Dec. 13, 2024

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

What a burden for this verdin to have to climb through the cholla.

Photo from Laban Wenger, Colorado Desert District

WHAT'S NEW

Historic Bidwell Mansion Significantly Damaged in Early Morning Fire

Story from: Kevin Murphy, Communications and Marketing Division

Smoke rises above Bidwell Mansion in Chico 12 hours after an early morning fire began at the historic home on Dec. 11. Photo from California State University, Chico. 

A fire engulfed the beloved and historic Bidwell Mansion, the centerpiece of Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park (SHP) in Chico, in the early morning hours of Dec. 11. Thankfully, the park’s visitors center and several outbuildings on the property were not impacted by the fire. A full assessment of the extensive damage is forthcoming and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

"This is a devastating loss for California State Parks, for the Chico community, and all who cherish the history embodied by the Bidwell Mansion. For over a century, this beloved landmark has stood as a testament to the legacy of John and Annie Bidwell and the community they helped shape. To see it so severely damaged is a profound loss that we all feel deeply," said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. "Our immense gratitude goes to the Chico Fire Department, CSU Chico Police and all allied agencies who responded swiftly to contain the fire and protect the surrounding buildings. I also want to acknowledge the State Parks team — our employees, volunteers, and partners — who have poured their dedication and care into preserving and interpreting this site. This loss is deeply personal to them, and we stand with them in this moment of grief. While it’s too early to discuss the future of Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park, we are resolute in our dedication to preserving California’s history. To the Chico and North State communities and beyond, thank you for your support and patience as we move forward together in the wake of this tragedy."

The mansion was undergoing extensive exterior renovations and had been closed to the public since May. The restoration work was addressing critical repairs and included restoration of all exterior wood components, the installation of a new roof, and minor plaster siding repair. The exterior of the building was also to be repainted. At the time of the fire, the renovation was estimated to be about two-thirds complete, with the mansion expected to reopen in early 2025.

When completed in 1868, the three-story, 26-room mansion designed by San Francisco architect Henry W. Cleaveland, featured modern plumbing, gas lighting, and an air-cooling system. The overall style of the three-story brick structure was that of an Italianate villa, with an exterior finished with a pink-tinted plaster.

The mansion was home to John and Annie Bidwell. John Bidwell was known throughout California and across the nation as an important pioneer, farmer, soldier, statesman, politician, and philanthropist. Annie Ellicott Kennedy Bidwell, the daughter of a socially prominent, high-ranking federal official, was known for her commitment to several moral and social causes, including the suffrage and prohibition movements. Guests who visited Bidwell Mansion included President Rutherford B. Hayes, General William T. Sherman, Susan B. Anthony, Frances Willard, Governor Leland Stanford, and John Muir. Visiting botanists who took a particular interest in the agricultural efforts of John Bidwell included Asa Gray and Sir Joseph Hooker.

A proponent of higher education, John Bidwell donated eight acres of his cherry orchard for a teachers’ college called Chico State Normal School (later renamed California State University, Chico) in 1887. Bidwell died in 1900. In 1918, under the terms of her will, Annie Bidwell bequeathed the mansion and surrounding grounds to the College Board of the Presbyterian Church of the United States of America for the establishment of a coeducational Christian school. Instead, the property was acquired by Chico State Normal School, then named Chico State Teachers College. At various times the building provided offices, classrooms, and dormitory rooms for students. In 1964, the California State Park System gained possession of the mansion, designating it Bidwell Mansion State Historical Monument, later changing the name to Bidwell Mansion SHP. The mansion was literally a landmark in California, having been registered as California Historical Landmark #329 in 1966 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NR #72000216) in 1972.

State Parks wishes to thank the local agencies that quickly responded to the fire and attempted to minimize the damage while protecting nearby properties and lives. This significant loss will be deeply felt by State Parks, visitors, and members of the Chico and North State community.

