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 November 3, 2023
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Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve
Rough-skinned newt on fallen redwood.
Photo from Karen Bearson, Acquisition and Real Property Services Division
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Honor and Celebrate Native American Heritage Month With In-Person and Virtual Events
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 This month, we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, honoring the original people who have been caring for the land of California since time immemorial. California State Parks proudly recognizes its vital connection with Native communities, working together to preserve our natural and cultural heritage.
State Parks and the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) invite you to celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a series of events throughout November that recognize the legacy of California Native Americans and to learn more about the diverse cultures, traditions and contributions of Native Americans. Below are some events you can participate in, virtually or in-person:
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Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m.: Join State Parks staff for the Sue-meg Village Tour at Sue-meg State Park. Visitors can explore the rich history of Sue-meg Village and the continuing traditions of the Yurok People. Learn more here.
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Tuesday, November 14, from noon to 1 p.m.: Join California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot for the Speaker Series program “Native Voices on Traditional Knowledge and How It Informs Advocacy.” This event will focus on how Tribal Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) plays a vital role in environmental policy and conservation practices across California. Hear from several tribe leaders on how California Native American tribes and communities use TEK to protect culturally significant species, traditional practices and the environment. See more events at CNRA’s Native American Heritage Month webpage.
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Sunday, November 19, from noon to 6 p.m.: Join the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County’s Autumn Harvest Fundraiser. State Parks staff will join the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County to celebrate and educate the community about Indigenous practices and sustainable connection through art, music, movement, meal preparation and cultural sharing. The event includes educational talks, a panel discussion, prayer and song, crafting, storytelling, hands-on activities, dinner, silent auction and more from tribal members and community partners. Tickets are available here.
For more information about Native American Heritage Month and for a full list of events happening this month, please visit State Parks’ Native American Heritage Month webpage and CNRA’s Native American Heritage Month webpage.
 Dancers during the performance of the grand opening of lipay~Tipai Kumeyaay Mut Niihepok (Land of the First People) in 2021 at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria and State Parks Formalize Partnership to Cooperate on Protection of Tribe's Ancestral Homelands
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 Top: Bear River's Wildlife Resource Coordinator Jim Bowie; State Parks Tribal Affairs Program Analyst Dena Mitchell; North Coast Redwoods District Superintendent Victor Bjelajac; Bear River Vice Chairperson Aileen Meyer; State Parks Director Armando Quintero; Bear River Chairwoman Josefina Frank; Bear River Secretary Dakota McGinnis Jr.; Bear River members-at-large John D. McGinnis, Derek Bowman and Edward "Gusto" Bowie; and North Coast Redwoods District Tribal Liaison Greg Collins. Bottom left: Director Quintero shakes hands with Chairwoman Frank after signing the MOU. Bottom right: Bear River’s Men’s Cultural Coordinator Barry Brenard opens the event with a blessing. Photos from Carmen Torres and Summer Hansen, Bear River Casino Resort.
California State Parks and the Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria (Bear River) formalized their relationship earlier this week to cooperate on the protection, preservation and interpretation of parks that lie within Bear River’s ancestral homelands in the North Coast Redwoods District of State Parks.
Bear River Chairwoman Josefina Frank and State Parks Director Armando Quintero executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during a formal signing on Monday, October 30, in Loleta, California.
“With the signing of this MOU we will continue to cooperate with one another, collaborate with one another and care for the land together as we should,” said Chairwoman Frank of the MOU.
This MOU will facilitate collaboration between Bear River and State Parks to incorporate traditional ecological knowledge into the protection of cultural and natural resources, collaborate on park interpretation and art projects, and partner together on cultural resource monitoring and protection.
To learn more, read the press release.
California State Parks Encourages Off-Highway Vehicle Enthusiasts to ‘Be the Off-Road Heroes’ During OHV Safety Week, November 11 to 19
Story from: Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division
 OHV Safety Week theme for 2023 is "Be the Off-Road Hero" by suiting up with proper safety gear and being visible while riding.
The Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division and partners are excited to celebrate the upcoming OHV Safety Week, taking place from November 11 to 19. This semiannual event promotes safe and responsible off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation across California's dedicated OHV public lands. This year’s theme is “Be the Off-Road Hero,” and OHV enthusiasts can be heroes by following safety protocols and protecting the state’s natural resources.
The OHV Safety Week provides an excellent opportunity for all riders, both experienced and newcomers, to enhance their knowledge, skills and awareness of safe OHV practices by taking safety courses and following simple rules. Training to be an Off-Road Hero starts with the following practices:
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Be Visible: Use a whip and flag, wear high-visibility clothing and practice trail etiquette.
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Suit Up: Wear a properly fitted helmet, chest protector, knee guards and all recommended safety equipment.
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Train Now for a Better Tomorrow: Take a FREE safety class, which can help you become a more experienced rider.
Several state vehicular recreation areas (SVRAs) will host free safety training classes for OHV riders. For those interested in participating in these free classes, schedules and sign-up information is available on the California Outdoor Recreation Foundation website, OutdoorRecreationFoundation.org. Check with the SVRAs for updated course schedules.
