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News.Bytes has come a long way from it's first issue back in the 1970's! Initially issued as a paper newsletter called NewsBeats, the publication was periodically mailed to 3,000 subscribers. In January 2001, the BLM California team transitioned to a digital version, similar to what we have today. The goal of sharing news and information from BLM, it's partners, and other news sources has not changed but our reach has grown. Today, we are thankful and proud to have 12,000 subscribers to our weekly e-newsletter. As we celebrate the 1000th issue, we hope that you continue to enjoy News.Bytes for years to come!
BLM California has the tools to help you discover one of our amazing destinations through our Explore Your Public Lands website, Recreation.gov, or even on the mobile app! You can search by locations, activities or keywords and through the interactive map. Your local BLM field offices are also great sources for current information.
If you're a novice birder, an expert level mountaineer, an angler passing knowledge to the next generation, or simply want to smell the flowers, you're sure to find the perfect adventure! Click the pictures below for more information.
   
Whether you are mountain biking down a rough trail or fishing along a riverbank, always stay aware of your surroundings and Recreate Responsibly!
Paddle smart and safe
Enjoying time outside includes being water-safe. Know your own limits, as even confident and strong swimmers can get into trouble. Water can be powerful. Always tell someone your plan when headed out solo. Obey posted safety signs. Learn to read water conditions and remain alert!
Check out these safety videos from American Whitewater when planning your next river trip!
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Stay cool, stay hydrated, stay informed!
Spring and summer are such a great time to hike! But if temperatures are too hot outside and you're not hydrated enough, it could lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke and possibly death if you’re not careful.
Before setting out, always check the weather. If there is a heatwave or if it’s just too hot to be comfortable outside, it might be best to rethink the hike. Know your body and signs of heat exhaustion! (BLM CA Facebook)
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Wildfire prevention at the campsite
Campfire safety is extremely important right now! Always make sure someone is in attendance of your campfire or burn pile, have water and a shovel close by, and make sure it is dead out before leaving.
For more campfire tips, visit the CAL FIRE website!
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Advisory councils seek nominations
The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public nominations for positions that are or will soon become vacant on its California Desert District Advisory Council, Central California Resource Advisory Council, & the Northern California District Resource Advisory Council. (BLM CA News Release)
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BLM to remove hazard trees along Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail
The Bureau of Land Management is urging visitors to the Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail to be alert for crews and equipment while tree felling operations are underway from May 23 through 25. (BLM CA News Release)
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Endangered species awareness day
BLM California manages habitats for 34 federally listed animals and 68 federally listed plants. Using science as a guide, BLM-CA works to conserve, connect, and restore the lands, waters, and wildlife upon which we and these important species all depend. (BLM CA Facebook)
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BLM Bakersfield and Central Coast field offices to issue seasonal fire restrictions
The Bureau of Land Management will issue seasonal fire restrictions and target shooting restrictions for public lands managed by the Bakersfield Field Office (effective May 23), and the Central Coast Field Office (effective May 25). Seasonal restrictions are in addition to the year-round statewide fire prevention order. (BLM CA News Release)
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BLM CA Hotshots continue rigorous training
The Diamond Mountain Interagency Hotshot Crew are into their second week of Critical 80 training, each day starting with a little "stroll" on their PT hill in full gear, carrying 35-55 lbs, depending on their position. We'll follow this BLM hotshot crew on social media as they prepare to head into the summer! (BLM CA Facebook)
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Crews receive emergency medical training
Firefighters and other staff from our Eagle Lake Field Office are grateful for an excellent training on CPR and helicopter landing zone operations provided by staff from Sierra Medical Services Alliance of Susanville and their affiliate, Air Methods. (BLM CA Facebook)
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Is your house at risk of a wildfire? This online tool could tell you
A non-profit research group is releasing a first-of-its-kind tool for homeowners. The ratings tool shows the wildfire risk for properties across the lower 48 states, and shows how that risk will change as the climate gets hotter. The information will be shown on Realtor.com, expanding to other real estate sites later. (NPR)
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How far can a giant kangaroo rat leap when trying to escape from predators?
A. 1 foot
B. 2 feet
C. 4 feet
D. 6 feet
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Now Hiring for BLM California
Bureau of Land Management California is looking to fill multiple FIRE jobs across the state. For all BLM CA current vacancies, visit USAJOBS!
Featured Job: Park Ranger at the King Range NCA
Locations: Whitehorn, CA
Pay: $44,740-$71,146/year
Position closes May 26th - Apply today!
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Here's a few more open positions:
Field Manager, GS-13, Permanent
IT Specialist, GS-13, Permanent
Maintenance Mechanic - WG-10, Permanent
Human Resource Assistant, GS-5/6, Permanent
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Question of the Week Answer
If you answered D, you would be correct! Their hind legs can propel them in leaps of more than 2 meters when they are escaping from predators.
The giant kangaroo rat is the largest of the kangaroo rats and found only in south-central California, including BLM California’s Carrizo Plain National Monument. They are also a ‘keystone species’ (one that other species in an ecosystem largely depend on). Burrowing by giant kangaroo rats modifies the surface topography of the landscape and changes the mineral makeup of the soil. Their burrows provide refuges, living places and favored microhabitats for many small animals and plant species like the blunt-nosed leopard lizards, San Joaquin or Nelson’s antelope squirrels, California jewelflower and San Joaquin woolly-threads - animals and plants that are listed as endangered or at-risk.
Thank you, giant kangaroo rats, for the conservation work you do each day for the good of your fellow plants and animals!
Source: UC Davis
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