News.bytes, Bureau of Land Management California ISSUE 721 - April 21, 2016 Facebook Twitter Flickr YouTube tumblr Instagram - Your Public Lands - Natural Resources - Wildfire - Headlines and Highlights - BLM and DOI Highlights - Wildlife Question of the Week - Upcoming Events YOUR PUBLIC LANDS California Skeletons: Ghost Towns, Modern and Historical Ghost towns and lost communities. Some of the most fascinating relics of California’s history. We’ve scoured resources to put together a list of ghost towns throughout the state that offer some of the most intriguing prospects for urban exploration. (Californist website) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,3e5m,knpd,1bct,ijo3 Trail-based Volunteer Programs Don’t Happen by Accident Quiet Warrior Racing believes that substantive federal trail-based volunteer programs don’t happen by accident. The success of any volunteer program is directly related to agency and user commitment to both the process and the product. QWR understands that agency volunteer programs are simply just one tenet (albeit an important factor) of managed recreation on a Forest Service or BLM unit. (Quiet Warrior Racing blog) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,5ale,cmcc,1bct,ijo3 How to Photograph Wildflowers LiveScience, April 19, 2016 Bob Wick is a photographer and BLM wilderness specialist. He contributed this article to Live Science’s Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights. California’s Carrizo Plain is an amazing canvas for wildflower photography. The landscape is dominated by the white alkali flats of Soda Lake, Painted Rock, vast open grasslands and a broad plain rimmed by mountains. Read full story http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,2qsj,1iod,1bct,ijo3 Related: The Vibrant Wildflowers of Carrizo National Monument. (LiveScience) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,4srz,212p,1bct,ijo3 Happy Birthday, Fort Ord National Monument! On April 20, 2012, the Fort Ord National Monument in California was designated to protect some of the last undeveloped natural wildlands on the Monterey Peninsula. Located on the former Fort Ord military base, the monument is home to more than 35 species of rare plants and animals along with their native coastal habitats. A part of the BLM’s National Conservation Lands, the monument also offers more than 86 miles of trails for the public to explore on foot, bike or horseback. (My Public Lands Tumblr) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,4uwi,7lu,1bct,ijo3 Related: Fort Ord National Monument (BLM California Flickr) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,64yp,e1wn,1bct,ijo3 Fort Ord Calvary Soldier Passes Away One of the last true Calvary soldiers living in the Fort Ord area passed away earlier this month. Born October 14, 1923, Sgt. Alan MacDonald enlisted in the horse cavalry at 17-years-old, inspired by his grandfather, a horse soldier in the Indian Wars. When Fort Ord was designated a National Monument in 2012, Sgt. MacDonald was up front for the ribbon-cutting, and met then BLM Director, Bob Abbey. We salute you, Sergeant. (News.Bytes Story) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,b6sa,qng,1bct,ijo3 Related: WWII veteran, cavalryman Allan MacDonald dies at 92. (Monterey Herald) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,1ues,l7bw,1bct,ijo3 Related: Fort Ord National Monument 2012 Dedication Ceremony (BLM California Flickr) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,44rs,l85u,1bct,ijo3 Thank you Redding Volunteers Fifteen members of the Owen’s Healthcare Cycling Team, based out of Redding, California, worked together to put the finishing touches on the recently completed Rock Creek – Middle Creek Trail System. The trail system has been under construction for the past couple of years, and numerous partners have helped with the construction including: McConnell Foundation, Ameri-Corp Team Green-1, Ride Redding, Redding Mountain Biking, Owens Healthcare Cycling Team, CAL Fire, and several individual volunteers from the Redding area. (News.Bytes Story) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,haeh,9tg2,1bct,ijo3 Related: Public Invited to Trail Dedication Event. (BLM News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,ike2,akti,1bct,ijo3 Related: Americorps NCCC Team Green 1 Helping BLM. (Video: BLM California Facebook) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,ggwt,b0ue,1bct,ijo3 Common Murres Migrate to the Monument BLM’s Arcata Field Office hosted two tours for the annual bird celebration on the north coast known as Godwit Days. Godwit Days highlights Humboldt County’s rich ecosystem for the enjoyment of the community and visitors through field trips, lectures, workshops, and boat excursions led by experienced local guides. (News.Bytes Story) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,jiyy,80q8,1bct,ijo3 NATURAL RESOURCES Researchers map springs across the Mojave Desert Desert Sun, April 18, 2016 Efforts to map and collect data on springs in the Mojave Desert in order to monitor changes and document influences such as declines in groundwater levels, shifts in flows, and hotter weather continue. The study is funded through the Transition Habitat Conservancy nonprofit using a $190,000 grant from the US Bureau of Land Management to carry out surveys of springs across the Mojave Desert. Read full story http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,dghj,46l8,1bct,ijo3 Video: Saving Amargosa voles and desert pupfish Ongoing collaborative efforts to save the critically endangered Amargosa Vole featuring Amargosa Conservancy Executive Director Patrick Donnelly, BLM California Hydrologist Noel Ludwig and Susan Sorrells of Shoshone Village. (Desert Sun) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,abzo,l9i8,1bct,ijo3 Related: The extinction crisis in a warming world. (Desert Sun) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,e5nt,d1xh,1bct,ijo3 Related: Researchers map springs across the Mojave Desert. (Desert Sun) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,d2kw,59jx,1bct,ijo3 California Leads Western States in