1992 Diablo Watch - Spring Edition, Issue 8

DIABLO WATCH

Sa,ve Jr!ount Diablo

Protecting the Mountain Since 1971

Restoring Mount Diab lo

Before Europeans showed up in the Bay Area, Mount Diablo and Contra Costa county presented a very different picture than the one we view today, even though in the short time since then, the mountain's physical appearance has changed very little. Barring the development that threatens the lower slopes, and the quarries on Mount Zion, the ridges look much the same; Castle Rock and the main peaks still rise above the surrounding valleys. In that preservation of land, Save Mount Diablo has been spectacularly successful.

What's changed most on Diablo is the inake-up of its animal and plant life, which range in drama from grasslands that tum green and golden at different times of the year, to the absence of our state symbol, the grizzly bear, and the gray wolves both of which are extinct in California. Early reports of California's

by Seth Adams, Program Director

wildlife remind us of present day reports of Africa's Serengeti herds, or the Arctic coast's caribou-tule elk and pronghorn by the millions, waterfowl that blackened the sky, salmon and steelhead runs that clogged our rivers and streams.

California is among the most biologically rich areas in the world; more unique animals and plants are found here than in any other state. Yet more than 20% of the state's animals are classified as endangered, threatened, or 'of special concern'. Many more plant species are at risk. The reasons are as obvious as our 30 million person population, the European annual grasses that have crowded out many plant species, massive diversions of water and the paving over of wildlife habitat, to the ways we've managed some of what we have been able to save. Its equally - continued on page 10

Do Bears Eat Apples on Mount Diablo?

When hiking on the Knob Cone Pine Road starting from Curry Point, have you noticed the shrubs with crooked branches and their almost polished-looking red or red-brown bark which exfoliates easily? These are Manzanita, a Spanish name which means "Little Apple". The scientific name, Arctostaphylos, is from the Greek - arktos; a bear and staphule; a grape (bears feed on the grapes).

Manzanita is an evergreen, woody plant with simple oval-like leaves which alternate on small branches and twigs. The flowers range in color from a pearly white to tinges of rose

Spring 1992, #8

or pink. They are shaped like inverted bells or urns with the small, open end hanging down. Each blossom usually produces one fruit.

There are four species of Manzanita on Mount Diablo: The following information will help you distinguish and identify these species.

Big-berried Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) grows primarily on the northern side of Mount Diablo and can be seen in abundance in Donner Canyon. These plants are old and well-established and are often tree-like growing to 18 feet. There is no basal burl which means it will not

by Genevieve Sattler

stump sprout after a fire. Big-berried Manzanita flowers from December to March and fruits in June. The flowers are white, the ovary is not hairy and the berry has a solid stone. The leaves are whitish and the branchlets are without spreading bristles. Bigberried Manzanita has an extensive range from Mount Diablo southward to Baja California.

Parry Manzanita (Arctostaphylos manzanita) is a 6-12 foot shrub, usually very erect, with bright green leaves. It is common in the Inner Black Hills area of Mount Diablo.

- continued on page 9

Seth Adams of Save Mount Diablo, left, and Charli Danielson of the California Native Plant Society, examine the tiny new growth of Yerba Mansa, Anemopsis californica, a potential candidate for reintroduction to Mount Diablo.

President's Column, Spring 1992

It is tempting to bask in the sunshine of another spring on Mount Diablo and in the warmth that comes from memories of our successful Twentieth Anniversary party and the honor of winning the Take Pride in California award.

But not this spring there are too many important issues that must be addressed. The State's budget crisis has and will continue to affect the operations of Mount Diablo State Park. Although our park is not on the "hit list" for closure, the hiring freeze and the natural attrition of park employees may contribute to closing the park on certain days. While demand for use of state parks is at an all time high, budget considerations are making state parks less available to people.

Let's recall that the East Bay Regional Park District was formed during the depths of the Depression in the 1930's. Somehow the people of that day were able to rise above their considerable problems and band

The Thistle-Poppy or Chicalote (Argemone platyceras var. hispida [A. munita]) considered rare on Mount Diablo, grew in abundance after a recent prescribed burn.

together to create the beginnings of that magnificent series of parks that we know today. We can imitate their

Assemblyman Baker supports maintaining

spirit and find ways to help the mountain and ourselves at this time of need. Save Mount Diablo will be seeking out and reporting to you the ways that more of us can volunteer to help our park.