Additionally, several SVRAs will host events during the week, including:
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Hungry Valley SVRA: Interpretative staff will be providing weekend pop-up activities and roving interpretation in the campgrounds. Activities will vary per day but will include a solar telescope, helmet cut through and proper buckling, Junior Ranger programs, special safety week buttons, a remote-control obstacle course on Smith Forks Days and information on how to sign up for free safety courses. All activities below will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Oceano Dunes SVRA: Staff will host Dunes Safety Day on Saturday, November 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with activities that include safety gear demonstrations, Junior Ranger activities for kids of all ages and information on ATV safety classes held by the ATV Safety Institute. Participants can learn safety tips for driving in the dynamic dune environment. This is a free event, however there is a $5 day-use fee. Rain or severe weather conditions will cancel the event.
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Prairie City SVRA: Educational and safety awareness demonstrations will take place on November 18 and 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants can see hourly demonstrations from OHMVR Division staff and the California Highway Patrol and enjoy other family activities. Additionally, free OHV safety training classes will be offered for those who register a week prior. More information on the SVRA’s website.
For more information about the OHMVR Division, including grant opportunities, please visit ohv.parks.ca.gov.
To learn more about OHV Safety Week, read the press release.
Taking You Back in Time for Fall Photo Contest
Story from: Gabriela Orozco, Communications and Marketing Division
 We are almost halfway through fall and would like to remind you to submit your photos for the “Fallin’ Back in Time” contest. We hope that the crisp autumn leaves and cooler weather have inspired you to share a photo of anything that makes you reminisce about a favorite memory at any state park, historic building or recreational activity. The photos can also be of wildlife, plants, landscapes, artifacts, nature and fall colors—anything that evokes good memories this autumn season or takes you back to another place in time. We look forward to seeing what photos had you “Fallin' Back in Time”!
Photos for the contest can be taken at any of the 280 state parks from Sept. 23 to Dec. 5, 2023. 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 photo caption and the name of the state park where it was taken. The Communications and Marketing team will announce the top photos next month. The photos will be showcased in the Weekly Digest, as well as State Parks’ social media channels (Instagram, Facebook and X) with your photo credit.
The rules and criteria to submit photos are:
- Submit photos to the Weekly Digest email address with the subject line “Fallin’ Back in Time.”
- Photos must be taken between Sept. 23-Dec. 5, 2023.
- Photos with images of non-State Parks staff or volunteers must include a photo Visual Media Consent form (DPR 993).
- Photos can be taken at any of California’s 280 state parks or State Parks office.
- Only park employees and volunteers can submit photos.
- Photos will be judged on photo quality, uniqueness, moment captured and content.
- The top 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 (whose members 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. We look forward to seeing your impressive photos for this contest!
 Adventure of the Month
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park: Remote Treasure Between Lava and Lake
Story from: Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division
 Rock fish traps with Soldier Mountain in the background. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
When the mist rises at dawn in Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park (SP), it reveals a landscape of lakes and marshlands, tinged in orange, green and turquoise, and ringed by distant volcanoes. Located in Northern California’s Shasta County, the park consists of one of the country’s largest systems of underwater springs that feed the Fall River Valley Basin and of about 4,000 acres of basaltic lava beds extending from the Cascades. For the public, the park is accessible only by canoe or kayak from the Rat Farm boat ramp. Visitors need to bring water, food and equipment and paddle for about a mile across Horr Pond to reach a place of remote and unique beauty.
Although Ahjumawi Lava Springs SP seems like a wilderness, it has a long history of human interactions with the environment. Northern Buttes District Archaeologist Brian Walsh describes Ahjumawi as a cultural landscape that for Native populations meant food sources, trading routes for resource procurement and spiritual vision quest spots, often thousands of years old. The Indigenous Ajumawi, one of the 11 autonomous bands of the Pit River Tribe, traditionally used rock fish traps to channel and trap trout and suckerfish in shallow water that allowed the fish to be caught by spear or hand.
The park’s waterways are also the habitat of the Shasta crayfish, a state and federally endangered species.
State Park Supervising Ranger Ryan Rzab compares Ahjumawi to an island wedged between water and vast, impenetrable lava beds. This isolation has led to unique genetic variations in the park’s wildlife, like the Ahjumawi black bear population’s distinctive cinnamon-colored fur. The park is also home to deer, muskrats, mountain lions, bobcats and rattlesnakes, which adapted in color to blend with the black, sun-baked lava rocks. Yet, the only threatening encounter Ranger Ryan has had in the park seems to have involved a swarm of aggressive bees.
Ranger Ryan is one of the state park peace officers charged with protecting Ahjumawi, while also serving at busy McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial SP. His responsibilities include maintaining the park’s sites, responding to emergency situations, building and extending relationships with the Pit River Tribe, and being a wealth of information about the park’s history and natural resources. All these duties and responsibilities require huge amounts of dedication, resourcefulness and ingenuity.
The trails to the lava beds offer glimpses into another world. Yellow seeds of deerbrush and the blue berries of juniper pines add color to what would otherwise be a moonscape of black lava beds that have flowed from the Modoc Plateau’s sheet volcanoes in recent geological times. Away from the trails, mysterious rock cairns lead through the lava to connect to ancient Indigenous trade routes all the way to Mount Shasta. A bowl-shaped conical depression is all that is left of a collapsed volcano, and where fissures in the crust erupted with lava, it created spatter cones—circular heaps of hardened lava that resemble castle ruins.
