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The Newsletter for Members of California State Parks Foundation

PARKS FOR ALL CALIFORNIANS appy fall, parks family! Here in California, we’ve got quite a few different landscapes and climates – so fall weather varies depending on what corner of the state you’re in.

Maybe you’re still spending sunny days on the beach, or cooling off in crisper temperatures after a sweltering summer, or relishing the changing hues of leaves in your neighborhood. Whatever autumn means to you, we hope you’re visiting your parks and enjoying nature.

Over the past few months, your support helped us fight for legislation that champions equitable access to the outdoors. Thanks to you, two new

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

statewide programs will help children and families explore state parks. The California State Park Adventure Pass gives fourth graders and their families a free annual pass to state parks, and the State Library Parks Pass allows library card holders to check out free day-use state park passes. This is especially huge for folks who have never had the opportunity to experience the inspiring beauty and healing benefits of their parks.

So, next time you trek to a state park for a restorative afternoon in nature, know that you’re not the only one benefiting from it. You’re helping foster the next generation of park stewards!

A LETTER FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Hello, park lovers! I write with exciting updates about our work to ensure that all Californians are supported in accessing their state parks.

In 2018, we launched our Pathways to Parks initiative, commissioning research from UCLA’s Institute on the Environment and Sustainability. The research showed that many young people and/or low-income people live close to California’s state parks but don’t necessarily visit them. We began working with California’s First Partner, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, on solutions to help young people access parks to support their overall wellness.

Thanks to the advocacy of California State Parks Foundation and the First Partner, Governor Newsom recently signed budget legislation that helps increase access to state parks: • $3.1 million to support K-12 public schools’ access to state parks • $5.6 million to support the new California Adventure Pass program, modeled on the National Park Service’s Every Kid Outdoors program, offering fourth graders and their families a free pass honored at 19 parks throughout the state park system • $3 million to support a pilot program to make park passes available through the state library system • $500,000 to offer expanded access to park passes for recipients of Cal-WORKS and other assistance programs for low-income Californians We’re excited about these investments because they represent a new commitment to ensuring that all Californians have opportunities to visit and benefit from their amazing state parks. And when people experience the beauty and benefits of parks, they become more interested in ensuring that parks thrive.

Even a longtime park lover like me can find new things to explore, learn, and enjoy in a park visit! For summer vacation this year, my mom and I took a wonderful trip to explore the beautiful forests in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. While hiking through the majestic trees, we found ourselves asking many questions: What is the life cycle of a redwood? What are all the different species of ferns in the forest? What birds live here? Each night we would look up the answers to our questions, an activity that sparked even more questions and discovery.

Imagine, then, the many questions that a first-time visitor might have, and the fun of discovering the endless inquiry that nature inspires. That is why we – you, our members, and I – fight for access. We know that our lives are made better and more meaningful through these experiences, and we want everyone to know that inspiration and joy.

Until next time,

Rachel Norton Executive Director

YOUR IMPACT: AT A GLANCE As a member of California State Parks Foundation, you enable us to make amazing things happen for parks, the outdoors, and the many Californians who enjoy these places year-round. These are just a few things you’ve recently made possible. Thanks for your continued passion and support!

5,353

participants in our statewide Earth Day Climate Action clean-up

58,684

square feet of fire buffer zones created in state parks

7

acres of seasonal wetlands restored at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area

12

Earth Day grants awarded to support climate resiliency projects within state parks

1,747

volunteer hours spent improving parks throughout the state

10,900

action alert signatures from supporters like you, urging the state to prioritize parks in the California budget

Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park

13,391

plants and trees planted in state parks

$185 million

in the state budget is going toward deferred maintenance projects in state parks. This includes restoration of the 150-year-old lighthouse at Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park.

AN INSPIRING DAY IN MARIN COUNTY PARKS We spent a day in parks discussing youth access with First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the Department of Parks and Recreation, and passionate park supporters. or us to do better, we have to know better. For us to know better, we have to get out in our community.”

These true and inspiring words were spoken by Sister Stephanie Hughes, a longtime advocate for access to parks and the outdoors.

As she spoke, a group of advocates, youth, and park professionals were sitting in a redwood grove in Samuel P. Taylor State Park, discussing how to get Californians – especially those who are struggling – into the healing environments of our 280 state parks.