Tight budgets also mean tight funds for land acquisition. Yet, there are several important properties that are now available for purchase, one on which we are in active negotiation at this writing. Somehow the money must be found to acquire these beautiful parcels before they are lost to public recreation, scenic beauty, and wildlife habitat.

Problems mean opportunities, new ways of finding money, of helping one another, and of helping to preserve and protect our mountain. We pledge to you that we will address this new year with its new circumstances in the spirit of the "can-do" that has brought Save Mount Diablo through twenty years of effective work. Together, we can all make a difference.

-Susan Watson

the current hours of operations for Mount Diablo State Park.

Save Mount Diablo recently received a letter from Assemblyman Bill Baker concerning State budget cuts as they affect Mount Diablo State Park.

Save Mount Diablo appreciates Assemblyman Baker's continued interest and support of our "Island Mountain."

"Recently, I have received several letters from supporters of Save Mount Diablo expressing concern that Mt. Diablo State Park may be closed or have its hours of operation reduced due to budget cuts at the Department of Parks and Recreation and requesting my assistance in keeping the park open. In December, the department

announced that it intended to reduce the operating hours at several of California's state parks and historical sites, as a means of balancing its budget.

I, too, want Mt. Diablo State Park to remain open and maintain its current hours of operation. As you and many of your supporters may know, I was instrumental in securing funds, in addition to those raised through the many hours of hard work by local citizens, to establish the "interpretive center'' on Mt. Diablo.

The mountain is the dominant geographic feature of our area and the state park is an attraction which thousands of Contra Costans and Californians alike visit each year.

You will be pleased to hear that I have contacted the department and they have assured me that Mt. Diablo is not slated to have its hours of operation reduced. The department

also informed me that the state parks on their list are only having their operating hours reduced and are not being closed down permanently. However, with this year's uncertain budgetary situation, it is possible that the department may try to reduce Mt. Diablo's operating hours sometime in the future. The department tells me that any further reductions in park operating hours will come only after all possible administrative cuts have been made. Be assured that I will fight any attempt by the department to cut operations at Mt. Diablo State Park.

I want to thank the supporters of Save Mount Diablo who wrote to me on this issue. I hope that I can continue to be of service to your organization."

Sincerely,

William P Baker Assemblyman, 15th District

At our 20th anniversary, Save Mount Diablo

April On The Mountain

From the cold, clear days lingering over from winter, to the warm, sunny promises of summer, you'll find a calendar of events with something for everyone and some place you've never been. April On The Mountain has been an annual tradition since 1974 for Save Mount Diablo and our co-sponsor, the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association. It's grown from a few hikes and events during the month of April to a wonderful series of opportunities starting in February or March and continuing through May, the season when the mountain is most obviously showy in its green coat. Similarly, Save Mount Diablo has grown from a few hundred supporters at that time to more than 4000 at present.

Although Save Mount Diablo and MDIA co-sponsor the program, it's also true that we couldn't do it alone. Our thanks to the park agencies and their staffs and the long list of other groups who provide volunteer leaders for the hikes and events.

By all means pull out the calendar and hang it up on your wall or refrigerator, even mark some of the dates in your own calendar. Some

events which you might pay special attention to are the many walks in Mitchell, Back or Donner Canyons, where the most dependable wildflower extravaganzas take place; Curry Canyon hikes and ones near Southgate Road should have similar potential this year, given last years' controlled burns.

Early in the month, on April 11th, Save Mount Diablo Program Director Seth Adams will lead a late afternoon hike, with moonlit finish. The hike begins in CCWD's new Los Vaqueros watershed and ends in the East Bay Regional Park District's new Round Valley Preserve at the foot of Morgan Territory Ridge. Neither area is normally open to the public, yet.