Sewer-like lava tubes dot the landscape where exposed lava cooled and hardened and left a hollow tunnel behind after the lava drained. Ranger Ryan—not before checking with his flashlight for potential unhospitable occupants—guided State Parks Senior Photographer Brian Baer and me into one of the larger lava caves, where hardened lava drips from the cave’s ceiling testify to geological processes frozen in time.
While summer visitors should be prepared for hot daytime temperatures and mosquitoes at night, fall is a great time to be at Ahjumawi. Camping at one of the park’s three environmental campsites offers few amenities but has its own rewards. Awake at Ja-She Creek Campground at night, I was struck with how much noisier the park is at night, with the howling of coyotes, croaking of frogs and the cacophony of waterfowl at dawn, all accompanied by the incessant drumbeat of falling acorns. And the night sky at Ahjumawi, with the light of distant stars and galaxies, makes all concepts of remoteness and wilderness suddenly appear relative. Ahjumawi Lava Springs is a true adventure and a unique opportunity to Live the Parks Life.
 Top left: Accessing Ahjumawi by boat, with view of Mount Shasta. Photo from Kim Milruya, Communications and Marketing Division. Top right: Horr Pond at twilight. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. Bottom right: Egrets staking out their territory. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. Bottom left: Deerbrush on the lava beds. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Left: State Parks Supervising Ranger Ryan Rzab on lava beds. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. Top right: Senior Photographer Brian Baer looking for the perfect shot. Photo from Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division. Bottom right: Research Writer Andreas Agocs (left) and Ranger Ryan Rzab exploring a lava cave. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Sunset at Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Don't forget to set your clocks back one hour before going to bed on Saturday night, November 4.
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Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission Holds Final Meeting and Tour of 2023 in Sacramento Area
Story from: Kevin Murphy, Communications and Marketing Division
 OHMVR Commission meeting participants meet at Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area for tour of the park. Photos from Kevin Murphy and Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division.
Many people know Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) as the home of the Hangtown Motocross Classic, one of the most well-known amateur motorbike competitions in the United States for 55 years. The SVRA is also the popular destination for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts willing to make the pilgrimage to eastern Sacramento County.
Members of the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Commission, as well as State Parks Director Armando Quintero and OHMVR Division Deputy Director Sarah Miggins, toured the SVRA on Wednesday, October 25, in advance of their final quarterly meeting of 2023. Joining the commissioners in exploring the 836-acre park was staff from the OHMVR Division, members from several community conservation corps, Parks California, Assemblymember Josh Hoover, representatives from the offices of Assemblymember Heath Flora and State Senator Roger Niello, and members of the public.
Just one of nine SVRAs in the State Park System, Prairie City offers visitors the opportunity to recreate safely with a variety of off-highway vehicles—including all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles like recreational off-highway vehicles and utility terrain vehicles, four-wheel drive vehicles, dune buggies and motorbikes—with diverse obstacles, tracks and trails. The popularity of OHV parks, like many other outdoor facilities, has increased substantially since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, as people were looking for more ways to recreate outdoors.
A chief focus during the tour was on careers available in State Parks, targeting members of several conservation corps in attendance. At each stop along the tour, staff from Prairie City SVRA, the OHMVR Division and the Recruitment Office presented information about career opportunities in the fields of cultural resources, environmental sciences, historic preservation, law enforcement and maintenance. With the ages of participating corps members ranging from 18 to 26, many members on the tour expressed interest in gaining future employment with agencies like State Parks.
During the tour, participants were introduced to several vehicles used by State Parks staff. Off-highway vehicles used for law enforcement, maintenance and search-and-rescue operations were on display, each outfitted for use in the field. Prairie City is also home to the Environmental Training Center, used by employees of various agencies and the public to learn skills necessary to handle OHVs in many settings.
While OHV recreation may be first on the minds of most visitors, like all OHV units, Prairie City also focuses on the natural environment. Wildlife, plant life and natural features, including vernal pools, are constantly monitored by staff and volunteers. Bird species, including blue heron, killdeer, California quail and Swainson’s hawk, are visitors and residents. Various amphibians and mammals are also seen throughout the park.
Environmental staff shared the considerable efforts required to maintain a proper balance between recreational activities and the preservation of the park’s cultural and natural landscape. At one location called Oak Hill, information was given about the restoration of the area focused on preventing erosion and protecting natural resources. Similar plans are currently in place in other areas throughout the park to preserve and protect these natural resources. For example, because of strict guidelines followed by SVRAs, levels of water quality exceed requirements of other state parks.
Following the tour, the OHMVR Commission met on Thursday, October 26, in West Sacramento for its final meeting of 2023. State Parks staff provided updates on law enforcement staffing, planning efforts in SVRAs and the Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program. Stacy Gorin, executive officer for the Southern California Mountain Foundation, spoke on behalf of California Association of Local Conservation Corps, which regularly works with SVRAs, including those in attendance during the tour of Prairie City SVRA. These organizations serve youth in underserved communities through workforce engagement, education and community service.
To learn more about the OHMVR Commission and how you can participate in future tours and meetings, visit the commission’s webpage. Find more information about all nine SVRAs by visiting ohv.parks.ca.gov.