Research points to the restorative nature of spending time outdoors, yet there are still many Californians who can’t access parks and the benefits they provide. The day’s events, hosted by the Department

of Parks and Recreation, were centered on this issue. Between visits to Tomales Bay State Park and Samuel P. Taylor State Park, we shared stories and ideas and heard from other organizations doing great access-related work in California.

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom – the chair of our Pathways to Parks campaign – joined as well to hear from the many passionate folks we met with that day. She is a longtime advocate in her own right for the healing power of nature and ensuring California youth can experience, learn about, grow up with, and connect to the outdoors, regardless of their ZIP code or background.

At Tomales Bay State Park, we took a short hike from Heart’s Desire Beach to Indian Beach to meet up with youth kayakers. The group was

Young kayakers from Environmental Traveling Companions at Tomales Bay State Park

Jennifer Siebel Newsom

from Environmental Traveling Companions – an organization that makes the joy and challenge of outdoor adventures accessible to people with disabilities and underresourced youth. They graciously shared their thoughts on the experience, enthusiastic about returning for a future adventure.

This kayaking trip (their first one ever!) was part of a series of outdoor activities inspiring self-confidence, connection to nature, and stewardship of the environment.

That afternoon, we heard from Marin County librarians who told everyone about a local program that makes park passes available to library card holders. The park pass was the highest circulated item in Marin County libraries – more than some of the most popular books.

The program was so successful that learnings from it were applied on a statewide level to the State Library Parks Pass that became official this

Sister Stephanie Hughes

July. The pass provides free day-use state park passes to libraries across California for library card holders.

These were just a few of many powerful moments that afternoon.

Throughout the day, it was inspiring to hear from a diverse group of voices who understand the healing benefits of nature when it is accessible. In early 2020, no one had any idea that a deadly pandemic would upend all our lives – yet the experience has somehow strengthened our understanding of why parks are important to our quality of life and our health.

Siebel Newsom said it best when talking to youth, with peaceful Tomales Bay in the background: “I really want to heal California, and I think parks are the best way to do it.”

BIG BASIN SONGBIRDS AND THE EFFECTS OF WILDFIRE he hermit thrush, a migratory songbird revered for its complex and ethereal song, typically breeds in relatively stable numbers in Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

However, the CZU Lightning Complex Fire, which burned 97 percent of the park, may have drastically affected the species’ local population.

During a visit to Big Basin Redwoods State Park in May 2021, it was hard not to feel distraught at the sight of what the park had become. Charred trees, building debris, and construction equipment were scattered throughout the park as crews swept through to continue assessing the full extent of damage.

Among the wreckage, however, there was evidence of new life.

A few California State Parks Foundation staff members traveled to the park earlier this year, along with Allison Nelson of Gold Country Avian Studies, a small organization focused on bird research, education, and conservation.

On this trip, Nelson returned to Big Basin to examine the effects of the fire on a hermit thrush population

Hermit thrush

she was tracking. A grant from California State Parks Foundation is helping Gold Country Avian Studies do research here, which creates an opportunity for the park to be a living laboratory and potentially inform policy regarding wildlife conservation.

As everyone got out of the car and walked through what remained of the forest that day, there were hopeful signs. Tiny green sprigs were pushing through the burned ground, and thousands of them dotted the forest floor. Nelson scraped off a piece of blackened bark from a redwood to reveal the deep, healthy wood that still remained. Most of all, while standing still, you could hear the chirps of several hermit thrushes.

There was a sense of relief. These birds have been here thousands of years longer than we have, and likely they will continue as long as we steward and protect the places they use. As the research continues, new learnings will help state parks preserve the species, and in so doing, protect the uniqueness and magic of visiting California’s treasured redwoods.

PARK CHAMPION: RUE MAPP CHAIR OF CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION

If there is a single factor essential to the success of any park system, it is the people. Rue Mapp is a champion who’s helped protect and preserve parks through the years.

ue Mapp was appointed to the California State Parks and Recreation Commission by Governor Jerry Brown in 2014, has since served as Vice Chair of the Commission, and currently serves as Chair of the Commission. As Commissioner of California State Parks, she works closely with the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, Armando Quintero, to support the state’s 280 parks, beaches, trails, and open spaces.

