1997 Diablo Watch - Spring Edition, Issue 21

25th Anniversary Events A Success! Thanks For Your Support

Save Mount Diablo's 25th Anniversary ended on December 7, but it had a double peak climax on October 20th with a Free Day at Mount Diablo State Park and on November 12th at a party held at the Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. The events weren't billed as a fundraiser but, thanks to sponsors, nonetheless raised significant funding for SMD's land preservation programs.

The Free Day took place on a spectacular day and several thousand people attended. Who said there's no such thing as a free lunch? Hundreds got a free piece of our 'Diablo' birthday cake at the summit. Plans are already underway to repeat the event on May 3rd to kick off State Parks month. Plan to attend with your

family and friends.

The November 12th party was almost too successful; 300 tickets sold out in a week and we weren't able to get a larger space. SMD supporters were welcomed withan inspirational address by Department of Parks and Recreation Director Donald Murphy, and Contra Costa Times columnist Gary Bogue did a 'masterful' job as MC. Those who attended enjoyed spectacular slideshows by Galen Rowell and Stephen Joseph, along with the premiere of a new interactive CD-ROM about Mount Diablo.

Assemblyman Tom Torlakson helped make photo presentations to former Senator Dan Boatwright, retiring SMD President Susan Watson, and founding board member Robert Doyle. All received panoramic photos of Mount Diablo, by photographer Stephen Joseph, for their help in preserving the mountain.

Add in good food, and great beer donated by the Black Diamond Brewing Company, and the consensus arrived at was that the event was not only interesting, but really fun.

Our apologies to those who couldn't attend or get tickets. Next time we'll plan bigger. Save Mount Diablo would like to thank our members and the public for their continued on page 8 1

Marsh Creek Agricultural Preserve

Save Mount Diablo would like to thank all the members who have commented on the proposed Marsh Creek Agricultural Preserve, sponsored by Supervisors Torlakson and De Saulnier. The Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on the proposal on November 19th, but continued the issue to March or later, to allow discussion with landowners concerned about the proposal. A large number of landowners attended the hearing, objecting to the proposal, even though most of them would not be affected. In the meantime, three new supervisors have been elected and Supervisor Torlakson has moved to the State Assembly. Like the existing Briones Ag. Preserve in the Martinez-Orinda-Hercules area, this Preserve would enact recommendations of the County General Plan. The County already has an Urban Limit Line, but cities aren't required to consider the ULL. The Preserve continu ed on page 8

At the 25th Anniversary, retiring Senator Dan Boatwright received photograph thanks for his work preserving Mount Diablo. Pictured MC Gary Bogue, SMD Director Bob Doyle, Assemblyman Tom Torlakson, President Sue Watson, Boatwright.

Board of Directors

Linda Mehlman President

Allan Prager Vice-President

Arthur Bonwell Vice President

Susan D 'A lcamo Secretary

Mary L. Bowerman Director

Pa ul Choisser Director

Don deFremery Director

Steven Joseph Director Amara Koss Director

Steven Mehlman Director

Bob Nunn Director

Malcolm Sproul Director Staff

Seth Adams Director of Land Programs

Ann Wenzel Administrative Assistant

Diablo Watch is published by Save Mount Diablo, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving land on Mount Diablo and ed ucating the public to the mountain's natural values.

Edited by:

Art Bonwell and Steve Mehlman CONTAINS

Point of View Mount Diablo

NEW CD-ROM ABOUT MOUNT DIAB LO AND PHOTOGRAPHER STEPHEN JOSEPH

P.O.V. Mount Diablo, the first CDROM about Mount Diablo, was premiered on November 12th at Save Mount Diablo's 25th Anniversary Event. The CD-ROM is an interactive documentary journey around spectacular Mount Diablo, through the lens of acclaimed photo naturalist Stephen Joseph. Stephen, who has photographed Mount Diablo for over 12 years, is a member of the SMD Board of Directors. The new work was created by and presented courtesy of Leslie Safarik and Laurence Tietz at StudioSoftware, and enables viewers to explore the mountain and the fascinating world of photographic history with Stephen.

Diablo Watch is printed on recycl e d paper with a soy base ink and can be recycled again.

StudioSoftware Multimedia has created a remarkable CD that will increase your awareness and love for Mount Diablo and continued on pa ge 9

Changes On The Board

WATSON AND DOYLE STEP DOWN FROM SAVE MOUNT DIABLO BOARD LINDA MEHLMAN ELECTED PRESIDENT

Longtime SMD President Susan Watson stepped down at SMD's December Board meeting, as had been announced earlier in the year. Linda Mehlman, Chief Financial Officer for the past year, was elected president. Founding members Robert Doyle and Stewardship Committee Chair Charli Danielsen also stepped down from the Board. Save Mount Diablo would like to thank all four directors for their commitment to the organization and the mountain.

Watson, a director since 1983 and president since 1989, leaves after years of work during a period of great organizational growth and accomplishment. She intends to focus her energy with her 'other' organization, the Lassen Foundation, which is engaged in efforts to build a Visitor Center at Lassen. Mehlman, a director since 1993 and a VP at Bank of America, agreed to step into Sue's shoes as the organization begins a search for additional staff and establishes its first office.