Top left: First responders arrived at Bidwell Mansion SHP in the early morning hours of Dec. 11. Fortunately, their efforts saved several adjacent buildings, including the park's visitors center. Photo from California State University, Chico. Top right: Northern Buttes District Superintendent Matt Teague (left) and Northern Divison Chief Jason De Wall take a moment to absorb the loss of the 156-year-old mansion. Photo from Angelica De La Pena, Communications and Marketing Division. Bottom right: The mansion prior to the fire, with its familiar pink-tinted plaster exterior. Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division. Bottom left: Annie and John Bidwell on the porch of the mansion prior to John's death in 1900. Photo from California State Parks. 

California’s Newest State Park is Even More Magical in the Fog

Story and photo from: Jo Biswas, Communications and Marketing Division.

Dos Rios Docent August Frisk (left) and Interpreter Ali Manzo stand below one of the park’s ancient towering valley oak trees.

Every year, after the first winter storms sweep through California’s Central Valley, a unique weather phenomenon – the dense, low-lying tule fog – descends upon the region. This thick, damp mist blankets the valley’s farmlands and cities, softening the edges of its landscape, testing its drivers, nourishing its crops, and lingering on and on. And when it curls around Dos Rios, the park turns into something more – a mystical otherworldly landscape straight out of a dream.

Dos Rios is California’s first new state park in over a decade. Nestled at the confluence of the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, it’s the largest public-private floodplain restoration project in California to restore habitat for threatened and endangered wildlife. On any day, it’s a fascinating visit, but when the tule fog descends, it unfurls an even deeper, more profound magic.

The fog blurs the line between past and present, beckoning you to imagine what this land once was. Long before the rivers were rerouted, long before the trees were felled and the earth churned under plow and tractor, this was a vast, water-rich ecosystem teeming with life. In the haze of the tule fog, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into that long-lost world....

This is an excerpt from a new article on the California State Parks blog. Read the full post here.

ADVENTURE OF THE MONTH

Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park Is the Place That Made the Lights Go on in California

Story from: Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division

Worker at the Main Powerhouse's switchboard, early 20th century. Even though the switchboard was built of insulating marble, and the workers stood on wooden boards, operating the plant's high-voltage electricity was an extremely dangerous job. Photo from Folsom Powerhouse State Historical Park.

Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park (SHP), situated between Sacramento and the base of the Sierra foothills, is the place that literally put California on the grid. It pays tribute to a period of visionary technological innovations and enterprising individuals, and it is a great destination for visitors who want to learn more about the period between the gold rush and California’s rise to an economic powerhouse in the 20th century. Built in 1895, “the Folsom Powerhouse set the standard of how we use electricity today,” said Gold Fields District Interpreter II Devin Swartwood, who also gives an accessible introduction to the park in this video.

Going back to the vision of H.P. Livermore and his partners, the Powerhouse used the falling waters of the American River to generate electricity for the growing urban and industrial center of Sacramento. At a time when most electricity had to be produced as low-voltage direct current (DC) close to the consumer, the Folsom plant’s then-cutting-edge technology made it one of the nation’s first plants to transmit high-voltage alternating current (AC) over more than 20 miles. Swartwood emphasizes that the Powerhouse opened earlier than the more famous Niagara Falls Power Station, which replicated the Folsom facility’s system.

The historic park’s modern visitors center’s interactive panels and historical displays make engineering history come alive, even though most of us today switch on a lightbulb without giving a thought to the three-phase, 60-cycle AC generators at the heart of the Powerhouse that made this feat first possible. When electrical power arrived in Sacramento on the morning of July 13, 1895, “this place changed people's lives,” said Swartwood. Even though it would take many more years for most houses to be connected to the grid, electric trolley cars transformed cityscapes, reduced distances, and created new connections. It even allowed people “to drink more leisurely” when electric-powered refrigeration advanced the brewing of lower-alcoholic beers.

A tour of the Powerhouse, built from granite and brick, illustrates the ingenuity that created electricity more than a century ago. From a dam and canal on the American River, water was diverted to a forebay and down giant pipes called penstocks. Dropping down 55 feet, the water’s speed and energy, spinning the large turbines, was converted by generators into electricity. The wall-size marble switchboard of levers and gauges operated the state-of-the-art transformers, which boosted the power from 800 to 11,000 volts for transmission to the capital.

