September 29, 2023

Photo of the Week

Clear Lake State Park

"What does the fox say?" We may never know.

Photo from Samantha Morris, park visitor

WHAT'S NEW

Celebrate Latino Heritage Month With Upcoming
In-Person and Virtual Events

Story from: Communications and Marketing Division

As we continue to celebrate Latino Heritage Month (September 15-October 15), there are several events remaining to participate in, such as a walk at Salton Sea State Recreation Area (SRA) and a screening of the documentary “La Recua: The Mule Pack Train.” Through virtual and in-person events, the California Natural Resources Agency’s (CNRA's) departments, commissions and conservancies are honoring Latino leaders in the environmental field who work to protect the environment for current and future generations and encourage others to become environmental stewards.

Here are Latino Heritage Month events to participate in across the state:

• Tuesday, October 3 at 4 p.m.: Screening of the documentary “La Recua: The Mule Pack Train.” CNRA and State Parks are hosting a film screening and panel discussion at the CNRA building in Sacramento. This captivating film follows Darío Higuera Meza, a traditional saddlemaker in Baja California Sur, Mexico, as he travels 200 miles by mule pack train along Old Camino Real. The documentary thoughtfully explores the rich history of mule pack trains and their role in developing the ranching culture that has supported the Baja California peninsula for centuries. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by CNRA Secretary Wade Crowfoot that includes State Parks Director Armando Quintero, producer and director of the documentary Trudi Angell, narrator of the film Darío Higuero Meza and California State Librarian Greg Lucas. You can RSVP to the screening here.
• Saturday, October 7: Two hikes available: one at the Salton Sea SRA and the other in Los Angeles:
  • 7 to 11 a.m.: Camina y platica with us at the Salton Sea SRA, where you can hear about the Salton Sea’s history and wildlife y disfruta pan dulce y un cafecito.
  • 10 a.m.: Hike Portola Trail at Elysian Park in Los Angeles and learn about the Chavez Ravine community. We will start at Solano Canyon Drive parking lot, off Academy Road, and hike 2 miles, stopping at a lookout to talk about the history of Chavez Ravine, the multicultural aspect of Latinidad, then the Chavez Ravine Arboretum, and back to the lot. 
• Tuesday, October 10, noon to 1 p.m.: Secretary Speaker Series, "Nurturing Heritage, Cultivating Empowerment and Conservation—Embracing Latino Roots for a Stronger Future.” This inspiring webinar will delve into the rich tapestry of stories, experiences and triumphs that shape the Latino community. Through powerful narratives and shared journeys, the Speaker Series event will explore the essence of heritage, resilience and growth, while also highlighting the deep connection between Latino heritage and the environment. Do not miss this opportunity to hear personal stories and insights for embracing heritage while actively participating in conservation efforts and enjoying the beauty of outdoor spaces. You can register for the webinar here.
• Wednesday, October 11, 11 a.m. to noon: Join the Career Pathways panelists representing departments from across CNRA, who will provide insight on how they got their start, overcoming barriers and what they envision for the future for Latinos in careers in resources. Learn firsthand the kinds of meaningful careers that are impactful available in natural resources. Register for the webinar here.

• Saturday, October 15, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.: “Castro Adobe Open House: Vaqueros, Bulls and Bears! Oh my!” at Rancho San Andrés Castro State Historic Property in Watsonville, California. State Parks invites the public to tour Castro Adobe. This 90-minute tour is led by docents sharing the history of the Castro family and the two-story adobe hacienda built over 170 years ago. Learn about the vaquero culture and living during the Mexican Rancho Period of California history. Reserve your 90-minute tour of the Castro Adobe at Santa Cruz State Parks.

You can find a list of all the events celebrating Latino Heritage Month at resources.ca.gov/LatinoHeritageMonth. 

Making a Difference in California: Our Promise Campaign Starts October 1

Story from: Elisa Partin, Administrative Services Division

California State Parks invites you to join our fellow state employees in being "United in Giving" through the Our Promise California State Employees Giving at Work campaign. The campaign runs from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2023, and allows us to provide vital resources for people experiencing poverty, homelessness, food insecurity and more. Year after year, we come together and raise nearly $5 million for nonprofits, making a real difference in the lives of those in need throughout California.

By contributing as little as $5 a month, you can be part of this powerful collective effort. Your generous gift, combined with those of thousands of colleagues, will have a profound impact on the state and the lives of those relying on the essential services provided by nonprofits.

Visit Cal Employee Connect today to make your contribution and be a force for positive change in our state. Together, we can make a lasting difference for those in need.

The "Join the Our Promise" kickoff celebration will be held Thursday, October 5. 