Doyle, Assistant General Manager of the East Bay Regional Park District, was a founding member of SMD in 1971 and president from 1978 to 1989. He has just completed duties as the Chairman of the 25th Anniversary Committee. Doyle has been active in many SMD programs over the years, especially land acquisition efforts, where he will continue to serve. Danielsen, a former president of the California Native Plant Society, continues as the organizer of SMD 's Mitchell Canyon Bunchgrass restoration project. She has headed up stewardship efforts on SMD's Chaparral Spring parcel.

Charitable Bequests

By adding a simple paragraph to your will, you can help ensure the continued acquisition of threatened open space and preservation of Mount Diablo for future generations. Save Mount Diablo appreciates gifts of funds or real property

22.9-4275

Diablo Wild Things

MOUNT DIABLO MANZANITA (ARCTOSTAPHYLOS AURICULATA EASTW.)

The Mount Diablo manzanita is one of several plant species that can be found only on Mount Diablo. This rare medium to large-sized gray-green shrub has lovely pink blossoms early in the year, usually during January or February. The meaning of the scientific name, Arctostaphylos ; Bear grapes, auriculata, ear-like, is very appropriate. Manzanita berries are eaten by bears (or were when there were such in our area) and the gray-green leaves of this particular species are crowded and overlap each other on the stem with ear-like appendages either hanging down or clasping the stem. This manzanita was first described for science in 1905 by Alice Eastwood who worked as a botanist for The California Academy of Science in San Francisco.

One of four species of manzanita found on the mountain and surrounding foothills, the Mount Diablo manzanita is not wide-spread even here. This species and Parry's manzanita are dominant in te chapparral community on southern and

western exposures of the sandy inner ridges of the Black Hills.

Plants may be seen on the Blackhawk Trail, as it descends into Sycamore Canyon or on the Chaparral Trail on Lime Ridge. In both species, a hot fire kills the shrubs as they do not have the fire-proof burl found in many species of manzanita. Fire does stimulate germination of the seeds, though, so that seedlings are abundant the spring following a fire - sometimes almost forming a carpet.

Cultivated plants of this rare manzanita are sometimes available to gardeners from The California Native Plant Society and local nurseries.

Tour Diablo Valley III

Diablo Cyclists Bicycle Club has chosen to make Save Mount Diablo a co-beneficiary with Contra Costa Food Bank, of the Tour Diablo Valley bicycle rides to be held on May 10, 1997. This year is the third running of the event, which features a choice of several rides, including a century ride (lO0miles),a metric century (100 kilometers),and a family ride of 40 miles. The century ride and metric century include early morning climbs up Northgate Road to the ranger station midway up Mount Diablo and down Southgate Road, both of which will be temporarily closed that morning to automobiles.

Diablo Cyclists is a recreational/

touring, road and off-road bicycle club which provides novice to advanced bicyclists an opportunity to ride, train and socialize with other bicycle enthusiasts. Applications for the Tour Diablo Valley rides can be obtained by writing to Diablo Cyclists Bicycle Club at P.O. Box 30263, Walnut Creek, CA 94598 and including a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Page sponsors to help us offset the cost of printing and mailing this newsletter are welcome and can be thanked on these pages.

This page of Diab lo Watch is supported by the bequest of Dan and Barbara Reid, ofDiablo.

Note from the President

Elsthe new president of Save Mount Diablo, I am excited by the opportunities

1997 presents to us. As always. our primary focus will be preserving land on and around Mount Diablo. In addition, shortly, we will hire an Executive Director and move our operations out of our staff's and volunteer's homes into an office. Both of these events are firsts and both are important strateg ic milestones as we embark on our next 25 years.

The decision to hire an Executive Director was long and difficult for us. In the final analysis, however, a couple of factors became clear First, there is little or no public money available for purchasing land and we can only pay for future acquisitions by increasing our fundraising efforts. Second, while each of our Board members devotes many hours to Save Mount Diablo, most also have other full time jobs. This means we need someone to help manage the day to day operations of our organization. An Executive Director will help with these things and more.

The decision to move into an office was easier Running an organization takes files, computers, fax machines, copiers. and lots of communication. An office will free up people's homes and increase our efficiency We are grateful to Castlerock Limited Partners and Merle D. Hall Company for generously donating office space to us in the Shadelands office park in Walnut Creek.

lf you, or anyone you know, is able to donate office furniture (desks, tables, filing cabinets. bookcases, etc ), please contact our Administrative Assistant at 947-3535. Your donation will be tax deductible and will go to a great cause.

But. enough on Administrative details Spring will soon be here' Lush green grass already blankets the slopes of Mount Diablo and the streams and waterfalls are full. Soon, we will be treated to what will undoubtedly be a glorious display of wildflowers. The enclosed April on the Mountain Schedule of Events contains many wonderful ways you can celebrate Spring on Mount Diablo Let's all enjoy our special mountain!

Complete The Canyon!

