July 26, 2024

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Bodie State Historic Park

Sunshine and blue skies.

Photo from Simone DuRand, Sierra District

WHAT'S NEW

Enter the ‘Escape to the Outdoors’ Summer Photo Contest

Story from: Gabriela Orozco, Communications and Marketing Division

The view from Diggins Loop Trail at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park. Photo from Nicole Spaulding, Partnerships Division.

As summer reaches its peak, the “Escape to the Outdoors” photo contest is in full swing! With 280 parks within the State Park System, there are countless opportunities to explore and capture the beauty of the great outdoors. Contest submissions can include landscape photos of bright sunrises or sunsets, fun hiking or beach days, unique plant life, or wildlife making the most out of the summer season. This contest is a great opportunity to inspire and show Weekly Digest readers how a typical summer day can turn into an adventurous one at any state park.

The “Escape to the Outdoors” photo contest began June 21 and runs through Sept. 10, 2024. As a friendly reminder, if your photos include people who are not State Parks employees or volunteers, you must have a Visual Media Consent form (DPR 993).

To be eligible to participate, you must be a State Parks employee or park volunteer and submit your photos to the Weekly Digest. Provide a brief caption for your photo and the name of the state park it was taken in. The Communications and Marketing team will announce the top photos in September 2024. The photos will be shown in the Weekly Digest, as well as State Parks’ social media channels with their photo credit.

Here are the rules and criteria to submit photos:

• Send photos to the Weekly Digest email address with the subject line “Escape to the Outdoors.”
• Photos must be taken between June 21-Sept. 10, 2024.
• Photos with images of those who are not park 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 at a 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 five photos chosen will be shared on California State Parks’ social media channels and in the Weekly Digest.
• Photos will be judged by the Communications and Marketing team (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 summertime photos!

ADVENTURE OF THE MONTH

Making the Outdoors Accessible to All at Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Story from: Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division

Visitors on the Three Senses Trail, one of the earliest accessible-design State Parks trails, with displays for visually impaired hikers. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. 

Calaveras Big Trees State Park (SP), on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, is one of the most popular and iconic parks in California’s State Park System. Its groves of mixed conifers and giant sequoias preserve thousands of years of natural history, and the site embodies State Parks’ mission to provide recreation and inspiration to the visitors who have been drawn to the awe-inspiring trees since the establishment of the state park in 1931. Today, Calaveras Big Trees SP serves as a prime example for State Parks’ commitment to make the outdoors accessible to all.

The park’s visitor center, with its accessible parking and restrooms, and its informative displays and well-sorted gift shop, makes a welcoming first stop for visitors off all abilities. A short, accessible path leads to one of the park’s first attractions, the “Big Stump” of the Discovery Tree, a giant sequoia that was cut down in 1853, a year after Augustus T. Dowd stumbled upon the grove in an area inhabited by Indigenous Miwok people. Dowd spread the news of the site’s wonders—and triggered depredations driven by greed and thoughtlessness. The Discovery Tree was estimated between 200 and 300 feet tall, explains State Park Interpreter II Lillie Oravetz, and it was 1,244 years old by the time it was cut. Today, the living room-sized stump offers visitors a striking photo opportunity and testifies to the dire need of these giants to be placed under state protection.

In walking distance of the Discovery Stump, the 0.13-mile Three Senses Trail is one of the earliest accessible-design trails in California's state park system. With interpretive panels in English as well as Braille, this loop trail is specifically designed to enhance the park experience for visually impaired visitors. The generally flat trail is constructed of compacted soil and boardwalks, and it includes rest stops that invite visitors to experience the sound and the smell of the forest. In addition, touchable plaster models of animal tracks and life-size statues of birds give visitors a literal feel of forest life. Lillie pointed out that the park has plans to make further improvements to its displays for the visually impaired.

