Desert Update Fall 2014

No. 79 Fall 2014

Historical photo, Diana Lindsay collection

Borrego Springs:

Why do you love our little desert

community of Borrego Springs?

Perhaps you have a “Borrego Story” that is similar to mine: something or someone brought you to this tiny desert town. The long, windy roads led you to Borrego Springs and once you came, a piece of this place just stuck with you.

Borrego Springs is no ordinary

By Paige Rogowski small town. Yes, it has many of the characteristics typical of small towns — people say hi to you by name in the store, or you stop into the post office and end up staying to talk with a few friends. But there is one truly unique defining characteristic of Borrego Springs — it is completely surrounded by Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The great combination of small-town charm and the stunning beauty of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park make up the area we affectionately and simply call “Borrego.”

Borrego Springs is what’s known as a “Gateway Community” because it is the main hub of activity associated with Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. People visit and live in Borrego Springs because of its distinctive position surrounded by the Park. The dramatic vistas provide inspiration and endless possibilities for exploring, and because it is permanently protected as a state park, these views and trails will always be here to enjoy. These are the features that draw people to Borrego. And whether those people are counted among the 3,000 year-round residents, the 15,000 part-time residents or the hundreds of thousands of people who visit each year, people simply love this place.

Borrego is extraordinary.

Borrego is worth preserving.

Borrego is worth sharing with the world.

In this spirit a new group has been formed this summer, the Borrego Valley Stewardship Council. Anza-Borrego Foundation joined with other leaders in April 2014 to discuss ways to enhance and preserve

GATEWAY TO THE PARK

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From the President

There is a new buzzword fluttering around Borrego these days: “Gateway.” Borrego

BOARD of TRUSTEES: Jim Smith PRESIDENT

Dick Troy

VICE PRESIDENT

Delores Lukina

VP OF ACQUISITIONS

Bill Reavey

SECRETARY

Joanne Ingwall TREASURER

TRUSTEES: Nicholas Clapp Ernie Cowan Al Ducheny Sharon Goldsmith Diane Hydoski Bill McDonald John Peterson Ralph Singer David Van Cleve ABF STAFF: Paige Rogowski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Joan Carskaddan

TOUR COORDINATOR

Tracie Cofer

STAFF ASSISTANT

Bri Fordem

Springs is being envisioned as a Gateway Community by many of the movers and shakers (think visionaries) in town, and you will read more about that in this issue of your newsletter.

When I began thinking of ABF as a “Gateway” institution, thoughts started pouring out of my mind and making their way onto the page. A gateway is an entrance, a portal, an access, a passageway, a threshold — to something new and life changing. If ABF is not changing people's lives for the better, we are not doing our job well. We are working at it. We have kicked off our leadership donor group, the “Century Circle,” we are already planning for next year’s Camp Borrego, and we are gearing up for another year of Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students (PORTS). We are also working on the Lucky 5 land purchase (as well as others), supporting community initiatives such as Borrego as a sustainable destination and, of course, keeping the office and staff operating in top form.

Our town of Borrego Springs is so special in that it seems to offer unlimited Gateways.

When Judy and I first arrived in the year 2000, our first breakfast at Kendall’s was preceded by surveying their window of announcements that included a notice that Paleontology classes were beginning in October. After going home to look up “Paleontology,” we signed up. Of course, that was our gateway to the Park, which was a gateway to the study of geology, which was a gateway to fifth graders, which was a gateway to education and to ABF, which was … well, I’m sure you get the picture. After thinking about this notion for a little while, I’m convinced that this “Gateway” idea covers a lot of bases. In fact, now I’m trying to figure out what it’s not covering but should — that’s also really important in the Big Picture. So, ABFers, what can we do to open more doors for more people to enjoy and preserve this most wonderful State Park? And to preserve the quality of our own wonderful lives in the process?

DONOR RELATIONS MANAGER

Emi Gates

SALES ASSISTANT

Ashley Kvitek

EDUCATION COORDINATOR

Thanks, Jimmy Smith ABF President

Briana Puzzo

EDUCATION MANAGER

Chris Rogowski

INTERPRETIVE SALES MANAGER

ANZA-BORREGO FOUNDATION 587 Palm Canyon Drive #110 & 111 Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (760) 767-0446 www.theabf.org info@theabf.org Anza-Borrego Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt [IRS code 501(c) (3)] charitable organization DESERT UPDATE: ABF Staff

Printed in U.S.A. on 50% post-

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consumer recycled Fall 2014 www.theabf.org Desert Updatepaper.

WHERE IN BORREGO IS EDUCATION MANAGER BRIANA PUZZO? Beginning this month Briana will be in her new office at the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center at 401 Tilting T, Borrego Springs.

In addition to her work overseeing the education programs for Anza-Borrego Foundation, Briana will be meeting people conducting active research in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park as part of ABF’s partnership with UC Irvine. You can still reach Briana by email at briana@theabf.org or by phone (760) 767-0446 ext. 1004.

Superintendent’s Corner

by Kathy Dice, ABDSP Superintendent

Fall has been my favorite season most of my life, even

before arriving in the desert. It remains all the more favored now. Fall means the beginning of cooler, clear-sky evenings after many weeks of overheated temperatures.

It signals the end of the tropical monsoon season when flash flooding is most likely and brings on the fall bloom of rabbit brush and other yellow flowered species — the closest thing we have to autumn colors here! And most importantly, it puts our plans in motion for another season of visitors to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

We fix roads that have washed out, replace signs that went missing, freshen up the campgrounds, hire and train our seasonal help and get ready to welcome back both park volunteers and visitors. What exciting times!