“People were still figuring things out,” said Swartwood about the mixture of technological innovation and improvisation that can still be seen at the park. A later-added second facility, the Lower Powerhouse—built closer to the river and prone to frequent flooding—used an old-fashioned but intricate rope pulley system to turn its generator. And Park Aide Sabrina Borchard points out the scenic setting of the powerhouse with the opportunity of lakeshore hikes close by. But nature has made inroads right under the feet of the Powerhouse’s iron and steel machinery; in the water underneath the Penstock Room, a family of beavers—who know a piece of good engineering when they see one—have found a home today.

Folsom Powerhouse SHP is a good place to visit any time of the year, and the park offers group and school tours and frequent special events. Anybody visiting the Powerhouse will be transported to a time when an electrical engineering marvel in Folsom made the lights go on in California.

Top left: The two-story Main Powerhouse. Photo from Andreas Agocs, Communications and Marketing Division. Top right: Interpreter II Devin Swartwood explains a lightbulb moment at the Powerhouse's switchboard. Bottom left: The interactive panels in the visitors center make engineering history come alive. Bottom right: The Turbine Room with generators and switchboard. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.

The Main Powerhouse (top left), the forebay with intakes (top right) and the interior of the Powerhouse (bottom) at the height of its operation in the early 20th century. Photos from Folsom Powerhouse State Historical Park.

Clockwise from left: Falling water was channeled through these massive penstocks to spin the Main Powerhouse's turbines. The Lower Powerhouse at the shore of Lake Natoma. The Lower Powerhouse used an old-fashioned but ingenious rope pulley system to power its generator. These transformers boosted power to 11,000 volts for transmission to Sacramento. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.

FIELD REPORT

Park Trail Maintenance Workers Turn Heroes

Story and photo from: Carin Johnson, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District

First responders arriving at Armstrong Redwoods State Park after trail maintenance workers discovered an injured visitor. 

The quick actions of two State Parks’ employees may have saved a man’s life in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve on Nov. 24. State Parks’ trail maintenance workers Ariana Owens-Nieves and Indira Tucker were performing a drive-around of the back roads of the reserve to check for slides and downed trees after recent storms. Fortunately, the two women happened to see a slide-off in a remote area and decided to investigate.

When they arrived, they discovered a young man had slid off a trail down a 14-foot embankment on his heavy e-bike, which had landed on top of him. He had already been trapped for approximately 40 minutes. He couldn’t move and was injured, his helmet heavily damaged. The two women immediately contacted emergency services and kept the injured man calm by talking to him and covering him. First responders arrived soon thereafter to take over.

If Owens-Nieves and Tucker hadn’t discovered the man, he may have remained trapped with life-threatening consequences until he had been reported missing. These State Parks staff members deserve high praise for their calm response and intelligent actions.

California Natural Resources Agency's Cultural Diversity Day Features Documentary Film About Cultural Arts Academy Los Cenzontles

Story from: California State Parks Director Armando Quintero

Did you miss the film showing during California Natural Resources Agency's Cultural Diversity Day in Sacramento? As part of the celebration, I introduced a short (25-minute) film titled "Linda & La Marisoul: An Afternoon at Los Cenzontles." The documentary is about a small nonprofit cultural arts academy named Los Cenzontlez (the mockingbirds) in San Pablo. "Linda" in the title, refers to musician, singer, and songwriter Linda Ronstadt, a longtime supporter of the school. La Marisoul is the stage name of Marisol Hernández, a Mexican-American singer and songwriter who is best known as the lead vocalist of the Grammy Award-winning band La Santa Cecilia.

The purpose of showing this film was to encourage viewers to explore the diversity of programming in their hometowns. There are numerous projects of various types across the state that offer a connection with the people and the arts of many kinds of cultures. This is really an invitation to explore the world at home. Check out the video by clicking the button above.

King Tides Happening This Weekend

Story from: Erika Delemarre, Interpretation and Education Division

State Park Interpreter I Ashley Wemp offered views of waves washing into the Whalers Cove parking lot in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve during the high king tide on Dec. 13.

The Interpretation and Education Division recently worked with PORTS Program interpreters along the coast to offer a live PORTScast from coastal park units experiencing the winter king tides. Viewers had the chance to see the impacts of sea level rise, king tides, and coastal erosion at different locations including Cardiff State Beach (SB), Carpinteria SB, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, MacKerricher State Park (SP), and Tolowa Dunes SP. The program was livestreamed to the Department's YouTube channel and had more than 600 K-12 students and members of the public tune in. If you missed the program, you can check out the recording here.

