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 September 1, 2023
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 Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park
Exploring the beautiful waters of the park by stand-up paddleboard and kayak. Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park is located in remote northeastern Shasta County and can only be reached by boat.
Photo from Kim Milruya, Communications and Marketing Division
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State Parks Reminds Public to Recreate and Boat Responsibly Over Labor Day Weekend
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 A gorgeous walk at Torrey Pines State Beach. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
As the unofficial end of summer approaches this Labor Day weekend, State Parks is reminding the public to recreate and boat responsibly as they head outdoors and onto California’s waterways.
Here are some key safety tips:
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Know Before You Go: Before embarking on your outdoor journey, it is crucial to gather essential information about the park unit you intend to visit. Check for any park updates, trail closures or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Play It Safe: Be cautious and avoid underestimating factors like temperatures and hiking distances. Inform someone about your plans, especially if you are undertaking longer hikes.
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Always wear a life jacket. Life jackets are the easiest way to reduce the chances of drowning and increase your chances of survival if you are involved in an accident. When in or on water, wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. If you do not have a life jacket, borrow one through the Division of Boating and Waterways' Life Jacket Loaner Program.
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Protect your loved ones: Always supervise children by appointing a designated “water watcher,” taking turns with other adults. Do not assume that someone is watching your children.
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Leave the alcohol at home: Alcohol and boating never mix. It is against the law to operate a boat with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more. You can be arrested even when the BAC is less than 0.08% if conditions are deemed to be unsafe. The sun, wind and wave action intensify the effects of alcohol.
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Leave No Trace: Preserving the beauty of California's state parks is a shared responsibility. Stay on designated trails and carry out all your trash. Refrain from disturbing wildlife or removing plants. Please leave these areas better than you found them for future generations to enjoy.
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Use apps to stay safe and enhance your experience in the outdoors:
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what3words: Use the what3words app to communicate precise locations within any of the 280 state parks using just three words. This tool aids dispatchers in emergency situations, enabling assistance to those in need. Share locations with family and friends, and provide directions to events, trails or campsites using this convenient app. To learn more on how the app works, visit ca.gov/what3words.
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OuterSpatial: Discover the ultimate guide to California's state parks with the OuterSpatial app. Navigate through interactive maps, receive real-time updates and stay connected with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Enhance your exploration by monitoring visits, completing challenges like the Passport to Your California State Parks and sharing memorable experiences.
For more information and resources, please visit parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips.
You can also view our press releases for more information:
 Fishing at Lake Clementine at Auburn State Recreation Area. Photo from Division of Boating and Waterways.
California Launches Beta Version of Online Tool to Track Wildfire Resilience Projects
Story from: California Natural Resources Agency
 Governor Gavin Newsom's Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force (Task Force) launched Tuesday, August 29, the beta version of a first-of-its-kind Interagency Treatment Dashboard that displays the size and location of state and federal forest and landscape resilience projects in California.
The dashboard offers a one-stop-shop to access data, provide transparency and align the efforts of more than a dozen agencies to build resilient landscapes and communities in California. It reports treatment activities such as prescribed fire, targeted grazing, uneven-aged timber harvest, mechanical and hand fuels reduction, and tree planting. Users can sort treatments by region, county, land ownership and more.
“Thanks to historic funding from our Legislature and Governor Newsom, over 1,000 wildfire resilience projects are in motion across the state to protect communities and our diverse landscapes from catastrophic wildfire,” said California Secretary for Natural Resources Wade Crowfoot, co-chair of the Task Force. “Now we can track our progress like never before through this public Interagency Dashboard. It identifies where projects are happening, what kind of work is happening in a given location and how much overall resilience work is being done. It’s one more step forward in building a comprehensive, durable approach to increasing our wildfire resilience in years to come.”
“This dashboard delivers a new tool for collaboration among agencies and communities,” said U.S. Forest Service Regional Forester Jennifer Eberlien, who co-chairs the Task Force with Secretary Crowfoot. “Having access to treatment information in this format will allow us to coordinate landscape scale activities aimed at restoring and enhancing ecosystem resilience.”
The dashboard is an important step to increase the pace and scale of statewide actions addressing California’s wildfire crisis and is a key deliverable of the governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan, issued by the Task Force in January 2021.
The beta version of the dashboard will continue to be refined to include additional data, including projects by local and Tribal entities, along with revisions based on public feedback. An official launch is expected in spring 2024, with more complete data on projects implemented in 2022.
To read the full press release, click here.
 Screenshot of State Parks' information on the beta version of the California Wildlife and Landscape Resilience Interagency Dashboard.