State Park budgets are not yet robust enough to do everything we would like to, and once again our park partner, Anza-Borrego Foundation, has stepped up to the plate to help us with some basic park operations this year. It is thanks to their generous financial support that our Visitor Center will open seven days

a week for the busiest months of the year. Thank you, ABF! (ABF also continues to look for ways to assist us with other projects on our wish list, so stay tuned.)

There is no question that Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a wild and wonderful place. One major resource that allows for greater access for all to this Park is the town of Borrego Springs. It is truly unique as a community completely surrounded by park land and wilderness. That means it takes some effort to get here, and finding your way here is part of the fun. Park staff (and a couple thousand other folks) live, raise families and shop here. In addition to our traditional campers, visitors also discover the charming restaurants, shops, hotels and touring possibilities. And everywhere you look there is a fabulous view — landscapes that remain basically unchanged through its human history. There are local residents who are working on the idea of making Borrego Springs a sustainable destination and others who believe Anza-Borrego Desert deserves UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Wow! Borrego Springs makes Anza-Borrego Desert State Park that much more of a destination for so many! The town and the Park depend on each other — and it’s a good thing.

Like all of California, this desert is affected by the now severe drought in the West. While rain will not solve all our problems, it certainly makes the difference for our wildlife here in the park. Although the desert has many unique features and ecosystems, many people choose to visit when the wildflowers bloom in the spring. Whether or not we get more rain this fall, I hope you will come out and see all the other benefits that time in the desert can offer. I believe you will continue to be amazed by what can be found here. ¾

Bighorn Sheep Celebration ABF is proud to have three events to help promote Mark Jorgensen and Jeff Young’s collaborative new book ‘Desert Bighorn Sheep – Wilderness Icon’.

The book’s six chapters features some 200 high quality photographs featuring rare behavior, sheep in their rugged desert habitat, ewes nurturing newborn lambs, and massive rams in stunning ritualized combat for dominance.

Photographer Jeff Young worked for years to assemble tens of thousands of high quality photographs and paired them down into what is the finest collection of desert bighorn photos ever published.

Author Mark Jorgensen brings his five decades of experience studying desert bighorn sheep and managing their habitat to provide the informative text of this book.

All events open to the public: Saturday, Oct 25 Noon – 2:00 p.m.

Book signing with Mark and Jeff in Borrego Springs at Christmas Circle next to the ABF info trail.

Sunday, Oct 26 2:00– 4:00 p.m Q&A and signing with Mark and Jeff at the UCI Research Center.

Saturday, Nov 1 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Book signing and talk with Mark and Jeff at the AnzaBorrego Desert State Park Visitor Center.

DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP WILDERNESS ICON Sunbelt Publishing

by Mark C. Jorgensen Photography by Jeff Young Retail $29.95 Available now at the Visitor Center and State Park Store www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2014

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Why I Give

Protecting This Park and the Town An Interview with Bike Borrego’s Dave Duncan

Dave grew up visiting Anza-

Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP) with his parents and grandparents, building fond memories of where he began to appreciate the natural world. It was the first place he remembers really having the freedom to explore a vast open space. A San Diego native, Dave watched his town grow around him, chipping away at the natural beauty and open spaces of Mission Gorge and the San Diego River Valley. The value that had been instilled in him for protecting the land grew, and he headed for the Pacific Northwest to escape to nature.

Dave attended college with his sights set on becoming a ranger and naturalist, but he was quickly swept up by a hankering to head out to sea. Dave spent 40 years as a captain of various boats on the Pacific Ocean from Alaska to Southern California. He enjoyed the days of solitude and being enveloped by the natural world, all the while still returning to AnzaBorrego to take his children on the same adventures he experienced growing up. “There are a lot of similarities between the sea and Borrego,” Dave says. “The wide-open landscape, fierce weather and delicate balance of existence create such remarkable beauty.”

In 2012 Dave remembered a call to action posted in the Borrego Sun. A short piece had been run offering help in guiding new business ventures in Borrego Springs. Dave was referred to a 2009 business development survey conducted by the Borrego Village Association. The survey listed responses to the most needed or wanted businesses in town: 1) Chinese or Thai restaurant, 2) bakery, and 3) bike shop. Figuring he couldn’t bake, Dave opened Bike Borrego in October 2012, fulfilling his life-long dream of living in Borrego Springs. Dave replaced his ocean with a desert and his boat with a bike. His goal: to share the Park that he loved with others.

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Fall 2014 Desert Update www.theabf.org

Dave recalls two young sailors visiting from North Island in a tiny car loaded with camping gear. They knew the car would not get them far on the desert terrain. Dave set them up with bikes, helped them strap their camping gear on, and watched them ride off for a two-day adventure into Coyote Canyon. “It’s at moments like that when I feel the success of my business — success in helping to share this place with others,” says Dave. When asked what accomplishments have meant the most to him over the past two years with Bike Borrego, he answered, “Anytime I am facilitating people’s happiness.”

“Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the reason I am here.

The fact that this town sits in a virtual doughnut hole in the middle of the Park makes it a very special place as well,” says Dave. Dave supports ABF because protecting and expanding ABDSP is of great value to him, and he considers his business an extension of his passion for the Park.