 Top left: State Parks Director Armando Quintero welcomes tour participants, including members of the Sacramento Regional Conservation Corps. Top right: At the base of three off-road obstacles, State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Cameron O’Quinn provides details about law enforcement opportunities at State Parks. Bottom right: Environmental Scientists Lora Caldwell and McKenzie Boring share efforts to restore and protect the park’s natural resources. Bottom left: Xochi Prock and Anthony Bonilla from State Parks Recruitment Office provide information about careers. Photos from Kevin Murphy and Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Top and bottom left: Marco Michel shares his story about joining the Southern California Mountain Foundation as a corps member during the OHMVR Commission meeting in West Sacramento, and after the meeting, stood for a photo with State Parks Director Armando Quintero. Top right: OHMVR Commissioners enjoyed a day to explore Prairie City SVRA, including (left to right) Tommy Randle, Kathleen “Kat” Anderson, Diane Ross-Leech, Shaun Flanigan, Roger Salazar, Edward Patrovsky and Patricia Ureña. Bottom right: Commission members pose following their last meeting of 2023. Left to right: Nicholas Mueller, Shaun Flanigan, Edward Patrovsky, Patricia Ureña, Kathleen “Kat” Anderson, Roger Salazar and Tommy Randle. Not pictured: Tom Lemmon, who attended virtually. Photos from Kevin Murphy and Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division.
North Coast Redwoods District Holds All-Hands Meeting With All Programs and Staff
Story from: Ashley Disney, North Coast Redwoods District
 All North Coast Redwoods District employees meeting on the lawn by Humboldt Bay in Eureka, California. Photo from Erin Gates, North Coast Redwoods District.
The North Coast Redwoods District held last week its first full all-hands meeting since 2020. Employees from the 22 park units across the 200-mile-long district gathered to eat, meet, greet and discuss the many challenges, projects and achievements of the past three years. From working on large-scale landscape restoration projects, signing landmark agreements with our Tribal Partners, to dealing with an earthquake-driven landslide that cut off the “Lost Coast” from major transportation corridors or rediscovering the Humboldt marten—a species thought to be extinct—our district had much to share during this meeting.
Our National Park Service partners discussed the challenges we have faced over the years and the progress we have made in strengthening our relationship. Our nonprofit associations, Redwoods Parks Conservancy and Humboldt Redwoods Interpretive Association, spoke about their support for our visitor centers, volunteer programs and many of our other projects.
District Superintendent Victor Bjelajac discussed State Parks’ Transformation initiatives over the last six years, including a Planning and Compliance program that ensures that all our projects comply with state and local laws and regulations. Our Road and Trail Restoration (RTR) crew have characterized and decommissioned many miles of roads in the Mill Creek Watershed and Southern Humboldt units to restore ecosystems to a state prior to the mass extraction of old-growth redwood timber. In addition, they work with the district’s Natural Resources program in creating large, woody structures in drainages to provide refuge for young and spawning salmonid species as well as a host of other flora and fauna.
The district has forged agreements with our Tribal partners that have created more opportunities for Indigenous people to share their culture. In 2020, the Yurok Tribe became the first tribe in California to operate a visitor center in a state park, and we have since established Memorandum of Understanding, Government to Government General Agreements and Indigenous ancestral land acknowledgements signage. We work collaboratively with the Indigenous peoples Tribes, and Indigenous organizations throughout the district, including Trinidad Rancheria, Bear River Band of Rohnerville Rancheria, Resighini Rancheria, Tolowa Dee-ni Nation, Elk Valley Tolowa, Blue Lake Rancheria, Wiyot Tribe, United Indian Health Services, the Eel River Wailaki, Native Health in Native Hands, Big Lagoon Rancheria and the Yurok Tribe.
Districtwide staffing increases have allowed our Interpretation and Education program to expand first-person and virtual interpretation programs to share California cultural and natural resources with the public and local students. Facilities and Administration highlighted the volume and complexity of maintaining our existing facilities and using all the fiscal mechanisms to procure goods, track budgets and identify additional needs.
This meeting was an opportunity to learn and share about the collective work accomplished by the North Coast Redwoods District teams, and we discovered how each of us contributes to achieving our vision and mission through our daily actions.
At the end of it all, we all enjoyed some delicious local tacos!
 Senior Environmental Scientist Amber Transou, head of Natural Resources at the district, showcasing the accomplishments of the Redwoods Rising Initiative, Wildfire Resilience Program and the many projects throughout the district. Photo from Erin Gates, North Coast Redwoods District.
Monterey District Trails Project Tour at Garrapata State Park
Story from: Thomy Tran, Monterey District
 Top left: Trail sign above the Pacific Ocean. Top right: Seacliff buckwheat shrub. Bottom left: Sunset at Garrapata State Park. Bottom right: Early stage of stone overlook structures. Staff Services Analyst Ally Hostetter, Parks Maintenance Worker I Riley Dunn, Parks Maintenance Worker I Jose Castaneda-Morales and Parks Maintenance Chief III (Acting) Jim Doran.
Monterey District Administration staff took a field trip to visit some of the many trail projects they work to support. At Garrapata State Park, visitors experience diverse landscapes and sceneries from almost any viewpoint within the park. The park offers a drastic transition from the ocean on one side and tall mountains on the other. On the ocean side, the district trails crew has been working on creating patio-like overlook structures along the coast. These structures will serve the public for a long time with little maintenance by relying on physics. The rocks are sorted, shaped, stacked and positioned to fit with each other’s shape. It is like playing Tetris, but with rocks and on the highest level.
