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California Coastal National Monument, Piedras Blancas. Photo by Jesse Pluim, DOI.

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

Interior Proposes to Rescind Public Lands Rule

Cronan Ranch. Photo by Jesse Pluim, DOI.

The Department of the Interior is moving to repeal the 2024 Public Lands Rule, citing concerns it limited multiple-use access and local input. A 60-day public comment period will begin once the proposal is published in the Federal Register. Learn more.

Public Invited to Northern California RAC Meeting

California Coastal National Monument. Photo by Sarah Denos, DOI.

The BLM Northern California District Resource Advisory Council will meet virtually on Sept. 18 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a public comment period at 11 a.m. Join to hear updates on land management, wild horses, and more. Learn more.

Celebrate National Public Lands Day with BLM California

National Public Lands Day. Photo by BLM.

Join us in giving back to your public lands this National Public Lands Day! Volunteer opportunities are happening across California, from habitat restoration to clean-up projects. See the full list of events and find one near you.

Volunteer and Job Opportunities

Seasonal OHV Park Rangers Wanted in El Centro

Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area. Photo by N. Hamada, BLM.

The BLM El Centro Field Office is hiring two seasonal OHV park rangers. Apply by September 23 to help protect public lands and support outdoor recreation. Learn more.

Join the BLM Fire Team for 2026

Fire Jobs. Photo by BLM.

Ready for a challenge? Applications are now open for Bureau of Land Management fire positions for the 2026 fire year. Start your wildland fire career today. Learn more.

Camp Host Openings in Southern California Deserts

Public Lands in the California Desert. Photo by Kyle Sullivan, BLM.

BLM California is seeking camp hosts for the Imperial Sand Dunes and Long-Term Visitor Areas. Help care for public lands while enjoying stunning desert scenery—apply now to spend your season outdoors!

King Range Firewood Permits Available

Scattered logs in the King Range NCA. Photo by Paul Sever, BLM.

The Arcata Field Office announces that firewood permits are now available for numerous scattered logs throughout the King Range NCA off King Peak Road and Paradise Ridge Road. Look for the yellow firewood collecting area signs. Please do not disturb the piles that will be burned this winter. These piles are the result of recent fuels reduction projects designed to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk.

The scattered logs are from a variety of species and are accessible via existing roads and trails. Permit holders will be able to collect seasoned and green wood for personal use.

Permit Information:

• Permits must be obtained before collecting any firewood
• Permits may be obtained online (https://ow.ly/yyN250WVON0)
• Standard BLM firewood regulations apply (https://ow.ly/24KC50WVOQe)
• Maps showing collection locations will be provided with permits (https://ow.ly/nLeU50WVOJI)

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.

Bear and Cubs on Wildlife Camera in Mother Lode Field Office, Peggy Cranston, BLM.

What is the only species of bear found in California today?

A) Grizzly bear
B) Black bear
C) Polar bear
D) Brown bear

Scroll down for the answer!

BLM Spotlight: Neil Craig on Nature’s Benefits

Ukiah Field Manager Neil Craig highlights how spending time in nature helps us slow down, reconnect, and experience the positive impact of our environment in this short film.

Inside Interior

From minerals to monuments, from public safety to public lands, the Department of the Interior is focused on energy, security, and preserving what matters most to America.

Inside Interior Youtube

Answer to Seymour's Question of the Week

✅ Answer:

 B) Black bear — but don’t be fooled by the name! In California, black bears can be black, brown, blonde, or even cinnamon in color. Grizzly bears once lived here but were hunted to extinction by the early 1900s.