The Contra Costa Earth Day Festival is on April 26th at Heather Farms Park. We'll welcome in the day with a sunrise event at the mountain's summit-two years ago the sun rising above a layer of fog left everyone gasping (it wasn't the cold!), with the mountain truly seeming the island in a sea of fog. At 10:00 am the same day, there will be a hike to view hawks, falcons and eagles in Pine 3

Save Mount Diablo Welcomes New Park Director Murphy

Donald Murphy was named the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation by Governor Pete Wilson on December 17, 1991.

"Don Murphy is a talented park administrator who has demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting California's natural and cultural resources throughout his tenure at the Department of Parks and Recreation," according to Governor Wilson.

Director Murphy will be the chief administrator of the California State Park System which comprises 285 state parks, beaches, recreation and wilderness areas containing 1.25 million acres.

Director Murphy, 41, is a 12-year official with the Parks and Recreation Department. His previous position was as Superintendent of the Department's Big Sur District which includes seven separate parks. Prior to this, Murphy served as District Superintendent for the Chino Hills District. He has also been a training officer with the Department of Parks and Recreation and a State Park Ranger.

Murphy is a native of Los Angeles. He received a bachelor of science degree in molecular biology from the University of California, San Diego. He and his wife, LeRena, have three sons and three daughters.

Save Mount Diablo welcomes Donald Murphy as Director of the State Department of Parks and Recreation. We look forward to working with Director Murphy and offer him our support. We wish him success and personal satisfaction in his new position.

Contributions

Are tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law. Checks should be made payable to:

Save Mount Diablo P.O. Box25

Concord, CA 94522

received the Golden Poppy Award. From left, Mary Bowennan, Genevieve and William Sattler, SMD; Felix Arteaga, Diablo District Superintendent; Susan Watson, President, SMD; William Monaghan, Regional Director; Robert Doyle, East Bay Regional Park and SMD.

Save Mount Diablo Wish List

Save Mount Diablo is looking for several specific donations. If you have, or know anyone who has these items, used or otherwise, and is willing to part with them, please call Program Director Seth Adams, at (510) 2294275. All contributions (except volunteers) are tax deductible.

a FAX machine in good working order.

a Macintosh SE computer (or higher grade Mac), in good working order.

a sturdy two- or four-drawer file cabinet.

volunteers interested in monitoring single, specific development projects as they make their way through the planning process.

volunteers willing to serve on SMD's fundraising committee (see related notice).

Newhall Victory

On December 17th the Walnut Creek City Council turned down the development plan for the 210-unit Portofino development proposed by Pulte homes for the western slopes of Lime Ridge above Walnut Creek. It is now hoped that at least part of the property can be purchased. Surround-

ed on three sides by public open space, and stretching on both sides of Ygnacio Valley Boulevard almost to the crest of Lime Ridge, some of the property has long been a priority acquisition for local preservationists. The development would have been visible to the Carquinez Straits

McPeak the new Chair of the County Board of Supervisors 4i!S'

Sunne McPeak was elected chair of the Board of Supervisors this month, and took the seat with a list of a dozen priorities, including preservation of agricultural lands in east county. McPeak, whose District be-fore this year's reapportionment was made up primarily of Pleasant Hill and Concord, now also represents Clayton and part of Mount Diablo. Diablo is also within the districts of San Ramon Valley/ Walnut Creek's Robert Schroder, whose turf stretches through Morgan Territory north to Curry Can-

yon, and east County's Tom Torlakson, who also has a slice of the mountain, Morgan Territory and Black Diamond Mines .

We wish McPeak well in her new role, as well as all the members of the Board in the coming year.

Fundraising Committee Still Needs Members!

As reported in the last newsletter, a fundraising committee has been formed to oversee Save Mount Diablo' s fundraising efforts. The committee is seeking new members with an interest in fundraising activities and events.

The Committee is looking for members with financial backgrounds, political and fundraising contacts, event organizing experience, or an interest in these topics. For more information, please call Program Director Seth Adams at (510) 229-4275.

Our special thanks to J Morgan Graphics of Concord for printing this Issue of IHabloWatcb

Frequently mistaken for a volcano, fossil evidence shows us that Mount Diablo arose from the ancient sea floor as a piercement surrounded by younger sedimentary rocks.

