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 April 12, 2024
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 Donner Memorial State Park
Image of the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. The next total solar eclipse visible from the lower 48 United States will not happen until Aug. 22, 2044, but totality will only be visible in Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Just a year later, there will be another total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2045, where totality will be visible from Northern California to Florida. Time to start planning!
Photo from Rich Adams, Sierra District
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Celebrate Third Annual California State Parks Week: June 12-16
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 California State Parks, Save the Redwoods League, Parks California, and California State Parks Foundation are excited to invite visitors from around the world to celebrate the third annual California State Parks Week, June 12-16. With more than 200 events, this year's State Parks Week has the theme “This is where you live,” reminding all that these public lands are there for everyone to visit and enjoy.
Through special in-person community events and virtual programming, this weeklong event celebrates California’s 280 state parks and the people who visit and help protect these iconic places.
“The third annual State Parks Week celebrates the diverse natural and cultural heritage preserved within California's 280 state parks,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “This week also reminds Californians that ‘This is where you live.’ All Californians deserve to enjoy these public outdoor spaces. There are many ways to explore them, including with free park passes for select state parks. Welcome – Bienvenidos – 欢迎 – Maligayang pagdating.”
A complete list of the week’s events and how to participate is available at CAStateParksWeek.org.
This year’s themed days:
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Wednesday, June 12: Explore New Experiences. From epic beach days to the magic of ancient redwood forests, there is so much to see, do, and experience in California’s incredible state parks. California State Parks Week is your invitation to explore an activity that you just might fall in love with. View all events.
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Thursday, June 13: Nourish Your Health and Well-Being. There is a reason why playing outside, having a barbecue or picnic, or taking a walk in the open air feels so good. Studies have shown that time in nature can boost people’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Everyone should have access to these benefits. California’s state parks give us all places where we can find refuge, inspiration, and joy. When we connect with nature, we are connecting with ourselves and boosting our overall health. View all events.
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Friday, June 14: Support Climate Resilience. Forests, oceans, grasslands, and other ecosystems throughout California’s public lands store huge amounts of carbon, making them powerful tools in adapting to climate change. That is one of the reasons why it is critical that all of us protect lands and waters. Learn about and support efforts by California State Parks and partner organizations to ensure climate resilience—from expanding protected lands in state parks and restoring forests to engaging in educational dialogue about climate threats and solutions. View all events.
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Saturday, June 15: Celebrate Community and Culture. California’s state parks are for all people. We reaffirm this truth by elevating the perspectives and experiences of communities that have been historically underrepresented in public lands. On this day and every day, we honor Black, Indigenous, and communities of color and the many ways these communities care for, relate with, and enjoy our shared parks. Join us for celebrations and cultural events statewide. View all events.
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Sunday, June 16: Care for Our Shared Lands. It takes our full community to care for public lands. Partners and volunteers are vital to keeping California’s state park system healthy, beautiful, and rich in biodiversity. Discover how you can get involved in efforts to protect and steward California’s state parks as a volunteer, a partner, or one of many other roles. View all events.
Choose your adventure at CAStateParksWeek.org and be sure to RSVP if the event requests an advanced sign-up. Help us spread the word about California State Parks Week by posting about it on social media. Use the hashtag #CAStateParksWeek and share the events with your friends and families, and feel free to use the premade graphics below.
Read the full press release here.
 Photos form 2023 California State Parks Week events. Top left: Bird-watching at Malibu Lagoon State Beach. Top right: Participants hiking at Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Bottom right: Staff and visitors enjoy breaking a piñata at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area. Bottom left: A young participant learns about pollinators at Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. Photos from California State Parks.
California State Parks, California Arts Council, and Parks California Launch New Grant Program to Fund Art Installations and Programming in Local Community Parks Across California
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
California State Parks, the California Arts Council, and Parks California announced on Friday, April 12, the launch of a new Arts in California Parks grants program—the Local Parks Grant Program. A total of $8 million in grants is available to local nonprofit and community organizations to support art and cultural programs in local communities across the state.
The Local Parks Grant Program is one of two distinct programs of the Arts in California Parks program, which was jointly announced last year by the three partners. The launch makes the grant program available for the first time, with two additional cycles planned for 2025 and 2026, for a total of three funding cycles. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations, California Native American tribes, Native 7871 organizations, land trusts, fiscally sponsored community organizations, foundations, and government agencies (city, county, regional).
The Local Parks Grant Program, managed by Parks California, intends to create local community connections to California’s rich and diverse cultural history and natural areas outside of California’s state park boundaries. Eligible projects will enhance connections to local cultural history, parks, open space, and natural areas through community events, programming, and installations that help build sustainable community connections, health, and well-being.