The 1.7-mile-long, ADA-compliant North Grove Trail loops through a mixed conifer forest of ponderosa pines, white fir, sugar pines, and, of course, the park’s breathtaking giant sequoias. In the western Sierra Nevada, the oldest sequoias can be over 3,000 years old. No wonder that the individually named giants of the North Grove Trail resemble characters who tell their own stories, including the Empire State, with its base diameter of 30 feet; the fallen Father of the Forest, whose hollowed-out trunk is big enough for people to walk through; and the sad but still impressive sight of the Mother of the Forest, which was stripped of its bark in 1854 and spurred cries of outrage that in the long run led to the groves’ protection.

To make this experience even more accessible, visitors can borrow the Freedom Chair, a specialized wheelchair for trails, for free. “The Freedom Chair is checked out almost every day,” said Lillie, “without advertising!” During our recent visit, the chair was requested not just once but twice within a few short hours. Visitor Wendy Lippmann from the United Kingdom, who suffered from a broken ankle, borrowed the chair to participate in the guided North Grove Trail nature walk led by docent “Doc Nancy” Muleady-Mecham. “There is no way I could have had that experience without the chair,” said Wendy.

The park strives to ensure that visitors of all abilities and ages have the opportunity to admire these giant trees, whose ancestors witnessed dinosaurs roaming among them. Another easily accessible site is the restored North Grove Meadow, with its blooming golden rods, lupines, and corn lilies, and its fluttering Great Basin fritillaries, the park’s ubiquitous tiny butterfly. The North Grove Campground and the Oak Hollow Campground have accessible campsites and restrooms with showers, and the park features accessible picnic sites at both the North Grove and the scenic Beaver Creek picnic area in the more remote South Grove. Regardless of a visitor’s abilities, Calaveras Big Trees offers an unforgettable outdoors experience for all.

The Three Senses Trail features displays for visually impaired visitors, such inscriptions in Braille, plaster models of animal tracks and plants, and touchable statues of the park's wildlife. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.

Top left: Visitor Wendy Lippmann and husband Paul Garrison with the Freedom Chair, a specialized wheelchair for trails available at the park. Top right: Blooming golden rods in the North Grove Meadow. Bottom left: State Park Interpreter II Lillie Oravetz. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. Bottom middle: The Siamese Twins appear as one tree because their trunks have grown together. Bottom right: The Mother of the Forest was stripped of its bark in the 19th century, a depredation that launched cries for the trees' protection. Photos from Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division.

Left: The Empire State, one of the largest sequoias in the North Grove. Top middle: The Sentinels greet visitors at the start of the North Grove Trail. Top right: The Old Bachelor's rounded crown is a sign of a very old tree. Bottom right. Giant sequoia with burn scar in a part of the trail that burned in 1908. To the right are young sequoias. Photos from Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division.

FIELD REPORT

Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area Staff Repairs Damage from Post Fire

Story and photos from: Chris Kofman, Great Basin District

Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area staff work together to repair fencing on the Rattler Trail. Left: Park employee Brandon Beban. Right (from left to right): Park employees Brandon Beban, Ruben Jacobo, Jon Bechtel, Justin Bahn.

Stepping out of the work truck, something feels off. An eerie silence and stillness hangs in the air. No sounds of laughter from families in the campgrounds. Something is not right.

And then I see it — a blackened ash-covered area burned by the Post Fire as it raced through the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) last month. It's one of the many sections of the park undergoing repair after the wildfire went through over 10,000 acres of land, burning miles upon miles of fencing used on trails as boundaries to protect wildlife, delineate property lines and natural vegetation barriers that help keep visitors on course as they ride.

Repairing the miles of burned fencing is no simple task, and everyone involved must work together as a team to heal the park. The temperature is 96 degrees today. Many of the staff are local to the area of Hungry Valley and its surrounding towns and share a deep connection with it. 

Hungry Valley is roughly 20,000 acres of land. With such a large park, you rarely have the opportunity to work alongside other departments. But today, many different departments are pitching in to help with the repairs, developing a new appreciation for one another and a stronger sense of camaraderie. Staff who usually greet the guests with a warm smile and a map at our entrance kiosk are now hanging fencing setting posts. Many of the staff grew up together and talk about some of their favorite memories of riding. Some share how working for an off-highway vehicle park gave them the opportunity to learn how to ride. Others share stories of the varied wildlife and interactions with guests.