Saturday, April 19, 1997, 11 :45 AM

Hike With Save Mount Diablo To The Dedication Of Sycamore Canyon/Blackhills To Mt. Diablo State Park.

This past summer, the 252-acre Blackhills parcel was added to Mt. Diablo State Park by Greystone Homes, after nine years of work by Save Mount Diablo. Surrounded on 80% of its border by the State Park and adjacent to Blackhawk, the addition preserves the slopes and lower reaches of the Sycamore creek canyon.

Save Mount Diablo will lead a public hike to the parcel from the State Park's Curry Point, at 11:45 AM, for a short dedication ceremony at 1:30 PM. You'll see beautiful wildflowers, a sparkling waterfall, and maybe rare peregrine falcons on the wing. After presentations, food and drinks, we'll return to Curry Point.

The Hike And Dedication Are Free

Light food and beverages will be provided. Wear good walking shoes or boots, dress in layers. Bring snacks and water. Level of Difficulty: The Hike to the event is relatively steep - 3 miles down fire roads to the event, 2 shaded miles back up afterwards. All levels of fitness welcome, but you must gauge your own ability.

Please RSVP By Friday April 4 At 947-3535

Leave your name, tel.# and number attending. Can't Hike? If you have mobility difficulties, there's limited parking onsite, by Reservation: RSVP at the same number Leave your name, tel. # and number attending; we'll provide directions.

Directions To The Hike

On April 19th the State Park opens at 11:00 AM Give yourself 45 minutes from the Northgate toll booth, or 20 minutes from the Southgate toll booth, to get to Curry Point to begin the 11:45 AM hike to the 1:30 PM Dedication. To reach Curry Point, enter the Park at the Northgate or Southgate entrances. North entrance - In Walnut Creek, where Walnut Avenue and Oak Grove Road join, go a few feet farther on Oak Grove and turn onto Northgate Road. In a mile and a half, pass (pay) the Toll Booth. Go 6.2 miles to the junction with Southgate Rd. Turn right (pay here if the lower toll booth isn't open) and go down Southgate 1.8 miles to Curry Point paved parking area. South entrance -follow the signs from Hwy 680 Diablo exit, 3 miles to Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd. The old State Park sign is still there but the road is closed. Go a few feet farther to a new alignment of Mt Diab lo Scenic. Go 2.1 mi. to the Toll Gate, and 1.6 mi. more to Curry Point.

The Complete The Canyon! Dedication Is Sponsored By

Save Mount Diablo And Underwritten By Greystone Homes. Special Thanks To Mount Diablo State Park And Staff. 4

Mt. Diablo State Park's Newest Waterfall!

SELF GUIDED HIKE TO THE NEW BLACKHILLS/SYCAMORE CANYON ADDITION

Note: On Saturday, April 19th, Save Mount Diablo and Greystone Homes will officially dedicate the 252-acre Blackhills parcel to Mount Diab lo State Park. That morning we'll lead public hikes from Curry Point down to the parcel for a free dedication event, titled "Complete The Canyon!"

Trailhead: Curry Point staging area, Southgate Road Distance: 5 miles round-trip, about 950 feet elevation change. Time To Go: Early Spring-the waterfall is best after rains; Late Spring for wildflowers.

This short loop hike is wonderful! 2 to 3 hour s round trip. It's a great introduction to the State Park's newest addition. Although relatively steep, much of the route follows two tributaries of Sycamore Creek and is shaded. The variety of wildflowers and of views, are incredible, and the hike's midpoint is near a large waterfall.

Start at Curry Point on Southgate Road. Leave the paved parking area on Curry Canyon Road, which soon bends off to the left. Go straight and follow the Knobcone Point Trail (fire road) along the grassland ridgeline (yellow grass pansies and buttercups in spring, coyote orchestras on summer evenings). You'll soon pass the Devil's Slide trail marker post (0.6 miles), the single track trail cutting off to the right, upon which you'll return. Follow this fire road into the oak woodland, to the junction with the Blackhawk Trail (1.0 mile) and go right along it, down through knobcone pine woodland.

In the canyon, you'll hit your fourth major plant communitychaparral. A small burn from Fall 1996 should support many wildflowers this spring. Globe lilies and the Diablo manzanita (red-trunked, grayish leaves attached directly to branches without stems), found along the trail, are both found only on Mt. Diablo. You'll soon reach a fifth plant community, the creek's riparian woodland, with moss-covered rocks, namesake sycamores and big leaf maples (1.9 miles).

The trail splits three ways - Continue downstream, past the junction with the Devil's Slide trail (2.3 miles) that you'll take on the way back In spring there are often trilliums along this part of the trail - a relatively rare, low-growing, three-leafed, bulb plant with red or pink flowers. The old fence marks the former boundary between the State Park and the Blackhills parcel. The fence may still be up; you can cross it, and continue on to the edge of development below.

Save Mount Diablo negotiated the compromise which allowed the owners of the 300 acre Blackhills parcel to construct homes on 24 acres while donating most of the rest. The dedication includes most of the big bowl, bounded by grassy hills and the rocky chaparral of the Blackhills, draining into the creek after it passes through the V-shaped break in the ridge.

