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Lake Berryessa, Photo by Jesse Pluim, BLM

News.Bytes brings you the latest news, events, and opportunities happening on California Public Lands. Keep reading for the latest updates and features that celebrate the beauty, stories, and recreation these lands offer.

Headlines and Highlights

BLM State Director Joe Stout and staff with Calpine at The Geysers

BLM Tours The Geysers with Calpine

BLM California State Director Joe Stout joined Calpine at The Geysers, the world’s largest geothermal power complex, to highlight innovation in renewable energy. Calpine’s operations help power communities across five California counties. Learn more. 

Public Lands in the California Desert District, Photo by BLM

Public Input Open for Redonda Solar Project

The BLM is seeking feedback on the proposed Redonda Solar Project in Riverside County, which could produce and store up to 250 megawatts of renewable energy. Attend the in-person meeting on June 18 or submit comments online by July 1.Learn more.

Bizz Johnson Trail, Photo by BLM

Bizz Johnson Trail Improvements Underway

The BLM is making upgrades to restrooms, parking areas, and trail conditions along the Bizz Johnson Trail to enhance visitor safety and access. Temporary restrictions may apply during construction. Learn more.

Volunteer and Community Efforts

Cotoni-Coast Dairies, Photo by Ben Hoke, BLM

Shelter Dogs Hit the Trail with BLM Rangers

BLM rangers and Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter volunteers recently partnered to give adoptable dogs a chance to explore BLM-managed trails and build social skills. These outings support future adoptions and promote responsible pet use on public lands. Learn more.

Piedras Blancas Light Station, Photo by BLM

Wildlife Surveys Completed at Piedras Blancas

BLM Bakersfield staff and volunteers recently conducted small mammal and wildlife surveys at Piedras Blancas Light Station to support coastal habitat health and native species monitoring. Their efforts help advance long-term stewardship of public lands. Learn more.

King Range National Conservation Area, Photo by Kacie Hallahan BLM

Volunteers Restore Trails on California’s Lost Coast

Volunteers from the American Hiking Society joined BLM rangers for a week of trail maintenance in the King Range National Conservation Area, clearing brush, repairing tread, and removing marine debris along the Rattlesnake Ridge Trail. Learn more. 

Twin Peaks Gelding, Photo by Amy Dumas, BLM

Up-Close with California’s Wild Horses and Burros

Wildfire and Fuels Highlights

Cronan Ranch sheep grazing, Photo by BLM

Grazing Sheep Help Lower Wildfire Risk

Over 1,800 sheep are now grazing at Cronan and Magnolia Ranches to help control invasive weeds and reduce wildfire risk. These four-legged land managers support healthy ecosystems—visitors are encouraged to leash pets and give flocks space. Learn more.

Pine Hill Preserve, Photo by Jesse Pluim, BLM

Fire Restrictions Begin Across 19 Counties

To help keep communities safe and preserve the natural beauty of public lands, seasonal fire restrictions will begin Friday, June 6 on BLM-managed lands in central and western Central California. The restrictions aim to reduce wildfire risk across 19 counties. Learn more.

Laguna Mountain, Photo by Jesse Pluim, BLM

Fire Restrictions Take Effect in Central Coast 

To reduce wildfire risk during dry conditions, seasonal fire restrictions will take effect June 2 on BLM-managed lands in western Fresno, Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties. Learn what is restricted and how you can help prevent wildfires.

Learn more.

Seymour’s Question of the Week

BLM’s mascot, Seymour the Antelope, challenges you to learn more about the life and ecology of your public lands. Check out this week’s question and see if you know the answer.

Blunt-nosed leopard lizard, Photo Courtesy of Fresno Chaffee Zoo

How many captive-bred blunt-nosed leopard lizards were recently released on the Panoche Plateau?

A) 15
B) 25
C) 35
D) 45

⬇️ Scroll down for the answer

Alaska, Photo by DOI

Inside Interior

This week, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum traveled to Alaska to underscore the state’s energy potential and natural beauty. His visit included a tour of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, meetings with Alaska Native leaders, and an announcement to advance responsible oil and gas development in the National Petroleum Reserve–Alaska.

Inside Interior June, 6 2025

Employee Spotlight

K9 Enzo and Chief Ranger Michael Carpenter

K9 Enzo Retires After Nearly a Decade of Service

After supporting over 800 missions alongside Chief Ranger Michael Carpenter, K9 Enzo is retiring from BLM law enforcement. Join us in thanking this hardworking pup for his dedication to protecting people and public lands. Learn more. 

Answer to Seymour's Question of the Week

✅ Answer:

C) 35 — That is how many lizards were released by the BLM Central Coast Field Office and Fresno Chaffee Zoo as part of a major step forward in recovering this federally endangered species. Starting with just five individuals, partners have grown the breeding colony to 60, using genetic data to guide reintroduction efforts.

Learn more about this conservation success