California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Speaker Series Presents Discussion on Climate Stewardship
Story from: California Natural Resources Agency
 Join the Secretary Speaker Series program, a conversation with author Adina Merenlender on Friday, April 19, noon to 1 p.m., to discuss her book “Climate Stewardship: Taking Collective Action to Protect California.”
Click here to register for the virtual event.
 ADVENTURE OF THE MONTH
Clear Lake State Park: Visit California’s Largest, Oldest Natural Lake to Get Away From It All
Story from: Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division
 Clear Lake, California's largest natural lake, lies within a volcanic field that includes Mount Konocti. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
For many visitors camping at Clear Lake’s shores, the park’s defining quality is its serenity, but the lake has many more defining features beyond that characterization. With an area of 68 square miles and 100 miles of shoreline, Clear Lake is the largest natural lake entirely within California (Lake Tahoe has a larger area but lies partially in Nevada). Set on a volcanic field and fed by several inflowing creeks, it is also California’s—and possibly North America’s—oldest lake, with an age of at least half a million years. The Clear Lake region has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, and today Clear Lake State Park (SP), with 330 acres that border the lake’s southwestern shore, provides a wealth of recreational opportunities in a tranquil and beautiful setting.
Archaeological evidence, some of it from nearby Anderson Marsh State Historic Park, suggests the Clear Lake region has been occupied by humans since for at least 14,000 years. Northern Buttes District Associate State Archaeologist Brian Walsh pointed out that with its abundance of fish and waterfowl, the lake was a center of Native American obsidian trade. Traditional lifeways were greatly disrupted during California’s early statehood period, when the Clear Lake region became a site of anti-Native American violence and dislocation. Today, State Parks is expanding its cooperation with the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians in the stewardship of the park’s resources, including the monitoring of its hitch population, a species of significant cultural significance for the tribe.
Clear Lake SP offers hiking, biking, and swimming with a view of Mount Konocti, the 4,305-foot-high volcano overlooking the lake from its southern shore. Visitors can reserve stays at four developed campgrounds or eight lakeside cabins. Boats can be launched from the park’s marina and boat ramp on the west bank of Cole Creek, just north of the visitor center.
“The story of the park,” said State Park Supervising Ranger Chris Glenn, “is people come out here to fish and get away from the city.” The lake is consistently ranked at the top of North American destinations for bass fishing, and its regular bass tournaments are an important revenue source for rural Lake County. Visitors at all times of the year can be spotted fishing at the shore and on boats. Tami Kinman and her family make the trip from the Bay Area to Clear Lake SP several times a year to bike, camp, and fish for bass, crappie, and bluegill. Tami loves the park’s location, its safe, family-friendly atmosphere, and clean facilities—and the opportunity teach their daughter Lily how to fish for bluegill and crappies.
Non-native large- and smallmouth bass and other fish species that make up the park’s attraction were introduced to the lake in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and found a perfect habitat in the lake’s shallow waters. Today, State Parks is carefully balancing the recreational value of the non-native fish with the protection of the lake’s endangered native fish, the Clear Lake hitch (Lavinia exilicauda). Northern Buttes District Senior Environmental Scientist Ryan Martin explains that the park is monitoring the lake’s hitch population and has future plans for projects to remove aquatic weeds and barriers to help the fish’s migration upstream, especially during the drought conditions in recent years that left parts of the lake’s shores and beaches dry.
Accompanying Lifeguard Nick Dobusch on his daily patrol-boat ride provided me with an overview of the lake’s diverse habitats—from the craggy shoreline of Dorn Cove in the south to the marsh landscape in the north. Like its human visitors, raptors and waterfowl are attracted to the lake’s abundant fish. The lake and its surrounding marshes and creeks teem with birdlife, including wood ducks, American coots, grebes, and pelicans. A pair of ospreys seemingly rule the park from their nest on a pole just outside the visitor center. Also, at least half a dozen great blue heron families have made the oak and cottonwood trees along Kelsey Creek a rookery for their offspring.
With its moderate temperatures, high water levels, and blooming redbuds decorating its shores, spring is a perfect time to visit Clear Lake SP, especially since the season is also considered the best for bass fishing. But even if the bass don’t bite or for visitors not into fishing, Clear Lake is a place to relax and get away from it all.
Editor’s note: State Parks this week announced the department is developing a comprehensive plan for the future of Clear Lake SP. To learn more, view our press release.
 Top: Scenic Kelsey Slough is a popular fishing spot. Bottom left: Visitor Lily Kinman caught a crappie while parents, Therin and Tami, look on. Center right: Bluegill are one of the fish introduced to the lake a century ago. Bottom right: A bass in the fishtank at the park's visitor center. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Clockwise from top: An osprey patrolling the park. A pair of ospreys mate at this nest by Cole Creek. Great blue herons established their rookery by Kelsey Creek. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Clockwise from top: A peaceful moment on the lake. Grebes (center right) and white pelicans (bottom right) feel at home on California's largest natural lake. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. Senior Photographer Brian Baer and Lifeguard Nick Dobusch on the state park patrol boat. Photo from Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division.