State Parks to Celebrate California Biodiversity Week
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 What will you find during California Biodiversity Week? Observe and record the unique diversity of life within California’s State Park System using the iNaturalist app.
This year marks the fifth annual celebration of California Biodiversity Day since it was first established in 2018 by Governor Jerry Brown, along with the Biodiversity Initiative. Since then, several executive orders and other actions by the Newsom administration—such as the 30 x 30 Conservation Strategy—have built on this foundation to understand and protect our state’s unique and precious natural resources.
This year, over 20 state parks will be hosting Biodiversity Day events all over the state, from Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park in the north to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and Salton Sea State Recreation Area in the south. Click here to see the details of these state parks events, ranging from tide pool tours and bird walks to weeklong bioblitzes and webinars. Join an event or go out on your own and record species you observe with the iNaturalist app!
Find this year’s full list of events at parks.ca.gov/Biodiversity and additional events on California Natural Resources Agency’s Biodiversity Day website. You can also view the press release for more information.
California Natural Resources Agency Hosts Virtual Discussion on Achieving a 100% Clean Energy Future
Story from: California Natural Resources Agency
California leaders have set a world-leading target to achieve 100% clean energy over the next two decades. Californians are also rapidly shifting to zero-emission vehicles, which will increase electricity demand. As climate change intensifies, heat waves and extreme weather challenge our existing energy grid. How can California achieve our bold clean energy goals while maintaining reliable and affordable energy to power our communities and economy?
Join us for a candid virtual discussion with state energy leaders about how California is working to achieve this vision. We will discuss recent progress, current challenges and our plans to navigate the road ahead.
Here are the event details and Zoom registration information:
WHAT: Charging Ahead Toward a 100% Clean Energy Future
WHEN: Wednesday, September 6, from noon to 1 p.m.
HOW: Register for Zoom here.
WHO:
- California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot
- California Energy Commission Vice Chair Siva Gunda
- Office of Governor Gavin Newsom Senior Advisor for Energy Christine Hironaka
- California Independent System Operator President and CEO Elliot Mainzer
- Department of Water Resources Deputy Director Statewide Water and Energy Delphine Hou
- Viejas Tribe of Kumeyaay Indians Chief Financial Officer Erich Hans
- California Public Utilities Commission Commissioner John Reynolds
‘The Art of Nature’ Photo Contest: Submit Entry by Wednesday, September 6
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 Spring 2021 photo contest winner: Western bluebird at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District.
You still have time to enter “The Art of Nature” photo contest, with entries due Wednesday, September 6. With 280 state parks, there are plenty of ways to connect art with nature—whether through a photo of a spectacular sunset or sunrise, a fun activity at a park, staff doing their job in nature or wildlife roaming the parks. Get creative, show your artsy side and submit your photo today.
“The Art of Nature” photo contest started June 21 and runs through Wednesday, September 6. As a friendly reminder, if your photos include people who are non-State Parks employees or volunteers, you must have a Visual Media Consent form (DPR 993).
To be eligible to participate, you must be a State Parks employee or park volunteer and submit your photos to the Weekly Digest. Provide a brief caption describing your photo and the name of the state park where it was taken. The Communications and Marketing team will announce the top five photos later this month. The photos will be showcased in the Weekly Digest as well as State Parks’ social media channels with their photo credit.
The rules and criteria to submit photos are:
- Submit photos to the Weekly Digest email address with the subject line “The Art of Nature.”
- Photos must be taken between June 21 and Sept. 6, 2023.
- Photos with images of non-State Parks staff must include a photo Visual Media Consent form (DPR 993).
- Photos can be taken at any of California’s 280 state parks or any State Parks office.
- Only State Parks employees and volunteers can submit photos.
- Photos will be judged on photo quality, uniqueness, moment captured and content.
- The top five photos chosen will be shared on California State Parks’ social media channels and in the Weekly Digest.
- Photos will be judged by the Communications and Marketing team (members of which are not eligible to participate in the contest).
- Photo images should be a minimum of 1,920×2,400 ppi.
If you have any questions on the contest, please send an email to the Weekly Digest. Have any ideas for the fall photo contest? Let us know your suggestions!