Dave decided early on that Bike Borrego needed to be part of the community in order to be viable, and building relationships with the Park and the Foundation marked an important step in that direction.

Dave shows his support for ABF in many ways, including as a “Borrego Partner” business sponsor who offers discounts to ABF members and volunteering his time to share his love and knowledge of the park through hikes and other programs.

Dave inspires visitors to take a ride, hike or class in order to learn more about the “nature” of this amazing place. As he says, “Without people who are willing to protect and preserve the wilderness we do not have parks.” Regarding the future of Borrego Springs, Dave believes, “How this community develops and grows should be by design, not by default, and ought to emphasize the Park as a world-class attraction.”Dave’s immeasurable enthusiasm for preserving the place where he first fell in love with nature is a treasured gift to ABF. ¾

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Borrego Springs: GATEWAY TO THE PARK

this amazing place. As a result, the Borrego Valley Stewardship Council was born with an important mission: Employing the principles of Geotourism as defined by the National Geographic Society, Borrego Springs seeks to be a model desert community in terms of sound economic planning, beneficial year-round tourism, world-class life-long learning, and exemplary stewardship of our cultural, social and environmental heritage. Geotourism is defined as tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place — its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage and the wellbeing of its residents. ABF is excited for the opportunity to protect our town and our Park and share it with the world.

ABF’s involvement with the Borrego Valley Stewardship Council is a perfect fit with our mission to protect Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The focus of the Stewardship Council will be on preserving all the things that make “Borrego” remarkable: its architecture, people, history, industry and natural beauty, as well as guiding growth in such a way that these features remain intact. For example, Borrego Springs was the second community certified by the International Dark-Sky Association as an “International Dark Sky Community” in 2009, and there are currently only six in the United States. Borrego offers gorgeous, often clear night skies and attracts many amateur and professional astronomers and photographers.

Through the collaborative efforts of the council, growth in Borrego will be done in such a way that lighting does not affect the view of our stunning night skies.

One goal of the Borrego Valley Stewardship Council will be to seek designation for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) “World Heritage Site.” World Heritage designation recognizes places that are of exceptional natural and cultural value to the world. To quote the World Heritage website, “Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration.”

World travelers will immediately recognize the importance of this designation. If Anza-Borrego Desert State Park were to join the list of World Heritage sites, the Park would join renowned places such as the Galapagos Islands, the archaeological site of Olympia in Greece, the Taj Mahal and the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

The first step in the process is for ABF to partner with our colleagues at the Park to get Anza-Borrego Desert State Park on the “tentative list” by working with the United States’ designated representatives to the World Heritage Centre. The United States currently has 22 sites, with an additional 12 on the tentative list. The process will be long, perhaps even taking decades. To those of us in love with Borrego, it’s worth the wait.

There are many titles to describe the momentum growing around Borrego right now — Geotourism, Gateway Community, International Dark Sky Community, Stewardship, World Heritage Site — and these are all positive steps in the right direction.

Borrego may not be for everyone, but it is special for many people. Thanks to the efforts of ABF and our community partners, our little desert community will stay that way for generations to come. ¾

Photo: Joe Raffetto

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Bike Borrego and ABF present:

FAT TIRE FLYER FUNDRAISER Join ABF, Bike Borrego and mountain bike pioneer Charlie Kelly, for a journey back in time to the beginnings of the original “fat tire flyer” mountain bike and a ride through Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

In the 1970's an unlikely combination of characters and events began to reshape the world of cycling. In 1979 Charlie Kelly and Gary Fisher rented a garage and formed a company assembling a new type of bicycle. They called their new company, "MountainBikes”. Kelly’s new book, Fat Tire Flyer, traces his personal journey through these interesting times and includes iconic images that are now part of cycling history.

Join Charlie Kelly, ABF and Bike Borrego on Friday, February 20 for a book signing, discussion and viewing of Klunkerz—the awardwinning documentary on off-road cycling, focusing on the San Francisco Bay Area in the late 1970s and 1980s, featuring interviews with

pioneers of the sport and the even more obscure characters who influenced them, including never before seen archival footage and photographs.

Continue the fun on Saturday, February 21. Join Charlie for a bike ride through Grapevine Canyon, a 14 mile strenuous bike ride through scenic dirt roads, springs and cactus gardens ending at Tamarisk Grove for lunch and a cold beer!

Charlie Kelly Discussion, Book Signing and Movie: Friday, Feb 20, 2015, 7 p.m.

Borrego Springs Performing Art Center $25 / $20 for ABF members Bike Ride Saturday, Feb 21, 2015, 10 a.m.

Grapevine Canyon $25 / $15 for ABF members Movie night and Bike ride Friday and Saturday $40 / $35 for ABF members

ANZA-BORREGO'S INVASIVE PLANT RESPONSE TEAM Bassia Hyssopifolia. Recognize that name? How about Brassica tournefortii?

No? Chances are, you know at least one of these plants by their common name.

Let’s try again. Bassia Hyssopifolia is also known as fivehook bassia, and Brassica tournefortii is more widely known as Sahara mustard. Ringing any bells now?

Sahara mustard has been around Southern California for a while, but it really gained attention in Anza-Borrego when people noticed it was taking over areas previously occupied by our famous wildflowers. Since then, there has been a Sahara Mustard Task Force working diligently to eradicate the invasive species from different areas in the town and Park. The fight has grown to include the AmeriCorps crews we have hosted in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Those groups have worked hard to keep the mustard at bay. However, we still have Sahara mustard throughout the Park, and we still need help pulling plants.