As you continue down the trail, many small drainages add to the size of Sycamore creek. It gets more steep and jumbled with boulders - among alders, sycamores, willows and maples-then broadens out and crosses big shelves of rock. The sounds of the rushing creek are joined by the pungent smells of the chaparral and other wildflowers on the slopes aboveblack sage, chamise, monkey flowers.

You might see the big yellow Mt. Diablo sunflower or the brightly striped yellow and black Alameda whipsnake, two rare spe-

cies whose presence helped preserve the parcel. You'll pass near steep Devil's Slide, an inclined tower of exposed rock strata, and a large balancing rock shaped like a turtle's head. Look up often at the rocky Blackhills; at the ridge line you might see the small, very fast peregrine falcons that nest nearby. Several of them were part of Save Mount Diab lo' s original re-introductions from 1989-1993.

You may notice the flat flood plain of a sediment filled reservoir; at present the old water tanks it filled are still located just below. They' re your signal that you' re approaching a beautiful waterfall. A hundred yards below the tanks, a narrow trail cuts off down into the stream near a new-looking galvanized water trough. Walk carefully to avoid damaging the fragile riparian area while you view the broad falls . They're most impressive after heavy rains.

A short distance further downstream, the canyon ends and private property starts (3.0 miles). Retrace your steps up the canyon and, where it flattens out by a culvert over the creek, go left on the Devil's Slide trail (3.7 miles) . The trail follows the west branch of the creek which drains from Rock City It crosses the beautiful creek several times, and you'll be easily distracted from the climb by the moss and fern covered boulders. Just before the 3rd creek crossing, you'll begin to notice the smell from a sulfur spring Cross the creek and head right up the trail; it will soon leave the woodland, then skirt its edge before climbing through a grassland bowl back to the fire road. At the top of the hill, go left on the Knobcone Point fire road (4.4 miles); you're almost back to Curry Point (5.0 miles)

Mt. Diablo's summit beyond the Sycamore Canyon/Blackhills dedication. Preserved at no cost to the publ ic, Blackhills will be dedicated to Mount Diablo State Park on Apri l 19"'

Heritage Tree Sponsors

Save Mount Diablo wishes to thank the following individuals for their contributions and pledges to the Heritage Trees and Commemorative Grove Programs.

Anonymous

Karen & Jamil Abu-Hamdeh

Seth Adams

The B.T. Rocca, Jr. Foundation

John & Charlice Danielsen

Richard & Barbara Eakin

Marie & John Mosley

Thomas & Barbara Preston

Sandra Watson

Kay Werdegar

Teri Willis

Robert Wooley

Save Mount Diablo wishes to recognize the following gifts made in honor of or in memory of others. These gifts were received between April 1, 1996 and July 15, 1996.

In Honor Of

Judy Adler-

For all her work for the environment

Charles I. Eisner

Mary Bowerm an

Joanne Taylor

The Boy Scouts of America, Mount Diablo-Silverado Council

The B. T. Rocca, Jr. Foundation

James Brentano

Carroll & Robert Brentano

Betty Campbell

Mike & Jacki e Buettner

Donna & Herb Chance

Frank & Beth Chance

Roger & Eli zabet h Cunning -

On their recent Man-iage

Jerry & Carol Gerich

Don de Fremery

Anonymous

Gene Donald son

Richard Smith

Charles & Ellen Hunt

Karen Ann Hunt

Walter & Nat a lie Lagomarsino-

On their 50th W edd ing Anniversary

Mr. & Mrs. Gary Anderson

Michele Mattingly -

On her graduation from UC-Berkel ey

Jon Strieter

Laurie & Mac MacMath

Susanne Rudy

Lee & Sophia Peregrine-Merry Christmas

The Masons

William & Genevieve Sattler

Alfred Sattler

Joyce Sattler

Cathie Shelton

C. L. Chap ma n

Jop Van Overveen

Jo Bradley & Fred Cox

Kathy Treleven

David Marcus

Susan Watson

Jeanne Thomas

In Memory Of

Dumas Adams

Seth Adams

Larry Ashworth

Phyllis & Roy Ashworth

George R. Bacon

Betty Bacon

David M. Bardin

Bob & Bette Hill

Earl Berg, Sr.

John, Sue & Ian Tullis

Lily M. Bloom, our 96 year old

mother-

Alice & Frank Barham

Thomas Bowdle

Mr. & Mrs. R. L. Cheek

Wallace E. Brenner, Jr.