"April on the Mountain" Hikes and Events

February 29, Saturday, 10 a.m.; Curry Point Flower Hike (Save Mount Diablo) Leader: Dann McCright, (510) 687-5335. Come along and enjoy some of the earliest wildflowers on Mount Diablo. We will see Shooting Stars, Hound's Tongue, Milk Maids and more. Bring lunch and liquids. Dress warmly; Meet at Curry Point for an easy hike of about 5 hours. (D

March 7, Saturday, 9 a.m.; Black Point on Mount Diablo (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leader : Joe Fragapane, (510) 689-2423. This is a 2B hike to Black Point and loop around to trailhead. Excellent views. Excellent hike. Meet leader at Concord BART at 8:30 for carpool or at Mitchell Canyon trailhead at 9 a.m. ($5 entrance fee). 8

March 11, Wednesday, 9:30 a.m.; Morgan Territory (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leader: Don de Fremery, (510) 837-5646. (from 1 - 9 p.m.) Explore this little known gem of a park, This 2B hike will include sweeping vistas, wooded canyons, and one of the finest stands of manzanita in the entire Diablo Range. Hike starts from main parking lot. Carpool from SE corner, Emporium-Capwell parking lot, Newell & So. Broadway, Walnut Creek. 8:30. This will be a strenuous h~e. @

March 14, Saturday, 9:00 a.m.; Eagle Peak and Beyond (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leader: Andi Goulet, (510) 947-5891. We start with a scenic climb of this lovely peak and then ramble on down the Falls Trail to check for spring wildflowers. This is a moderately paced 3C hike. Heavy rain and mud will cancel. Bring lunch and liquids. Meet at Walnut Creek BART at 8:30 a.m. for carpool or meet at Mitchell Canyon trailhead at 9 a.m. Strenuous hike. 8

March 25, Wednesday, 9:00 a.m.; Black Diamond Mines Park (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leader: Don de Fremery, (510) 837-5646 (from 1 - 9 p.m.) Explore the east end of this historic and scenic park on a 3C hike. We meet at Somersville Road entrance (last parking area) at 9:00 a.m. Parking fee $2.50. Carpool from SE corner, Emporium-Capwell parking lot, Newell & So. Broadway, Walnut Creek, 8:30. This will be a strenuous hike.

March 26, Thursday, Mitchell Canyon Wildflower and Birding Trip. (Mount Diablo Audubon Society). For information, phone AUD-U-BON (510) 283-8266

for a tape recording with current info Bring binoculars, field guides, lunch and liquids. Guests are welcome. 8

March 28, Saturday, 9:15 a.m.; Mount Diablo from Shell Ridge (San Francisco Bay Chapter, Sierra Oub) Leader: Neil Kaplan, (510) 451-5252. Approach from the west and visit the south of Diablo on this 3C-D hike. Attend with some mud, some views and perhaps flowers, although a bit early. Wear good gripping shoes. Meet at Rockridge BART at 9:15

Hikers leave the city behind while enjoying the sweeping vistas and wide open spaces from a different point of view.

east side of College Ave. by the escalator (carpool) or call for directions to trailhead. Hike is fairly strenuous.

March 28, Saturday, 8:45 a.m.; Diab lo Delight (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leaders: Andi Goulet, (510) 947-5891 and Don de Fremery, (510) 8375646 (from 1 - 9 p.m.). Enjoy poppies, lupines and other colorful delights on this 3D adventure to the summit of Mount Diablo in wildflower season. Our route includes the Diablo waterfalls, Deer Flat, and Juniper Camp. Hike starts at 8:45 a m. from Mitchell Canyon parking lot. ($5 entrance fee). Carpool from Walnut Creek BART 8:10 a m. This will be a strenuous hike. 8

March 29, Sunday, 11:00 a.m.; Mitchell Canyon Loop (S. F. Bay Chapt e r, Sierra Club). Leader: Judy Becker, (510) 8811787. Enjoy spring on the north side of Mount Diablo. A moderately paced 2C

hike. Meet at Walnut Creek BART 10:15 a.m. Carpool by the entrance Ygnacio Valley Road and California. Hike starts at 11:00 a.m. from Mitchell Canyon parking lot ($5 entrance fee). Lunch on Eagle P eak. Optional dinner stop after hike. @

March 29, Sunday, 8:00 a.m.; Saunter to the Summit (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leader: Ward Smith (no phone) Off to the Summit on a SD hike. John Muir's 1877 Mount Diablo walk continues. Meet at Pleasant Hill BART at 8:00 a.m. with a lunch and liquids. This will be a strenuous hike.

