|
 Jan. 17, 2025
|
|
 Saddleback Butte State Park
Mother Nature painting a gorgeous sunset.
Photo from Berenice De Loera, Great Basin District
|
|
Firefighters Make Progress on Southern California Fires, Long Road to Recovery Begins
Story from: Adeline Yee, Communications and Marketing Division
 Top left: Director Armando Quintero meets with Park Maintenance Supervisor Jeremy Harkless at Will Rogers State Historic Park. Top right (left to right): Director Quintero, State Parks firefighters Kelly McFadden, Mikey Moss, Maegan Massaro, Andrew Massaro, Angeles District Superintendent Richard Fink and Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot. Middle left: Firefighter McFadden. Bottom left: Firefighters put out hot spots at Topanga State Park. Bottom right: Secretary Crowfoot, Superintendent Fink and Director Quintero tour the devastation. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
More than a week after the start of the Palisades Fire and subsequent fires in Southern California, fire crews are improving containment as red flag warnings expired this week. The largest fire, the Palisades Fire, has burned more than 23,700 acres and is 31% contained as of Jan. 17. The second largest, the Eaton Fire, has burned more than 14,100 acres and is 65% contained. The fires have killed at least 24 people, destroyed more than 12,300 structures and burned more than 60 square miles across the region.
Earlier this week, State Parks Director Armando Quintero and Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot visited Will Rogers State Historic Park (SHP) and Topanga State Park (SP), to see the destruction firsthand. They met and thanked first responders and State Parks staff, including those from the Angeles District, for their resilience amid the devastation. Please see Director Quintero’s video message below.
On Jan. 16, State Parks staff began fire suppression efforts to control runoff from future storms at Topanga SP and began inspecting standing structures at Will Rogers SHP. The Angeles District was also able to reopen Leo Carrillo SP and Point Mugu SP to the public. The next day, Malibu Lagoon State Beach including the Adamson House reopened. The public is advised there may still be road closures throughout the region and is urged to check Caltrans’ website quickmap.dot.ca.gov before traveling.
However, the road to recovery and rebuilding will be a long one. While some residents have been allowed to return to their homes, tens of thousands of people in Los Angeles County remain under evacuation orders and thousands of others no longer have homes to return to. People impacted by the fires can find resources at ca.gov/LAfires and at Los Angeles County’s website at recovery.lacounty.gov.
For the latest updates on the fires, visit CAL FIRE’s incidents website at fire.ca.gov/incidents fire.ca.gov/incidents. For the latest updates on state parks impacted, visit parks.ca.gov/incidents.
Resources for State Employees: State Parks would like to remind its employees that Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services are available to not only state employees but also to extended family members, neighbors and friends. A 24-hour hotline (1-866-327-4762) has been set up to provide free, confidential counseling services to help those impacted. A benefits resources webpage has also been created for information about benefits and services available during wildfires and other natural disasters. For help contacting EAP or general benefits resources, please email benefitsinquiries@calhr.ca.gov for assistance.
To view Director Quintero's message on the Los Angeles fires, click here or the button above. Video shot by Andres Weishaupt and Jerry Macias, and edited by Andres Weishaupt, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Top photos: Firefighters from Portland, Ore., help battle the Palisades Fire on Jan. 12. Bottom left: Secretary Crowfoot thanks Park Maintenance Chief Rick Matsuo at Will Rogers SHP. Park Maintenance Worker Bryce Wild and Superintendent Fink in the background. Bottom right: Resident deer make an appearance at Will Rogers SHP on Jan. 14. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
 Please submit your nomination to DirectorRecognitionAward@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
Showcasing the Parks Life at the International Sportsmen’s Expo
Photos and story from: Jo Biswas, Communications and Marketing Division
 Left: Gold Fields District Chief Ranger Barry Smith (left), with Lieutenant Scott Modeste and Captain Joel Dinnauer from the Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division, discussing the roles of rangers and lifeguards during a live stream from the Sacramento International Sportsmen’s Expo on Jan. 16. Right: Interpreter I Zak Adams carries out a show-and-tell featuring pelts of animals found in California’s state parks during a live stream.
California State Parks is making a strong presence this weekend at the Sacramento International Sportsmen’s Expo, which runs through Sunday, Jan. 19. Staff from across the department, including rangers, lifeguards, interpreters, and communications operators, as well as Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW), Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division and State Parks Career Resources staff are staffing booths and connecting with event attendees. They are answering questions, sharing stories, and inspiring others to “Live the Parks Life.”
On Thursday, two live videos streamed directly from the expo introduced State Parks staff who shared information about their roles. Lieutenant Scott Modeste, from the Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division's (LEESD's) Training Section, Captain Joel Dinnauer from LEESD's Background Investigations Team, and Gold Fields District Chief Ranger Barry Smith discussed the roles of rangers and lifeguards, the hiring process, and why some of our LEESD staff wear blue uniforms. Watch their video on Facebook or Instagram.