These overlook structures will attract visitors to use designated trails to the coast rather than creating their own unsustainable paths. Well-designed trail systems help balance public access with protecting sensitive natural and cultural resources. One plant in particular, seacliff buckwheat, is a critical plant resource for the endangered Smith’s blue butterfly that State Parks works diligently to protect. The completed trail system will provide a wonderful, safe option to hike along the bluff side of the park off from State Highway 1. Safety is always important!
Sierra Gold Celebrates Volunteers at Appreciation Event at South Yuba River State Park
Story and photos from: Jeremy Lin, Sierra District
 Volunteers receive Poppy Awards for their notable service. Left to right: Interpreter I Jean Rhyne; Volunteers Mary Ann Coleman, Tad Kitada, Marsha Lewis, Judy Beck, George Sanford, Andy Berg and Robert Coats; and Sierra District Superintendent Rob Griffith.
The Sierra Gold Volunteer Appreciation event held at South Yuba River State Park (SP) on Wednesday, November 1, celebrated the invaluable contributions of dedicated volunteers at South Yuba River SP, Empire Mine State Historic Park (SHP) and Malakoff Diggins SHP. Park staff served a delicious lunch to the volunteers to recognize and appreciate the hard work and commitment of these individuals.
Sierra District Superintendent Rob Griffith and other park staff bestowed special recognition to volunteers by awarding a Golden Medallion Award, Poppy Awards and Quail Pins with hour bars. This acknowledgment highlighted the significant milestones achieved by these volunteers, demonstrating the lasting impact they have had on the parks and its visitors.
To add a touch of entertainment, the event featured a karaoke session where park staff took to the stage, showcasing their singing talents.
The Sierra Gold Volunteer Celebration was a heartfelt gesture of thanks to the volunteers who lead historical tours school groups and are active stewards of the park system. We are grateful for our volunteers who play an important role in preserving and sharing the rich heritage and natural beauty of these historic sites.
 Top left: Sierra District Superintendent II Rob Griffith presents a Poppy Award to Volunteer Robert Coats. Left to right: Interpreter I Jean Rhyne, Volunteer Robert Coats and Sierra District Superintendent II Rob Griffith. Top right: Sierra Gold Volunteers enjoy entertainment at South Yuba River State Park. Bottom right: Sierra District Chief Ranger Dan Youngren and State Park Ranger James Carey sing karaoke as part of the appreciation entertainment for volunteers. Bottom left: Park staff serve lunch to Sierra Gold Volunteers.
Día de Los Muertos in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: Art, Community and Celebration
Story from: Alexandra Latona, San Diego Coast District
 Sander Van de Bor’s LED monarch butterflies light up the Robinson Rose Visitor Center. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
Over 6,000 visitors joined California State Parks on October 28 and 29 in celebrating the tradition of Día de Los Muertos. Throughout the weekend, visitors explored the park’s museums to see altares de Muertos (altars of the dead) celebrating influential Old Town citizens, participated in hands-on art such as creating traditional seed art, papel picado and sugar skulls. Visitors were encouraged to add their lost loved ones to the community altar located in the Plaza de Armas—right in the heart of the park.
During the two-day event, five community artists demonstrated their craft in the park as part of the Arts in California Parks initiative. Muralists Isabel García, Belen Islas and Juliet Elise Rodriguez created mini murals depicting the various aspects of the Día de Los Muertos tradition as well as depicting the Old Town community. Chalk artist Katie Bush brought to life the vision of a young woman dressed as a catrina, the iconic image now associated with this tradition. Stockton-based artist Sander van de Bor blended light, technology and art in his installation of light-up, moving monarch butterflies—an iconic and traditional symbol of Día de Los Muertos—which were hung from the Old Town San Diego Visitor Center.
On Saturday evening, the San Diego Public Library and California State Parks hosted the first-ever movie night in the park featuring Disney Pixar’s “Coco.” Over 100 families enjoyed the film celebrating this tradition while they enjoyed hot cocoa.
This event was the pilot project for the Arts in California Parks program, which is a partnership between the State Parks, the California Arts Council and Parks California.
 Left: Hundreds of sentiments were left for loved ones at the community altar. Top right: San Diego chalk artist Katie Bush brings her young Día de Los Muertos catrina to life. Bottom right: The community altar celebrated Old Town San Diego citizens, including the late Abel Silvas, who passed away this year and was a larger-than-life figure in the Old Town community and was a descendant of the prominent Silvas family in Old Town San Diego. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
Halloween Celebration at Point Mugu State Park
Story from: Ilsa Buelow, Angeles District
 Halloween wonderland at the park. Top left (left to right): State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) (Lifeguard) Gabe DelCastillo, K-9 Argo, SPPO (Ranger) David Gunn, SPPO (Ranger) B. Maikai and SPPO (Ranger) Daniel Allen. Photo from Ilsa Buelow, Angeles District. Right: State Park Interpreter Ilsa Buelow running the State Parks bingo game. Photo from Hannah Eaton, Angeles District. Bottom: Mini-pumpkin display. Photo from Ilsa Buelow, Angeles District.
If you had an adventurous spirit, the Nature Center at Point Mugu State Park served up an eerie introduction to some of our local wildlife. The center's taxidermy animals, dressed up in their Halloween best, revealed their elusive natures to delight trick-or-treaters.
For those feeling a bit artsy, an outdoor coloring table awaited coloring enthusiasts. Creative sparks continued to fly during our paint-a-pumpkin event, when our State Parks rangers made the day even more special by meeting and greeting visitors while getting their hands dirty painting pumpkins.