June Wall

Sherwood D. Burges s

Mrs. Constance Burgess

Wallace Burr

Hazel Irvine

Patricia M. Calkins

Joyce Kelly & Family

Barbara Callow

Merrill Callow

Dick Chapton

Ruth Chapton

Merle Chilcutt

Ruth Chapton

Mrs. Lou Clements

Amy Prince

Paul Covel

Jorgen H. Chris tiansen

Bill Cummings

Ruth Chapton

Abby Cushenberry

Jeannie Harmon

Elma Denner

Charlie & Margi e Evans

Len & Polly Doyle , who loved

birds & the wild places of earth

Jazelle Lieske & Scott Tucker

Leah Finley

Ruth Chapton

Irma J. Fleming

Alan Lipton

David Gillespie

Scott & Beth Wachenheim

Ray Gillman

Charlotte Webber

Salvatore & Anna Guidone

Franco A. Guidone

Jean P Hauser

Barbara J. Hau ser

Thorne Holmes

Virginia M. Holmes

Al verus Clark Janssen

Karen & Jamil Abu-Hamdeh

Marie & John Mo se ley

Kay Werdegar

H aze l Karuza

Lynne Armstrong

Bess ie Leno, Moth er

Barbara Walters

Robert Leslie

Mrs. Robert Leslie

Cecelia D. Lincoln

Leonard & Peggy M a hler

C. Vincent Lord

Gladys & Duncan Copland

Ly le Perry Lund

Karen & Jamil Abu-Hamdeh

Marie & John Mosley

Kay Werdegar

Dorothea MeITill

Ruth E. Young

Ken Milroy

Marvin & Carolyn Schick

(Rip-Snorters Dancers)

Howard W. Morri s

Ma1jory Lee

Bill Mott, Jr.

Patti Parks McClain

Leonard T. Nevill

Teri Wills

Doug Nichols

Richard & Dorothy Nichols

M att hew Thom as Orvik

SueD. Orvik

E sther M. Polese

Julius C. Deubn er

Edd L. Reyes

Gary R. Wirth

Victoria Robert son

Ruth Chapton

The Rhamphorynchi

Robert Clear

Merritt Rowland

Elvera H Rowland

Barbara Tabler

Peter Weiler

Harry Turner

Walt & Barbara Jennings

Stanley William Watson, Jr

Sandra Watson

Gene Y. Phillip s Whittaker

Mary Boyd

J ames F. Wilcox

Paul & Elizabeth Baxte r

Scout, Larry Banfield's friend

Doris Cobleigh

Shaughnessy & Sullivan

Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier

Ongoing Developments THE suMMmsAND auARRv PROJECT DRAFT EIR RELEASED:

The City of Concord has released a draft Environmental Impact Report for the 85 acre 'Old Sand Quarry' site. The site, on the south side of Ygnacio Valley Road and surrounded by Lime Ridge Open Space, is proposed for 246 homes, and a 17 acre commercial site. In our opinion, the footprint (area of the site covered by the project) is too large, almost 100% of the site is graded, and visibility issue s will be very important. Much of the s ite was quarried at the turn of the century but in the years since, many native animal and plant populations have become reestablished, including the rare Mt. Diablo manzanita. The first hearing on the project comes before the Concord Planning Commission on

Feb.19th and comments will be due by March 5 (before you receive this newsletter). You can get involved in the project by notifying the city of your concerns; call Janet Homrighausen at 671-3162. (The process is that a draft EIR is prepared to investigate impacts of a project; then comments are received from the public; those comments are responded to and questions answered; then a Final draft is prepared, and additional comments sought, this time as to whether to build the project proposed, an alternative, or no project at all.) The Summit/Sand Quarry Project is important, especially in terms of neighboring open space, recreational access, and visibility.

Park News

Black Diamond Mines Regional Park (EBRPD)- In spite of all the problems caused by the recent rains, the East Bay Regional parks are having early, spectacular spring seasons because of them. Black Diamond Mines park is famous for its mining history, but its landscapes are also incredibly dramatic and beautiful. If you've never been to the park you might want to start at the Somersville entrance. Call 635-0135 or 757-2620 for directions The 240acre Moller parcel at the entrance to the park was purchased by the Antioch Unified School District for a future Middle School; the District intends to maintain the parcel's Arata Ranch as an interpretive facility. A long-eared owl, an uncommon species, was seen at the western end of the park during the Audubon Christmas Bird Count. The amphibian singles party has begun and most ponds are full of frogs, toads and salamanders. Pioneer Pond, the best summer water source on the park's west end (above Nortonville), was the focus of a cattail removal project

before fall rains began; at the same time the dam was repaired, and the pond now holds almost twice as much water.

Diablo Foothills Regional Park/Castle Rock Recreational Area (EBRPD)- Mallard duck numbers seem to be increasing in the Pine Creek drainage, and there have been many wild turkey and raptor sightings, including peregrine falcons and Cooper's Hawks Major limbs were lost from the Castle Tree in the Picnic Area, barely missing the restroom. For some reason, feral pigs have left the picnic lawns alone since October, perhaps because the acorn crop was so heavy this year.

Lime Ridge Open Space (Cities of Walnut Creek and Concord)- Walnut Creek hopes to open Lime Ridge to the public this summer, after installation of a boundary fence and gates. Some trail construction will begin this spring; the public is invited to help on National Trails Day, Saturday, April 26. In addition, the City of Concord is processing the application for the Summit/Sand Quarry development project, between the Open Space and Ygnacio Valley Blvd. Several public walks on the open space are scheduled (one on April 27th) which will include views of the proposed development area. Call Dan continu ed on page 9

Celebrate Earth Day at the Concord Pavilion

The Contra Costa County Earth Day Festival, Northern California ' s most successful, will hold its 7th annual festival at its permanent home, the Concord Pavilion, on Sunday, April 20 th from 10 to 6. Earth Day's theme this year is "For Earth's Sake".