To learn more about the Our Promise campaign, click here.

Oji Life Labs is thrilled to announce an exciting pilot program, Oji Emotions, to help boost our emotional intelligence. As part of our commitment to excellence, a select number of State Parks employees will be chosen to participate in the breakthrough emotional intelligence (EI) training program. 

Emotions impact every facet of the human experience. Interacting with the public means we find ourselves faced with a variety of emotional scenarios: The joy and excitement felt by all ages at a campfire program, the frustration of a park visitor who finds there are no campsites available or, as our peace officers know, the stressful and tough calls that need to be made when it counts the most. The emotional rollercoaster is real.

Decades of research show that as we improve our EI, we can boost our decision-making, mental health, relationships and stress management. 

Built on two decades of research at Yale University, Oji Emotions is powered by the Oji Life Lab app and accessed through your smartphone. The best part? It is flexible and mobile. Unlike a traditional training workshop, the learning takes place on your phone with bite-sized learning steps that are only 10 minutes or less in length. We are excited to be among top organizations, like Google and Johnson & Johnson, that use this breakthrough program.

Oji Emotions is backed by science. This program is practical, actionable and supportive—not touchy-feely. We are happy to report that smart people like you found Oji Emotions to be particularly supportive of their mental health, stress management and more. We are excited to offer this program and see the ways it can improve your life both in and out of the parks.

To sign up, please go to the FOCUS course enrollment page and search for “Emotional Intelligence.” Enrollment requests will be accepted until Wednesday, October 11. For any questions, please email Sam Guida at Samantha.Guida@parks.ca.gov.  

ADVENTURE OF THE MONTH

Discovering California’s Latino History at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Story from: Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division

Chalk graveyard during Día de los Muertos at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Photo from Megan Curtis, Communications and Marketing Division.

San Diego has always been at the center of California’s evolving representation of the state’s Latino heritage. It was the site of the first Spanish mission and presidio and where Spanish-speaking cultural traditions took deeper roots under Mexican rule. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park (SHP) gives visitors an impression of life in the region in the mid-19^th century. As Historic Sector Interpreter II Kristin McGowan points out, the large diorama in the historic Rose-Robinson House Visitor Center is a detailed model of what Old Town San Diego looked like in 1872, two years before a fire destroyed many of the original buildings.  

State Park Interpreter III Alexandra Latona lists the many cultures that have left traces in Old Town San Diego, from the Indigenous Kumeyaay, who established the village of Cosay prior to European settlement of the region, to Mexican rancheros to Irish and German-Jewish immigrants. The museum in the two-story McCoy house is a good place to learn about San Diego’s history. Another attraction, the Seeley Stable museum adjacent to the Cosmopolitan Hotel, contains an extensive collection of 19^th-century carriages and wagons, including a carreta built in 1806, one of the oldest surviving oxcarts that took travelers three months to reach San Diego from San Francisco.

Facing Old Town Plaza (Paza de Armas) are the houses of some of the influential Californio families who shaped Mexican California through their land holdings, business activities and public service. One of the park’s original five adobe-brick townhouses, the Casa de Estudillo, with its livestock corrals, gardens and outbuildings, was built in the 1820s and inhabited by four generations of the Estudillo family until 1887. Alexandra describes the Casa de Estudillo as a hub that combined family and social activities, religious services and business transactions, and elaborate dances under one roof.

By the early 20^th century, the remnants of a by-then dilapidated Old Town became the focus of a distorted and nostalgic vision of a romantic Spanish/Mexican California that contrasted with the industrialized present—as well as with the ongoing discrimination against Mexican Americans. San Diego developer John D. Spreckels bought and restored the Casa de Estudillo in 1907 and reinvented it as "Ramona’s Marriage Place," after a popular romantic novel set in Mexican California. This also marked the beginnings of Old Town as a tourist site, with Spreckels' own streetcar operation providing convenient transportation.

Old Town San Diego’s establishment as a state park in 1967 stood for a renewed commitment to preserving, restoring and presenting the past. Today, interpreters like Alexandra and Kristin convey a more nuanced approach to California’s heritage. The park is working with the San Diego Latino community to increase the number of Spanish-speaking interpreters and volunteers to ensure that the park represents the state’s diverse history.

Old Town San Diego SHP just celebrated Mexican Independence Day on Saturday, September 16, and is now gearing up for the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities on October 28 and 29. The event next month will include sugar skull painting workshops, chalk art created by local artists, hands-on craft activities and a free outdoor screening of the Pixar movie “Coco.” In addition, the park will display and conduct tours of the traditional seven-layer altars of the dead (ofrendas), honoring important Old Town citizens as well as visitors’ loved ones. Old Town San Diego SHP’s Día de Los Muertos program received pilot funding from California’s Arts in the Parks initiative.