Habitat Loss KCET, April 20, 2016 The Western United States lost a staggering amount of formerly natural land to human development between 2001 and 2011, enough to average the loss of a football field’s worth of habitat every two and a half minutes. That’s according to a soon-to-be-released study by the Center for American Progress and Conservation Science Partners announced in an article posted on the blogging site Medium by the Center, which says it will be releasing a giant pile of data from the study in the weeks to come. And of all the eleven states studied, California lost the largest amount of natural land to development between 2001 and 2011. Californians sacrificed 784 square miles of natural landscape to human industry in that decade, an area just a hair smaller than Los Angeles and San Diego combined, almost a fifth of the total land lost across the West. Read full story http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,fw8y,3f52,1bct,ijo3 WILDFIRE Video: Military veterans enlist to fight wildfires KING-TV, April 18, 2016 It’s a world away from the desert sands of Iraq, but it was still a something of a combat mission on Orcas Island, Monday. Fifty military veterans prepared to do battle with a new enemy: wildfire. Team Rubicon is an international organization of American military veterans who volunteer to serve on disaster and relief missions around the globe. The group is now partnering with the Bureau of Land Management to train firefighters to combat wildfires in Washington and beyond. They’ve trained a total of 500 veterans for duty over the past two years. Read full story http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,jdj9,65zs,1bct,ijo3 Seismic networks can help fight fires. Here’s how. The Christian Science Monitor, April 21, 2016 Pairing high-definition cameras with microwave-based earthquake early warning networks can help firefighters pinpoint blazes without wasting resources or risking personnel. The same systems used to detect earthquakes in California and Nevada are now being used to help firefighters detect wildfires faster than ever, with the potential to save both dollars and lives. Read full story http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,ksor,i1ay,1bct,ijo3 One Less Spark—One Less Wildfire Approximately 90% of all wildfires in California are caused by people. That is why fire agencies need the public’s help to prevent them. Whether it’s ensuring a campfire or landscape debris burn of leaves and branches is completely extinguished, or keeping a vehicle well maintained to prevent sparks, following just a few simple steps can help prevent wildfires. Related: One Less Spark (www.preventwildfireca.org) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,l5f3,10pk,1bct,ijo3 Related: One Less Spark One Less Wildfire (One Less Spark Facebook) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,8zey,eav6,1bct,ijo3 BLM Announces Fire Restrictions for Lands Managed by Central Coast Field Office The BLM has placed precautionary fire restrictions on certain public lands managed by the Central Coast Field Office. No vehicles, campfires or open flames are allowed on BLM lands in the Panoche, Griswold, Tumey and Ciervo Hills located in southeastern San Benito county, effective April 15. (BLM News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,f2jz,9wea,1bct,ijo3 HEADLINES AND HIGHLIGHTS Off-Road Community Honors Retiring BLM Area Manager Quiet Warrior Racing had the privilege to attend a formal OHV tour with Rich Burns, the soon-to-be retired Area Manager for the BLM’s Ukiah Field Office. On April 15, various OHV organizations and clubs conducted a formal 4×4 tour to honor Rich’s 20+ years of service, commitment, and leadership as the unit’s area manager. The Mendocino 4×4 Club presented Rich with an award citing his support for responsible OHV use on public lands. (Quiet Warrior Racing blog) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,1vaf,3udx,1bct,ijo3 Amanda James Selected for Ukiah Field Manager Amanda James has started as the new Bureau of Land Management Ukiah field manager. She replaces Rich Burns, who is retiring after 16 years as the Ukiah field manager. She previously was the BLM Agua Fria National Monument manager, a 70,980-acre monument a few miles north of Phoenix. Prior to being monument manager, she was a natural resource specialist at Agua Fria. (BLM News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,i8xi,i98b,1bct,ijo3 Latinos, businesses benefit from new national monuments in desert: Guest commentary Los Angeles Daily News, April 14, 2016 President Obama did the nation a great service when he recently designated public lands in the California desert, known as the Mojave Trails, Sand to Snow, and Castle Mountains, as national monuments. Most certainly, Latinos, their families, and their businesses will greatly benefit from the permanent protection of these iconic places. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, from 2000 to 2014, the Hispanic population in San Bernardino County — home to most of the acreage of these new national monuments — increased by 63 percent, while the total county population increased by 24 percent. Read full story http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,k9pl,jha2,1bct,ijo3 California Trails and Greenways The California Trails and Greenways conference was held in Riverside. A variety of agencies, corporations and non-government organizations participated to harness the public’s passion to create trail stewards of tomorrow. The conference gave the opportunity to look at today’s public landscapes and use innovative strategies of education, conservation and collaboration for viable trail systems. (News.Bytes story) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,11td,bmv3,1bct,ijo3 BLM AND DOI HIGHLIGHTS Secretary Jewell Offers Vision for Next 100 Years of Conservation in America Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell laid out a vision for actions the nation can take to build upon America’s rich conservation legacy and pass on healthy public lands and waters to the next generation. The Secretary delivered the remarks