The annual extreme high- and low-water events caused by king tides will be taking place along the entire coast all weekend. We encourage State Parks staff and visitors to safely observe the high water events from a safe distance and to stay away from the surf and coastal bluffs, which can collapse. If you take photos of the high water events, you can submit them to the California Coastal Commission's King Tides Project.

During the extreme low tides, visitors will have the opportunity to observe deep into the intertidal zone with the chance to see more tidepool creatures. However, fragile wildlife is protected in coastal parks, so take only pictures and leave behind only footprints while you safely observe the king tides!

Holiday Music returns to the California State Capitol

Story from: Arthur Vassar, Capital District

Sacramento Valley Concert Choir performing in the State Capitol rotunda during the Holiday Music Program. Photo from Erin Renfree.

The California State Capitol Museum welcomes everyone to visit for the 2024 edition of the Holiday Music Program in the rotunda of California’s State Capitol. During this joyous time of year, with many holiday traditions being celebrated, many local musical groups share their talents with those attending.

The history of the Holiday Music Program goes back to December 1869 when the building opened with festive music and celebrations. Former state governors continued the traditions, adorning the building with garlands and decorating trees within their offices.

Since 1996, the California State Capitol Museum, in association with the Legislature, the Governor’s Office, and the Department of General Services, have worked to restore the earlier holiday traditions inside the State Capitol through the Holiday Music Program for guests to enjoy the music and the decorations that grace the Capitol building this time of year. In addition, the Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony and the lighting of the Menorah on the West Steps brings the festivities outdoors as well. All are welcome to bring lunch and enjoy the sounds and sights of the season. For more information, including the complete performance schedule, please visit Capitol Holiday Music Program. 

Santa Trades Sleigh for Jet Ski at Bolsa Chica State Beach

Story and photos from: Michelle Figueroa, Orange Coast District

Santa, played by Senior Park Aide Scott Huckabey, and his helper (Lifeguard II Jenn Marshall) pose for a photo with some happy beachgoers.

It's a dolphin! It’s a plane! It’s Santa making waves!

Santa decided to give his reindeer friends a break this holiday season and cruise on his jet ski instead on his way to meet with some very excited fans recently at Beach City Provisions at Bolsa Chica State Beach (SB). Upon arriving at the annual Bolsa Chica Christmas at the Beach event, Santa took pictures with visitors on the sand atop his jet ski with the assistance of his lifeguard helpers. Not far from the photo area, visitors were able to craft their own custom Santa photo refrigerator magnets and dog tags for their fellow Bark Rangers.

Among the activities available at the event was a self-guided beach cleanup, giving the community an opportunity to get involved and fight back against beach pollution. Cleanup participants were given a raffle ticket for a chance to win a Christmas tree, generously donated by PRJKT Concessions. Educational booths hosted by the Amigos de Bolsa Chica and environmental staff at Bolsa Chica SB showcased local birds and water quality testing for the Bolsa Chica wetlands, across the highway from the beach.

Visitors made sure to fill up on delicious food and beverages at Beach City Provisions, a concession stand sitting right on the sand at Bolsa Chica SB. While enjoying their meal, guests could listen to or participate in an open-mic karaoke, mostly consisting of Christmas songs to ring in the holiday season. As the sun dipped below the horizon, kids and their families excitedly gathered around to watch the beloved winter animated film, "Olaf’s Frozen Adventure."

Christmas at the Beach brings an aquatic twist to the meaning of Christmas. From witnessing Santa rip around on the winter waves to giving back with the gift of cleaning the beach, it’s no wonder that the ocean brings people together. Like a sunset, this event helped bring the winter season to a colorful, beautiful close.

Top left and right: Santa, this time plated by Lifeguard (PI) Ryan Allen, makes a splashing entrance to the Christmas at the Beach event before reaching shore and giving a thumbs up. Bottom right: Senior Park Aide Joseph Buss (left) and Park Aide Matthew Goriachkovsky set up Christmas karaoke at the Beach City Provisions amphitheater. Bottom left: State Parks volunteer Annie Daw shows visitors how to use microscopes to test water quality by monitoring bacteria in local water samples.