Fivehook bassia is a threat the Park discovered in Sentenac Cienega, an alkali marsh along San Felipe Creek. A successful tamarisk-removal project in this area left disturbed soil that was susceptible to invasion by other invasive plant species.

Fivehook bassia has exhibited exceptional colonizing ability in these disturbed areas. In Sentenac Cienega, the plant provides little habitat to native wildlife and increases the risk of wildfire. It already dominates large areas, spreading rapidly with each passing rain event.

In order to contain the spread of invasive plants, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Anza-Borrego Foundation are teaming up to create a crew of volunteers able to respond to the rain events and germination cycles of particularly aggressive invaders. Keep your eyes open for a call for volunteers sometime in early- to mid-October. We will be giving about a week or two of notice before we need our volunteers to help us hand-pull some invasives right out of Anza-Borrego!

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Fall 2014 Desert Update www.theabf.org

Fall 2014 Programs

Visit theabf.org/events or call 760-767-0446 ext 1003 for full event information

Volunteer Program Host Training Saturday, Nov 15 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

ABF is looking for Program Hosts to help out with our field programs, lectures and a few of our multiday classes. New and experienced Program Hosts are encouraged to attend, as there will be new information and lunch.

Photo: Paul Johnson

Desert Photo Safari Paul Johnson Friday, Nov 21, 3-5 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m. and Saturday, November 22, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. $85 / $75 for ABF Members Join us for an expedition to photograph some of the unique and beautiful places along the western edge of Anza-Borrego.

For this trip we will visit the slopes of the San Ysidro and Laguna Mountains and the valleys and canyons at the base of those mountains.

Hike to the Moon Dennis Mammana Saturday, Dec 6, 4-8:30 p.m. $35 Adults / $25 Children 12 & under Join astronomer Dennis Mammana for a leisurely hike into the ruggedly beautiful Borrego Badlands and, along the way, hear some wonderful stories about our nearest celestial neighbor. The hike will culminate with a beautiful full moon rise and view through a telescope.

Photo: Paul Johnson

Gas, Geese and Gryphons Paul Johnson Sunday, Dec 7, 8 a.m.-4p.m. $70 / $60 for ABF Members On this tour we hope to see thousands of snow geese and other migratory waterfowl, geothermal power plants, vast salt and mud flats, 50 million barnacles and some strange and mysterious geologic features which are making quite a splash. www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2014

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Borrego Stardance: Borrego Days Desert Festival 2014 Friday-Sunday, October 24-26 Bring your family and help ABF and Borrego Springs celebrate the Borrego Days Desert Festival!

Saturday, Oct 25 10 a.m. Parade 12 p.m.-2 p.m. Mark Jorgensen and Jeff Young book signing for ‘Desert Bighorn Sheep – Wilderness Icon’ at the ABF trailer, Christmas Circle 1-4 p.m. Paleontology Open House at the Stout Research Center Archaeology Open House at the Begole Archaeological Research Center Tours meet at the Visitor Center 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Open House at the UCI Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center

Sunday, Oct 26 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Paleontology Open House at the Stout Research Center Archaeology Open House at the Begole Archaeological Research Center Tours meet at the Visitor Center 12 p.m.-4 p.m. Open House at the UCI Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Q & A with Mark Jorgensen and Jeff Young about their new book ‘Desert Bighorn Sheep – Wilderness Icon,’ UCI Research Center

Exploring and Interpreting the Seismic Geology of Anza-Borrego: A Natural Laboratory Dr. Robert de Groot Saturday, Dec 20, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $60 / $50 for ABF Members Join us for an adventure half a billion years in the making and walk away with tools you can use for future adventures. Learn how to interpret the region using a few basic principles and you too will have the power to read the rocks.

2015 Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest Share your photographic memories of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park! Submit photos in youth and adult divisions with six unique categories: Desert Plants, Desert Animals, Desert Landscapes/Skyscapes, People Enjoying the Desert, Black & White and Macro. Entry forms and contest rules can be found at www.theabf.org/photocontest.

Important Dates: Dec 1, 2014 First day to submit photos Feb 1, 2015 Entry deadline Feb 8, 2015 Judging Feb 14, 2015 Opening reception Feb 14 – March 1, 2015 Gallery exhibit at Borrego Art Institute

Southeastern Arizona Birding Tour

Photo: Bob Theriault

Mark Jorgensen and Bob Theriault Sunday-Friday, May 3-8 $750 per person Join us for a six-day/five-night, one-of-a-kind birding tour at the mouth of Cave Creek Canyon in the Chiricahua Mountains.

Based out of Portal, AZ, we will travel short distances to the finest birding spots in the area, home to more than 400 bird species. Price includes lodging.

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Fall 2014 Desert Update www.theabf.org

Photo: Joan Schneider

The Cultural Landscape of Anza Borrego Desert State Park— Past and Present Dr. Joan Schneider $85 / $75 for ABF Members $160 / $140 for both classes These classes will give students an appreciation of how the Native Peoples of the Colorado Desert and the bordering mountain ranges viewed, and still view, the lands in which they lived and live. This is a holistic look at how people who consider themselves part of the natural world use and care for that world.

An Introduction to the Cahuilla Friday, Dec 12, 6-8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec 13, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

An Introduction to the Kumeyaay Friday, Jan 16, 6-8 p.m.