But the true heart-pounding excitement happened in our "State Parks bingo hall," where animal facts served as clues to mark off bingo cards on a wild adventure. Winners strutted away with an assortment of “spook-tacular” prizes, all thanks to our fantastic partners, the Santa Monica Mountains Natural History Association.
With over 100 participants joining in the day's activities, we are already counting down the days until next year's Halloween extravaganza. Thank you to our partners for funding such a fun day and to our incredible park staff and rangers for helping facilitate the fun. We cannot wait to see everyone next year!
 Halloween celebration at Point Mugu State Park. Photos from Ilsa Buelow, Angeles District.
Diablo Range District Ties for First Place at
Trunk-or-Treat Event in Livermore
Story from: April Marson and Jeremy Olson, Diablo Range District
 Trick-or-treaters making their way to Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area’s Camp Ghost Rider at Livermore Police Department’s Trunk-or-Treat event. Photo from Crystal Meleen, Diablo Range District.
This past summer, I challenged the Altamont Sector Team to find ways we could become involved in our local communities. Recently, we came across the perfect opportunity.
On the afternoon of Saturday, October 21, I received a text message from Supervising Ranger Jeremy Olson, letting me know he had just seen a Facebook post for the Livermore Police Department’s Trunk-or-Treat event that was going to be held on Wednesday, October 25, at the Livermore Civic Center parking lot. He inquired if we could participate in the event; later that afternoon, he received confirmation that we could.
With a busy weekend still to contend with, the visitor services team only had Monday and Tuesday to gather decorations, supplies and team members to make this event happen. On Monday morning, I put out a call for candy donations, as the event was expected to draw over 3,000 kids. On Wednesday, with help from our interpretive and district teams, we were ready to go with our Camp Ghost Rider entry.
Within 48 hours, the visitor services team came up with a booth theme, displays and treats for all the eager children. In the end, an estimated 3,000 children attended the event with more than 25 city, county and state vehicles decorated for their enjoyment.
A friendly competition for the best booth, as voted on by the public, came down to a tie between the Livermore Police Department’s Barbie theme and Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area’s Camp Ghost Rider theme. The prize was a trophy and bragging rights for next year. If we can tie for first place on such short notice, imagine what we can do with 366 days of planning.
I am more than proud of this team. I am the coach calling plays on the sidelines, and they are out there making my visions a reality and pulling off Hail Mary plays.
 Left: Ranger Barbie, aka State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) (Ranger) Kary Tyler-Davis, posing inside of a life-size Barbie box. Right: SPPO (Ranger) Mary Hazel and Park Aide Garrison Cable roasting marshmallows over a ghost fire. Photos from Crystal Meleen, Diablo Range District.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Wins 2023 Operation Dry Water Award
Story from: Zach Mundy, Joanna Andrade and Maria Perez-Allen, Division of Boating and Waterways
 Deputy William Poe receiving the NASBLA Operation Dry Water Western Region Law Enforcement Award on behalf of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Photo from Taylor Matsko, National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department was awarded the Operation Dry Water Western Region Law Enforcement Award during the 2023 National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) annual conference on September 21, in Denver. The department was rewarded for their efforts and participation in the 2023 Operation Dry Water (ODW) campaign.
ODW is a nationwide year-round boating under the influence awareness and enforcement campaign with heightened awareness and enforcement over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. The Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) recognizes that alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Through outreach and education, the division works with partners like San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department to educate California boaters on the impact of operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs to reduce the number of fatal accidents.
Over the course of the 2023 ODW weekend, San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department deployed six officers who made nine boating under the influence arrests. They also performed additional safety checks to ensure everyone on board had a personal floatation device, a valid fire extinguisher, a throwable personal floatation device and if applicable, the operator had their California Boater Card as required by law.
DBW in partnership with San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and Colorado River Station's Marine Enforcement unit is dedicated to the detection and deterrence of boating under the influence during ODW and throughout the boating season.
Congratulations to San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department for its efforts in the 2023 ODW campaign.
DBW thanks all 44 of our partnering agencies for their participation in ODW and encourages future participation in this campaign. DBW looks forward to ODW participation for 2024 (July 4-6, 2024). If you are interested in participating in this great event next season, please click here to go to NASBLA’s ODW 2024 campaign website.
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
 The Weekly Digest will not have an edition on Friday, November 10, but will return on Friday, November 17.
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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
Park Maintenance Worker I (Permanent Intermittent) – Apply by Nov. 6, 2023: As the Park Maintenance Worker I, you will provide daily support to California Conservation Corps and American Conservation Experience crews in project implementation, which includes trail and road construction, maintenance and resource activities. Click here for more information.
Park Maintenance Worker II – Apply by Nov. 9, 2023: The Park Maintenance Worker II will perform skilled structural and facility maintenance and repair work throughout the sector on a wide variety of park facilities, including buildings, systems, grounds, roads and trails. Click here for more information.
Staff Services Manager I – Apply by Nov. 15, 2023: The Staff Services Manager I, Transactions (Payroll and Benefits) Manager will serve as a full working supervisor, planning, organizing and directing the activities of the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Transactions (Payroll and Benefits) Unit. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.