In another live stream, Interpreter I Zak Adams and Boating Education Manager Melissa Miranda shared insights into the roles of interpreters, park aides, and positions within DBW, along with a show-and-tell featuring pelts of animals found in California’s state parks. Watch their video on Facebook or Instagram.
If you are in Sacramento this weekend, stop by the State Parks booths - and bring a friend who might be perfect for “Living the Parks Life.” For more information, visit LiveTheParksLife.com and JoinCSP.parks.ca.gov. For hours and admission costs for the event being held at Cal Expo, please visit the Sacramento International Sportsmen's Expo webpage.
 California State Parks to Celebrate 75th Anniversary of Lifeguard Service
Story from: Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division
 This year marks the 75th anniversary of the California State Parks Lifeguard Service. A large, in-person event will be held to celebrate this important milestone Aug. 3-5 in Huntington Beach. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to pay tribute to the Lifeguard Service and enjoy time with family and friends.
Nightly activities planned include:
- Night 1: Reception, dinner and Lifeguard Service history presentation
- Night 2: Lifeguard awards ceremony and live music
- Night 3: Honorable lifeguards panel discussion and live music
Daytime activities, such as group surf sessions, golf, backcountry hikes and fishing, will also be offered to attendees. Advance tickets will be made available at a later date.
Please note: the 2025 U.S. Lifesaving Association’s National Lifeguard Championships is scheduled immediately following the anniversary celebration, Aug. 6-9, at Huntington State Beach. It’s the perfect time to plan on a full week of lifeguard engagement and competition.
For more information, visit the 75th Anniversary of Lifeguard Service webpage. You may also sign up for event updates.
 Please submit your photos HERE. Please send questions to WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
|
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
Associate Pest Control Assistant Program Manager, Boating and Waterways – (Stockton, CA) – Apply by Jan. 21: Join the Aquatic Invasive Species Branch in Stockton, CA, as the Assistant Program Manager, leading a team in managing invasive aquatic plants across California’s waterways. Under the Environmental Program Manager I, you will oversee field operations, develop policies, and drive innovative solutions. This role requires a Qualified Applicator License (QAL) or Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC), or Pest Control Adviser License (PCA) license and expertise in botany, pest control, boating operations, and leadership! Click here to learn more!
Senior Maintenace Aides – (Butte, Humboldt, San Luis Obispo, Mendocino, Shasta, Sonoma, CA) - Apply by the end of January: Join California State Parks as a Senior Maintenance Aide (Seasonal) and help keep our facilities in top condition. In this role, you will help lead and train seasonal staff, oversee maintenance and housekeeping tasks, and ensure park facilities are clean and operational all year-round. If you enjoy teamwork, working outdoors, and making a difference, apply today! Click here to learn more!
Staff Services Manager I (Sacramento, CA) – Multiple opportunities, deadlines extend into next week: California State Parks has multiple Staff Services Manager I opportunities for you to explore. Our diverse roles offer opportunities to lead and innovate in areas like budget management, policy analysis, program planning, and administrative services, all while contributing to the preservation and enhancement of California’s iconic parks. Whether you’re shaping policy, analyzing programs, or finding creative solutions to complex challenges, your work will help protect our natural and cultural resources for future generations while advancing your professional growth. Click here to learn more!
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Park Maintenance Worker II (1/31): Come Live the Parks Life as a Park Maintenance Worker I. This exciting position involves supervising a team, ensuring safety compliance, organizing tasks, maintaining inventory, and keeping records. You will also have the unique opportunity of training staff, inspecting facilities, and assisting with cleaning and upkeep to meet maintenance goals. If you enjoy working outdoors, be sure to apply for this assessment. Click here for more information.
State Park Equipment Operator (2/1): State Park Equipment Operators are the backbone of keeping California’s state parks safe, accessible, and beautiful! Depending on the state park, you will take charge of heavy and specialized machinery to tackle essential tasks like road maintenance, hazard removal, snow clearing, and park upkeep. From operating equipment and performing minor repairs to assisting with major fixes and transporting materials, no two days are the same. You will also get to share your expertise by training others, supervising exciting projects, and lending a hand in park operations Click here for more information.
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 process. 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!
|
|
|
Style time! Here are this week's tips to help spread the word about our departmentwide style guidelines:
-
Firefighter: The preferred term to describe a person who fights fire is firefighter, one word with no hyphen.
-
When to use "on": Do not use "on" before a date or day of the week when its absence would not lead to confusion, except at the beginning of a sentence. For example: The meeting will be held Monday. He will be inaugurated Jan. 20. On Sept. 3, the committee will meet to discuss the issue.