Saturday, Jan 17: 8 a.m.-5 p.m

COLORADO DESERT NATURAL HISTORY RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM Friday-Sunday, Nov 7-9 Welcome Reception Only: $20 / $15 for ABF Members Symposium: $150 / $130 ABF Members / $115 Students Saturday Evening Banquet Dinner: $45 Join Anza-Borrego Foundation for a weekend devoted to current natural history research here in our beautiful Colorado Desert region.

There will be a poster display, a day of lectures on various current research projects by field experts, a banquet dinner and plenty of time to learn about the natural history of our fragile desert.

Speakers will include: • Dr. Cameron Barrows, UC Riverside, Center for Conservation Biology • Dr. Jennifer Gee, University of California, Riverside, Department of Biology • Mark Jorgensen and guests, California State Parks • Dr. Michael Wells, University of San Diego & California State Parks • Dr. Mark Porter, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, Claremont Graduate School • Dr. Travis Huxman, University of California Irvine, Dept. of Ecology

and Evolutionary Biology • Dr. Bruce Pavlik, Chairman, Department of Restoration Ecology,

Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, London, England Evening Presentation: Author Mark Jorgensen and Photographer Jeff Young

The Colorado Desert NaturalHistory Research Symposium is sponsored by:

Photo: Laura Roderick

2015 Certified Interpretive Guide Course Roger Riolo and Sally Theriault Sunday-Friday, Jan 25-30 $335-$701; pricing and other details at www.theabf.org/events ABF, in partnership with the National Association for Interpretation, is offering a professional certification course for individuals who deliver interpretive programs or have public contact at facilities such as visitor centers, nature centers, parks, museums, zoos, tour companies or heritage sites. This workshop offers background and skills including the history of interpretation, ways to make programs relevant and organized, how to connect with diverse audiences, and much more.

We are pleased to offer this year’s workshop at the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center. It recently opened its doors in a picturesque and historic Borrego Springs facility. It offers up-to-date classroom and lab facilities with newly constructed dorms with bunks available to rent for $35/night.

BORREGO SPRINGS

RESORT & SPA borregospringsresort.com

www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2014

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THE YURT EXPERIENCE Upgrade your desert experience by staying overnight in cozy, rustic yurts at the base of Borrego Palm Canyon! This season, ABF is offering three overnight courses that offer an in-depth look at the many sides of Anza-Borrego. Topics vary by weekend chosen and all activities are based out of the yurts inside Borrego Palm Canyon Campground.

Participants share quarters in traditional yurts. Price includes two days of instruction, a one- or two-night stay in a yurt and entry into Borrego Palm Canyon’s day-use area.

Photo: Don Endicott

Boulders, Beavertail, Bighorn and More: The Many Faces of Anza-Borrego Paul Johnson Saturday, Jan 10 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, Jan 11 8 a.m.-1 p.m. $125 / $115 for ABF Members $90 for children 12 and under In this two-day field trip we will explore and learn Photo: Paul Johnson about a wide variety of places and things within the largest state park in California. The focus of the trip is diverse, and will include bighorn sheep, palm trees, granite boulder piles, badlands, cactus gardens and much more.

Sand to Sky Family Discovery Weekend Dennis Mammana/Paul Johnson Sat, Jan 24, 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Sun, Jan 25, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. $105 / $95 for ABF Members $90 for children 12 and under Enjoy the night sky over Borrego with astronomer Dennis Mammana. This evening you will learn to read a star map and find your way around the night sky, and will peer far into the galaxy with a 14-inch telescope. The next day, hike up one branch of Borrego Palm Canyon with Naturalist Paul Johnson in a long curve to the northeast, following the base of a rocky ridge. Along the way we’ll look for bighorn sheep, birds, rabbits, ground squirrels and maybe a coyote or two.

Night to Light Photography Weekend Dennis Mammana / Paul Johnson Saturday, Nov 29, 4:30-7:00 p.m. and Sunday, Nov 30, 5:45 a.m.-1 p.m. $105 / $95 for ABF Members Join noted night sky photographer Dennis Mammana at the yurts as he demonstrates the basics of capturing the night sky with your camera. After an evening of learning to photograph the night sky, this class will offer a daytime opportunity to learn to photograph the transition from night to day with photographer Photo: Paul Johnson Paul Johnson.

Mike’s Hikes Mike Puzzo $45 / $35 for ABF Members Want to go on a serious adventure in Anza-Borrego but don’t know the area well enough to go it alone? Not for the feeblelegged or the weak-hearted, Mike’s Hikes are extremely strenuous treks through difficult terrain. All participants should be very experienced hikers, accustomed to full day, 10+ mile strenuous hikes. Each person should be prepared with their own essentials—water, food, clothing…the works.

Check www.theabf.org/events for more detailed descriptions and times, coming soon.

Saturday, Dec 13: Indian Head Summit Saturday, Jan 3: A Transition – Zone Adventure up Whale Peak Saturday, Feb 21: Villager Peak Summit Adventure

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Fall 2014 Desert Update www.theabf.org

HIKES & HOPS and BIKES & BREWS $15 / $10 for ABF Members. Free for new members within the last 3 months Hikes & Hops and Bikes & Brews connect people with two things in common— a love of Anza-Borrego and craft beer. This is a social hike and bike series in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Join us for a hike and some hops or, if it’s more your thing, a bike and a brew!