Senior park aides Rachel Houchen and Hannah Vanderplas show off their do-it-yourself Bark Ranger dog tags. A young visitor decorates her photo with Santa with a candy cane and stocking sticker. Seasonal Maintenance Aide Levi Prairie greets visitors with a smile next to a Christmas tree.

Efforts Continue for Removal of Rindge Dam in Malibu Creek State Park

Story from: Cassandra Chavez, Angeles District

Rindge Dam stands inside Malibu Creek State Park. Photo from Restore Malibu Creek.

Rindge Dam, located on Malibu Creek inside Malibu Creek State Park, has caused significant environmental impacts since its construction, including altering hydrology, geomorphology, and habitat, while blocking the migration of the endangered California steelhead and terrestrial species who use the creek as a corridor. The dam has trapped approximately 780,000 cubic yards of sediment, contributing to a reduction in sand reaching beaches and harming habitats of various species.

In response, the Malibu Creek Ecosystem Restoration Project (MCERP) aims to remove the dam and repair additional barriers upstream to restore natural ecological processes, including natural hydrology and sediment transport, which will help rejuvenate Malibu's beaches. It will also reconnect critical aquatic habitats for native species, which have been inaccessible for nearly 100 years.

The project began with a 1992 feasibility study. The final environmental impact survey and environmental impact report were completed in 2020 and outlined plans for the removal of the dam, sediment excavation, and remediation of upstream barriers. The State of California allocated $12.5 million in the budget for FY2021-22 for State Parks to advance planning and design the project to 90%. Public engagement and stakeholder input continue to be important throughout the project’s phases to ensure concerns of the community are addressed and interested parties will stay engaged. Click here to learn more about the project.

PARTNER NEWS

Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park Recovery Fund Announced

Story from: California State Parks Foundation

Hotspots are extinguished by first responders at Bidwell Mansion in Chico. 

A tragic fire devastated Bidwell Mansion in Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park on Dec. 11. This fire caused significant damage to the mansion, which has long been a cherished landmark and a cornerstone of California’s history. The California State Parks Foundation (CSPF) wants to provide the public with an update on our ongoing efforts and invite you to help amplify this important work.

CSPF is working closely with California State Parks to coordinate recovery efforts for Bidwell Mansion. The primary goal is to ensure that all resources are directed efficiently to support the future of this historic site. Funds are being raised through the Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park Recovery Fund to ensure sufficient financial resources are available to support recovery efforts. Additionally, CSPF is engaging communities across the state to rally support, emphasizing Bidwell Mansion’s importance as a cultural and educational resource.

Together, we have the opportunity to ensure that Bidwell Mansion’s legacy endures for generations to come. Thank you for being an essential part of this recovery effort. If you have any questions or would like additional materials to share, please reach out to randy@calparks.org.

Career Pathways Expands Mya’s Journey into Natural Conservation

Story and photo from: Elizabeth Kubey, Parks California

Mya Huetter changing sticky traps to monitor for the invasive shot hole borer beetle with their Natural Resources Management team. 

We are so excited for you to meet Mya Huetter, (she/they) a recent graduate who is turning their love of nature into a wonderful career with California State Parks. Thanks to Parks California’s Career Pathways program – a workforce development initiative that helps young professionals, particularly from underrepresented groups, gain paid training and access to rewarding careers in parks-related fields – Mya is now a Natural Resources crewmember at State Parks.

Mya’s career journey took off with a paid internship with Career Pathways grantee Crystal Cove Conservancy, where they learned everything from ecological restoration to GIS mapping. That internship set Mya up for success and helped them land their first job in natural resources.

Parks California recognizes the importance of programs like Career Pathways. Paid internships and access to mentors are vital for attracting diverse, talented individuals to careers with parks and public lands. However, our work is not done. We need your help in raising $100,000 by year’s end to help more young people like Mya gain access to these transformative career opportunities.  

Share Mya’s interview and see how your support can make a real difference in launching careers in parks and public lands. Your donation will fund more career pathways for people who want to protect California’s unique ecosystems. Your generous, tax-deductible gift will open doors for the next generation of park stewards, just like Mya. 