As the staff work together, they are reminded of what this park has to offer and what it has provided for them in their lives. Much like the fire-following plants, their lives are rooted in Hungry Valley SVRA. So together, they sweat and lift miles of wire, drive thousands of wire nails into posts, eager to get back out there in a rejuvenated park, eager to ride again and make new memories.

Since the Post Fire, many people have already shared their appreciation to the park staff for their work in the park's recovery. On social media, many guests have offered their help with the recovery effort. I’m left with the thought that Hungry Valley SVRA is growing stronger and better each day, not just the land but the people who live, work, and visit here. For many, it's not just a place to ride, it's a place where we will continue to make and share memories with loved ones for years to come.

California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission to Meet in San Diego

Story from: Kevin Murphy, Communications and Marketing Division

The next meeting of the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission will take place in San Diego on Thursday, August 1. Agenda items include an update on fire recovery efforts for Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), program reports from the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, and a presentation on the demographics and economic impacts of off-highway vehicle activities. If you are unable to attend in person, you may participate virtually through Zoom or watch the meeting live at CAL-SPAN.org. Full details for the meeting are available at the Department’s public notices webpage. 

For information about the Division of Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR), including a list of SVRAs and grant programs, visit ohv.parks.ca.gov. California State Parks supports equal access. If you are in need of a reasonable modification or special accommodation at the meeting, or in accessing the agendas or submitting comments, please contact the OHMVR Division at (916) 324-4442.

State Historical Resources Commission to Host CHRIS Workshop, Consider 11 Properties Recommendations for the National Register of Historic Places

Story from: Kevin Murphy, Communications and Marketing Division

The public is invited to attend a workshop and the next meeting of the State Historical Resources Commission. The workshop, taking place on Thursday, August 1 in Sacramento, will provide an update on the California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS). CHRIS maintains a wide range of documents and materials relating to historical resources.

The Commission meeting, also taking place in Sacramento, will be held on Friday, August 2. During the meeting, the Commission will consider 11 property nominations to be recommended for addition to the National Register of Historic Places, including Capitol Tower, the twelve-story mid-century modern circular office tower in Hollywood. Constructed from 1955-56, it was built as the headquarters for Capitol Records, the first major recording label on the West Coast. Participants may attend the workshop and meeting in person or virtually. Visit State Parks’ public notices webpage for meeting details, including how to register.

California State Parks supports equal access. If you are in need of a reasonable modification or special accommodation at the meeting or in accessing the agendas or submitting comments, please contact the Office of Historic Preservation at (916) 445-7000 or email calshpo.shrc@parks.ca.gov.

Intercontinental Prayer Run Journeys Into Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Story and photo from: Serenity Wood, North Coast Redwoods District

Peace and Dignity runners enter Williams Grove at Humboldt Redwoods State Park as the sun sets.

The Peace and Dignity Journeys, a multigenerational and intercontinental prayer run, arrived at Williams Grove at Humboldt Redwoods State Parks on June 26. This year’s journey, from Alaska to Argentina, began May 2 and is the first to happen since the COVID-19 pandemic. The core runners hail from Mexico, Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Canada, Hawaii, and California. The Journeys are meant to foster intertribal relationships and facilitate healing amongst Indigenous communities, near and far.

Local Wailaki nonprofit Native Health in Native Hands (NHINH) gathered with community members at Williams Grove to feed the runners and send them off the next morning with prayers of protection. “We don’t have a ‘welcome,’ we have ‘come in’—‘yeh ingnaash,’” said NHINH founding director Perry Lincoln as he greeted the runners in the state park redwood grove.

Perry Lincoln brought eagle feathers beaded by his daughter to add to the runners’ prayer staffs. Runner Argelio Girón, from the Mixtec people of Oaxaca, explained that “as we run, we’re carrying these staffs blessed by nations all along the way. Our commitment is to take those staffs, keep them among the bundles.” When asked what his role was in supporting the Peace and Dignity runners, Victor Bjelajac, superintendent of the North Coast Redwoods District, stated, “Working closely with Native Health in Native Hands, a local indigenous group supporting their brethren, they enlisted me. And I’m trying to welcome and honor people who are doing something that’s terrific—show them some hospitality, and show them some love.”