Hikes & Hops at Mountain Palm Springs Scott Turner, Modern Hiker blogger for San Diego and Orange Counties Saturday, Nov 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Mountain Bikes & Brews, Glorietta Canyon Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman Saturday, Dec 6 Hikes & Hops Loop at Arroyo Salado Briana Puzzo, ABF Education Manager Sunday, Jan 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Bike Rides with ABF Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman Grapevine Canyon – Sunday, Nov 16 Sunday, Jan 11 Saturday, Mar 14 $20 / $10 each for ABF Members Join us for a series of bicycle rides in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park this winter and spring with Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman. Our partner Bike Borrego will offer free bike rentals to any new ABF members; current ABF members receive $10 off rentals.

Participants provide their own bike, helmet and any other necessary equipment. Locations are unknown due to changing road conditions throughout ABDSP.

Road Bikes & Brews location coming soon Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman Saturday, Feb 7 Hikes & Hops at Rainbow Canyon Ashley Kvitek ABF Education Coordinator Saturday, Mar 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

2015 Anza-Borrego Nature Writing Retreat Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center Judy Fort Brenneman Sunday-Friday, Feb 8-13 $700 / $650 for ABF Members Join us for a week-long writers’ retreat in Borrego Springs, California offering time to write and reflect in the vast and inspiring landscapes of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Enjoy daily focused sessions, individual feedback, one-on-one guidance and explorations in the Park.

Sunday: Arrive Noon-2pm. Introductions to the class and warm-up writing.

There will be a reading and question session with a guest author after dinner (on your own).

Monday and Wednesday: Morning warm-up writing, discussion, and daily workshop. Lunches on your own. Afternoon field trips to Mine Wash Village Site and Font's Point. Dinner on your own. Evening writing and retreat time.

Tuesday and Thursday: Morning warm-up writing, discussion, and daily workshop. Lunches on your own. Afternoon writing and retreat time, as well as one-on-one session meetings. Dinner on your own Tuesday and sponsored by ABF Thursday. Evening writing and retreat time, with prompts.

Friday: Optional morning group gathering. Check out and go home.

UC Irvine’s Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center has dormstyle rooms with shared bathroom and full kitchen facilities available for rent during the retreat for $35/night.

Photo: Ernie Cowan

www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2014 11

Annual Report of the 45th Year (2013-14)

of Anza-Borrego Foundation to the California Parks and Recreation Commission and to the General Public Note: this report covers the 18-month period of 2013 and January– une 2014. From this point on ABF will report on its recently-closed fiscal year (July 1–June 30).

MISSION AND HISTORY OF ANZA BORREGO FOUNDATION (ABF) The mission of ABF is to protect and preserve the natural landscapes, wildlife habitat, and cultural heritage of Anza Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP) for the benefit of present and future generations. To accomplish this mission, the Foundation serves as Anza Borrego Desert State Park’s Cooperating Association through fiscal and operational management of the interpretive sales at the Park’s Visitor Center and the State Park Store in the Borrego Springs Mall.

Use of net proceeds from sales is used exclusively for Park programs and interpretive projects.

Photo: Leo Larson

provide innovative interpretive programs and educational programs for the public. These programs are aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Park and its almost limitless biodiversity. The goal is to nurture continuing generations of desert lovers that will enjoy, support and defend ABDSP and deserts everywhere.

The feeling that deserts are simply wastelands and of little or no value, must be offset by and through efforts such as ABF programs.

Between January 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014, ABF sponsored a total of 92 adult classes that had 1,674 participants.

To serve the young, ABF produces Camp Borrego, an environmental camp for 5th grade students, which hosted 291 students in 10 sessions in spring 2013 and 270 students in 10 sessions in spring 2014. This remarkable program affords many underserved inner city students, their first opportunity to visit the desert and camp outdoors. These classes are conducted in partnership with the San Diego County Office of Education. The richness of this experience has been confirmed through communication with many of its “Graduates.”

Photo: Kristin Stephens

The Foundation also acquires private inholdings within the Park in order to make the Park whole, while supporting research within the Park that will allow Park managers to more effectively manage and protect the Park’s resources.

The Foundation also educates adults and children about the Park to increase support for the conservation of desert lands while advocating for the preservation of the Park and its resources.

The Foundation was established in 1967 by the California Parks and Recreation Commission, the Foundation acquires private inholdings within the boundaries of the Park as well as other high quality properties that benefit the Park. Anza Borrego Desert State Park is the largest unit within the State Parks System containing nearly 1000 square miles, stretching approximately 60 miles long and 30 miles wide at its widest point. At the time of creation of ABF, there were 67,000 acres of private inholdings constituting nearly 10% of the total Park area.

ACQUISITION SUMMARY During the full year of 2013 and last half of 2014, the Foundation acquired an additional 1,022.28 acres of private inholdings and parcels adjacent to the Park boundary at a cost of $509,908. One special acquisition was a 160.30 acre parcel off of Borrego Valley Road in Borrego Springs.

This property was critical for ABDSP because it included the legal road access to Coyote Canyon. Prior to this, park visitors were driving to Coyote Canyon on an easement through private property.

INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS In keeping with our mission to educate adults and children about the Park and the desert, we continued to 12

Fall 2014 Desert Update www.theabf.org

Photo: Joy Parker

Another effective and powerful program the ABF has helped fund, is the PORTS (Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students) program. This is an interactive distance learning program that utilizes the green screen and mobile satellite transmission to connect a Park interpreter from any point of interest in the Park directly into the classroom to teach students face-to-face about the Park. For the reporting period, the program reached over 12,000 students from 24 counties.