April 4, Saturday, 8:30 a.m.; Morgan Territoiy Regional Park (Diablo Hiking Oub). Leader: John Van Heertum, (510) 672-7231. Meet at the Pleasant Hill Park and Recreation Center on Civic Drive in Pleasant Hill at 7:30 a.m or at Morgan Territory Regional Park parking lot at 8:30 a.m. The all day hike will cover 10-12 miles. This will be a fairly strenuous hike. Bring lunch and plenty of water . @

April 4, Saturday, 9:00 a.m.; Mount Diablo (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leader: Rich Sexton, (510) 757-6991. Enjoy the spring on the waterfall trail and the Back Creek Trail. The pace will be slow. Meet leader at Concord BART at 9:00 a.m.

April S, Sunday, 10:00 a.m.; Juniper Trail to Top of Mountain (Contra Costa Hills Club). Leader: Fred Suzukawa, (510) 4555210. Meet at Walnut Creek BART at 10 a.m. where CARS ARE NEEDED for caravan to Diablo Overlook (Juniper Camp) Under direction of leader we will hike the Juniper Trail to the top where we will have lunch and return to our cars by way of the Summit Trail. Bring lunch and liquids Strenuous hike Rain cancels.

April 11, Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.; Fourth Annual Walk 'Round the Mountain (California Native Plant Society). Leader: Susan M D' Akamo, (510) 7984504. Meet at Juniper Campground. Mount Diablo has many wond e rful aspects. This 4th annual circumambulation of the mountain features beautiful wildflowers, wide vistas and lots of good exercise. We'll pass through different plant communities and will have an opportunity to learn about the trees, shrubs and annual wildflowers we'll see. We'll walk about 6 miles- much of it fairly strenuous and slippery. Please wear boots and bring liquids, lunch and layers of clothing. We'll be walking to the top of Mount Diab lo, down Devil' s Elbow Trail, to Prospectors Cap, over Bald Ridge to Deer Flat and return to Juniper Camp.

April 11, Saturday, 9;00 a.m.; Mount Diablo (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leader: Harvey Brosler (510) 672-5685. A moderately paced 2B hike to Eagle Peak returning through lovely Mitchell Canyon. Meet at Mitchell Canyon trailhead in Clayton at 9:00 a.m. ($5 entrance fee), or carpool from Concord BART at 8:30. Bring lunch, liquids. This will be a fairly strenuous hike. @

April 11-Saturday, 2:00 pm; Sunset at Round Valley (the most beautiful valley in the East Bay). (Save Mount Diablo) Leader: Seth Adams, (510) 229-4275. Hike a relatively flat route into East Bay Regional Park's new Round Valley Preserve, nestled between Morgan Territory and CCWD's new Los Vaqueros watershed lands. This is a rare chance to see this spectacular preserve not yet open to the public. Bring a snack; we'll have time to explore the valley then hike out in the moonlight. 5-6 miles round trip. Follow Marsh Creek Rd. east to Camino Diablo, south on Vasco Rd. about 3.5 miles. Park near the bridge.

April 11, Saturday, 8;00 p.m.; Lower Summit Parking Lot (Mount Diablo Astronomical Society) Leader: Jack Borde, president MDOA, (510) 827-9716 Members of the Mount Diablo Astronomical Society over the past eight years have worked with the State Park service to bring science education in astronomy to the general public. We of the newly

The Mount Diablo Interpretive Association

was created in 1974 to increase the public's opportunities to learn about Mount Diab lo' s history and natural history. The Mount Diablo Interpretive Association (MDIA) oversees the State Park's docent programs, and produces educational materials about Mount Diablo. For more info, write: MDIA, P.O. Box 250, Diablo, CA. 94528, or call Judy Adler at (510) 934-6256.