Día de los Muertos at Old Town San Diego SHP is a great way to celebrate Latino Heritage Month (September 15-October 15). For an even tastier experience, Alexandra recommends the excellent cachapas (Venezuelan corn pancakes) at the Congress Café just across from the park, a reminder that new Latino influences keep enriching California culture.

Clockwise from top left: Strolling through Old Town San Diego SHP. Seely Stable Museum. Detail of the Robinson-Rose Visitor Center diorama. Volunteers in period costumes. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.

Top left: Casa de Estudillo with garden. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. Grand sala (top right) and kitchen (bottom right) at the Case de Estudillo. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. Bottom left: Altar of the Dead in the Casa de Machado y Stewart. Photo from Megan Curtis, Communications and Marketing Division.

FIELD REPORT

State Parks Honored by American Conservation Experience for Partnership

Story and photos from: Sarah Miggins, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division

Left to right: ACE Board Chair Jeanne Wade Evans, ACE CEO Laura Herron, State Parks Director Armando Quintero and Senior Park and Recreation Specialist Lori Turner, District Facilities Management Program. Seen in the framed photo is Garrapata State Park where ACE built lookouts and trails.

American Conservation Experience (ACE) presented California State Parks with its inaugural Partner Recognition Award at its 20th anniversary launch event in Sacramento on Friday, September 22. State Parks has collaborated with ACE for over seven years and was honored to receive the recognition.

ACE is a nonprofit conservation corps that provides crews of young adults—most of whom are AmeriCorps members—to assist with protecting and enhancing state parks throughout much of California. ACE kicked off its multimonth celebration in Sacramento to count down to its official anniversary in August 2024. ACE features hub operations in Sacramento and Ridgecrest, California, and plans to open a Coachella Valley hub later this year.

Left to right: Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division Deputy Director Sarah Miggins, Lori Turner and Senior Deputy Director of the California Conservation Corps Larry Nohteis.

Mott Training Center Celebrates 50 Years

Story from: Sara M. (Skinner) Marshall, Training Section

Left: William Penn Mott Jr. Top right: Mott Training Center shortly after it opened in 1973. Bottom right: Basic Peace Officer Training Group 13 in November 1973. Photos from California State Parks. 

The Training Section celebrates this month the 50th Anniversary of the William Penn Mott Jr. Training Center (Mott Training Center). Back in 1993, the Mott Training Center celebrated its 20th anniversary with a program entitled “The Best of California Forever.” Broc Stenman, the department training officer in 1993, reflected in an article in the 20th anniversary booklet: “In mid-September 1973, Department Director William Penn Mott Jr. welcomed Ranger Trainee Group J and K as the first groups to attend training in the department’s new training center at Asilomar. Among the first classes was State Park History and Philosophy conducted by District Superintendent James Whitehead. He made a lasting impact on the young rangers talking of our new responsibilities in ‘standing on the shoulders of giants … The only reason for a public servant is to serve the public … and each of us is the State Park System.’ “As a department, we have been extremely fortunate to have visionary leadership, at all levels, to see ourselves as a ‘learning organization.’ How did this come about? In the late 1960s, Director Mott and Department Training Officer James Kruger set in motion a series of events that forever would shape the way CSP [California State Parks] manages departmental training. Foremost among these was the creation of the Center for Continuous Learning as the training center was called from 1973 to 1976. For the first time in any state, a central facility was built specifically to meet the basic and continuing training requirement of state park employees.” Last month, Broc Stenman (now a retired department training officer) sent out a reminder to reflect on the years of training at the center to the GrayBears Listserve: “Next month marks the 50th anniversary of the opening of the department's Center for Continuous Learning on the Asilomar Conference Grounds. Shortly afterwards, it was officially dedicated as the William Penn Mott Jr. Training Center. “Here are its foundational ideas: (1) build the Center in a state park on a cost-effective basis (2) design it around an environment conducive to classroom and after-hours learning (3) conduct training from entry-level through managerial (4) emphasize training for trainers (5) reap the benefit of using Training and Development assignments for Program Coordinators (6) base the training firmly on operational needs and (7) underscore the fact that strong and long-term organizational support of employee development is essential. Training is a major investment that, if done right, pays off. “Original courses for State Park Ranger Trainees (Groups J/K) and Park Managers were soon joined by extensive programs for Maintenance, POST-certified Law Enforcement, Interpretation, Administration, and Resource Management. In the course of the last 50 years, few state agencies have been responsible for such diverse and comprehensive training. “Nearly every GrayBear's professional life was in some manner touched by experience at the Center. If you attended a course, acted as an instructor or served on the staff, reflect on those days. While you're at it, take a moment to celebrate the memory of Bill Mott, Jack Knight, Jim Whitehead, Jim Kruger and the others who had the foresight and ingenuity to create the Training Center and its vision of a learning organization.” The Mott Training Center continues to provide space for trainings in interpretation, natural and cultural resources, administrative services, emergency services, public safety and introductory trainings. The Chuck Combs Training Annex serves as the center for our maintenance and trades training programs. Over the years, participants in our training classes have benefited from the professional networking that in-person training provides while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds. Thank you for continuing to help make us a center for continuous learning.