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State Park and Recreation Commission to Tour Alameda-Tesla Property
Story from: Kevin Murphy, Communications and Marketing Division
 The public is invited to participate in a tour of the Alameda-Tesla property in Livermore with the State Park and Recreation Commission. Commissioners will meet at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 17, to explore the property to consider a name and state park classification in the future. Those attending will be expected to drive their own vehicles to the different locations on the tour. Because of the rough nature of the property’s dirt roads, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.
The tour is expected to last approximately three to four hours. Participants should consider wearing appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for the walking portions of the tour. Comfortable hiking boots or running shoes, jackets, and hats are recommended.
Please note: There will not be time during this tour for the commissioners to take public comment, and there is no meeting scheduled with this tour.
While it is not required, an RSVP is highly encouraged so that an estimated attendance can be recorded. Participants who do not RSVP are still permitted to attend the tour.
For more information, please visit the Public Notices webpage. For more information about the future of the Alameda-Tesla property, please visit alamedateslaplan.com
California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission to Tour Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area
Story from: Kevin Murphy, Communications and Marketing Division
 The California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission will meet at Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17. Commissioners will be touring the state vehicular recreation area in consideration of an update to its general plan later this year. The tour is open to the public and will begin at the main park entrance. The tour is expected to last approximately 3.5 hours.
Participants are asked to bring their own water, layered clothing, and footwear suitable for walking over uneven terrain. Those attending are encouraged to RSVP online or by calling (916) 902-8598 to ensure that attendance can be accurately recorded.
For more information about the tour, please visit the Public Notices webpage.
Crystal Cove Welcomes California's Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot for Spring Visit
Story from: Kate Wheeler and Michelle Figueroa, Orange Coast District
 Top left: California Natural Resources Agency Wade Crowfoot and Orange Coast District Superintendent Kevin Pearsall explore the waves off the coast of Crystal Cove SP on one of the district's Surfwatch vessels. Top right: Crystal Cove Conservancy President and CEO Kate Wheeler and Secretary Crowfoot speak to a crowd of visitors about the preservation and history of California's natural resources at the Cove Talk held on Wednesday, April 3. Photos from Kevin Pearsall, Orange Coast District. Bottom (left to right): Secretary Crowfoot, Crystal Cove Conservancy Chief Operating Officer Austin Barrow, Superintendent Kevin Pearsall, and Conservancy CEO Kate Wheeler. Photo from Crystal Cove Conservancy.
The Orange Coast District and the Crystal Cove Conservancy were thrilled to greet California’s Secretary of Natural Resources Wade Crowfoot at Crystal Cove State Park (SP) last week.
During his visit, Secretary Crowfoot experienced the best that Crystal Cove SP has to offer, from boogie boarding to exploring the tide pools with Interpreter Winter Bonnin and touring the Historic District and the ongoing restoration of the North Beach cottages. The secretary was also invited to explore the coast from the water on one of Orange Coast’s Surfwatch vessels. Accompanied by District Superintendent Kevin Pearsall and State Park Peace Officer (Lifeguard) Gage Fisher, the group sailed around the beaches of Orange County, highlighting major points of interest and spotlighting the district’s robust aquatic safety program.
Additionally, Conservancy supporters from around Orange County had the opportunity to join Crystal Cove Conservancy for a Cove Talk with Secretary Crowfoot and Conservancy President and CEO Kate Wheeler on Wednesday, April 3. Together, they discussed the challenges of managing California’s natural resources; the importance of preserving nature, history, and culture; and how people can come together to solve challenges facing natural lands.
Secretary Crowfoot oversees an agency that employs more than 25,000 people spread across 26 departments, commissions, and conservancies. His agency is charged with stewarding California’s forests and natural lands, rivers and water supplies, and coast and ocean. It also protects natural places, wildlife, and biodiversity, and helps oversee the state’s world-leading clean energy transition.
For more information about Secretary Crowfoot and the California Natural Resources Agency, visit Resources.ca.gov.
State Parks Communications Centers Continue Their Life-Saving Work Ahead of Appreciation Week
Story from: Doug Johnson, Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 Goings-on at SURCOM. Top Left: Monica Aguilar, dispatcher clerk. Top right: The SURCOM at Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Bottom left: Kerry Knollin, communications operator. Bottom right: Superintendent II Jacob Pflepsen discusses the communications center's coverage area.
National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is April 14-20. During this celebration week, we pay tribute to the important work State Parks communications operators do. Operators at both the Southern Communications Center (SURCOM) at Lake Perris State Recreation Area, in Perris, and the Northern Communications Center (NORCOM) at Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area, in Rancho Cordova, have been keeping busy.