Associate State Archaeologist – Apply Nov. 30, 2023: This position is responsible for identification, scope and oversight of remediation of impacts to cultural resources in districts affected by illegal cultivation activity. The Associate State Archaeologist works as a member of a multidisciplinary team to identify impacts, effects and treatments to cultural resources within and in proximity of identified cannabis grow areas. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.
State Park Peace Officer Supervisor (Lifeguard) – Apply by Dec. 1, 2023: Located in the Ventura Sector Office, this position reports to the State Park Superintendent II. The duties of this position include aquatic response; patrol for the protection of visitors, employees and park resources; interpretation; and public assistance. This is a supervisory position that provides leadership and guidance for seasonal personnel and oversight over the Junior Lifeguard program by working with the State Park Interpreter II, who coordinates the program. Click here for more information. Click here to take the assessment.
State Park Interpreter I, II, III – Apply-by dates vary: There are many 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
Museum Director – Apply by Nov. 7, 2023: The State Parks Museum Director implements and directs programs and activities of a California state park museum. In this role, the Museum Director will develop working relationships with the public sector to secure outside support for the museum and its programs. As a leader, you will develop and implement long-range planning for the development and enhancement of the museum and its programs. Click here for more information.
Chief, Office of Acquisition and Real Property Services CEA – Apply by Nov. 27, 2023: This classification is responsible for planning, evaluating and implementing the department's land acquisition and disposal programs and for providing real property policy, oversight and services for the State Park System. Provides direct supervision of the survey crews and land/right-of-way agents. Click here for more information.
Park and Recreation Specialist – Continuous: This classification performs collection, evaluation, summarization and analysis of outdoor recreation data from a variety of sources to identify recreational trends, existing outdoor recreational facilities, needs and deficiencies; and preparation of a variety of written plans and reports, including recommendations to establish priorities. Click here for more information.
Restoration Work Specialist – Continuous (Nov. 15, 2023): If you like carpentry, masonry and other tasks in connection with the restoration, preservation and stabilization of historic buildings and sites by checking on shoring and bracing for new foundations under old brick, adobe and wood frame buildings, then you are in luck, as the exam is right around the corner. Click here for more information.
EMPLOYMENT TIP: Networking is key! Attend industry events such as conferences, seminars and workshops to meet like-minded professionals. Utilize social media and engage on platforms like LinkedIn to build your network. Join professional organizations or seek memberships in industry-specific groups that can facilitate valuable connections. Remember that effective networking is an ongoing process, and nurturing relationships is key to long-term success.
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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Veterans Day: “Veterans Day” with no apostrophe. Celebrated each year on November 11 and observed as a legal holiday in the U.S. to honor the veterans of the armed forces.
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daylight saving time: Note that there is no “s” in “saving.”
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multiuse: Do not hyphenate.
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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 Santa Cruz District
Santa Cruz District staff, State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Jackie Jurek and Seasonal Lifeguard Aidan Malmberg represented State Parks at the annual Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office Trunk or Treat event. The turnout was amazing and fun was had by all. A big thanks to Jackie and Aidan for their enthusiasm and outreach with the kids and the community.
Photo from Gabe McKenna, Santa Cruz District
 Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
San Diego Coast District Superintendent Nicole Van Doren (middle), along with Shawn Feuerstein (left) and Nikki Simmons from a gift store in the park, judge the Día de Los Muertos contest on Saturday, October 28.
Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division
 Bodega Bay
State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Luna (left) and Sergeant Nealy participated in Bodega Bay's second annual Trunk-or-Treat event.
Photo from T. Nealy, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
 Sacramento, California
Halloween had some wearing costumes at the California Natural Resources Headquarters Building. Top (left to right): Barbara Baker, Thina Nguyen, Melinda Steinert and Billy Spearing, all from the Office of Community Involvement. Bottom left (left to right): Kevin Murphy, Doug Johnson and Jorge Moreno, all from the Communications and Marketing Division. Bottom right (left to right): Adrianne Tillis, from Park Operations, and Sasha Tokas and Renee Hamlin, both from the Partnerships Division.
Photos from Brittani Peterson, Communications and Marketing Division
 Ocotillo Wells District
Left: Sgt. Luke Ware inspects the Ocotillo Wells District state park peace officers (SPPOs) during the Class A Inspection outside the Ranger Station at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area; left to right: Jeremy Black, Caroline Obayashi, Brandon Champieux, Derek Donaldson, Sgt. Ware (conducting inspection), Erin Kothlow and Tim Schulte. Right: Sgt. Ware conducts Class A Uniform Inspection of SPPO Erin Kothlow; left to right: Erin Kothlow, Sgt. Ware (conducting inspection), Tim Schulte and Colin Bliese.
Photos from Andrew Ahlberg, Ocotillo Wells District
 Castle Crags State Park
Collaborative planning site visit for the Castle Crags State Park Cornerstone Document with staff from Northern Buttes District, Strategic Planning and Recreation Services Division and project consultant PlaceWorks. Photo at top right shows springs from the old Castle Rock Mineral Springs Bottling Works that used to occupy part of the Riverside Campground in the 1890s.
Photos from Jason Finley, Strategic Planning and Recreation Services Division, and Shawnee Rose, Northern Buttes District
 Columbia State Historic Park
Central Valley District held confined space training for the district’s maintenance staff in Eagle Cotage—not a typo, that is how they spelled it in the 1850s. The class was well attended, and the team came away with a better understanding of types of confined space and California Occupational Safety and Health Act requirements.