during National Park Week to help mark the 100th birthday of the National Park Service. (Department of Interior News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,ij0k,3n9r,1bct,ijo3 Related: Our Conservation Future (Department of Interior Live Webcast) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,5v6m,l6mz,1bct,ijo3 Presidential Proclamation — National Park Week, 2016 “Our National Parks have allowed generations to discover history, nature, and wildlife in irreplaceable ways. From the highest peaks of Denali to the lowest dips of the Grand Canyon, families around our country enjoy the splendor of the outdoors. Throughout National Park Week, as we celebrate the ways in which our treasured outdoor spaces enrich our lives and uplift our spirits, the National Park Service will again offer free admission to America’s National Parks so more people can explore our country’s vast natural beauty.” (White House News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,m6z,kmc2,1bct,ijo3 Secretary Jewell Announces Nearly $95 Million in Funding for all 50 States Through the Land and Water Conservation Fund Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell today announced nearly $95 million will be distributed from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to all 50 states, U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia to support conservation and recreation projects in local communities. The funds, which are generated out of a portion of the lease revenue from offshore oil and gas development, support state-identified and community-supported projects that create jobs, contribute to local economies and grow outdoor recreational opportunities in virtually every county across the country. (Department of Interior News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,4gz,6cbe,1bct,ijo3 Video: This Week at Interior April 15, 2016 A new national monument honors the fight for women’s equality; a project to restore salt marshes threatened by climate change; a small mammal in the west won’t be listed as endangered; Interior releases final well control regulations for offshore drilling rigs; April 16th marks the start of National Park Week; and Secretary Jewell takes the hosts of “Rock the Park” to the top of the Washington Monument. (Department of Interior YouTube) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,5q49,8eoc,1bct,ijo3 WILDLIFE QUESTION OF THE WEEK Which of the following is NOT true about monarch migration? a) East of the Rocky Mountains, monarchs travel up to an astonishing 3000 miles to central Mexico. b) Shorter western migration is to the California coast. c) Western monarchs gather to roost in eucalyptus, Monterey pine and other trees along the Pacific coastline. d) In areas of the pacific northwest, monarchs use nectar and milkweed plants throughout much of the year. Keep reading for answer below UPCOMING EVENTS April 28 and May 4: Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Open Houses The U.S. Forest Service Mendocino National Forest and the BLM Ukiah Field Office will hold two open houses to provide the public with information on the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and monument planning process. (BLM News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,fon8,1qdt,1bct,ijo3 May 12: BLM Takes Comments on Proposed Vegetation Management Program BLM Redding Field Office is requesting public comments regarding a proposed weed and vegetation management program. Comments on the environmental assessment will be accepted through May 12. (BLM News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,24ah,1jb9,1bct,ijo3 May 17: Public Invited to Free Lecture on Marine Research North coast residents and visitors are invited to learn about ongoing marine research in a lecture titled, "Changing Conditions in our Coastal Waters." Brian Tissot will be presenting Tuesday, May 17, at 7 p.m., at the Redwood Playhouse, 286 Sprowel Creek Rd., in Garberville. (BLM News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,c1gq,6en1,1bct,ijo3 May 18: Historic Route 66 Association to Host Economic Summit The BLM California Desert District, in partnership with the California Historic Route 66 Association, will sponsor a Route 66 Economic Development Symposium on May 18, 2016 in Barstow. Experts from the tourism industry also will provide insight on how California communities can develop dynamic tourism portfolios to attract national and international visitors. Discussions also will recommend strategies how to promote Route 66 attractions, including museums, historic buildings and other community attractions to enhance economic tourism development opportunities. (BLM News Release) http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,gnx6,g5im,1bct,ijo3 WILDLIFE QUESTION OF THE WEEK ANSWER Which of the following is NOT true about Monarch Migration? d) In areas of the pacific northwest, monarchs use nectar and milkweed plants throughout much of the year. Western monarchs gather to roost in eucalyptus, Monterey cypress, Monterey pine, and other trees in groves along the Pacific coastline of California, arriving beginning in late October. The climate of these locations is very similar to that of the Mexico overwintering locations. The colonies generally break up slightly earlier than those in Mexico, with dispersal generally beginning in mid-February. Less is known about the timing and location of breeding and migratory movement in the western US, but milkweed and nectar plant availability throughout the spring, summer and fall will benefit western monarchs, especially in California, Nevada, Idaho, and Oregon, states that appear to be important sources of western monarchs. In areas of the desert southwest, monarchs use nectar and milkweed plants throughout much of the year. Source: Monarch Joint Venture, photo by Wendy Caldwell. http://www.elabs10.com/ct.html?ufl=0&rtr=on&s=x8pbwi,2iwke,3xn3,g6q7,kccq,1bct,ijo3 News.bytes is a publication of the Bureau of Land Management California. Bureau of Land Management California State Office 2800 Cottage Way, Suite W1623 Sacramento, Ca 95825 (916) 978-4600 http://www.blm.gov/ca/