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Koi Nation of Northern California and State Parks Renew Memorandum of Understanding and Celebrate Renaming of Ridge and Trail
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 Top: Representatives of the Koi Nation and State Parks at the MOU renewal ceremony at Anderson Marsh State Historic Park on Wednesday, August 30. Bottom left: Koi Nation Chairman Darin Beltran speaks at the event. Bottom middle: Koi Nation Chairman Darin Beltran and State Parks Director Armando Quintero sign the MOU in front of Koi Nation and State Parks leadership. Bottom right: Koi Nation Vice Chairman Dino Beltran speaks at the event. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
California State Parks and the Koi Nation of Northern California (Koi) today announced the renewal of a five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Koi and State Parks and the renaming of two park features at Anderson Marsh State Historic Park (SHP). The MOU formalizes coordination and cooperation between the two entities for the protection, preservation and interpretation at Anderson Marsh SHP.
Koi Nation Chairman Darin Beltran and State Parks Director Armando Quintero executed the MOU renewal during a formal signing ceremony on Wednesday, August 30, at Anderson Marsh SHP near the newly renamed Mxqawlay’ba Knowin Xyoykith Ridge, which translates to “the grandmothers/ancestors heal on this mountain,” in Southeastern Pomo. The ridge was formerly known as Lewis Ridge. The other park feature that was renamed is the McVicar Trail, now called Dawa Qanoq’ana, which translates into “south way in front of me.”
In April 2017, the Koi and State Parks signed the first MOU between State Parks and a California Tribal Nation. This groundbreaking MOU created a base for collaboration and cooperation, protecting cultural and natural resources in Anderson Marsh SHP. Through this MOU, the Koi Nation has been performing regular cultural resource monitoring, a valuable asset for State Parks in the protection of irreplaceable history and cultural resources in the park.
The collaborative protection efforts have led to several arrests and convictions related to cultural resource crimes in the park. “The Koi Nation’s commitment is to protect all First Nations tribal cultural resources and sacred sites in Northern California,” said Koi Nation Vice Chairman Dino Beltran.
Learn more about this MOU in our press release.
 Top left: Koi Nation Chairman Beltran shakes hands with State Parks Director Quintero after signing the MOU. Top right: Department Tribal Liaison Leslie Hartzell and Northern Buttes District Superintendent Matt Teague signing MOU. Bottom left: Members of the Koi Nation attend the MOU signing and renaming event. Bottom right: Superintendent Teague acknowledging Koi Nation and State Parks staff collaborations. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
Free Marine Flare Collection Events in California to Protect California Communities and Environment
Story from: Vivian Matuk, State Parks and California Coastal Commission
 Alameda County, Delta Diablo, Del Norte County, Contra Costa County, Marin County, the City of Oceanside, the Port of Los Angeles and the California Product Stewardship Council have partnered with California's Recycling and Recycling Agency, California State Parks and Coastal Commission’s California Boating Clean and Green Program to collect expired marine flares and educate residents about marine flare management safety, including the advantages of reusable distress signals, to protect California communities and the local environment.
Residents and boaters berthing their boats in Del Norte County, Humboldt County, Alameda County, East Contra Costa County, West Contra Costa County, Marin County, the City of Oceanside and the Port of LA can take their expired marine flares to their county’s designated marine flare collection events this month:
Southern California
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City of Oceanside: Saturday, September 9, from 8 a.m.-noon, at 1850 Harbor Drive North, Oceanside, CA 92054
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Port of LA: Saturday, September 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Cabrillo Way Marina, 2293 Miner St., San Pedro, CA 90731
Northern California
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East Contra Costa County: Through September 16, during business hours at 2550 Pittsburg-Antioch Highway, Pittsburg, CA 94565
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West Contra Costa County: Through September 16, during business hours at 101 Pittsburg Ave., Richmond, CA 94801
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Del Norte County: Saturday, September 16, 8 a.m.-noon, at 1700 State St., Crescent City, CA 95531. Open to residents of Humboldt County.
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Marin County: September 17, 8 a.m.-noon, at Clipper Yacht Harbor, 310 Harbor Drive, Sausalito, CA 94965
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Alameda County: Sunday, September 17, by appointment only; sign up for an appointment here.
Only expired marine flares from residents and boaters berthing their boats in the covered areas will be accepted. No marine flares from commercial craft or an organization nor other forms of household hazardous waste will be accepted during the special event. Proof of residence or eligibility is required (i.e., license, registration or slip fee).
The United States Coast Guard requires boaters to carry several unexpired visual distress signals on board, day and night. Pyrotechnic marine flares are a common type of distress signal, but they are explosive hazardous waste and contain toxic chemicals, like perchlorate, that pose human health risks. Marine flares only work once and expire 36 to 42 months after the manufacture date. For more information about expired marine flares and the benefits of using electronic distress signals, visit dbw.parks.ca.gov/marineflares.
Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods Volunteer Trail Crew Tackles Sonoma Coast State Park Trail
Story from: Paul Schwarz, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods
 Could you ask for a better place to spend the day? Beautiful Sonoma Coast State Park. Photo from Mark Anderson, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods.
Nine trail crew members showed up Wednesday, August 16, at Sonoma Coast State Park to receive a work plan and safety briefing from Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods Volunteer Trail Crew Coordinator Rich Lawton, prior his going on hiatus for a few weeks. Equipped with weed whips, brush blades, saws and loppers, we proceeded to tackle the Kortum Trail, from Shell Beach to Carlavaro Way North.
The main contingent of seven took a brush blade, four weed whips, loppers and saws to cut brush, weeds and coyote bush from overhanging and encroaching on the trail, while a satellite team worked up from Carlavaro Way, using a brush blade, saws and lopper to restore clear access from the south.
Having a large crew on a relatively short stretch of trail, we made short work of it and briefly pondered continuing from Carlavaro Way South toward Wright's Beach North. Cooler heads prevailed, and we decided it made more sense to knock off a bit early to have enough trail clearing to fill another coastal workday.
 Top left: Mark Anderson clears Furlong Gulch with surgical precision. Photo from Paul Schwarz, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods (Stewards). Top middle: Tom McBride approaches the home stretch. Photo from Mark Anderson, Stewards. Top right: David Bohl and Jim O'Donnell share a laugh. Photo from Mark Anderson, Stewards. Bottom right: Paul Schwarz and Mark Anderson's brush blade. Photo from Mark Anderson, Stewards. Bottom left: The hardworking southbound crew take a break. Photo from Mark Anderson, Stewards.
Volunteers Repair Group Barbecue at Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Story and photos from: Cheryl Ashton, Diablo Range District
 Melisa Lanctot, third from left, with her friends who helped complete the project.
A few months back I was contacted by Melissa Lanctot about a project she was interested in doing at Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA). Melissa and her husband, Damian, were the first couple to get married at the park and it was one of their favorite places. They had been a couple since grade school and she described him as the “love of my life.” Sadly, tragedy struck, and Damian was killed on his motorcycle. Melissa wanted to do something to honor him at the park and asked if there was anything she and her friends could do.
We came up with a project of repairing the group barbecue, where one of their wedding photos had been taken. Melissa and I met at the site, and she took measurements of the bottom grate, which was in bad condition. Melissa and her friends welded a new heavy-duty grate to replace the broken one, so it was ready beforehand.
Then on their wedding anniversary, Melissa and her friends came to the park and completed the project. They removed the bottom of the large barbecue grate and replaced it with the new, stronger one. They also removed the broken bricks around the top and replaced them with new ones. Then they painted the tables next to the barbecue.
Thank you, Melissa and friends, for providing the park with a wonderful remembrance of Damian and for taking on such a great park project.
 Top left: Old barbecue grate. Top right: New grate. Bottom left: Table before being painted. Bottom right: Table after being painted. Melissa Lanctot holds up a picture of her late husband, Damian Lanctot.
Peace Officer Flies State Plane Over Bolsa Chica and Huntington State Beaches
Story from: Michelle Figueroa, Orange Coast District
 Top left: State Park Peace Officer (Lifeguard) Justin Quiggle stands next to the plane. Right: Plane overhead piloted by Quiggle. Bottom left: View of Bolsa Chica State Beach. Photos from Justin Quiggle and Michael Schneider, Orange Coast District.
California State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) Lifeguard Justin Quiggle flew the state's Cessna 206 over Bolsa Chica and Huntington State Beaches—the very beaches he patrols—on the evening of Thursday, August 24.
Having previously been a commercial pilot on the islands of Hawaii, SPPO (Lifeguard) Quiggle has several hours of flight time under his belt. This flight was part of his second round of training flying a plane owned and maintained by State Parks. The Cessna 206 is based in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park near Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area, where part of the training was conducted. Planes are utilized by the department to patrol large areas of parks not typically accessible to vehicles, and they can be significantly useful in pursuits as well as search-and-rescue efforts. This particular round of training involved instrument flights into busy Los Angeles airspace, flying into clouds, takeoffs and landings, and overall aircraft familiarization and orientation. As he and his instructor flew over Bolsa Chica State Beach, the peace officers on the ground looked upward, capturing photos and videos of the plane manned by their fellow officer.
From working as an ocean lifeguard at Crystal Cove State Park, to graduating law enforcement academy as part of Basic Visitor Services Training 47, to patrolling Bolsa Chica and Huntington State Beaches as a state park peace officer (lifeguard) and now flying planes alongside other aspiring state pilots, Quiggle sets an example of how career opportunities can be endless at California State Parks.