Unlike dispatchers at most communication centers, which often only cover a single city or county, SURCOM covers 15 counties in the southern third of the state and NORCOM covers 43 counties in the northern two-thirds.
“Most of the local agencies, they have a square perimeter so it’s easier … but for us, because it’s basically all of Southern California, you have to learn totally different places,” said Lytonia Joyner, SURCOM communications supervisor. “Even when you know the specific park, there’s still places no one has ever gone before.”
While NORCOM deals with more square miles, SURCOM has an area with a larger population. But both communications centers, operated by the Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division, are ensuring adequate coverage across the state.
“Sometimes NORCOM gets calls that should end up at SURCOM and vice versa, so we’re constantly talking and transferring calls to each other,” said Natasha Gilchrist, State Parks superintendent II at SURCOM.
Both centers relay urgent emergency information from scores of local fire, emergency medical services, and law enforcement agencies to rangers and lifeguards across the 280 state parks, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Adding to the challenge is dispatching for areas far from populated cities with limited information, so State Parks communications operators work closely with allied agencies and callers to ensure a coordinated public safety response.
“(State Parks dispatchers) are hardworking. They work 10 hours a day, five days a week,” said Joyner.
To help train more employees, SURCOM and NORCOM have both started to use dispatcher clerk positions. These operators handle less critical calls, such as wildlife tips, to free up communications operators for emergency calls.
“They get the pertinent information and transfer it to the appropriate communications operator,” said Gilchrist. “They’ve been a huge help; currently we have four dispatcher clerks, with two more starting soon. Soon, all four dispatcher clerks will be in the hiring process for communications operator.”
NORCOM and SURCOM also dispatch for California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers (fish and game wardens), who often patrol alone in remote, rugged areas far from state park property or backup. Many of those calls are generated from CalTIP, a hotline set up to report poaching or polluting incidents or fish and wildlife violations. In addition to the Department of Fish and Wildlife, State Parks also provides dispatch services under contract to National Park Service rangers in the North Coast Redwoods area, Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority rangers in the Santa Monica Mountains, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officers at several national wildlife refuges in the San Diego coast area.
Additionally, soon SURCOM and NORCOM will be dispatching for one more agency. A recent contract allows State Parks communication centers to dispatch for 25 additional CAL FIRE law enforcement officers at the regional or headquarters levels.
Joyner said the work can be very stressful; often operators do not find out the end results of most of the calls they assist on.
“What people don’t realize is daily someone is lost. Daily someone gets hurt,” Joyner said. “At any moment that could be your child, and you want to make sure you provide the best service for them.”
But, she also says the work and the mission of the job are extremely rewarding.
“I feel like every day I come in I can help somebody. I can make somebody’s life a little better,” Joyner reflected. “Everyone here is very much willing to help someone else for the betterment of life. I think that’s the main goal to make a good dispatcher, having the empathy and compassion for people who need help.”
“If anyone is interested in one of the open positions and they want to come in and check out what we do, we’re more than happy to have them,” said Gilchrist. “We’d love to have sit-ins and talk about what we do here. Just send us an email so we can set something up.” Gilchrist's email is Natasha.Gilchrist@parks.ca.gov.
 Top left: Saul Godinez, dispatcher clerk at SURCOM. Top right: Jacob Pflepsen shows SURCOM’s emergency generator. Bottom left: Map of where NORCOM and SURCOM are located. Bottom middle: Hunter Elias, dispatcher clerk at SURCOM. Bottom right: SURCOM’s communications tower.
California Citrus State Historic Park Celebrates 30-Year Anniversary and Hosts Annual Citrus Festival
Story and photos from: Garrett Fuhrman, Inland Empire District
 Top: Tent at California Citrus SHP's 30th anniversary celebration event. Bottom left: State Park Interpreter José Cabello presenting the program "Celebrating Citrus History Through Music" to park guests. Middle: District Superintendent Kelly Elliot and Chino Sector Superintendent John Rowe holding a copy of the resolution in legislation to provide the park with $30 million in state funding for renovation projects at California Citrus SHP. Right: Guests enjoy performances by the Riverside Swing Ensemble and Cabello.
California Citrus State Historic Park (SHP) kicked off an eventful weekend with the celebration of the park’s 30-year anniversary on Friday, April 5, and their annual Citrus Festival on Saturday, April 6.
The park celebrated its 30-year anniversary with a commemorative event hosted in collaboration with the Friends of California Citrus Park, the park's nonprofit partner. Guests began the night with a complimentary citrus tasting paired with a variety of refreshments. The main event consisted of a program titled "Celebrating Citrus History Through Music," featuring the Riverside Swing Ensemble, who performed music from different historical eras to complement presentations by State Park Interpreter José Cabello.