Top left: Historic Preservation Group 2 in October 1973. Top right: Carpentry training in 1973 at the Mott Training Center. Bottom right: Investigating in Your Environment in December 1973. Bottom left: Physical fitness training in the early days of the Mott Training Center. Middle left: Training Groups enjoy the access to Asilomar State Beach for training. Photos from California State Parks. 

Helping State Parks K-9s During Retirement

Story from: Sasha Wessitsh, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division

Left: K-9 Chase at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Top right and bottom right: K-9 Rex at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Photos from State Parks K-9 Program.

If you have worked for California State Parks for any period of time, you probably know that we have teams of K-9s and state park peace officers (rangers and lifeguards) who work in many of our parks. From Clear Lake State Park to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, there are currently 20 K-9 teams. These dedicated K-9 teams work tirelessly to ensure that our visitors, staff and their handlers are safe in state parks.  The State Parks K-9 program started over 50 years ago and has grown to what it is today. Teams generally work together for about eight years. K-9s reside with their handlers and their families, coming home every night and becoming a member of the family.  So, what happens to the K-9s when they are no longer able to work and protect our visitors? Where do they go? Typically, the K-9s will retire with their handlers and live a life of luxury, being pampered and loved after they retire from protecting our parks. The ownership of the K-9 is transferred from the state to the handler so the K-9s can become official members of the families; although if you ask any family, the K-9s were official members from day one.  However, as dogs get older, they typically have more and more medical issues. These issues can be extremely costly. While the K-9s worked for the state, any food and veterinarian visits were covered by the state but after they retire, they no longer have this medical plan, and since they are dogs, they do not receive retirement like you and me.  In steps the California State Park Canine Foundation: This 501c3 is a nonprofit organization that helps educate the public on the benefits of police service dogs in California state parks and the surrounding communities. California State Park Canine Foundation's main mission is to provide medical assistance for retired K-9s. Along with medical care, they assist with the purchase of interpretive resources such as K-9 trading cards for K-9 teams during their career.  With monies raised throughout the year from donations and fundraising events such as the Our Promise campaign, the foundation can help with the cost of medical care and interpretive resources. The Foundation's goal is to eventually pay for all medical care for retired State Parks K-9s, but needs your help. Just log into your CalConnect account, look for the Our Promise logo in your user profile and search for the California State Park Canine Foundation. You can make a one-time donation or a small monthly contribution directly from your paycheck prior to taxes. With your help, these amazing K-9s can live healthy lives as they retire into the sunset. Learn more about Our Promise campaign in article above in the What's New section.

Trading card for K-9 Doc, who is teamed up with State Park Peace Officer Thomas Cunningham at San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area.

State Park Superintendent II Sasha Wessitsh with K-9 Ben (recently retired) at Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area. Photo from Sasha Wessitsh, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division.

Angeles District Staff Trains in Marine Protection

Story from: Ilsa Buelow, Angeles District

Left to right: State Park Peace Officers (Ranger) B. Maikai and Gina Romero, Park Interpretive Specialist Hannah Eaton, Park Interpreter Ilsa Buelow, Public Safety Superintendent Jeff Langley and Supervising State Park Peace Officer (Lifeguard) David Wilson. Photo from Calla Allison, Angeles District. 

Angeles District staff ventured to Playa Del Rey on Wednesday, September 20, for the Marine Protected Area (MPA) enforcement training. The training was hosted by the Los Angeles MPA Collaborative where the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the National Oceanic and Administrative Administration, Heal the Bay and other partners collaborated to enhance our understanding of the importance of Los Angeles' Marine Protected Areas and how to better protect them.

Thank you to everyone who could join and thank you to our MPA Collaborative for continuing to support our local MPAs.

Intergenerational Adventures at Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park

Story from: Katie Sullivan, Sierra District

Left: Adventure Risk Challenge students and their families enjoying Big Blue with Interpreter Kaytlen Jackson. Right: Out on the pier with honorary interpreter and Forestry Aide Genomé Rodriguez. 