-
Capitalize the full proper names of governmental agencies, departments and offices: The U.S. Department of State, the Georgia Department of Human Resources, the Los Angeles Fire Department. Retain capitalization in referring to a specific body if the dateline or context makes the name of the nation, state, county, city, etc. unnecessary: The Department of State (in a story from Washington), the City Council (in a story from Boston), the Fire Department or the city Fire Department (in a story from Los Angeles). Lowercase further condensations of the name: the department, the council, etc.
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.
|
|
 Malibu Creek State Park
Little ones attending the Junior Ranger First Day Hike and showing off their newly earned badges.
Photo from Cassandra Chavez, Angeles District
 Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park
This pup was found Jan. 13 and was scared from the unusually strong winds ripping through the park. State Park Interpreter I Jennifer Hanson, along with Senior Park Aides Terry and me, took her into the office and gave her water and snuggles until Sonoma County Animal Control picked her up. She is now known as "Dottie." We will miss you!
Photos from Carmen Vanni, Bay Area District
 Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
Lily Nia (left) and Erica Ramirez (right), both interpretive specialists, were ready to take visitors on a nature walk through Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook with a view of the Los Angeles skyline in the distance.
Photo from Cassandra Chavez, Angeles District
 Crystal Cove State Park
State park peace officers and drone operators Andy Mendoza and Samuel Toscano utilized a drone recently purchased for the Orange Coast District to locate a missing at-risk adult. The subject was missing for four hours and was located within 45 minutes of being reported to the peace officers thanks to the drone's forward-looking infrared capabilities.
Photo from Orange Coast District
 Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument
The San Luis Obispo Coast District Admin Team spots a unique guest in the Hearst Castle Visitor Center parking lot.
Photo from Jessica Ramey, San Luis Obispo Coast District
 Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
I had some company while trimming rosemary bushes.
Photo from Marchella Putich, Gold Fields District
 South Carlsbad State Beach
I took this picture on Jan. 10. Because of the latest barrage of large swells, most of the accumulated sand has washed back out to sea, uncovering the reef that is rarely seen. The photo was taken just above our main stairway.
Photo from Michael Powell, San Diego Coast District
 Red Rock Canyon State Park
A waxing gibbous moon rises before sunset in Hagen Canyon Natural Preserve.
Photo from Damion Laughlin, Great Basin District
 Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
I love taking sunrise photos. These two sunrises were taken two days apart. The top one was taken on Friday. The bottom one was taken on Sunday.
Photos from Michele Hernandez, Colorado Desert District
 Please submit your photos HERE. Please send questions to WeeklyDigest@parks.ca.gov.
|
|
|
Here are some upcoming State Parks events. For a list of more upcoming events, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/events.
Saturday, Jan. 18
-
Plant Walk—Big Basin Redwood State Park, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Join us for a guided program about the native plants at the park. During this program, we will learn to identify a handful of native plants, and chat a bit about their life histories, traditional uses, ecologies, etc. This program is a 2-hour, 3-mile walk at a gentle pace. Participation is free, however, a $10 vehicle day-use fee will be charged upon arrival, or you can reserve a parking spot by clicking here. Please plan to meet at the temporary visitor center area located next to the restrooms at 10:45 a.m. Bring your own water or purchase water from parking kiosk as there is no running water, electricity or cell service at Big Basin. For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact bigbasin@ports-ca.us. Click here to register for this program.
-
Basket Weaving Workshop—Henry Cowell Redwoods State Parks, 10 a.m. – noon: During this basket weaving workshop you will learn how to weave your very own basket out of local ponderosa pine needles and not so local raffia. This opportunity will pique your interest in learning more about and supporting local traditional arts and Native peoples. An RSVP is required to participate. All materials are supplied, and no previous experience is necessary. Suitable for participants 12 years of age and up. Click here to RSVP!
Friday, Jan. 24
-
Guided Hike - Confluence and Clementine Loop—Auburn State Recreational Area at 9:30 a.m.: Where: Confluence Trailhead. Hike Description: Confluence Trail/Short Cut Trail/Lower Clementine Road/ Clementine Dam Trail. Length: Approximately 6.2-miles along an easy/moderate loop. Time: About 4+ hours. Participants should expect mud. The hike crosses old and new Foresthill roads. The hike will gradually climb about 900 feet. There are a couple of narrow trail sections, but beautiful views of the canyon, the American River, and Clementine Lake. Come join us for an energizing nature hike and stunning views. Meet at Confluence Trailhead parking area, on the right side on Old Foresthill Road, past the old Foresthill Bridge and ranger kiosk at the confluence. Parking is $10 cash or credit card paid at the kiosk or a State Parks pass. Bring water, snacks, trail shoes and essentials. Friendly dogs on leash are welcome. Rain cancels the hike. There is no need to RSVP.
|
|
|
Jan. 14, 2025
|
|
|
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 use this submission form or click the button above.
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.
|
|
|
|
|