Special remarks commemorating the park’s historical milestone was also presented by District Superintendent Kelly Elliot, Chino Sector Superintendent John Rowe, and Mayor of Riverside Patricia Dawson. Special guest General Richard Roth also presented a resolution in legislation, in collaboration with Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes, to secure $30 million in state funding for renovation projects at California Citrus SHP.
The following day, the park hosted its annual Citrus Festival in collaboration with the Friends of California Citrus Park and the City of Riverside. Nearly 3,000 visitors indulged in a variety of citrus tastings, cultural and educational booths, craft vendors, cooking demonstrations, live music, hands-on activities, and an array of food and beverage options. The park came alive as visitors and their families explored the festival’s offerings while enjoying a warm, sunny day amongst the park’s orange groves.
The park staff would like to express their appreciation for the community's unwavering support with hopes for a bright future, and a special thanks to the Friends of California Citrus Park for the enormous success of these events.
 Top left: Visitors waiting in traffic outside California Citrus SHP to enter the festival. Top right: Visitors waiting in line at the citrus tasting booth to try a variety of citrus picked from within the park. Bottom left: State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Raphael Samuel handing out stickers to children on the festival grounds. Bottom right: A family navigating the festival through a posted event map.
Celebrating National Poetry Month With Poetry in Parks Events
Story from: Communications and Marketing Division
 Participants enjoying a Poetry in Parks event in 2023 at Empire Mine State Park. Photo from California State Parks.
Arts in California Parks is funding cultural art events across the state as pilots for this new program that will support artists, tribes, and communities in creating art reflecting our past, present, and future.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to be inspired by the beauty of art in nature. Join local literary organizations, poet laureates, student poets, musicians, Native American singers, storytellers, and others to celebrate National Poetry Month (April) at Poetry in Parks events.
Upcoming Poetry in Parks events this month:
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Saturday, April 20, at El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park: Hosted by Santa Barbara Poet Laureate Melinda Palacio. Poets include Perie Longo, Emma Trelles, Stephanie Berber Hammer, Monica Moody, Diana Raab, and local student poets Anna Mathews (Santa Barbara County Poetry Out Loud winner) and Takunda Chikowero (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay and Poetry Program award winner). Musical performances by Chumash Kiyniw Singers, Middle Eastern Ensemble, and The Gruntled.
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Saturday, April 27, at Empire Mine State Historic Park: Hosted by Nevada County Poet Laureate Kirsten Casey with local poets Judy Crowe, Molly Fisk, Ingrid Keriotis, Judie Rae, Julie Valin, and State Poet Laureate Lee Herrick. Also reading will be 16 student poets, including Joey Henry, Nevada County Youth Poet Laureate, and Dino Parks, Nevada County Poetry Out Loud winner. Musical performances by Shelly Covert, Nisenan singer, and Davia.
For more information about upcoming events, visit the Arts in California Parks website.
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Choose Folsom Names Devin Swartwood Young Professional of the Year
Story from: Jim Micheaels, Gold Fields District
 Gold Fields District Interpreter II Devin Swartwood has been selected by the Folsom Chamber of Commerce (Choose Folsom), as the 2024 Young Professional of the Year. The prestigious award is in recognition of Devin’s contributions and dedication to the Folsom community.
Over the years, Devin has become a steady liaison between Gold Fields District, the City of Folsom, and Choose Folsom. Devin has represented the district on the River District Organizing Committee, which led to him representing State Parks on the River District Master Plan Citizen Advisory Committee. Devin has regularly attended other Choose Folsom committees and functions, including Choose Folsom Government Affairs Committee meetings and Folsom Historic District marketing meetings. Devin has initiated tours of the Folsom Powerhouse and hosted receptions and meetings for community leaders at the Powerhouse.
Throughout all this liaison work, Devin has sought to build closer relationships between the district, the city, and Choose Folsom while promoting State Parks’ mission and values, and highlighting resources and opportunities at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area and Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park. Devin’s work has elevated the awareness and visibility of the two park units with the city and the community.
Beyond this relationship building, Devin is managing several key projects that have involved community participation, including the restoration of the cottage at Black Miners Bar into a hub for interpretation and volunteers, and the ongoing Lake Natoma Crossing Bridge Pillars Mural Project, an Arts in California Parks project.
The Choose Folsom Community Awards ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, May 7, at the Harris Center in Folsom.
Congratulations to Devin on a job well done and an award well-deserved.
State Parks Carpentry Training Class Replaces North Sector Office Roof
Story and photos from: Jodi Whelchel, San Diego Coast District
 Top (left and right): Group working on final quarter of roof. Bottom: Back row (left to right): Class participants: Joe Lechuga, Creston Adams, Matt Orner, Michael Ruiz, Alex Gonzalez, Amado Macias, Corbin Schuppert, Josiah Trinidad, Enrique Mendiblis; front row (left to right): Jason Moore, Jason Valdovinos, Elisha Lechuga, Jason Constant, Jon Lechuga, Robert Hunzeker, Felipe Coronado, Dominic Crabtree, Nicholle Jigarjian, Jodi R. Whelchel, Ricky Roldan, Joaquin Altamirano, Juan Cardenas.