MDIA inaugurated an annual Autumn Classic celebration of Mt. Diablo, a day of athletic competitions and special events. The fourth edition of the Mt. Diablo State Park map and trail guide ($3.50 at park headquarters) is now available .

"April on the Mount

formed Mount Diablo Observatory Association would like to present who we are, what we do, how we would like to expand and new possibilities. 0

April 11, Saturday; Annual Heritage Trail Ride and Barbecue (Heritage Trails Fund). Leader: Nancy Dupont, (510) 937-7661. Enjoy the beautiful mountain on horseback. Three trail rides ranging in experience level. Also a hike led by Jeannie Harmon, (510) 934-4548.

April 11, Saturday, 9:00 a.m.; Mount Olympia and North Peak, from the East (Save Mount Diablo) Leader: David Sanger, (510) 526-4465. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the intersection of Marsh Creek Road and Morgan Territory Road in Clayton. We will climb up the east side of Mount Olympia, using the East Trail and Zippe trails. After a rest for lunch and photographs, we will continue to the rugged summit of North Peak before returning.

in" Hikes and Events

This is a strenuous hike of approximately 10 miles with 3,000 feet elevation gain. You will have a chance to see a seldom visited part of the park. Bring lunch, two liters of water and good shoes. Rain cancels.

April 12, Sunday, 11:30 a.m.; Mount Diablo Necklace (San Francisco Bay Chapter, Sierra Club) Leader: Bob Solotar (510) 525-2110 (Phone 8:30 -10 p.m). A 2C loop around the ol' devil mountain

with perhaps a side trip to Eagle Peak or North Peak. With lunch we'll see lots of wildflowers. Meet at 11 :30 at the far end of Juniper Campground. No host carpool Rockridge BART Station, Oakland (east side College Ave) by the escalators at 10:30. This will be a strenuous hike.

April 15, Wednesday,, 10:15 a.m.; Mitchell Canyon Loop (S. F. Bay Chapter, Sierra Club). Leaders: Elizabeth Rothschild, (510) 848-4424 and Rosemary

Hafford, (510) 525-6790. Enjoy spring wildflowers on the north side of Mount Diablo on this strenuous but very leisurely paced 2B hike. Meet at Walnut Creek BART 9:30 a.m. Carpool by the entrance Ygnacio Valley Road and California. Hike starts at 10:15 a.m. from Mitchell Canyon parking lot ($5 entrance fee). @

April 16, Thursday, 9:30 a.m.; Location of hike undecided at this time (Contra Costa Hills Club). Leader: Betty Goldstein, (510) 934-0458. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Walnut Creek BART for carpool to trailhead.

April 18, Saturday, Donner Canyon Bird Trip (Mount Diablo Audubon Society). For information, phone AUD-U-BON (2838266) for a tape recording with current info. This will be a strenuous hike up the canyon. Bring binoculars, field guides, lunch and liquids. Guests are welcome.

April 18, Saturday, 9:30 a.m.; Mount Diablo North Side (San Francisco Bay Chapter, Sierra Oub) Leader: Mark Woodbury, (510) 653-3209 Enjoy spring wildflowers and perhaps waterfalls on this 2C loop. Bring 2 quarts of water and meet at Mitchell Canyon parking lot in Clayton ($5 entrance fee), or carpool Rockridge BART Station, (east side of College Avenue by the escalators) at 8:30 a.m. This will be a strenuous hike. 8

April 19, Sunday, 5:00 a.m.; Mount Diablo Sunrise Hikes (S. F. Bay Chapter, Sierra Club). Leaders: Celeste Burrows, (510) 228-2233 and Jack Sneddon, (510) 676-3939. Camp at Juniper and hike 1 hour to summit at 5:00 a.m. (or meet at locked Northgate entrance at 5:00 a.m. and drive up). This will be followed by a sunrise potluck breakfast and a 5-mile 1B hike at 6:00 a.m. Rain cancels. For camping or meeting information phone leaders.

save mounT DIABLO

Save Mount Dillblo is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization which has been preserving land on Mount Diablo and educating the public to the mountain's natural values since 1971. Preserved lands have more than tripled in that period. Save Mount Diablo continues to raise funds to preserve the remainder of the mountain. For more information contact Program Director Seth Adams at (510) 229-4275.