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 (week of 12/13/24)

Park Interpretive Specialist (Sacramento, CA- Seasonal) – Apply by Jan. 17: Join our team as a Park Interpretive Specialist, leading educational programs such as guided walks to explore the connections between nature, history, and culture. Your exciting responsibilities may include developing and maintaining exhibits, researching and cataloging artifacts, and promoting conservation awareness through engaging visitor interactions. This role also involves safeguarding park resources by educating visitors on rules and regulations to ensure their preservation. This is an opportunity you do not want to miss! Click here to view opportunities and to apply.

Forestry Aide (Oceano Dunes, CA - Seasonal) – Apply by Jan. 31: The Oceano Dunes District is looking for a Forestry Aide to play a pivotal role in preserving and enhancing natural resources! In this role, you will dive into exciting fieldwork, from vegetation monitoring and ecological restoration to wildlife population assessments. You will gain invaluable experience in GPS/GIS data collection, fence and sign maintenance, and collaborating with passionate crews and volunteers in diverse, challenging environments. Applicants must hold a valid Class C driver’s license. If you’re eager to make a real impact and build your resume with hands-on experience, apply today and be part of something special! Click here to view the opportunity and apply.

Senior Maintenance Aides (Butte and Monterey, CA –Seasonal) – Deadlines extended into January: As a Senior Maintenance Aide, you will mentor team members on tool safety, ensure quality work, and keep operations running smoothly. From inspecting completed projects to assisting with hands-on maintenance, you will play a key part in preserving these incredible spaces. Apply now to make an impact at California State Parks! Click here and to view opportunities and to apply or connect with your local California State Park.

District Superintendent IV (Sacramento, CA) – Apply by 1 Dec. 17: California State Parks is seeking a Deputy Chief for the Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division (LEESD) at our Headquarters in Sacramento, CA. This challenging position involves overseeing the Cannabis Watershed Protection Program, managing LEESD units such as Telecommunications and Emergency Services, and assisting in the development of division policies. The Deputy Chief will also be responsible for the planning and direction of specific projects within the division. A valid Class C driver’s license is required for this opportunity. Click here to learn more.

EXAM SPOTLIGHTS 

Park Maintenance Worker I (12/31/2024) In this role, you will use your skills in carpentry, plumbing, landscaping, and equipment operation to maintain trails, buildings, roads, and natural spaces. From clearing trails and repairing park structures to caring for trees and lawns, you will help preserve the environment and ensure public spaces are clean and welcoming. You may also operate vehicles and equipment, answer visitor questions, provide first aid, and lead a team of maintenance crew members. If you’re passionate about outdoor work and making a positive impact, apply today!! Click here for more information. 

Exhibit Designer/Coordinator (12/31/2024): California State Parks is accepting applications for the Exhibit Designer/Coordinator assessment. Join our dynamic team and unleash your creativity by designing inspiring interpretive exhibits for museums, visitor centers, and outdoor spaces! The exam will assess candidates' abilities in design, project management, budgeting, and coordination of exhibit development. Click here for more information. 

State Park Interpreter I, II, & III (Continuous): Are you passionate about bringing history and nature to life? Join our team and play a key role in planning, developing, and researching exciting interpretive projects that engage and inspire people from around the world. If you have a love for storytelling, a background in interpretation, and a desire to make an impact, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Click here for more information and be sure to read the minimum qualifications for each classification in the series.

WORKSHOP SPOTLIGHT

Join our upcoming virtual webinars to learn about exciting job opportunities with California State Parks. Learn more about the job application process, assessments, and the state hiring procedure. Our recruiters will provide guidance on how to succeed in the hiring process and answer any questions you may have. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights and take the first step toward your career! Learn more, find upcoming dates, and how to register by clicking here!

If you have any questions regarding these opportunities, connect with us at Recruiting@parks.ca.gov. We’re happy to help!

Interested in more jobs and exams like this? Explore www.LiveTheParksLife.com to discover the possibilities.

Join the Parks Jobs mailing list here. We can send you updates on jobs and exams that interest you!