San Diego Coast District hosted training from March 11 to 15 through the Mott Training Center to replace the roof of the North Sector Office, in Carlsbad. This was the first of a series of training courses being held across the state. These classes are coordinated between the Mott Training Center and the district, which is hosting the training. The goal is to schedule smaller classes that incorporate employees from the individual district and instructors who have specialized skills in the area being covered.
This class was considered an intermediate carpentry class focusing on reroofing a building. The first day consisted of a safety presentation given by Lance Chi, our facilities management health and safety officer. It also included a hands-on demonstration on fall safety given by Michael Murphy from 3M. After an introduction by the District Maintenance Chief Jodi R. Whelchel and Training Specialist Ricky Roldan and an overview from Lead Instructor Joe Lechuga, the group was on its way to hands-on real-life training.
The training center invited filmographer Giselle Lewis and drone operator Luis De Vera to film footage of the class and interview some of the instructors and District Maintenance staff attending the training.
This is a rough draft for a training presentation that will highlight these successful District Maintenance Skill Training Groups and promote the benefit of districts working with the Training Unit to coordinate and develop future training opportunities.
Please follow this link to enjoy video.
Special thanks to Project Lead Creston Adams and all North Sector Office staff for their support throughout this process!
 Group applying plywood sheathing at the North Sector Office.
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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To view current job openings within California State Parks, please visit our jobs webpage at www.LiveTheParksLife.com.
State Parks Job Spotlights and Open Exams
 JOB SPOTLIGHTS
Water and Sewage Plant Supervisor – Apply by April 15, 2024: This position will work under the general direction of Park Maintenance Chief III. This is an extraordinary opportunity to live and work along the magnificent Mendocino County coastline and in coastal redwood parks in a team-oriented environment. Click here for more information and to apply.
Chief, Office of Acquisition and Real Property Services CEA – Apply by April 15, 2024: In this role you will be 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. Click here for more information and to apply.
Communications Supervisor – Apply by April 18, 2024: In this role you will supervise dispatch State Park Peace Officers (Rangers and Lifeguards) and other emergency services personnel in the Southern Communications Center (SURCOM) service area to emergency and non-emergency events. SURCOM is a 24-hour public safety dispatch and communications center with a service area covering Southern California. Click here for more information and to apply. Click here for the assessment.
Senior Maintenance Aide (Seasonal) – Apply By June 18, 2024: Reporting to the Trail Crew Lead Worker at Austin Creek State Recreation Area, this position maintains and operates a variety of equipment: light vehicles, chainsaws, augers, rigging, and cordless tools. Additionally, you will be assisting staff in the maintenance, construction, and rehabilitation of trails and their features. Click here for more information.
Associate State Archaeologist (Multiple opportunities) – Apply-by dates vary: Join the State Parks team as an Associate State Archaeologist. Click here to view current open opportunities and to apply. Click here for the assessment.
Maintenance Aides (Seasonal) – Apply-by dates vary: With numerous opportunities across California, this is a great way to get your foot in the door. You will be assisting with the maintenance workload throughout the state park units, with an emphasis on the cleaning of facilities such as office buildings, maintenance shops, and restrooms. Click here to view current opportunities and to apply.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Communications Operator – Continuous (Applications will be processed the first day of every month): This is the entry, working, and journey level for this series. Employees work under general supervision in a Communications Center, following established policies and procedures to perform a variety of duties. Click here for more information.
Communications Supervisor – Continuous (May 1, 2024): In this supervisory role, you will plan, organize, and assign work to a group of communications personnel and may assist with the 24-hour operation of a communications center. Click here for more information.
State Historian I – Continuous (May 1, 2024): This is the entry and first working level in the historian series. You would perform basic historical research and cultural resource management activities. Click here for more information.
State Historian II – Continuous (May 1, 2024): This is the full journey-level class. In this role you would perform the more difficult or varied work in performing basic historical research and cultural resource management activities. Click here for more information.
State Historian III – Continuous (May 1, 2024): This is the full supervisory level of this series. In this role you will supervise, on a statewide basis, the planning and development of a historical resource management program unit in the department. Click here for more information.
State Park Peace Officer Cadet (Ranger or Lifeguard) – Continuous: Be a guardian of California’s state parks and help prevent criminal activity. Join us as a State Park Peace Officer Cadet and embark on a fulfilling law enforcement career. Click here for more information. Click here to apply.
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!