More hikes and events

April 25, Salurday, Annual Wildflower Photography Walle (Mount Diablo Regional Group, Sierra Club). Leader: Joe Fragapane, (510) 689-2423. Phone for actual time and place. If you en.joy taking wildflower photos up close, you are welcome! 35mm camera with a close-up accessory is recommended, but not mandatory.

April 25, Salurday, 9:00 a.m.; Mount Diablo (S. F. Bay Chapter, Sierra Club). Leader: Steve Bakaley, (510) 487-7677. A moderately paced 4D hike to the summit and around the mountain. Meet at the Mitchell Canyon parking lot in Oayton ($5 entrance fee), or carpool Rockridge BART Station, Oakland (east side of College Avenue by the escalators) at 8:00 a.m. Optional dinner stop after the hike. Rain cancels. Co-listed with the Sierra Singles. This will be a strenuous hike. @

April 25, Salurday, 8:30 a.m.; 7 Mile Run (Diablo Road Runners). Leader: John Mercurio, (S10) 676-4151. Meet at Northgate High Sd10ol parking lot at 8:30 a.m. A seven mile run up Castle Rock Road and up Pine Canyon on the trail (3.5 miles up and return). The course will be marked. All abilities welcome. A shorter course will also be available. Diablo Road Runners welcomes new runners.

April 26, Sunday, 9:30 a.m.; Deer Flat and Relum (Contra Costa Hills Club). Leader: Jim Hofmann, (510) 524-.5011. M~ at 9:30 a.m. at Walnut Creek BART, carpool to Mitchell Canyon. Hike to Deer Flat and return. Moderately strenuous, 6-7 miles.@

April 26, Sunday, 9 a.m.; Back and Donner c.anyons (Berkeley Hiking Club). Leader: Fred Johnson, (510) 843-3829. Meet at end of Regency Drive, Clayton. Enjoy spring and glorious wildflowers in Back and Donner Canyons and along the Falls Trail. Moderate pace, somewhat strenuous, about 1800 feet elevation gain. Bring lunch and liquids. Rain cancels. e

April 26, Sunday, 2:00 -3:30 p.m.; Reptiles of Mount Diablo (The Lindsay Museum). Leader: Mike Marchiano. Preregister by calling the Lindsay Museum at (510) 935-1983. Meet the leader at the lower summit parking lot. The best place for a reptile is under a rock . Take a hike with the Lindsay Museum and carefully djscover the multitude of reptilian dwellings throughout the park. Live Lindsay Museum reptiles complement the hike. Age limit: 6 to adult. 0

April 26, Sunday, 10 a.m.; Mitchell Canyon (S. F. Bay Chapter, Sierra Oub, Natural History Group). Leader: Kit Perry, (510) 933-7703. Hope for some nice wildflowers, especially the Mariposa Tulip. Dress for hot weather. Bringwater and lunch. Binoculars for possible hawk and falcon sightings. Meet at Mitchell Canyon trailhead. Carpool at Walnut Creek BART 9:15, a.m by the entrance Ygnacio Valley Road and California @

April 26-Sunday, 6:00 am; Earth Day Sunrise Gathering-Stories of the Indians of Mount Diablo. (Save Mount Diablo) Organizer: Seth Adams, 229-4275. EBRPD Naturalist Bev Ortiz will tell stories at the summit about the Indians of the Diablo area, talk about their history and the Indian creation accounts and nonIndian legends of the mountain, including how the mountain got its present name Allow 40 minutes to reach the summit lower parking lot. Dress warmly, bring breakfast. 0

April 26-Sunday, 10:00 am; Raptors-Hawks, Fakons and Eagles of Mount Diablo. (Mt. Diablo Audubon) Leader: Jim Lomax, 825-1513. Take an easy hike up Pine Canyon to get a look at some of the mountain's raptors, possibly including eagles and falcons, as well as many other birds. Learn about the restoration efforts for the endangered peregrine falcon. Bring binoculars if you have them, and a snack. Meet at Save Mount Diablo's display at Earth Day in Heather Farms Park in Walnut Creek. Heavy Rain cancels.