Sonoma State Historic Park Hosts Nature and Community Fair
Story and photos from: Dave Duplantier, Bay Area District
 Felidae Conservation Fund sharing their information.
The beginning of August marked the return of the Nature and Community Fair at Sonoma State Historic Park in downtown Sonoma, California. The fair is a blend of nature, environmental and community agencies and organizations coming together to offer the public a wonderful chance to learn, explore and experience nature and local community at a variety of exhibits and stations.
The event was sponsored and hosted by California State Parks and supported by the Sonoma Petaluma Parks Association, the local nonprofit organization.
New this year, local radio station KSVY did a live air broadcast from the fair and interviewed a few of the exhibitors. Some of the exhibitors included Sonoma County Library, nonprofit the La Luz Center, "Kids Scoop" magazine and local animal shelter Pets Lifeline, whose display of a few of their adoptable furry friends was a big hit.
Rounding out the 20 different organizations, there were live owls from All about Owls, a wildfire engine from the local California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) unit and music provided by of one our park volunteers strumming the guitar to the delight of attendees and fairgoers. Of course, there was a State Parks table featuring educational bird information and nest-making for kids.
There was something for just about everyone. More than 400 people enjoyed the fair on a beautiful afternoon in Sonoma.
 Top left: CAL FIRE training young recruits. Top right: Everyone is excited to see the dogs and cats up for adoption at Pets Lifeline. Bottom left: Our volunteer helping with the Junior Ranger pledge duties. Bottom right: La Luz from Latino Outreach engaging their visitors.
PARTNER NEWS
Celebration of Seabright Beach History
Story and photos from: Bonny Hawley, Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks
 Community group at the Seabright Beach celebration, featuring newly installed gate and interpretive panels.
The community gathered Saturday, August 19, to celebrate the history of Castle Beach, a well-known name for part of Seabright Beach, which is a sub-unit of Twin Lakes State Beach. New English/Spanish bilingual interpretive signs were installed and the unique castle-shaped gate at the beach entrance was replaced.
The new gate was based on the original design, which was created by retired State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Sharon Galligan. Thanks to a multiyear collaboration between the Seabright Neighbors Association, California State Parks and Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks (Friends), this vibrant piece of local history is now on display for the community.
Seabright Beach used to be home to the Scholl-Mar Castle. Built in 1929, the castle welcomed visitors for almost 40 years, offering beach fun with everything from volleyball, umbrellas and a snack bar, to oceanview dining and hot saltwater baths.
Santa Cruz District State Parks Superintendent Chris Spohrer, Seabright historian and author Traci Bliss, and Bob Watson, nephew of Louis Scholl, spoke at the event, which was attended by more than 60 neighbors, donors, State Parks and Friends staff, and Friends board members.
State Parks evolve with the needs and interests of the community. The beach is a wonderful example of a local beach that has had many uses over the years. Generous donations from neighbors as well as visitors from as far away as Arizona, Hawaii and Oregon, along with funding from the Friends Board of Directors, made this project possible.
Check out the new signs and gate on your next visit!
 Set of English and Spanish bilingual interpretive panels at Seabright Beach.
State Parks and California Department of Social Services Expand Golden Bear Pass to Members of Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 State Parks and the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) this week announced the expansion of the Golden Bear Pass to participants of California’s Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, providing free day-use access to more than 200 state parks. The Golden Bear Pass is a calendar year (January–December) pass available to qualifying Californians who receive Supplemental Security Income, California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program recipients, or income-eligible Californians age 62 and over. Newly issued passes are valid for the remainder of 2023 with an additional pass for 2024 sent at the beginning of the year.
Last year, State Parks began a three-year pilot program partnership with CDSS to make several improvements to how the Golden Bear Pass is administered. These improvements included a waiver of the $5 pass fee, direct notifications to eligible CalWORKs recipients, expedited verification of applicant eligibility and streamlined pass fulfillment.
Californians can apply for the Golden Bear Pass with their smartphone or other web-based device in just minutes and have access to more than 200 California state park units. A list of eligible units and FAQs on the Golden Bear Pass can be found at the following webpages: parks.ca.gov/OutdoorsForAll and at cdss.ca.gov/GoldenBearPass. You can also view our press release for more information.
Library Pass Program Grant Helps Santa Barbara Public Library Patrons Explore Outdoors, Connect With Local Chumash Culture
Story from: Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division
 California State Library Parks Pass program in partnership with the First Partner’s Office and the California State Library continues to be a big success. By providing free vehicle day-use entry to more than 200 participating state park units, the Parks Pass Grant program allows more Californians to check out the outdoors.