What a wonderful summer of partnerships and collaboration this has been for Lake Tahoe Sector parks. Recently, on Sunday, September 10, at Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, we enjoyed an adventurous day with Adventure Risk Challenge (ARC), whose mission is to empower underserved youth through transformational literacy, leadership and outdoor experiences. Normally, transportation costs are a huge barrier, but they received a Route to Parks grant through Parks California that covered all transportation.

Lake Sector Interpreter I Kaytlen Jackson, Forestry Aide Genomé Rodriguez and Senior Parks Park Aide Cam Dahms for Interpretation guided participants on first-time kayak tours, hikes and discussions, in both Spanish and English. There was a lively group of teens aged 14 to 17, together with their parents and siblings, creating a positive intergenerational family experience and lifelong happy memories together.

Kaytlen commented, “This new ARC partnership was a great success. The best way to connect with Lake Tahoe is to get out on a boat, and although the water was choppy, everyone had a great time.”

Genomé noted, “Our Spanish-speaking visitors appreciated hearing information about the park and felt comfortable asking questions and learning about possible future jobs with State Parks. They felt connected to the resource and excited to learn about our Memorandum of Understanding with the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California.”

Here is to continued partnerships welcoming all visitors, particularly those not typically able to visit, explore and connect with California state parks!

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park to Offer Spooky Fun Train Rides in October

Story from: Traci Rockefeller Cusack, T-Rock Communications

Historic diesel locomotive at Railtown 1897 State Historical Park. Photo from Kelly B. Huston, California State Railroad Museum contributor.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park (SHP) and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation will offer spooky, fun excursion train rides on four Saturday evenings this fall.  The 50-minute “Skeleton Starlight” trains depart at 6 and 7:30 p.m. on October 7, 14, 21 and 28.

Pulled by a former U.S. Army diesel locomotive and staffed by a “skeleton crew,” the excursion trains will take riders on the old Sierra Railway to a spooky western ghost town, where a coven of local witches will be handing out tasty Halloween treats.

Tickets for the spirited “Skeleton Starlight” excursion train rides (which include park admission) are $35 for adults, $20 for youths ages 3-17, and children ages 2 and under are free. For these special train rides, Railtown 1897 members receive discounted admission of $30 for adults and $17 for youth. To make advance online reservations, please visit www.railtown1897.org or call (209) 984-3953 for more information.

Sierra District Hosts Tours for Strategic Planning and Recreation Services Division Leadership Team

Story from: Prasanna Hankins, Strategic Planning and Recreation Services Division

Empire Mine tour at Empire Mine State Historic Park. Photo from Jean Rhyne, Sierra District. Bottom to top: Laurel Brode (sitting on right), Denise Peterson, Jim Newland, Katie Metraux, Noelle Breitenbach, Sonya Jones, Catherine Caldwell, Jacqueline Paine, Seth Paine, Joan Fine (to right with glasses) and Alex Stehl.

The Leadership Team of the Strategic Planning and Recreation Services Division (SPRSD) had an offsite training on September 6 to 8, in Grass Valley, California. Working with Interpreter Jean Rhyne, Sierra District scheduled two tours for the SPRSD Leadership Team during their visit to the district.

On Wednesday, September 6, the team explored Empire Mine. Lead volunteer Marsha Lewis gave a tour of the restored English gardens, featuring historic varieties of roses and other botanicals. Then, docents Mick and Lee Janeway continued the tour in period attire through Bourne’s Cottage and to the mine yard, including the “Illusion” experience in the mine shaft entrance.

On Thursday, September 7, the team met Jean and docent Robert Coats for a tour of Bridgeport at South Yuba River State Park. The tour included the Bridgeport Covered Bridge, restored barn, reproduction gas station and visitor center.   

The tours were a highlight of the trip for SPRSD Leadership Team and a great way to learn more about the rich history of the parks we all work so hard to support. Sierra District was very gracious in putting these tours together for the team and their effort was much appreciated.

Bridgeport Covered Bridge at South Yuba River State Park. Photo from Jean Rhyne, Sierra District. Left to right: Catherine Caldwell, Jim Newland, Sonya Jones, Alex Stehl, Prasanna Hankins and Robert Coats.

PARTNER NEWS

Bureau of Reclamation Awards Goat Grazing Contract to Reduce Wildfire Risk

Story from: Bureau of Reclamation

A goat grazing to help reduce wildfire risk. Photo from California Department of Water Resources.

The Bureau of Reclamation recently awarded a new goat grazing contract to maintain vegetation for fuels and fire management. The contract covers over 1,700 acres within the Auburn Project Lands/Auburn State Recreation Area, Folsom-South Canal, Lake Berryessa and New Melones areas.