A Very Fond Farewell to Gloria Sandoval, Appointed to Deputy Secretary for Access at California Natural Resources Agency
Story from: Laura Kujubu, Communications and Marketing Division
 Left and top right: Gloria Sandoval at her goodbye and congratulations party on Wednesday, April 10, at HQ. Bottom right: Gloria at Fern Canyon at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in April 2018. Photos from Adeline Yee and Jorge Moreno, Communications and Marketing Division.
We bid a very fond farewell to State Parks Deputy Director of Public Affairs Gloria Sandoval, whom Governor Gavin Newsom appointed to Deputy Secretary for Access at the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA). Her first day at CNRA is Monday, April 15.
Gloria has served as deputy director of public affairs at State Parks since 2015 and was previously the associate director of communications at the CNRA from 2014 to 2015. From 2013 to 2014, she was a State Parks information officer and was also an information officer and education analyst at the California Department of Boating and Waterways (now part of State Parks as the Division of Boating and Waterways) from 2000 to 2012. Gloria earned a Bachelor of Science degree in government from California State University, Sacramento.
During her time “living the parks life” as the deputy director of public affairs, she successfully led her team through innovative communications and marketing efforts, including important access programs such as the California State Park Adventure Pass and the California State Library Parks Pass; swift internal and external communications to cover the unpredictable such as the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires, and hurricanes; and the implementation with CNRA staff members to recognize and celebrate numerous commemorative months, including Latino Heritage Month, Women’s History Month, and Black History Month.
Gloria’s promotion to CNRA was honored this past week with a lunch and cake get-together at HQ with Director Armando Quintero, Chief Deputy Director Liz McGuirk, colleagues, and staff members. Her staff also presented her with a photobook, put together by Digital Content Analyst Brittani Peterson, showing Gloria's many years of dedicated service (and fun times!) at State Parks. A video, produced by Videographer Jerry Macias, was also presented at the lunch, featuring a compilation of heartfelt—and entertaining—messages from her staff members with plenty of best wishes and goodbyes.
For those who worked with Gloria at State Parks, all would say not only what a dedicated, hardworking staff member and leader she is, but also how she has endless enthusiasm, a generous spirit, and an infectious laugh.
We will miss you, Gloria, but we are thrilled for you and excited about your next adventure. We wish you all the best and look forward to hearing about all the great work you will be doing at CNRA.
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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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days of the week: Do not abbreviate, except when needed in a tabular format: Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat (three letters, without periods, to facilitate tabular composition).
- weeklong: One word.
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in-person versus in person: Hyphenate when used as an adjective. Example: The presenter did an in-person demonstration. Do not hyphenate if used as an adverb. Example: He attended the event in person.
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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 California State Capitol Museum
California State Treasurer Fiona Ma (center) met with State Parks guides and volunteers on Tuesday, April 2, to give insights into her role in state government, as well as a bit of her background.
Photo from Rachell Owen-Reinwald, State Treasurer's Office
 California State Capitol Museum
The historic Treasurer’s Office is one of the many stops on our guided Capitol tours. This was a great opportunity to learn a little more about the State Treasurer's job duties. A big thank you to Guide I Cindy York for setting up this fantastic experience.
Photo from Megan Stanley, Capital District
 Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument
Supervising State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) (Ranger) Robb Mullins looking up at the eclipse on Monday, April 8.
Photo from Annie Steinhauer, San Luis Obispo Coast District
 Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument
Supervising State Park Peace Officer (Ranger) Robb Mullins and Staff Services Analysts Lija Vitols, Ashley Berry, and Felicia Guy looking up at the eclipse outside of the Hearst Castle Visitor Center.
Photo from Annie Steinhauer, San Luis Obispo Coast District
 Crystal Cove State Park
Senior Maintenance Aides Ron Stratford and Steve Davila and Park Maintenance Aides Tyler Vrooman and Jeff Brown are seen rebuilding and enhancing a washed-out section of the beach access trail. On Saturday, April 20, the park will host a large Earth Day event with volunteers and State Parks staff working together in the same area.
Photo from Marty Kansriddle, Orange Coast District
 San Dimas, California
State Park Peace Officer (SPPO) (Ranger) Zachary Dell and SPPO (Lifeguard) Carlos Alfaro attended a daylong e-bike patrol course on Sunday, March 24, with
e-bike training company American Bike Patrol Services Inc. The course taught new skills and expanded the approach to police patrol with other officers from the City of Vernon, San Bernardino County Sheriff, and Rancho Santiago Canyon College. Toward the end of the day, the class got caught in a rain/hailstorm, which the instructor said was "the worst weather in the history of his company," established in 1991.
Orange Coast South Sector is looking forward to implementing the e-bike patrol program and is planning to patrol regularly on bike by summer.
Photos from Victor Leyva, American Bike Patrol Services Inc.