Multiple runners thanked Bjelajac for his hospitality. One reminded him, “Not all superintendents of lands are on board [with providing land access for native people]. It is a good thing you are doing.” Bjelajac responded humbly, “Thank you for letting me be here. Nothing but good thoughts on the rest of your journey.”

State Park Peace Officers and Division of Boating and Waterways Recognized for DUI/BUI Efforts During MADD Awards Ceremony

Story from: Eric Dales, Gold Fields District and Robert Griffith, Sierra District

From left: Sergeant Eric Dales, Joanna Andrade, staff services manager, Sergeant Taylor Jackson, Officer Brendan Hurley, Captain Scott Modeste, and Division of Boating and Waterways Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez. Photo from Mothers Against Driving Drunk.

Northern California peace officers and organizations, including four State Park Peace Officers and the Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW), were recently honored for efforts in 2023 to curb incidents of driving and boating under the influence during a ceremony hosted by Mothers Against Driving Drunk (MADD) in Citrus Heights. Officer Brendan Hurley was recognized for leading the Gold Fields District as the Top Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Officer with 23 DUIs and two boating under the influence (BUI) arrests. Sergeant Taylor Jackson led the Sierra District and was recognized as its Top DUI Officer with 21 DUI arrests.

In addition to his award for Top DUI Officer for the Gold Fields District, Officer Hurley and Officers Lauren Plunkett and Hayden McDaniel, who were unable to attend the ceremony, were recognized for their BUI enforcement efforts in 2023. DBW was also recognized and awarded the Cynthia and Sophie Peterlin Memorial Award for its BUI training program.

It was an honor for Captain Scott Modeste from the Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division and I to attend the event with DBW Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez and Staff Services Manager Joanna Andrade. Thanks to the officers from all State Parks districts that contributed to the DUI/BUI enforcement in 2023. We’re looking forward to next year’s event.

Santa Cruz District Honors Beloved Colleague with Memorial Paddle

Story from: Jordan Burgess, Santa Cruz District

Top: Requalification swim with some of the Santa Cruz District retired, permanent, and seasonal lifeguards. Bottom left: Rescue buoys placed in the sand, remembering State Park Peace Officer (Lifeguard) Christian Lambert, Badge #1478. Bottom right: A memorial paddle-out took place after the swim. There is no better way to remember Chris than in the water where he was at home. Photos from Gabe McKenna, Santa Cruz District.

Under clear skies with a solid south swell in the water, the Santa Cruz District held its annual requalification swim at Seabright Beach on July 17. This year, Lifeguard Supervisors Byran Kine and Micah Moore took the opportunity to recognize the life and career of Christian Lambert, who protected Santa Cruz and San Mateo County waters from 2015 to 2023. District lifeguards, retired employees, lifeguards from other areas, ranger staff, management, as well as friends and those impacted by Chris’s enthusiasm for life, stopped by for the remembrance and for a memorial paddle-out. The remembrance below was authored by Moore:     

"Christian Lambert began his State Parks career as a Lifeguard Seasonal I in Santa Cruz in June 2006. He also worked for Santa Cruz City Marine Rescue—Santa Cruz Fire Department Lifeguard Branch. Lambert went on to graduate from the Basic Visitor Services Training Academy 33 in May 2009. He worked in Huntington State Beach as a permanent lifeguard from the summer of 2009 until November 2015. In November 2015, he transferred to Santa Cruz District, where he worked the Pajaro Coast until February 2021. Lambert finished out his career in Half Moon Bay, on the San Mateo Coast. Chris finally retired in April 2023 as he was battling cancer for a second time. His first bout had been in 2020, when he was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. He tenaciously bounced back after only eight months and was in remission until early 2022. Throughout his battle with cancer, he stayed positive and was never overwhelmed by the pain and negative statistics. When Chris passed April 30 of this year, I thought to myself, ‘I would be shocked if I ever meet another individual like Chris.’ For those who had the pleasure of knowing Chris, I’m sure you can relate. Most people assumed he was at least a decade younger than he was. He had tremendous energy and was a true joy to be around. In the last couple years, he lived in a residence on the beach and had an idyllic sunset to his career. He was able to enjoy the beach, daily swims in the ocean and cherished the unobstructed sunsets. Chris was an avid swimmer and swam daily even during much of his cancer treatment. The last time I spoke with him, not long before he passed, he told me that he was loving retirement, swimming twice a day. Chris loved lifeguarding and being a part of the lifeguard community. He is already and will continue to be sorely missed."