Work will begin this fall by contractor, Capra Environmental Services, and is expected to be complete by March 2025. 

Prior to initiating fuels reduction activities, the Bureau of Reclamation and Capra Environmental Services will coordinate project site access with fire safe councils and registered “Firewise USA” neighborhoods. The goat herds will move to different areas throughout Reclamation lands, depending on conditions and availability of resources at the sites. No recreational trail closures are expected to occur during the continuing fuels management work. 

For additional information, contact Elizabeth Dyer at (916) 537-7061 (TTY 800-877-8339) or elizabethdyer@usbr.gov.

Emotional Intelligence Pilot Training Program Comes to State Parks

Story from: Oji Life Labs 

Oji Life Labs is thrilled to announce an exciting pilot program, Oji Emotions, to help boost our emotional intelligence. As part of our commitment to excellence, a select number of State Parks employees will be chosen to participate in the breakthrough emotional intelligence (EI) training program. 

Emotions impact every facet of the human experience. Interacting with the public means we find ourselves faced with a variety of emotional scenarios: The joy and excitement felt by all ages at a campfire program, the frustration of a park visitor who finds there are no campsites available or, as our peace officers know, the stressful and tough calls that need to be made when it counts the most. The emotional rollercoaster is real.

Decades of research show that as we improve our EI, we can boost our decision-making, mental health, relationships and stress management. 

Built on two decades of research at Yale University, Oji Emotions is powered by the Oji Life Lab app and accessed through your smartphone. The best part? It is flexible and mobile. Unlike a traditional training workshop, the learning takes place on your phone with bite-sized learning steps that are only 10 minutes or less in length. We are excited to be among top organizations, like Google and Johnson & Johnson, that use this breakthrough program.

Oji Emotions is backed by science. This program is practical, actionable and supportive—not touchy-feely. We are happy to report that smart people like you found Oji Emotions to be particularly supportive of their mental health, stress management and more. We are excited to offer this program and see the ways it can improve your life both in and out of the parks.

To sign up, please go to the FOCUS course enrollment page and search for “Emotional Intelligence.” Enrollment requests will be accepted until Wednesday, October 11. For any questions, please email Sam Guida at Samantha.Guida@parks.ca.gov.  

Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods Trail Crew September Summary Report

Story from: Paul Schwarz, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods

Top left: Willow Creek addition to Sonoma Coast State Park. Volunteers Jim O'Donnell, Bob Ahders and Tom McBride make the Freezeout entry road more welcoming. Photo from Mark Anderson, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods. Top right: Chainsaw limbo, anyone? Volunteer Paul Schwarz working at Armstrong Woods State Natural Reserve. Photo from Rich Lawton, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods. Bottom right: Joe Riedel looking for trolls under the bridge at Sonoma Coast State Park. Photo from Rich Lawton, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods. Bottom left: Surprise! Another double tree failure in the closed area of Austin Creek State Recreation Area. Volunteers pictured are Bob Ahders and Paul Schwarz. Photo from Rich Lawton, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods.

September was a busy month for the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods Trail Crew. Here is a quick summary of projects we worked on throughout the month:

• Willow Creek Addition to Sonoma Coast State Park (SP), September 6: Ten volunteers met in the Freezeout Flat parking lot, restoring wide-open access on the road to the parking lot, clearing out the Full Monty Trail from its junction with Islands in the Sky Trail and making the parking lot spacious, clear and convenient for equestrians.
• Armstrong Woods State Natural Reserve, September 13: Twelve volunteers converged on the burn area, processing many log rounds into firewood to sell at Sonoma Coast SP campgrounds, clearing encroaching weeds from the burn pile space and parking area, and felling two large trees threatening safety in the burn area and the burn area access road.
• Kortum Trail, Sonoma Coast SP, September 20: Nine volunteers assembled at Carlevaro Way to finish mowing and clearing the southern section of the Kortum Trail. Two mowers cleared grass and light vegetation from Furlong Gulch to Wrights Beach. Three brush blade teams cleared coyote brush, poison oak, briars, brambles and berry bushes along most of the trail, as well as trimming back the side of the boardwalk. One team cleared willows choking the bridge South of Carlevaro Way and another cleared willows encroaching on the trail between Carlevaro Way and Furlong Gulch.
• Austin Creek State Recreation Area, September 27: Nine volunteers joined the Conservation Corps North Bay (CCNB) for clearing, fuel reduction and firewood processing at Bullfrog Pond Campground. Two oak trees had fallen across the East Ridge Trail near the junction with Armstrong Woods Road. Three CCNB and two Trail Crew members removed branches covering the trail. Other crews processed about five cords of wood to be sold at Sonoma Coast SP campgrounds and cleared blackberries and tall grasses/weeds from around the campsites and Bullfrog Pond.