Santa Barbara Public Library (SBPL) has been among the participants of the program in 2023. From December 2022 through April 2023, the grant enabled the library to offer a rich array of programs that encouraged its patrons to get outdoors as well as to learn more about and engage with local Chumash culture.
SBPL’s programming included talks by local authors endorsing local trails and other opportunities to explore nature. In accordance with the Parks Pass program’s goal of reducing barriers to park access for all Californians, many of the library’s events were bilingual and included materials in Spanish to increase knowledge of state parks in the wider Santa Barbara community.
An important part of SBPL’s programming was its focus on Chumash culture. To enhance cultural awareness, the library issued Adventure Packs for checkout that included games, instruments and cultural artifacts crafted by Chumash artisans. SBPL’s use of the Parks Pass grant to highlight Chumash culture reinforces State Parks’ partnership with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash.
According to a survey that the library conducted among its patrons, an overwhelming majority of participants in the programming stated that they were now more likely to visit a park, spend time outdoors and felt more connected to the history and culture of the community. In addition, the program allowed SBPL to draw in many new users. Learn more about the Parks Pass grant at SBPL here.
To find out more about the other free pass programs, including the California State Park Adventure Pass for fourth graders and the Golden Bear Pass, visit the webpage parks.ca.gov/OutdoorsForAll.
 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
 JOB SPOTLIGHTS
Personnel Supervisor II – Apply by Sept. 3, 2023: If you are someone who has excellent interpersonal and supervisory skills, demonstrates knowledge of applicable human resources statutes, knows various bargaining unit language and understands the state's human resources and payroll operations and its applications, policies, procedures and transactions codes, then look no further and apply for the Personnel Supervisor II position. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.
Park Maintenance Supervisor (PI) – Apply by Sept. 7, 2023: Under the supervision of the Forester II in Sierra District’s maintenance shop in Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, this position has both indoor and outdoor duties, which include supervising Fire Management Crew staff; ensuring safety, quality and productivity of the Wildfire and Forest Resilience Program; participating in the prescribed burn team; and completing administrative tasks for project management and fiscal tracking. Click here for more information.
State Park Peace Officer Supervisor (Ranger) – Apply by Sept. 8, 2023: This position oversees visitor services, public safety, law enforcement functions and the staff at Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument. As a working supervisor, you will be performing safety and enforcement tasks, patrolling the area, doing interpretations, performing resource protection/management and overseeing the operation of the visitor facility. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.
Accountant Trainee - Apply by Sept. 11, 2023: Are you interested in a career in accounting? This is a great entry-level opportunity. Help with auditing and processing deposits in a timely manner and ensuring deposit detail report reconciles to the check log. Work closely with districts and supervisor to research, analyze and resolve posting and over remittance issues, ensuring accurate and timely reporting of cash, and gain valuable experience to move to the next level in your career. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.
Staff Park and Recreation Specialist – Apply by Sept. 12, 2023: This position has a reporting location of Malibu Creek State Park in Calabasas, California; works under the District Superintendent; and has the working title, Interpretation and Education Program Manager. Duties include developing, implementing and overseeing interpretation and education programs for a variety of high-profile park facilities throughout the Los Angeles and Malibu areas. This position also acts as the lead volunteer coordinator for the district. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.
Park Maintenance Assistant – Apply by Sept. 13, 2023: The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Maintenance Shop located within Palm Canyon Campground is looking for someone who enjoys housekeeping and grounds maintenance, serving as lead over seasonal maintenance staff on occasion and assisting maintenance personnel in performance of routine repairs to buildings, structures, systems, grounds and parking areas. If you are able to perform minor vehicle repairs too, like oil changes, then this might be the job you are looking for. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.
State Park Interpreter I, II, III – Apply-by dates vary: There are eight vacant positions located throughout the state. The State Park Interpreter will plan park events, report and maintain interpretive statistics, assist in training staff and volunteers in interpretive methods and techniques, and help with interpretive program oversight and planning, including school programs and tours. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment(s).
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Aquatic Pest Control Series – Continuous: The role of the Aquatic Pest Control series is to minimize the impact of invasive plants in our waterways through weed control programs. The series includes Aquatic Pest Control Technicians and Specialists. Click here for more information.
Communications Operator – Continuous: 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. Apply to take the Communications Operator assessment today and begin your State Parks career in this exciting and rewarding opportunity. Click here for more information.