A Historical Immersion at Plumas-Eureka State Park: Gold Discovery Days

Story and photos from: Jeremy Lin, Sierra District

Top left: Sierra District Cultural Resources Manager Alexandra Neeb helps children practice their gold panning skills. Top right: Park Volunteer Carol Martinez shows a park guest how to make her own candle. Bottom: Park Volunteers Sienna Larrucea and Laila Larrucea demonstrate historic wool spinning. 

The annual Gold Discovery Days event at Plumas-Eureka State Park, organized in collaboration with Plumas-Eureka State Park Association (PESPA), took place on July 20-21. This well-attended event featured popular tours of the historic Assay Office, Woodworking Shop, Blacksmith Shop, and Moriarity House. Attendees experienced a day in the life of the area's gold mining history. 

Park guests panned for gold, enjoyed rides on a horse-drawn wagon, joined in traditional wool spinning, made their own candles, participated in a junior archaeology program, observed historic blacksmithing and woodworking, and joined other family-friendly activities. Participants were transported back to the historic California gold mining era through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.

Special thanks to PESPA, Volunteers in Parks Program volunteers, Rotary Club of Portola, Graeagle Lions Club, Smokeshow Restaurant, and the local community for making this event such a golden opportunity for visitors.

Right: Park Volunteer Cliff Romig explains the historic gold assay process to event attendees. 

State Parks Connects With Salinas Valley Students for Virtual Field Trip Fun

Story and photo from: Isabella Brown, Monterey District

Interpreter I Isabella Brown uses a vermilion rockfish puppet during a virtual field trip at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. 

The California State Parks Marine Protected Areas Program and PORTS (Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students)® Program in Monterey District were excited to collaborate with the Hartnell College Foundation’s K-12 STEAM Program to provide virtual field trips for over 2,000 students.

While tabling for State Parks at an Earth Day event, I met an education coordinator for the Monterey County of Education, who connected us with the Hartnell College Foundation’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) program. Hartnell College is a community college in Salinas whose foundation supports students, faculty, and programs for the community. The Hartnell College Foundation’s STEAM program brings innovative activities and hands-on experiences to thousands of students in underserved communities in the Salinas Valley. The program partners with NASA, as well as other STEAM organizations, to teach students skills in robotics, coding, engineering, and more.   

This summer, students were able to attend virtual field trips at either Asilomar State Beach or Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. With transportation being a huge barrier to getting students to the parks, the virtual trips were a fun and effective alternative to provide access to these beautiful places. Students learned about a variety of ocean animals and the habitats they are found in, and how they are protected by marine protected areas. When the tide was low, some of the students were also able to experience tide pooling virtually. Students loved observing scuttling hermit crabs, camouflaging tide pool sculpins, waving sea anemones, and more.  

We hope to continue this exciting collaboration with the Hartnell College Foundation in the future and find more ways to connect, provide access, and inspire our local communities.

North Coast Redwoods Administrative Team Explores Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Story from: Scott Seviour, North Coast Redwoods District

Top left: The North Coast Redwoods District (NCRD) administrative team takes a group photo after its Fox Camp Road hike. Photo from Scott Seviour, North Coast Redwoods District. Top right: Office Technician Scott Seviour, of Humboldt Redwoods State Park, shares the history of the park with the admin team. Bottom: The NCRD admin team listens to a presentation by Historical Archaeologist Breezy Akeson about the history of Bull Creek and its surrounding areas. Photos from Ashley Disney, North Coast Redwoods District.