LIVE THE PARKS LIFE IN STYLE

Style time! 🎄'Tis the season for festive holiday cards, so let’s make sure your style is as sharp as your holiday cheer! 

• Apostrophe Alert: Keep those apostrophes in check! It’s “Happy holidays from the Garcias,” not “Happy holiday’s from the Garcia’s.”
  
  
• Be Inclusive: If you’re addressing a diverse group, consider using phrases like “Season’s greetings” or “Wishing you peace and joy.”
  
  
• Holiday Music: Some songs you might hear this holiday season: “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” “White Christmas” and “Auld Lang Syne.” But if you’re writing out musical lyrics, keep them lowercase: fa la la la la, la la la la 🎶.

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

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Gold Fields District Chief Ranger Barry Smith led a candlelight processional marking the reopening of the historic Emmanuel Church, closed since 2015. 

Photo from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Closed since 2015, a renovation lasting several years has brought the historic Emmanuel Church back to life in the community of Coloma. Park staff members hosted a reopening ceremony complete with the singing of holiday carols inside the church.

Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division

Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area

State park peace officers Jeremy Black and Cameron Dice respond to a medevac incident near Shell Reef Expressway the day after Thanksgiving. Desert lifeguards play an important role in emergency response. It takes a significant effort to put all the logistics together. State Park Superintendent III Andy Ahlberg has programmed the personnel and equipment needed for quick response in situations like this.

Photos from Enrique Arroyo, Ocotillo Wells District

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Photo from Nika Renner, San Diego Coast District

Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park

The path to the adobe building covered in fall leaves.

Photo from Carmen Vanni, Bay Area District

Point Mugu State Park

Hike the scenic trail at Sycamore Canyon to get the best view of the Pacific Coast Highway sandhill.

Photo from Cassandra Chavez, Angeles District

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Photo from Andrea Mapes, North Coast Redwoods District

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

I call these two photos "A Tale of Two Sunrises." The first one was taken on a morning when no color developed. The second was taken two mornings later when the color was amazing. I never know what nature is going to show me when I go out to take photos. It makes taking photos a lot of fun.

Photos from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District

Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area

A sunset on a busy Thanksgiving weekend.

Photo from Enrique Arroyo, Ocotillo Wells District

Bodie State Historic Park

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Morro Bay State Park

UPCOMING EVENTS

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

Saturday, Dec. 14

• Saturday Discovery Table—Mount Tamalpais State Park, 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.: Discover more about Mount Tamalpais State Park! Stop by on your way to or back from your outdoor adventure and learn about nature in the park. Topics change monthly and locations rotate weekly. For the month of December (and early January), we're going to be exploring geology. Park staff will answer questions and offer recommendations on where to explore further. Tables will have specimens and activities and there will be a reading corner for those with the time and wish to explore in a quieter, more relaxed style. For the geology table, there will be rock specimens, hand-held microscopes, geology scavenger hunt sheets, and geology books & guides.
• Holiday on the Homestead—William B. Ide Adobe State Historical Park, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.: California State Parks and its partner, Ide Adobe Interpretive Association, invite you to get in the holiday spirit with Holidays on the Homestead. The public is invited to join in a day of festivities, music, and making ornaments and gifts. Enjoy living history demonstrations, with staff and volunteers dressed in 1850s clothing to greet visitors. St. Nicholas will be at the homestead to hear holiday wishes from children. Visitors can make handmade gifts, including tin punch, dried orange ornaments, candles, tops, yarn crafts, and rag dolls.

Saturday, Dec. 14, and Sunday, Dec. 15

• Christmas in Coloma—Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park: Join us for old-fashioned Christmas fun ‒ visit with Santa, hear live music, enjoy warming fires, shop holiday vendors, and engage in crafts and games for the whole family. There's also a historic house tour, wagon rides, and more. Wreath making, clam chowder, chili, hot drinks, beer and wine are available for purchase (all proceeds stay in the park to support educational programs). The Community Market with locally grown produce will be open on Saturday only from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. The entry fee is $10 per vehicle for day use. There is a $5 per person fee for the historic house tour. This is a dog-free event. For more information, call (530) 622-3470.

NEWS RELEASES

Dec. 11, 2004

• Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park Severely Damaged by Fire

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.