There'll be three stages, numerous theme areas, hundreds of booths, and earth friendly food.

Kids can take home a tape of their own weather cast with Pete Giddings at Channel 7's Kids Cast. All ages will be moved by Leopards Etc. , an incredibly touching presentation of endangered cats from around the world. A captivating live show is Friends of a Feather In The Rainforest Area you will find live plants and animals indigenous to the rainforest. Nearby is the High Tech Tent with the newest and hottest interactive technologies. Play interactive games, take nature walks, write the President, all here. There

will be a minimum of 12 cars. Free rides are planned for the younger set in the Solar Powered Kiddie Cars. There is more still from the Photography Tent, the Hay Bale House, the Games Tent, and the opportunity to meet two very important guests, Congressman George Miller , and former Governor Jerry Brown. Earth Day, founded in 1970, is celebrated across the nation with educational events and exhibits. The Festival, with an anticipated attendance of 20,000, is being sponsored by all 18 cities in the County, and the Board of Supervisors. As with previous festivals, it will be covered by most radio and television stations and Bay Area newspapers.

Shuttles will be running all day from Concord BART. Parking at the Pavilion, all of the events, and children under 18 will be free. Adults will be $5. For further information, call 274-3669.

Spring wildflowers in Morgan Territory, Mt Diablo beyond. Your support has ensured the preservation of this beautiful wildlife and recreational corridor. Get out this spring and enjoy it.

25th Anniversary a Success ...

continued from page 1

support in protecting Mount Diablo and expanding its parks and open spaces over these past twenty five years. We would especially like to thank the following event participants and our sponsors for their support.

--------- Hosts ---------

The Contra Costa Newspapers; The California Department of Parks and Recreation; The East Bay Regional Park District; The City of Walnut Creek

Patrons

The Bank of San Ramon Valley; California State Parks Foundation; The De Silva Group; The Harold Smith Companies; The Regional Parks Foundation; The S.H. Cowell Foundation; Windemere

Sponsors -

Black Diamond Brewing Company; Braddock & Logan; Gagen, McCoy, McMahon & Armstrong; The Lindsay Wildlife Museum; LSA Associates; Shell Martinez Refining Company; The Sierra

Club-San Francisco Bay Chapter; StudioSoftware; TOSCO Refining Company; Wendel, Rosen, Black and Dean

Thanks also to Senator John Nejedly and Margaret Kovar, Honorary 25th Anniversary Committee Co-Chairs. Assemblyman Tom Torlakson. Photographers Galen Rowell at Mountain Light, and Stephen Joseph. Gary Bogue, Contra Costa Times columnist and our Master of Ceremonies. StudioSoftware, Leslie Safarik and Laurence Tietz. The Department of Parks and Recreation Director, Donald Murphy. State Park Superintendent Larry Ferri, and staff. Robert Doyle, 25th Anniversary Committee Chairman, the committee members and SMD' s staff, Pat Moran and Seth Adams. Special thanks to Susan Kraughto, Michael Sewell and Vern Van Vlear for taking photos at the event.

Marsh Creek Agricultural Preserve

continued from page 1

would create an agreement between the county and cities not to add areas within the Preserve boundary to any city. Please contact the Supervisors today (especially the first three, new ones) asking for their support.

Board of Supervisors-646-2371, Contra Costa County, 651 Pine Street, Martinez, CA 94553, FAX 646-1059

Sup Joe Canciamilla-427-8138, 300 E. Leland Road, Suite 100, Pittsburg, CA 94565, FAX 427-8142

Sup. Gayle Uilkema-646-2080, County Admin. Bldg., 651 Pine St. Room 108A, Martinez, CA 94553, FAX 646-1396

Sup. Donna Gerber-820-8683, 18 Crow Canyon Ct., Suite 120, San Ramon, CA 94583, FAX 820-6627

Sup. Jim Rogers-374-3231, 100 37th St., Richmond, CA 94805, FAX 374-3429

Sup. Mark DeSaulnier-646-5763, 2425 Bisso Lane, Suite 110, Concord, CA 94520, FAX 646-5767

For more info call Seth Adams, 229-4275. Save Mount Diablo, P.O. Box 5376, Walnut Creek, CA 94596, FAX 228-4345

YOUR CALL, LETTER, FAX, OR APPEARANCE WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Audience gets ready for the slideshow presentations at the 25th Anniversary. Pictured, front row: SMD Director Bob Doyle, Founder Mary Bowerman, Dept. of Parks and Rec. Director Donald Murphy, retiring President Sue Watson.

Members of the audience get ready for the 3-D slideshow by Stephen Joseph.

25 th Anniversary - SMD Director Stephen Joseph and Galen Rowell enjoy the party before their slideshows. Barbara Rowell at center.

Park News

...