Stay tuned to hear about more park projects to come!

Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.

NOW HIRING

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

Senior Park and Recreation Specialist (Tribal Affairs) – Apply by Oct. 2, 2023: Under the direction of the Cultural Resources Division Chief, this position is responsible for the administration of the Tribal Affairs Program and supervises, in addition to coordinates, an interdisciplinary team of professional staff responsible for identifying and responding to issues of sensitive and extreme importance to California Native Americans and other Indigenous communities in the analysis, development and implementation of plans and agreements. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.

Staff Services Manager II (SSM II) (Supervisory) – Apply by Oct. 4, 2023: Located at the Monterey District Office and under the supervision of the State Park Superintendent V, the SSM II is responsible for all components related to the district’s administrative staff like personnel, budgets, accounting, contracts, purchasing and ensuring staff are compliant with all rules, regulations and policies. Hours of work may vary depending on operational need, and travel throughout the district is required. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.

Environmental Services Intern – Apply by Oct. 5, 2023: The reporting location for this position will be Sue-meg State Park, however, duties will necessitate travel throughout the North Coast Redwoods District. Duties will include a variety of vegetation program functions, including invasive species control, succession management and vegetation monitoring. In addition, responsibilities include assisting with the implementation of resource restoration projects, primarily invasive plant control, but may also assist with botanical surveys, forest restoration, prescribed fire and other aspects of habitat restoration. Click here for more information.

Forestry Aide (Seasonal Aide) – Apply by Oct. 18, 2023: This position includes vegetation management, such as invasive plant removal by manual, mechanical or chemical methods. As a crew member, employees will be trained to perform chainsaw work, including the felling, limbing and bucking of trees. Completion of at least 12 semester units or 18 quarter units from a recognized accredited college or university in forestry or fire science, natural resource management, conservation or a closely related subject is required. Click here for more information.

Senior Personnel Specialist – Until filled: In this leadership role, you will act as the subject matter expert and assist in the development and training for newly hired and veteran staff. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.

State Park Interpreter I, II, III – Apply-by dates vary: There are six vacant positions located throughout the state that need someone to 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.

EXAM SPOTLIGHTS

Guide I, Historical Monument – Continuous (Oct. 15, 2023): This classification conducts tours though historical monuments, explains the historical significance of the unit and exhibits to individuals and groups, assists in preparation of tour talks by study of reference and other material, and protects buildings and exhibits against theft, damage and vandalism. Click here for more information.

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.

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: Stay positive! You may face challenges as you start your job search or career development journey. By keeping your chin up, your shoulders back and your eyes forward, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can overcome just about any of life’s setbacks. Remember these are all learning experiences you can apply new strategies to as you progress. Connect with the Parks Recruitment Team to learn what resources are available to you. 

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!

LIVE THE PARKS LIFE IN STYLE

Style time! Here are this week's tips to help spread the word about our departmentwide style guidelines:

• Special events and quotation marks: Titles of special events, such as art exhibits and touring displays, are enclosed in quotes with primary words capitalized; e.g., “Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice” comes to the Smithsonian American Art Museum next year. Names of annually recurring events are capitalized without quotes; e.g., The Polar Express Train Ride at the California State Railroad Museum returns later this year.
• farther, further: “Farther” refers to physical distance, and “further” refers to an extension of time or quantity. Examples: The library is much farther than the market. The further I get into it, the easier it seems.
• tool kit: Two words.

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. 

POSTCARDS

Auburn State Recreation Area

Auburn State Recreation Area's trail crew looking chipper as ever after a long week on the trail. Left to right: Senior Maintenance Aides Scott Schiller, Taylor Ramos, Aaron Young and Blake Hefner, and Forestry Aide Forrest Diederich.

Photo from Serena Wisnewski, Gold Fields District

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

The park is home to several black bears. Last Saturday, a mamma bear and her three cubs took a stroll through the park. It was a wonderful experience for the park visitors. As a reminder, never approach bears or cubs and always keep a safe distance. Bears are wild animals and can be unpredictable. For more information about bear safety, visit tahoebears.org.

Photos from Daniel Kendall, Central Valley District

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

A close-up of a praying mantis.

Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

An immature turkey vulture (no pink head) is spotted in the sky. 

Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

California fuchsia, which can be spotted blooming throughout the park.

Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District

Montaña de Oro State Park

A smoky skyline due to the current wildfires in the north coast part of California. Morro Rock is barely visible.