Mapp’s passion for the outdoors began during her childhood years spent in California’s parks. Her commitment continued into adulthood and ignited the founding of Outdoor Afro, a national not-for-profit that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. With more than 100 leaders in 56 cities around the country, they connect thousands of people to nature experiences who are changing the face of conservation. In 2010, she was invited to the Obama White House to participate in the America’s Great Outdoors Conference, and subsequently to take part in a think tank to inform the launch of the First Lady’s “Let’s Move” initiative. Her skills and background make her a unique voice via the leadership and programs she has instituted throughout her career, enlightening a diverse community to the wonders and benefits of the outdoors. She is the mother of three nature-loving young adults and enjoys exploring in nature, and especially hunting, fishing, and boating!

The California State Parks and Recreation Commission was created as the State Park Commission in 1927. The Commission approves general plans for units of the state park system, establishes general policies for the guidance of the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, and recommends or approves projects for bond funding.

Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park You’re always in for a magical experience when visiting a redwood forest, whether it’s sun-drenched or a little foggy outside. Did you know this park is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site? As one of the Redwood National and State Parks, it’s home to some of the tallest and most remarkable trees in the world.

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Morro Strand State Beach The sandy, vast expanse here is an ideal place to take in some coastal scenery and clear the mind. If you stay at the park campground, you’ll get great views of Morro Rock – a Central California landmark. Check out the tide pools to see marine life up close, and keep an eye out for sand dollars on the beach!

Fort Tejon State Historic Park Previously the site of a military fort, Fort Tejon is a fascinating place to visit. You’ll take a step back in time and gain historical insight on California frontier life in the mid-1800s. In addition to a museum, there are often living history exhibits where visitors can interact with soldiers, blacksmiths, and others from the time period.

EXPLORE YOUR PARKS THIS FALL o matter where you are in California, there’s a state park worth visiting near you. During this season of transition, why not make memories by visiting somewhere new? It’s a refreshing time to get out and explore, especially as the summer crowds die down. Here are a few recommendations of parks to visit throughout the state:

Empire Mine State Historic Park This is the site of one of the oldest, deepest, and richest gold mines in California. There’s a whopping 367 miles of deep shafts that formed an underground maze for mining during the Gold Rush.

Located in Grass Valley, it’s especially nice in the fall due to the changing, colorful foliage in the area.

Calaveras Big Trees State Park Fall is a spectacular time of year to visit the giant sequoia trees in this Sierra Nevada gem. Plenty of hiking options are available, and you’ll be blown away by the 2,000-year-old trees that line the trails.

Just remember to look out for black bears, especially if you’re camping.

Crystal Cove State Park If you’re coming down from Los Angeles, the sparkling blue water here is certainly worth the drive. Between hiking in the hills and exploring the beach, there are a variety of landscapes to discover within the park. Plus, coastal cottages are available to rent if you want to extend your trip and enjoy the scenic lodging.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: LISA LAFLAME California State Parks Foundation volunteer workdays would not be possible without Core Leaders – a group of dedicated folks who lead our workdays. One of these Core Leaders is Lisa LaFlame, a lover of the outdoors who has been an active volunteer with California State Parks Foundation since the program started in 2011. isa’s love for parks is obvious when you talk with her. “State parks are cathedrals and sanctuaries, places to reset and recharge. Having this resource is essential. Without state parks, we lose our connection to nature and a sense of our part in it.”

place that is so special to her. “Last Earth Day, one of the staff remarked that our 26 volunteers had done in three hours what would have taken him six months to complete. I know we are helping! We can see it with our own eyes, but we also hear about it from the parks staff.”

Years ago, when Lisa first saw a sign advertising an upcoming Earth Day event at Chino Hills State Park, she was inspired to get involved. “I lived on the southern boundary of the state park and was interested in volunteering, especially after the devastating 2008 Freeway Complex Fire,” she said.

Throughout this difficult year, Core Leaders like Lisa have worked closely with California State Parks Foundation staff to make sure volunteers can get out to parks in safe, responsible ways. Lisa is eager to get back out into the parks in a regular capacity in the coming months, as the pandemic wanes.