The North Coast Redwoods District (NCRD) administrative team recently took its first field trip after a long hiatus. The trip consisted of a fast-paced ‘motor tour’ of Humboldt Redwoods State Park (SP). Starting the adventure at the Dyerville overlook, site of a town washed away in the 1955 floods, the team motored up Mattole Road, witnessing the aftermath of a large landslide where sadly, dozens of old-growth redwoods toppled into the river during the winters of 2022 and 2023.

The next stop was Albee Creek Campground, where NCRD Historical Archaeologist Breezy Akeson gave a riveting historical presentation that included information about local Native tribes, pioneers, historic orchards, forest management, floods, and a few interesting stories, including the tale of a historic murder (most foul).

The adventure resumed as the team journeyed deeper into the park, negotiating a dozen hairpin turns and a few miles of logging road to arrive at over 3,000 feet elevation and a meadow cleared by regular controlled burns. There, members of the team feasted their eyes on a spectacular view of Humboldt Redwoods SP, California’s third largest state park. Looping back, the team stopped at California Federation of Women’s Clubs Grove day-use area where they saw the results of earthquake restoration on the Julia Morgan-designed four-sided fireplace and a vanishing parking lot as the Eel River erodes the bluffs, claiming land back to the river. The trip concluded with a quick tour of the Eel River Sector headquarters complex and a delicious lunch. 

A great time was had by all, but more importantly, it gave the team a chance to bond and leave the office to see some of the work they helped coordinate throughout the district.

The team hopes this trip will resurrect a tradition of regular visits to state parks!

North Coast Redwoods District Lifeguards Participate in Allied Agency Aquatic Training

Story and photos from: Keven Harder, North Coast Redwoods District

North Coast Redwoods District lifeguards and members of other agencies participate in aquatic training.

North Coast Redwoods District (NCRD) lifeguards took advantage of a free week of Junior Lifeguard Programs and participated in an aquatic rescue training with the U.S. Coast Guard and Humboldt Bay Fire aquatics personnel on Tuesday, July 23. The training took place on the Samoa Peninsula just west of the town of Eureka.

Lifeguards began by conducting simulated rescue board and swim/surf rescues. Afterwards, lifeguards launched two rescue watercrafts (RWCs) from the sheltered safety of the Humboldt Bay and motored out through the breaking waves of the harbor entrance and then approximately 4 miles north along the Samoa Peninsula.

Once offshore of the rescue personnel, Humboldt Bay firefighters, Coast Guard rescue swimmers, and NCRD lifeguards used the RWCs to shuffle rescuers and mock victims out beyond the breakwaters, where handoffs and hoists were positioned with two awaiting Coast Guard helicopters. The training was a great way for allied agencies and lifeguards to work together as a team and create rescue situations that accurately mimic real-world incidents.

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

NOW HIRING

To view current job openings within California State Parks, please visit our jobs webpage at www.LiveTheParksLife.com.

State Parks Job Spotlights and Open Exams

JOB SPOTLIGHTS

Cultural Resources Program Manager – Apply by August 2, 2024: Based in Old Town State Historic Park in San Diego, this role will manage cultural heritage across twelve park units. This role ensures the preservation of our rich history through stewardship, maintenance, and support for construction and recreation activities. It's a key position within the district, connecting visitors to our cultural past while maintaining these resources amidst high visitation levels in California's State Park System. Click here for more information and to apply.

Associate State Archaeologist – (Multiple opportunities) – Apply-by dates vary: In this exciting role, you will use your expertise in the practice of archaeology and knowledge of pertinent law and regulation to review cultural resources, evaluation and treatment, and other important tasks. Click here to view opportunities and to apply.

Park Maintenance Chief I (Multiple opportunities) – Apply-by dates vary: The Park Maintenance Chief will lead as first or second-level supervisors, overseeing maintenance programs in intricate sectors or small to medium districts. They play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations and upkeep, tackling challenges unique to their dynamic environments. Click here to view opportunities and to apply.