Photo from Kevin Murphy, San Luis Obispo Coast District

Carlsbad State Beach

Catching the last few moments of the sunset.

Photo from April Nurse, Human Resources 

Picacho State Recreation Area

Taking a pause to capture the beauty while grading the park unit, which usually happens to help maintain the park after a storm or heavy use from off-highway vehicles.

Photo from Mike Rose, Ocotillo Wells District

Picacho State Recreation Area

Another beautiful shot of the state recreation area along the Colorado River.

Photo from Mike Rose, Ocotillo Wells District

Sue-meg State Park

"Good night from Sue-meg State Park," says camp host Kevin Manning, who has been volunteering for State Parks for more than 10 years. He and his wife, Pauline, will return next season, ready to greet campers to the beautiful north coast.

Photo from Kevin Manning, Camp Host

Near Palomar Mountain State Park

View while leaving the park and looking toward Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. The marine layer was thick that morning. From left to right, you can see North Peak, Stonewall Peak, Middle Peak and Cuyamaca Peak.

Photo from Samantha Birdsong, Colorado Desert District

Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park

The last streaks of the sunlight stretch over the Joshua trees on Monday, September 11.

Photo from Kady Lee, Great Basin District

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Basking in the splendor of strong, resilient and patient giant sequoias.

Photo from Brooke Sheridan, Natural Resources Division

Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.

UPCOMING EVENTS

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.

Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023

• Vertigo Movie on the Plaza Lawn—San Juan Bautista State Historic Park at 8 p.m.:Fall under the spell of Alfred Hitchcock and enjoy a day devoted to his famous film. Bring lawn chairs and blankets for a free showing of Vertigo on the Plaza lawn. The movie begins at 8:00pm. Refreshments will be sold by the volunteer association. Visit filming locations throughout the state park on a guided tour beginning at 3:30 pm. Tour starts at the Plaza Hotel Museum and costs $30 per person.  

Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023

• Celebrating 100 Years— Richardson Grove State Park at noon.: Richardson Grove is celebrating 100 years as a California State Park! Join us at the Visitor Center and Day Use Area from 12 PM to 4 PM.There will be live music from Object Heavy, new exhibits, food, games, and more. This event is FREE and open to all! We'll see you there! Facebook and Instagram @humboltandrichardsonsp. For event info contact domingo@parks.ca.gov

Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023

• Volunteer Training – Monarchs and more— Natural Bridges State Beach 2 p.m.: Join our team of dedicated docents at Natural Bridges State Beach and help connect park visitors to the natural resources. As a docent you can interpret the park, lead tours, host the visitor center and monarch butterfly grove, maintain the butterfly garden and landscape, and more. For more information, please contact (831) 423-0871 or email NaturalBridges@ports-ca.us

In addition, don’t forget about these Latino Heritage Month events across the state:

• Tuesday, October 3 at 4 p.m.: Screening of the documentary “La Recua: The Mule Pack Train.” CNRA and State Parks are hosting a film screening and panel discussion at the CNRA building in Sacramento. This captivating film follows Darío Higuera Meza, a traditional saddlemaker in Baja California Sur, Mexico, as he travels 200 miles by mule pack train along Old Camino Real. The documentary thoughtfully explores the rich history of mule pack trains and their role in developing the ranching culture that has supported the Baja California peninsula for centuries. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by CNRA Secretary Wade Crowfoot that includes State Parks Director Armando Quintero, producer and director of the documentary Trudi Angell, narrator of the film Darío Higuero Meza and California State Librarian Greg Lucas. You can RSVP to the screening here.
• Saturday, October 7: Two hikes available: one at the Salton Sea SRA and the other in Los Angeles:
• 7 to 11 a.m.: Camina y platica with us at the Salton Sea SRA, where you can hear about the Salton Sea’s history and wildlife y disfruta pan dulce y un cafecito.
• 10 a.m.: Hike Portola Trail at Elysian Park in Los Angeles and learn about the Chavez Ravine community. We will start at Solano Canyon Drive parking lot, off Academy Road, and hike 2 miles, stopping at a lookout to talk about the history of Chavez Ravine, the multicultural aspect of Latinidad, then the Chavez Ravine Arboretum, and back to the lot.

You can find a list of all the events celebrating Latino Heritage Month at resources.ca.gov/LatinoHeritageMonth.

NEWS RELEASES

Sept. 26, 2023

• California State Parks and CAL FIRE to Begin Prescribed Fire Operations at Salt Point State Park on September 28

Sept. 29, 2023

• Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park Invites You to Connect with the Past at Coloma Gold Rush Live 2023

NEWS CLIPS

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.