The ever popular Desert Hostel Programs included an amazing field trip excursion through central Yellowstone and two trips to the Four Corners area led by earth scientist Paul Remeika with a total of 57 participants. Ten participants attended the first-ever birding trip to Madera Canyon, Arizona led by retired ABDSP Superintendent Mark Jorgensen and retired ABDSP Ranger Bob Theriault.

In November of 2013, ABF in cooperation with the University of California Irvine (UCI), the Colorado Desert Archaeology Society, and Anza Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP) produced the Colorado Desert Cultural Heritage Symposium.

Annual Report continued from previous page The symposium featured a welcome reception with research posters, a full-day of lectures presented by invited speakers, a banquet dinner with keynote speakers and half-day field tours into the Park. There were 98 attendees for some or all of the events.

ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS Interpretive Sales Gross sales for the period of January 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014 were $375,029.

Research Support The Foundation funds two research programs annually, the Howie Wier Conservation Grant and the Begole Archaeological Research Grant. These programs are funded through grants which the Foundation manages.

Jade Keehn was the recipient of the 2014 Howie Wier Conservation Grant. Jade is a Masters Candidate in the Department of Biology at the University of Nevada, Reno. She is studying the impacts of wind turbines on a terrestrial desert community and the $2,500 grant will assist with her housing expenses.

There were three grants awarded from the Begole Archaeological Research Grant program in 2013 to Margie Burton, Miriam Dahdul and Kent Manchen.

Dr. Burton’s research used high-resolution technologies (photogrammetry, 3-D modeling and silicon casting) to compare cultural landscape features, including boulder and bedrock mortars, basins, slicks and cupules at two previously recorded Native American sites—one in the Anza-Borrego Desert and one in Cuyamaca. Mariam Dahdul, a PhD candidate in Anthropology at UC Santa Barbara, used her grant to obtain chronometric dates for corncobs collected from the Coachella Valley. Kent Manchen, currently a Master’s Degree Candidate at San Diego State University, investigated a form of bedrock milling feature known as the Cuyamaca Oval.

for Camp Borrego; $5,000 from Subaru of America; and $5,000 from San Diego Gas & Electric for Camp Borrego. These grants and smaller grants and sponsorships totaled $746,254. In addition to contributions from these organizations and businesses, individuals contributed $358,208. ABF had 2,295 members whose membership contributed $123,327.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION The 2013-14 Fiscal Year audited financial statement reported total revenue for the Foundation as $1,368,469, less expenses of $1,184,883 for a net balance of ($183,586). The Fiscal Year 2014 net assets and fund balance at June 30, 2014, were $2,550,402.

The audit was conducted by Sonnenberg and Company, and the fiscal year tax returns are available for review.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MEMBERS AND TRUSTEES Paige Rogowski replaced C.L. “Chuck” Bennett as Executive Director in May 2013. Mrs. Rogowski oversees the management of the organization with the assistance of Education Manager Briana Puzzo, Interpretive Sales Manager Chris Rogowski, Donor Relations Manager Bri Fordem, and Staff Assistant Tracie Cofer. The staff also includes Education Coordinator Ashley Kvitek, Tour Coordinator Joan Carskaddan, and Sales Assistant Emi Gates.

The Foundation has 2,295 Members. Jimmy Smith serves as President of the Board of Trustees. Other officers and trustees include, Dick Troy Vice President and Chair of Land Committee, Delores Lukina, Vice President of Acquisitions, Bill Reavey, Secretary, Joanne Ingwall, Treasurer, John Peterson, Chair Advancement Committee, Nick Clapp, Ernie Cowan, Al Ducheny, Sharon Goldsmith, Diane Hydoski, Bill McDonald, Ralph Singer and Dave Van Cleve. (As of June 30, 2014.)

Note: The Audited Financial Report mentioned in these notes, covers the Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2013 and ending June 30, 2014. All other items are for the 18 month period from January 1, 2013 thru June 30, 2014, unless noted. This variation was done in order to bring the body of the report to a fiscal year basis.

Respectfully submitted Jimmy Smith, President 2014

Photo: Pat Turpen

Photo: Kevin Price

GRANTS AND OTHER FUNDING For the period of January 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014, ABF received: $250,000 from Resources Legacy Fund for land acquisition; $21,400 from the Desert Protective Council for Camp Borrego and PORTS; $21,000 from The Community Foundation of Riverside for Education and Land Acquisition; $20,000 from Cuyamaca Rancho Foundation for Lucky 5 Phase II; $7,200 from California State Parks Foundation for Education and Volunteer Services; $7,000 from The Foster Family Foundation www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2014 13

3rd Annual ABF Benefit Concert

Anza-Borrego Foundation Celebrates 25 years of Membership!

Michael is Back, Again!

Saturday, Feb 7, 7:00 p.m.

UCI Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center $40 Classical guitarist Michael McCormick, a Borrego Springs resident, loyal ABF member and Park supporter, returns to the stage for the third consecutive year!

This one-of-a-kind benefit concert for the Park will be held for the first time in the transcendental and acoustically complementary environment of UCI Reasearch Center.

Each year Michael's concerts have completely sold out, bringing positive awareness and crucial funds to the Park. Seating is limited, get your tickets early! You will not want to miss this rare and elegant musical experience.