Cather at 943-5855 for information about Trails Day or the public hikes.

Los Vaqueros Reservoir Watershed (CCWD)- The Water District has completed negotiations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding the federally listed red-legged frog. CCWD will be fencing extensive areas along Kellogg Creek and working to ensure that non-native bullfrogs, which prey on the red-leggeds, don't become resident. The District will be continuing a managed cattle grazing program based on frog and kit fox management. There will be a series of tours of the watershed this spring and summer. Call for a schedule if you're not on the District's mailing list (see below for telephone numbers). The district is soliciting organizations with an interest in working with them on joint projects in the watershed. They are specifically focusing on stewardship and restoration, recreational (trails, fisheries), and interpretative projects. A series of round table discussions for potential partners will be held. Call John Steere at 688-8363 for more information. In addition, a Public Involvement Program is beginning to consider recreational aspects of the Watershed Management Program. That Plan will go the CCWD Board in March for review, then the Public Involvement Program hearings and workshops will begin. Call Ed Novi at 688-8175 for more information.

Morgan Territory Regional Park (EBRPD)- The park has been quiet,

from page 7

but is as beautiful as ever. Morgan Territory is still little known by most of the public, but many park professionals consider it their favorite park. The Park is located southeast of Clayton and Marsh Creek Road, on Morgan Territory Road. The decrepit care-taker's residence at the staging area has been removed and the park is planning a replacement structure nearby. Improvements near the staging area on the Mollok Trail have been completed and also on the Coyote trail at Marsh Creek, correcting a steep grade. A bridge was built over a seasonal drainage.

Mt. Diablo State Park (State Dept. of Parks and Recreation) - There's a great need for the passage of a state park bond for maintenance of and acquisition for our state parks. The biggest concern on Mount Diablo, at present, is the condition of roads, especially after the heavy rains during early January. Mt. Diablo's steep slopes will always make roads somewhat unstable within the park, but budget cuts have made deferred maintenance far more common than is wise. During the January cold spell temperatures dropped to 14 degrees with a wind chill of 40 below. Dennis Roseberry was hired to fill a long vacant position for the water system supervisor, both at Mt. Diablo and several other parks; that position is increasingly important as water system regulations become more complex. Mara Noelle, the Park Resource Ecologist, is continuing the Pine Canyon Native Plant Community Restoration project, collecting and

Mt. Diab lo CD-ROM

... continued from page 2

for landscape photography. A breakthrough in documentary CD-ROM's, P.O.V. Mount Diablo features 3-D photography (glasses included), quick-time virtual reality technology and, as you travel around a map of the mountain, a wide variety of photo albums, video, and video conversations with Joseph.

The Mac/Windows CD-ROM retails for $34.98, including tax and shipping. To order send check or money order to: StudioSoftware, 2140 East Seventh Place, Los Angeles, CA 90021, or call (213) 614-1126 for Visa or Master card orders. Stephen Joseph's photographic prints are available locally by calling (510) 934-2128. P.O.V. Mount Diablo is accessible on the internet at www.povmtdiablo.com.

planting oak acorns, propagating other plants, and coordinating removal of exotics; the position will continue for another year. Ranger John Pelonio and his wife, Erin, are expecting their first baby in March. Volunteers are needed for California Trails Day on April 26; call Bob Risser at 837-5245. For info about other events, including evening campfire programs, call the rangers at 837-2525.

Round Valley Regional Park (EBRPD)

- Round Valley is expected to open to the public in Fall 1997. The EBRPD Board of Directors has adopted a Land Evaluation for Interim Use, and a new Master Plan for the Park system. Specifically the two plans include the Diablo Trail alignment through Round Valley, Morgan Territory, and Diablo Foothills. Round Valley was designated a 'Preserve' because of the rare species found there; Preserve status limits the amount of development in the valley. The CCWD petroleum pipeline realignment has been completed.

Shell Ridge Open Space (City of Walnut Creek) City staff and volunteers have been adding trail signs to some of the newer trails and will continue similar work throughout the year. The Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation's very active volunteer program continues to propagate, plant, and water oaks and restore riparian areas, etc. Volunteers are welcome to call Ralph Kraetsch at 9335732 for more info.

Park News

... continued from page 7

Cather at 943-5855 for information about Trails Day or the public hikes.

Los Vaqueros Reservoir Watershed (CCWD)-The Water District has completed negotiations with the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service regarding the federally listed red-legged frog. CCWD will be fencing extensive areas along Kellogg Creek and working to ensure that non-native bullfrogs, which prey on the red-leggeds, don't become resident. The District will be continuing a managed cattle grazing program based on frog and kit fox management. There will be a series of tours of the watershed this spring and summer. Call for a schedule if you're not on the District's mailing list (see below for telephone numbers). The district is soliciting organizations with an interest in working with them on joint projects in the watershed. They are specifically focusing on stewardship and restoration, recreational (trails, fisheries), and interpretative projects. A series of round table discussions for potential partners will be held. Call John Steere at 688-8363 for more information. In addition, a Public Involvement Program is beginning to consider recreational aspects of the Watershed Management Program. That Plan will go the CCWD Board in March for review, then the Public Involvement Program hearings and workshops will begin. Call Ed Novi at 688-8175 for more information.