Providence Mountains State Recreation Area
It has been over a year since our last installment, but the big cats have not been idle. Every few months, mountain lions have continued to appear on our park trail cameras. Recently a big male has been making a "scrape" to advertise his territory and readiness to breed. Click button above or click here to watch video.
Video from Andrew Fitzpatrick, Inland Empire District
 Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
Left and right: Still no poppies! Bottom: Sleeping through spring.
Photos from Bobby Scruggs, Great Basin District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Sunset with deer at Stonewall Mill.
Photo from Emily Swarthout, Colorado Desert District
 Montaña de Oro State Park
This park attracts all kinds of butterflies, like this beautiful swallowtail.
Photo from Kevin Murphy, San Luis Obispo Coast District
 Columbia State Historic Park
A snow day at the park.
Photo from Danielle Gerhart, Central Valley District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Sunset at the park.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
A beautiful overlook off one of the park's Americans With Disabilities Act trails.
Photo from Kristi Jones, District Facilities Management
 Garrapata State Park
Wildflowers growing out of a stream near the ocean.
Photo from Kristi Jones, District Facilities Management
 Red Rock Canyon State Park
Flower bloom on the Hagen Canyon Trail.
Photo from Lou Figueroa, Lead Volunteer
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Lower Green Valley Falls.
Photo from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Columbia State Historic Park
A Densmore Mines wagon covered with snow.
Photo from Danielle Gerhart, Central Valley District
 Bodie State Historic Park
Road still closed. To check the most recent updates, visit the park's webpage.
Photo from Simone DuRand, Sierra District
 Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
The caboose covered in a few inches of spring snow. Visit the park this spring for an opportunity to ride in that very caboose.
Photo from Danny Taylor, Central Valley District
 Mount Diablo State Park
Spring has sprung at Mount Diablo!
Photo from Tristan McHenry, Diablo Range District
 Columbia State Historic Park
We had an impressive snowstorm that blasted through the Eastern Sierras the night of April 4 and into April 5. Overnight we received about 8 inches of heavy snow, which caused extensive damage to many oaks and other trees. Surprisingly (and thankfully), no structures were damaged. The maintenance staff, with some help from Natural Resources crew from Calaveras Big Trees State Park, have been doing much chainsaw, chipper, and hauling work, as well as removing numerous hazard limbs from tree canopies with our bucket truck. The hard work continues, but we are not dispirited. Our District Superintendent Danielle Gerhart and Supervising Ranger Joel Memmer even offered to help load limbs.
Photo from Steven Sysum, Central Valley District
 Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
Top left: Power grid for the old Powerhouse Inn with the caption in the stone saying, “With a output of 3000 kilowatts, this was the most powerful hydro-electric plant in 1895. Today it represents less than 2 percent of the power generated by new Folsom Dam.” Right: Bottom half of the pulley system for the lower powerhouse; ropes are made of hemp that spin around a large steel spool. This was used to help capture more power from the water that left the main generator room. Bottom left: Four pipes that helped run the generators in the old Powerhouse Inn. With the sun shining down from above, these would help feed into the four turbines in the power plant and can be individually turned off.
Photos from Glynnis Morrison, Cultural Resources Division
 Asilomar State Beach
I recently attended a training at Asilomar and took this photo of the sunset at the beach.
Photo from Lori Wojdan, Human Resources
 Donner Memorial State Park
Bears are active at Sierra District park units, and proper storage of food in day-use areas, campgrounds, residences, and vehicles help keep wild bears wild.
Learn more about bears and bear safety at TahoeBears.org.
Photos from Robert Griffith, Sierra District
 Email photos to the WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
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Here are some upcoming State Parks events. For a list of more upcoming events, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/events.
Saturday, April 13, 2024
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150th Anniversary—Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park at 10 a.m.: Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park and Weaverville Joss House Association invite you to join a historic event. Standing since 1874, we celebrate the temple's testimony to time with temple art, a lion dance, dragon dance, firecrackers, tea, and refreshments. For more information, view the press release or call (530) 623-5284.
Sunday, April 14, 2024
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Excursion Train Ride—Railtown 1897 State Historic Park at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.: Enjoy a scenic excursion train ride through the Mother Lode countryside. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation are pleased to welcome guests aboard the historic Sierra Railway. Ride behind a historic steam or diesel locomotive on a train trip through California’s scenic Gold Country. Visit Railtown1897.org to purchase train tickets.
Friday, April 19, 2024
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Guided History Walk—Seacliff State Beach at 11 a.m.: Come along on a 90-minute walk and discover the stories of the S.S. Palo Alto, "The Madman of Seacliff," the great storms of Seacliff, and much more. Meet on the deck of the Seacliff Visitor Center. Rain cancels. Sign up here.
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April 10, 2024
April 11, 2024
April 12, 2024
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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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