For tickets and information, visit theabf.org or contact Bri Fordem at bfordem@theabf.org.

ABF WISH LIST £ 4 wheel drive vehicle for desert programs £ Binoculars to lend out during programs £ Red-lens flashlights for Night Sky Programs £ New and complete, desert- ready First Aid Kits (4)

£ Cushioned mats for Park Volunteers and Staff to stand on during floor duty £ New laptop computer £ New desktop computer £ Goal Zero charger for cameras, radios, etc.

£ Irrigation design and equipment for Visitor £ Lightweight, portable tables Center garden and chairs for the ABDSP Visitor Center Discovery Lab £ Big Coolers

14

Fall 2014 Desert Update www.theabf.org

2015 marks the 25th Anniversary of when Anza-Borrego Foundation decided to expand their circle beyond our board of trustees and staff, and invite the general public to join ABF as members to make a larger impact in supporting the Park we all love. Allowing individuals near and far to join together in their passion for protecting this special park land.

Our 25th anniversary of membership is a special time of thanks for our members, who have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars over years. Together, we have made huge strides in youth and adult education, park interpretation, Visitor Center support, acquisition of more than 50,000 acres of additional Park land, continued protection of more than 1,500 species of plant and animal life, and have successfully spread awareness about this amazing wilderness resource, encouraging a new generation of Anza-Borrego enthusiasts.

We can't think of a better way to celebrate this special year, than to give back to our valued members with more access, more education and more discounts to play and learn in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Become a member today and join us in continuing our membership legacy.

• Invitations to special members only hikes in the Park • 15% off all State Park Store purchases • Even more members-only price breaks on your favorite education events and programs • An invitation to a members-only celebration on January 24, 2015 We would not be the same organization that we are today without our dedicated members. Thank you for all your support through the years. Here’s to another 25 great years!

Welcome Anza-Borrego Foundation's 2015 Sponsors Support the businesses that support the Park.

Century Circle Members, June–August 2014

Century Circle members are among the most committed annual supporters of ABDSP. Their passion and support are what make so many of our projects possible.

Thank you all for your commitment to our mission.

Founder’s Circle Resources Legacy Fund George Sardina M.D. Cuyamaca Rancho Foundation Desert Protective Council Frank and Judy Colver Ralph Singer and Lou Bahar Janie DeCelles Leslie and John A McQuown Barbara Oyler Ann Keenan The Foster Family Private Foundation Norman H. Anderson Susan and Haddon Salt Diane and Frank Hydoski

President's Circle Henry Feilen Last Days Desert LLC National Environmental Education Foundation San Diego Gas & Electric Subaru of America Foundation Karen Smith Jim and Judy Smith Mike Medema NRG Energy Inc. Tim and Claudia Costanzo Benefactor's Circle Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Russell Avery Hank Barber Sharon L. Barta Prof. Dr. Edith F. Borie Richard and Susan Breisch Bruce and Christine Clegg Janene Colby

Clifford and Carolyn Colwell Steve and Carolyn Conner Jim and Kathy Dice Richard Fowler and Terry Begole Fowler Thomas F. Garner Susan Gilliland Bruce Heimbach Dick and Joanne Ingwall Elizabeth A. Javens George Jefferson Jeanne Johnstone John & Diane Prewitt Family Foundation Jeanne Johnstone and George Jefferson Ann Jopling and George Eslinger Janet and John Kister Bob and Barbara Kleist Callie Mack and Phil Roullard John Martinez John and Christine Murphy

Eric Mustonen and Amee Wood Oceanside Photo Telescope Astr Soc Jack and Kathleen Osborn John Peterson John Prewitt Larry and Peggy Puzzo Judith Begole Rahner Phil Roullard and Callie Mack Dr. Russell Shelden Donald J. Stang and Helen Wickes Cynthia Stribling and Paul Webb Melvin and Ellen Sweet Gimble Foundation The Pratt Memorial Fund at Union Bank of California Renee Thornton Ralph and Rosalie Webb Kirsten Winter and Charles Vantassel Andrew Zimbaldi www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2014 15

Anza-Borrego Foundation P.O. Box 2001 Borrego Springs, CA 92004

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Non Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 17 San Diego, CA

Tax Deduction Fast, Free Towing Easy Process

Donors, June–August 2014 Annual Fund Bike Borrego Clifford and Carolyn Beall Colwell Dave and Mary Van Cleve Diana and Lowell Lindsay in memory of Michael E. Hoppe Dorris Kingsbury Dr. Fred Hornbeck and Jeanne Townsend Dr. John Newsam and Sharon Wampler Dr. Mary Harte George's Camera Exchange, Inc. Hewlett-Packard John Peterson Julie Ann Shouer Julie Moore Kenneth and Susan Maehler in memory of Eugene Mielcarek

New Members, June– August 2014 Linda Tandle Nancy J. Taylor National Environmental Education Foundation Oceanside Photo and Telescope Phil Roullard and Callie Mack in memory of Gail Roullard Rachel Newsam Richard and Martha Applegate Sharon L. Barta Sherman Oaks Garden Club Susan Hunter William McDonald Land Acquisition Cuyamaca Rancho Foundation George Sardina M.D. James Bauer

Fred Bartz Jim Bowers Kent Bricker Ron Clancy Joe Egan Jim Haw Theodore Jackson Jr. Dietrick Lamade Robert Malouf William Miller Peter Reiner Wendell Ruotsi Courter and Wyatt Shimeall

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