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Trona Pinnacles, Photo by Bob Wick

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

Oil well and BLM work truck, Photo by BLM

Public Comment Open on Oil and Gas Supplemental Management Plans

The BLM Bakersfield and Central Coast field offices are inviting public input on two separate supplemental environmental impact statements and potential amendments to resource management plans related to oil and gas leasing in 17 California counties. Comments are due by July 23.

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Bat Survey, Photo by BLM

Surveying Bats to Support Ecosystems and Public Lands 

BLM California and partners are monitoring bat activity at abandoned mine sites to track white-nose syndrome, a disease threatening bat populations nationwide. Learn how you can help care for these important insect-eating mammals and their habitats. Learn more.

BLM Realty Specialist Russell Hansen on hand at the historic Goffs Schoolhouse, Photo by BLM

East Mojave Trek Connects People to Public Lands 

Nearly 80 OHV enthusiasts joined the East Mojave Trek for guided tours, cultural talks, and land stewardship education across 1.5 million acres of desert. BLM staff helped share how responsible recreation supports conservation. Learn more.

Headwaters Forest Reserve, Photo by Mishka Hamor, BLM

Seasonal Bridges Support Access in Old-Growth Forest

BLM Arcata Field Office staff installed seasonal bridges along the South Side Trail at Headwaters Forest Reserve, ensuring public access through a rare redwood ecosystem while being mindful of natural resources. Learn more.

Bumblebee, Photo by Russ Namitz, BLM

Celebrating Pollinator Week in California

Bees and other pollinators are essential to California’s ecosystems and agriculture. BLM California supports pollinator habitat year-round and encourages everyone to take steps to help at home. Learn more.

King Range National Conservation Area, Photo by Kacie Hallahan, BLM

Volunteers Restore Trails on California’s Lost Coast

 A volunteer crew known as the Lop Goblins maintained over 16 miles of trail in the rugged King Range Wilderness, improving access and safety while showcasing the power of service and stewardship. Learn more.

Wildfire and Fuels Highlights

Firefighters training, Photos by Mishka Hamor and Genairo Gray

Arcata Field Office Expands Fire Readiness

Ahead of wildfire season, BLM Arcata Field Office trained additional staff in wildland fire response through interagency drills and red card certification. These efforts boost BLM’s capacity to respond to incidents and support public safety across Northern California. Learn more.

Goodal Campground, Photo by Jesse Pluim, BLM

Fire Restrictions Now in Effect in Eastern Sierra 

To help keep communities safe and protect the natural beauty of public lands, seasonal fire restrictions are now in effect on BLM-managed lands in Inyo, Mono, and Alpine counties. The order covers popular areas like Alabama Hills and Bodie Hills and will remain in place until conditions improve. Learn more about current fire restrictions. 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.

Okanagana monochroma, Photo by BLM

A new species of Okanagana cicada was just found by scientists—but what makes it stand out?

Hoover Dam, Photo by DOI

Inside Interior

This week, the Department of the Interior advanced American energy independence and strengthened national resilience through several major initiatives.

Inside Interior June, 20 2025

Employee Spotlight

Eric Solomon accepting award, Photo by National Wildfire Coordinating Group

Eric Solomon Named EMS Individual of the Year

Eric Solomon of BLM California has been honored as the 2024 Outstanding Wildland Fire EMS Individual of the Year for his leadership in growing the state's Operational Medical Support Program and advancing real-world EMS training opportunities. Congrats Eric!

Answer to Seymour's Question of the Week

✅ Answer:

Scientists discovered a new cicada species in Northern California called Okanagana monochroma. It lives only on serpentine soil—a rare, rocky type of ground with high metal content that most plants and animals avoid. This cicada has adapted to survive there.

What makes it unique is its appearance and song. Unlike other cicadas with patterns or stripes, O. monochroma is almost entirely one color. It also has subtle differences in body shape and wing structure. Most notably, its mating call is unlike any other in its group—helping scientists confirm it’s a separate species.

This cicada is only found in a small area, making it one of the most geographically limited cicadas in North America. Its discovery shows how species can evolve in isolated, challenging environments. It also highlights the importance of protecting rare habitats like serpentine landscapes, which may be home to unique wildlife found nowhere else.

Learn more about this unique species

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