Park Maintenance Worker I – Continuous: Assessments will begin in September for those who have experience in the construction, building repair or mechanical trades. The exam will test your knowledge of methods, materials and equipment in all types of construction, repair and maintenance work, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting and masonry; use and care of hand and power tools; building materials and their accepted uses; construction and maintenance safety practices; and vehicle engine parts and functions. Click here for more information.
State Park Equipment Operator – Continuous: Your Class A license and two years’ experience operating heavy motorized equipment on various types of terrain, using equipment like the D7 and D6 bulldozers and heavy-duty transport trucks, will open the door to this examination. Your passing score could have you operating bulldozers, road graders, heavy trucks, loaders, excavators, backhoes, compact loaders and other types of heavy equipment in the California’s beautiful state parks. Click here for more information.
Water and Sewage Plant Supervisor – Continuous: The Water and Sewage Plant Supervisor supervises the operation of a water treatment and/or sewage treatment plant and directs the taking of daily tests of water and sewage and upkeep of equipment. Applicants will need three years of experience operating a water filtration system and State of California Certification for Sewage Treatment Plant Operator and/or Water Treatment Plant Operator. Click here for more information.
EMPLOYMENT TIP: Nearly every month, employees reach 25 years of state service and are awarded for their outstanding accomplishment. During this time, they have amassed huge amounts of institutional knowledge, career experience and insight on how to adapt to a changing work environment. The Parks Recruitment Office can get you connected to these seasoned state employees, who can help by providing information that possibly cannot be learned anywhere else.
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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Twitter; X: In July 2023, corporate name Twitter was changed to X Corp. On first reference, refer to the platform as “X.” The term “tweet” remains acceptable as a noun and a verb. Also acceptable is phrasing such as “posted on the X platform, formerly known as Twitter.” On later references to the platform, use the “X platform” or “X.”
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backup; back up: One word as noun and adjective, and no hyphen; e.g., The plan was used as a backup. Two words, no hyphen (“back up”) when used as a verb; e.g., They will back up the hard drive.
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SPF: This acronym for sun protection factor is acceptable to use on first reference.
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
State Parks' fantastic seasonal maintenance aides wrapping up a trail maintenance project at the park. Their enthusiasm and energy are always evident. Left to right: Summer Mersereau, Sean Green, Senior Maintenance Aide Ron Stratford, Jim Del Crognale and the newest addition to the team, Leah Black.
Photo from Marty Kansriddle, Orange Coast District
 California State University, Chico
On Wednesday, August 30, Northern Buttes District staff were honored to attend the California State University (CSU), Chico, Career Fair and shared various resources on how to "Live the Parks Life" and join the State Parks team. Staff showed students how to navigate the CalCareers website, make a profile, search for exams and more. Over 200 student contacts were made, and we are excited for more CSU Chico students and alumni to potentially join the team.
Left to right: Interpreter I Noel Lopez, Environmental Scientist Chaye VanKeuren and State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Bryan Taylor prior to the start of the career fair.
Photo from Noel Lopez, Northern Buttes District
 Red Rock Canyon State Park
Which Mojave Sector state park peace officer wins the summer watch tan line contest?
Photo from Matthew Williams, Great Basin District
 State Indian Museum State Historic Park
We are arranging the new earrings, necklaces, books, basketweaving kit and plushie to represent the fall season, which is traditionally crafting and storytelling time in the Native American community.
Photo from Michael A. Ramirez, Capital District
 Seacliff State Beach
A busy day at the beach.
Photo from Doug Johnson, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Roosevelt elk lounging under a smoky sunset due to the wildfires in Northern California.
Photo from Janette Parsons, North Coast Redwoods District
 Hearst San Simeon State Park
Massive elk gathering on the San Simeon State Park Hearst Property, with the crowd wondering if we were watching the herd or if they were watching us.
Photo from Kevin Murphy, San Luis Obispo Coast District
 Hearst San Simeon State Park
Elk family.
Photo from Kevin Murphy, San Luis Obispo Coast District
 Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Would you be able to spot this black bear cub along the South Fork of the Eel River if you were driving by at 45 miles an hour? Well, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division's Todd W. Lewis did! We pulled over, and I was able to snap this photo before the cub ran off back into the bushes.
Photo from Doug Johnson, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Left: A bunch of mylitta crescents going for the same salt heliotrope bloom. Top right: The third is of a tarantula hawk nectaring on a narrow-leaf milkweed. I was excited to see the tarantula hawk. I hadn’t seen many until this past week. Bottom right: One of my favorite butterflies, the pale swallowtail on narrow-leaf milkweed.