“I’m looking forward to resuming our workdays. After Chino Hills had yet another devastating wildfire in 2020, I see our volunteers as essential in helping it recover,” she said.

She learned about the California State Parks Foundation volunteer program and signed up to lend a hand. From then on, she got more involved by becoming a Core Leader, attending native plant workshops, and participating in our Park Advocacy Day. Lisa loves all California state parks, but Chino Hills State Park is her favorite. “It’s in my community, and it is so essential as a biodiversity hotspot. I feel very connected to it, as a frequent visitor walking its trails,” Lisa shared.

Being a part of the volunteer program has helped her contribute to the community and preserve a

Lisa LaFlame, Chino Hills State Park

Volunteer at Half Moon Bay State Beach

VOLUNTEERING IN STATE PARKS Being a member is one way to champion your state parks – and volunteering can take your commitment one step further! When you become a volunteer, you get firsthand experience in helping parks stay beautiful, healthy, and well-maintained.

Our volunteer program aims to address challenges our state parks face, build a community of park stewards, and ensure that state parks are accessible and relevant to all. Volunteers come from all

different backgrounds with unique stories of what inspired them to join a workday, and each have their own special connection to their parks.

Due to the pandemic, our volunteer workdays looked different for a while, which is why we’re so excited to have them back and running as normal now.

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES Want to join us and volunteer in a state park near you? Below are a few upcoming dates.

OCTOBER

October 2 Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park October 16 Fort Ord Dunes State Park October 23 Half Moon Bay State Beach NOVEMBER

November 13 Trinidad State Beach November 23 Garrapata State Park Visit calparks.org/volunteer for a full list of dates and details.

ALL IN FOR PARKS: A CELEBRATION OF CALIFORNIA’S STATE PARKS At California State Parks Foundation, we believe that all Californians are essential to sustaining our state parks. State parks need passionate advocates to thrive – and once a year, we take time to celebrate the people who are the ultimate park champions behind our work. These are folks who are fully committed and “all in” to protect and preserve our parks for the benefit of all Californians.

All In For Parks 2021 is a virtual event celebrating the achievements of exemplary park champions and will bring together our community of park supporters throughout the state.

Join us on October 6, 2021, at 6:30pm PST for our All In For Parks 2021 celebration! This will be a free event. Register today at calparks.org/allin2021.

ONLINE PARK STORE Big news — we are launching an online store! Swing by our new store and explore products that support your parks. You can shop shirts, pins, stickers, socks, and more. Items are available exclusively online while supplies last.

As a member of California State Parks Foundation, you will receive special early access. The entire month of October is MEMBERS ONLY. The best part is that shopping in our store is a fun way to support California State Parks Foundation! Profits from the store support our work of protecting and enhancing state parks.

Check out our new online store this October at calparks.org/store.

Here is a sneak peek at the pin designs we’ve been working on!

ENTER OUR PHOTO CONTEST Do you have a park photo to share with us? Upload it to our My California State Parks Flickr group or tag us on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook with the hashtag #MyCAStateParks.

Each month, the lucky winner receives a California Explorer Annual Day Pass!

Congratulations to @optimal_focus, whose photo from Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park was one of our recent winners.

FLASHBACK PHOTO In 1980, Woodland Opera House became a State Historic Park. The structural rehabilitation of the building began in 1981, but the community was challenged with completing the interior restoration. California State Parks Foundation joined with the local committee to raise the necessary $750,000 so that the historic structure might once again be a living, working theatre — inspiring budding young actors and musicians and providing the city of Woodland and surrounding communities with a fine historic and cultural resource.

Today, Woodland Opera House State Historic Park is still an active theater, showcasing five main stage productions per year. You can catch

their first production since the COVID-19 closure starting on September 17 and ending October 10 with the classic Singin’ in the Rain. If you can’t make that show, gear up for the holidays with their production of Elf, starting in November.

Front cover photo: Castle Crags State Park

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California State Parks Foundation is an independent, membersupported nonprofit dedicated to protecting and preserving the California state park system, for the benefit of all.

California State Parks Foundation 33 New Montgomery St., Suite 520 San Francisco, CA 94105 members@calparks.org

Carmel River State Beach

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