Photo from Peter Stewart, Central Valley District
 Southern Communications Center
Southern Communications Center (SURCOM) really got into the Halloween spirit with a visit from the Pink Ladies and a T-Bird! Communications Operators (left to right) Araceli Ceja, Teresa Meras, Joy Budnovich, Kerry Sue Knollin, Lytonia Joyner, Luis Bonola and Nicole Koller.
SURCOM and the Northern Communications Center are hiring and accepting applications for the communications operator and communications supervisor exams today. Click here for more information.
Photo from Luis Bonola, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 Auburn State Recreation Area
Pumpkins light up the park's sign after the annual chili cook-off and pumpkin carving party.
Photo from Joseph Shanahan, Gold Fields District
 Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park
A view from around 2.5 miles southeast of museum, facing north toward Rocky Buttes. Fall colors in our desert. Most of the orange and red is made up of prickly Russian thistle.
Photo from Luis Suero, Great Basin District
 Saddleback Butte State Park
Near the park, the ragweed and thistle that covered the valley floor with lush greenery (and allergy-inducing pollen) a couple weeks ago are beginning to dry up. Red, yellow and tan colors are overtaking green in some areas of vegetation. In certain spots, however, verdure remains. Redstem stork's bill and desert sand verbena are both blooming with small purple flowers.
Left: Lacy Phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia, Kawaiisu: yuhŵit ̶ib ̶i) in the foreground and Saddleback Butte, shaded by morning sun from the east, in the background. Right: Prickly Russian thistle (Salsola tragus). This may be a nasty year for tumbleweeds as Prickly Russian thistle continues to dry across the valley. Their "tumble" is a seed dispersal method.
Photos from Luis Suero, Great Basin District
 McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Fall colors showing at Burney Falls and along Lake Britton. I thought I would share two of my favorite autumn quotes:
“Autumn is a second spring where every leaf is a flower.” —Albert Camus
"Autumn whispered to the wind, 'I fall; but always rise again.'” —Angie Welfland-Crosby
Photos from Taneya Sperling, Northern Buttes District
 Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park
Sand verbena showing an unusual fall bloom.
Photo from Matthew Williams, Great Basin District
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve
Some of the tallest redwoods in the park.
Photo from Karen Bearson, Acquisition and Real Property Services Division
 San Onofre State Beach
A view of the moon over Trestles Nature Preserve.
Photo from Sean Wheeler, Orange Coast District
 Silver Strand State Beach
Tower 9 at high tide on Saturday, October 28, with an egret.
Photo from Kevin "The Big Stink" Smith, San Diego Coast District
 Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
A rainy morning over the Tejon Pass.
Photo from Doug Johnson, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Hunter’s moon shining on Folsom Lake, with Jupiter dazzling below.
Photo from Ilana Briggs, Gold Fields District
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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Here are some State Parks events happening this weekend and next week. For a list of more upcoming events, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/events.
Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023
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Turkey Tractor Fest—Bolsa Chica State Beach at 11 a.m.: Join Bolsa Chica State Beach (SB) for a day of tractors, birds and giving back to the beach. Litter Getter beach cleanup during the event. Pick up a bag to head out on a beach cleanup. When you return, receive a raffle ticket to enter the drawing for a free Thanksgiving frozen turkey. Activities include fall photo opportunities with the turkey tractor till 2 p.m., State Parks heavy equipment car show, learning about the birds at Bolsa Chica SB, crafts, games, contests, raffle and food. 11 a.m-3 p.m. at Beach City Provisions, Bolsa Chica State Beach. Admission is free.
Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023
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Teacher Symposium at the Santa Cruz Mission—Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park at 9 a.m.: By registration only. K-12 educators are invited to join us to learn about California mission history and gain insight on how to approach this difficult topic with classes. Educators will be led through the Santa Cruz Mission Field Trip experience, be introduced to teaching resources, come together to develop lesson plans using the 5E Lesson method and get a chance to ask questions of our interpreters on how to manage this complex topic. This symposium will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Limited spaces are available; to register, please fill out the form at tinyurl.com/SCMSHPSymposium. For questions, call (831) 425-5849 or send an email to santacruzmission@ports-ca.us.
Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023
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Will Rogers’ 144th Birthday Celebration—Will Rogers State Historic Park at 11 a.m.: Come for cake, roping lessons and “Will Rogers for President” button-making from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. We will also be counting down for the 100th anniversary of Route 66, also known as the Will Rogers highway, featuring classic cars and music—get your kicks on Route 66!
In addition, please take note of the following Native American Heritage Month events at state parks:
Friday, Nov. 3, and Friday, Nov. 17, 2023
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Beads, Beaches and Balance—Sue-meg State Park at 2:30 p.m.: At Palmer’s Point Day-Use Area, join Interpreter Maiya for Yurok storytelling while creating an abalone and dentalium craft to take home. Staff will be doing two 15-minute rotations in one hour, and seating and crafting material are limited.
 Saturdays and Sundays
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Sue-meg Village Tour—Sue-meg State Park at 2 p.m. : At Sue-meg Visitor Center explore the rich history of Sue-meg Village and the continuing of traditions of the Yurok People. All programs are free and open to the public and last about one hour. The tour is available weather permitting.
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Oct. 30, 2023
Oct. 31, 2023
Nov. 1, 2023
Nov. 3, 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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