Photos from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Palomar Mountain State Park
Hurricane Hilary took most of us by surprise by bringing Palomar Mountain State Park (SP) over 6 inches of rain from the storm! A park visitor Brian McGurty comes up to Palomar Mountain frequently in search of the ensatina salamanders. He said they are only crawling around during the wintertime when the soil is nice and moist. He came up wondering if they would come out post-storm, and he was right. Here are some ensatina salamanders on Tuesday, August 22—possibly the first-ever recorded observation of them in August. Brian is a retired professional biologist and has been studying these salamanders at Palomar Mountain SP.
Photos from Emily Swarthout, Colorado Desert District
Carnegie State Vehicle Recreation Area
Carnegie State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA) was closed for 100 days during the winter of 2022-2023 due to immense damages to the park from the atmospheric river storms. Carnegie SVRA Forestry Aide Timothy Hart created an ArcGIS StoryMap to show the damage the park received from the storms and the hard work park staff put in to get the park repaired and back open again. The StoryMap can be viewed here or click button above.
ArcGIS StoryMap from Timothy Hart, Diablo Range District
 Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Work trucks all over Del Norte County got an ashy decoration from the Smith River Complex Fires.
Photo from Simone DuRand, North Coast Redwoods District
 Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Keep your masks on! What appears to be typical redwood fog on Howland Hill Road is actually smoke from the Smith River Complex fires.
Photo from Simone DuRand, North Coast Redwoods District
 Sinkyone Wilderness State Park
View from Lost Coast Trail on Tuesday, August 15, during an overnight project trip for treatment of invasive tansy ragwort (Senecio jacobaea).
Photo from Daniel Wolfe, North Coast Redwoods District
 Sue-meg State Park
Dramatic evening colors at the park.
Photo from Kevin Manning, camp host
 Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Sunset on the stairs.
Photo from Kim Milruya, Communications and Marketing Division
 Castle Crags State Park
Left: View from vista point. Top right: Mount Shasta through scope. Botton right: Vista point scope.
Photos from Kim Milruya, Communications and Marketing Division
 Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park
Exploring Crystal Springs at the park. "Where the waters come together...." is a translation of the word "Ahjumawi," which is also the self-describing word used by the band of Pit River Native Americans, who inhabit the area. The waters that come together are Big Lake, Tule River, Ja-She Creek, Lava Creek and Fall River. Together they form one of the largest systems of freshwater springs in the country.
Photo from Kim Milruya, Communications and Marketing Division
 Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park
A striking view of Mount Shasta from the park.
Photo from Kim Milruya, Communications and Marketing Division
 Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve
The sun shining through the redwoods.
Photo from Doug Johnson, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 San Elijo State Beach
A "white rainbow" at around 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 30, at the San Elijo State Beach Campgrounds.
Photo from Jeanie Huebner, San Diego Coast District
 Torrey Pines State Beach
The cliff's above Torrey Pines State Beach along the Guy Fleming Trail on a hot, clear San Diego day.
Photo from Michele Garcia, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park
Sample sewing card in celebration of Biodiversity Day.
Photo from Heather Lee, Northern Buttes District
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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Here are some State Parks events happening today and this weekend. For a list of more upcoming events, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/events.
Friday, Sept. 1, 2023
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Hidden History Talk—Old Town San Diego State Historic Park at 1 p.m.: Come enjoy a campfire by the bay and meet other people (kids and adults) in the park. We will play a game to get to know other campers, sing a song and learn about the sea turtles in the San Diego Bay.
Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023
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Bird-Watching—Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park at 8 a.m: Join us from 8-10 a.m. in the campground of the park to share an experience with resident and migratory birds and learn about their life histories, ecology, identification tips and field markings, and even vocalizations! These programs typically follow up to 1 mile on easy to moderate park trails. Remember to wear weather-appropriate attire and bring binoculars if possible. Click this link to RSVP.
Sunday, Sept. 3, 2023
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Biodiversity Day StoryWalk—William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park at 10 and 11 a.m.: Join us along the water on the Cottonwood Trail at 10 and 11 a.m. for guided nature walks, where you will discover diverse native species unique to this part of California. Learn the running stitch and/or the backstitch to make an animal sewing card. Go for a self-guided walk and enjoy a StoryWalk, featuring “We Will Live in This Forest Again” by Gianna Marino (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.). As a bonus, we will be giving away book bags provided by First 5 Tehama. The event and parking are free. For more information about Biodiversity Day events in state parks, see article above in the What's New section.
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Aug. 28, 2023
Aug. 29, 2023
Aug. 30, 2023
Aug. 31, 2023
Sept. 1, 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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