Morgan Territory Regional Park (EBRPD)-The park has been quiet,

but is as beautiful as ever. Morgan Territory is still little known by most of the public, but many park professionals consider it their favorite park. The Park is located southeast of Clayton and Marsh Creek Road, on Morgan Territory Road. The decrepit care-taker's residence at the staging area has been removed and the park is planning a replacement structure nearby. Improvements near the staging area on the Mollok Trail have been completed and also on the Coyote trail at Marsh Creek, correcting a steep grade. A bridge was built over a seasonal drainage.

Mt. Diablo State Park (State Dept. of Parks and Recreation)-There's a great need for the passage of a state park bond for maintenance of and acquisition for our state parks. The biggest concern on Mount Diablo, at present, is the condition of roads, especially after the heavy rains during early January. Mt. Diablo's steep slopes will always make roads somewhat unstable within the park, but budget cuts have made deferred maintenance far more common than is wise. During the January cold spell temperatures dropped to 14 degrees with a wind chill of 40 below. Dennis Roseberry was hired to fill a long vacant position for the water system supervisor, both at Mt. Diablo and several other parks; that position is increasingly important as water system regulations become more complex. Mara Noelle, the Park Resource Ecologist, is continuing the Pine Canyon Native Plant Community Restoration project, collecting and

Mt. Diablo CD-ROM

... continued from page 2

for landscape photography. A breakthrough in documentary CD-ROM's, P.O.V. Mount Diablo features 3-D photography (glasses included), quick-time virtual reality technology and, as you travel around a map of the mountain, a wide variety of photo albums, video, and video conversations with Joseph.

The Mac/Windows CD-ROM retails for $34.98, including tax and shipping. To order send check or money order to: StudioSoftware, 2140 East Seventh Place, Los Angeles, CA 90021, or call (213) 614-1126 for Visa or Master card orders Stephen Joseph's photographic prints are available locally by calling (510) 934-2128. P.O.V. Mount Diablo is accessible on the internet at www.povmtdiablo.com

planting oak acorns, propagating other plants, and coordinating removal of exotics; the position will continue for another year. Ranger John Pelonio and his wife, Erin, are expecting their first baby in March. Volunteers are needed for California Trails Day on April 26; call Bob Risser at 837-5245. For info about other events, including evening campfire programs, call the rangers at 837-2525

Round Valley Regional Park (EBRPD) - Round Valley is expected to open to the public in Fall 1997. The EBRPD Board of Directors has adopted a Land Evaluation for Interim Use, and a new Master Plan for the Park system. Specifically the two plans include the Diablo Trail alignment through Round Valley, Morgan Territory, and Diablo Foothills. Round Valley was designated a 'Preserve' because of the rare species found there; Preserve status limits the amount of development in the valley. The CCWD petroleum pipeline realignment has been completed.

Shell Ridge Open Space (City of Walnut Creek) - City staff and volunteers have been adding trail signs to some of the newer trails and will continue similar work throughout the year. The Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation's very active volunteer program continues to propagate, plant, and water oaks and restore riparian areas, etc. Volunteers are welcome to call Ralph Kraetsch at 9335732 for more info.

Help Celebrate with a Free Day at Mount Diablo

Help us Celebrate the anniversary of the creation of Mount Diablo State Park, while kicking off State Parks

Thanks to the generosity of the California Department of Parks and Recreation, visitors can enter the State Park Month, during the most beautiful part of the year. We'll cut a special Mount Diablo birthday cake at 12 :30 at the Summit Museum. See waterfalls, wildflowers, wildlife, incredible views, healthy exercise, with a price that's hard to

FreeDay@MT. DIABLO

free all day long. Save Mount Diablo, the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association and State Park staff will conduct walks, hikes and other events throughout the park during the day. You'll receive a schedule of events at the Park gates as you

MAY 3 1997 enter. Thi s fs Your Invitation To Attend. Reserve the date beat. Whether you attend to visit the Summit Museum with your kids, to take a walk by yourself or with one of our hike leaders, or to have a picnic with your family, it's a day you won't want to miss.

and bring your friends and family!

This Free Day is sponsored by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association, and Save Mount Diablo.

Save Mount Diablo is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) conservation organization which educates the public about threats to the mountain , acquires land , monitors land use planning on private lands, restores habitat and reintroduces rare species, builds trails and supports recreational opportunities, and works to insure that park maintenance needs are met. SMD offers technical exp ertise to agencies, and neighborhood groups and has worked cooperatively with the business community to raise funds and protect land. Since 1971, when SMD was formed, public open space on and around Mt. Diab lo has expanded from 6,788 to more than 53,000 acres . Save Mount Diab lo continues to raise funds to preserve the remainder of the Mountain. For more information or to donate, write to Save Mount Diablo, P O. Box 5376 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 or call (510) 947-3535

Mt. Diablo rises above our lives as a daily reminder of why we love lhis area. Please give generously so thal it will be protected forever.