Communications Operator – Until Filled: Are you looking for an exciting and rewarding career that allows you to provide protection to the public, law enforcement, and California State Parks? You will monitor emergency communication systems, answer calls for service, and dispatch field units to emergencies. Become a guardian of the largest state park system in the nation in this exciting and rewarding career. Click here to view opportunities and to apply.

EXAM SPOTLIGHTS

Cultural Resources Program Manager (8/9/2024) – At the highest supervisory level, this role oversees a major cultural resource section statewide. Responsibilities include program formulation, implementation, budget oversight, and coordinating with technical teams and external partners to advance cultural resource initiatives. Click here for more information.

Museum Curator I (7/31/2024) – Guided by general direction, the Museum Curator I will skillfully plan and oversee programs for acquiring, conserving, and interpreting museum objects within park area or house museums. From preservation to storage, they ensure each artifact's significance is preserved and shared with care. Click here for more information.

Museum Curator II (7/31/2024) – The Museum Curator II leads strategic programs for managing museum collections in facilities with active yet moderate-sized holdings. From acquisition to storage, they ensure each artifact is carefully preserved and its story is vividly told. Click here for more information.

Museum Technician (7/31/2024) – As a Museum Technician, you will safeguard and maintain art collections with precision. Your duties will also include specialized cleaning, pest control, and climate management. You will contribute to preservation efforts through inventory management and record-keeping, while ensuring safe object relocation. Click here for more information.

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!

New Graphic Services Supervisor Joins Communications and Marketing Division

Story from: Communications and Marketing Division

Left: Stacey and her then-fiancé, Scott, after getting engaged at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Right: With Scott, now her husband, and their one-year-old daughter, Noemi. Photos from Stacey Krisvoy, Communications and Marketing Division.

Please join us in welcoming Stacey Krisvoy, Graphic Services Supervisor, the newest addition to the Communications and Marketing Division!  

Stacey was born and raised in Sacramento and studied design at the University of California, Davis. She lived in the Bay Area for the past 16 years before returning to Sacramento earlier this summer with her husband, Scott, and their 1-year-old daughter, Noemi. Stacey previously worked as the graphics supervisor at San Francisco International Airport.

Currently, Stacey is watching "The Bear" on Hulu and reading "Midnight Feast" by Lucy Foley. She enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors, particularly hiking. Her fiancé, now husband, proposed to her at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park on the Cape Horn Loop Trail, making State Parks especially dear to her heart.

LIVE THE PARKS LIFE IN STYLE

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

• field trip: Two words.
• numerals: In general, spell out numbers one through nine. Examples: She went on vacation for two weeks. He visited three state parks this summer. Use figures for 10 and above when referring to a unit of measure or ages of people, animals, events, or things. Examples: The hike was 4 miles long. The little boy is 5 years old. The Adventure Pass is valid at 54 state parks. 
• Olympic: An adjective (without s) and is always capitalized. Examples: Olympic host city, Olympic medal, and Olympic torch. 

Keeping a consistent writing style ensures the Weekly Digest looks and sounds its best. Each week, the Communications and Marketing Division reviews submitted articles for proper grammar and punctuation and style consistency––from capitalization and hyphenation to proper acronyms and active/passive voice­­ usage. In general, we follow the Associated Press style and Merriam-Webster, but at times we use our own department-specific style.

We always welcome your feedback on how to “Live the Parks Life” in (writing) style. Connect with us via email at weeklydigest@parks.ca.gov. 

POSTCARDS

California Natural Resources Agency Headquarters, Sacramento

California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot and California State Parks Director Armando Quintero lead a discussion at the in-person Campus Connect event focusing on promoting equitable access to outdoors for all Californians on Monday, July 22.

Photo from Allison Armstrong, California Natural Resources Agency

Manresa State Beach

Photo from Jessica Sears, Diablo Range District

Pismo State Beach

Humpback whales feeding just off the beach.

