”
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!
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Style time! Here are this week's tips to help spread the word about our departmentwide style guidelines:
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day: This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, honoring civil rights leader the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., falls on Monday, January 16. King was born Jan. 15, 1929. Martin Luther King Jr. Day always falls on the third Monday in January.
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runoff: One word.
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Periods and commas and quotation marks: The period and the comma always go within the quotation marks. Examples: We walked around the area called "The Oasis." The area, called "The Oasis," is popular.
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.
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 Crystal Cove State Park
This picture was taken after a beach cleanup and storm erosion repair outing at the Historic District of the park. Recent storms have deposited a great quantity of debris on the beaches. The crew is in front of the Beach Cottages.
Left to right: Michael Ljungh, Jeff Brown, Marty Kansriddle, Vince Yepez, Alex Sasikumar, Steve Davila and Kasey Magallanes.
Photo from Marty Kansriddle, Orange Coast District
 Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Retired ranger Mike Whitehead and retired State Parks employee Cindi Whitehead hiking at Panorama Trail.
Photo from Cindi Whitehead, Rancho Mirage, California
 McGrath State Beach
A willet forages among the debris deposited after the storms, alongside the rushing waters of the Santa Clara River watershed emptying into the Pacific Ocean.
Photo from Brooke Sheridan, Channel Coast District
 Crystal Cove State Park
Photo 1: A snowy egret walks along the tide pools. Photo 2: A great blue heron catches a snack. Photo 3: A group of elegant terns with a lonely gull by the surf. Photo 4: Seaweed on the sand.
Photos from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
A peregrine falcon soars along the coastal cliffs.
Photo from Scott Henry, park volunteer
 Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area
Top left: Birdcage evening primrose. Top right: Desert shaggy mane, a type of desert mushroom. (Yes, even deserts get mushrooms.) Bottom: Desert sand verbena.
Photos from Andrew Ahlberg, Ocotillo Wells District
 Grover Hot Springs State Park
The hot springs running through the meadow melts the fresh snow and creates steam over the snow.
Photo from Peter Brandt, Sierra District
 Grover Hot Springs State Park
Snow covers the mounts, trees and valley.
Photo from Peter Brandt, Sierra District
 Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park
State Park Equipment Operator Brandon Rettmann ramps up the snow with the big loader. What do you do with all of that snow from the parking lot? We ramp it up and make room for more!
Photo from Rich Adams, Sierra District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Water running through Green Valley Falls.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
Swollen Dumma Creek with central Sierra runoff.
Photo from Anthony Yang, Central Valley District
 Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
The park took a hit from the storms, but our staff are working tirelessly to repair the storm damage. Photos were taken on Thursday, January 5.
Photos from Callista Turner and Chris Hon, Great Basin District
 California Natural Resources Building, Sacramento
The Natural Resources Building after the storms in the first week of January.
Photo from Megan Stanley, Capital District
 Angel Island State Park
Storm runoff has created a 25-foot waterfall in the old serpentine rock quarry on Angel Island.
Photo from Dan Toth, Bay Area District
 Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Rainbow seen while driving on County Road S-22.
Photo from Cindi Whitehead, Rancho Mirage, California
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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Jan. 11, 2023
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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.
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