Photo from Rich Lawton, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods

Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park

I took these videos while camping with my family at the park. We noticed a chipmunk carrying little furry balls across the road. I carefully followed it and noticed that it was actually carrying her babies to a new burrow. Sitting calm and still, I was able to capture the videos without disturbing them.

Videos from Matthew Williams, Great Basin District 

Montaña de Oro State Park

Seagull perched on rocks.

Photo from Michelle Pacheco, Angeles District

Malibu Lagoon State Beach

The Green Man Fountain at the Adamson House. The house, designated a National Historic Site and a California Historic Landmark, contains the best surviving examples of decorative ceramic tile produced by the once-famous Malibu Potteries.

Photo from Cassandra Chavez, Angeles District

Pismo State Beach

Evening view of the Oceano Lagoon.

Photo from Michelle Pacheco, Angeles District

Old Sacramento State Historic Park

Cloudy weekend skies provide respite after a week of searing heat in the state capital.

Photo from Rick Lane, Capital District

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

UPCOMING EVENTS

Here are some upcoming State Parks events. For a list of more upcoming events, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/events. 

Saturday, July 27, 2024

• Visit with IGR at the Amador County Fair!— Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park: Indian Grinding Rock will staff a table in the Miwok Village at the Amador County Fair July 25-28. There will not be a Junior Ranger program at the park this weekend but there will be a mini Junior Ranger session available at the fairgrounds on Saturday, along with other opportunities for native crafts and demonstrations.
• NEW! Accessible Guided Pond Tour— Dos Rios, 8-9 a.m.: Join a State Park Interpreter for a guided walk along an ADA compliant pathway and discover the history and biodiversity of the pond and beautiful floodplain forest. Meet at the Welcome Center. The walk is mostly flat, easy, and on dirt. Plan to bring water, sunblock, hiking shoes, snacks, sunscreen, binoculars and camera (optional). Register for Guided Tour.
• Poetry in Parks— Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, 1-3 p.m.: Don’t miss out on this literary event with host and former Poet Laureate of Sonoma County, Iris Jamahl Dunkle. Register to enjoy water, wine, and artisan breads that will be on site, and a chance to buy books from Russian River Books & Letters. Click here to learn more and register.

Friday, August 2, 2024

• Bloomfield Bluegrass Band— Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, 5-7 p.m.: Sylvan Sounds is proud to present the Bloomfield Bluegrass Band, a Sonoma County-based band that plays traditional bluegrass repertoire. Click here to learn more and register.

Friday, August 2 to Sunday, August 4, 2024

• Big Basin Basecamp (aka "Cars-BA")—Big Basin Redwoods State Park, August 2,1 p.m. to August 4, about 3 p.m.: Join us at Big Basin Headquarters for the very first public camping opportunity in Big Basin Redwoods State Park since the 2020 CZU Fire! This car camping weekend will allow us to venture out on day hikes without all the gear in tow, a great option for folks of all skill and camping experience levels. Evenings will feature community, conversation and games, and special guests will join us to discuss the past, present, and future of the park. There will be multiple day hikes to choose from on Saturday, from an easy 2.5-mile jaunt on the Skyline to the Sea trail along Opal Creek through recovering old growth redwood forest, to a nearly 6-mile hike showing off some of our spectacular ridgeline vistas. And of course, we’ll be touring the historic and beloved Redwood Loop.

NEWS CLIPS

The Weekly Digest includes a collection of news articles related to the
California Department of Parks and Recreation. The views expressed and opinions do not always reflect that of the department.

To view this week's News Clips, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/NewsClips.

Weekly Digest Article and Photo Submissions

If you have an article or photo you would like to submit for the Weekly Digest, please send your entries via email to WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.

For an article submission, please include:

• Author’s name and division/district.
• All relevant information (e.g., headline, park name, dates, name of event, individuals’ full names and titles, etc.).

Articles should be no longer than 300 words. 

For photos, please include:

• Photo credit info and captions.
• Photo release forms should be kept on file for non-employees or volunteers.

Unless otherwise noted, all photos included in the Weekly Digest are courtesy of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

The deadline for Weekly Digest submissions is close of business Thursday. For more information, email WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.