April 26-Sunday, ALL DAY; Contra Costa Earth Day Festival. (CC Earth Day Committee) Join thousands of others to view displays, hear speakers, eat, and find out how you can help preserve the environment, while having a good time. Stop by SMD's display and the adjoining Mount Diablo Biodiversity Restoration Project to say hello and view some of Contra Costa's endangered plants and animals. Heather Farms Park in Walnut Creek.

May 2 &: 3, Saturday and Sunday; 7th Annual California Trails Days, (Mount Diablo Interpretive Association & Heritage Trails). May 2, 9:00 a.m. - Meet at Mitchell Canyon parking and picnic area. May 3, 9:30 a.m. - Meet at Mitchell Canyon parking and picnic area. May 3, 5:00 p.m. Barbecue and awards presentation for Trails Project participants. Wear long pants and long sleeved shirt. Bring gloves, hat, water, lunch and trail tools if

possible. Drinks will be provided. To register call Jeannie Harmon, (510) 9344548, or George Cardinet, (510) 672-5072, or Nancy Dupont, (510) 937-7661. Trail Project participants are invited to stay for MDIA barbecue, program and campout on May 2nd.@

May 2 &: 3, Salurday and Sunday; Annual MDIA Campout, free camping (Mount Diablo Interpretive Association). May 2, 5:00 p.m. -Meet at Mitchell Canyon parking and picnic area for MDIA meeting. 5:30 p.m. - Barbecue. Bring your own meat, utensils and a dish to share. 7:00 p .m - Program by Mount Dlablo Observatory Association. Phone Jack Borde, (510) 827-9716. May 3, 7:30 a .m. - Bird walk led by Elsie Richey, (510) 881-5486. 9:30 a m. Trails projec.t. 5:00 p m. Trails project participants attend barbecue and awards presentation. Phone Betty Gallagher, (510) 682-2458 or Jeannie Harmon, (510) 934-4548. @

May 2, Salurday, 8:30 a.m.; (Ohlone Audubon and Mount Diablo Interpretive Association). Leader: Elsie Richey, (510) 881-5486. Meet at Curry Point at 8:30 a.m . Distance: about 4 miles round trip. Difficulty: gain and loss of less than 1, 000 feet. Leader moves slowly in an effort to enjoy birds, wildflowers, etc. Expect to see nesting birds such as Yellow and Orange<rowned Warblers, Lark Sparrows, Black-headed Grossbeak, Ashthroated flycatcher, perhaps Western Bluebird. We will pass through one of the prettiest meadows on the mountain: wildflowers will be at their prime at this time of year - Lupine, Mariposa Tulip, Globe Lily, Bird's Eye Cilia, Nemophilia and who knows what else. The time of year is right, and we will be in a GOOD place to find them. <D

May 9, Salurday; Mitchell Canyon Wildflower 8c Birding Trip (Mount Diablo Audubon Society). For a taped recording with current information phone AUD- U-BON (283-8266). Bring binoculars, field guides, lunch and liquids. Guests are welcome. @

May 13, Wednesday; Mount Oiablo Bird Trip (Mount Diablo Audubon Society). For a taped recording with current information phone AUD-U-BON (2838266). This trip goes up South Gate Road to Blue Oak and Jw1-iper Camp. There will be trail walks along the way. Bring binoculars, field guides, lunch and liqqids. Guests are welcome.

The flowers appear from January through February and it fruits July to August. The branches are without bristles and the ovary is not hairy. The flowers on the Parry Manzanita are white, sometimes pink-tinged and the ~rry contains nutlets (small nutlike fruits). Parry Manzanita is killed completely by chaparral fire and does not crown sprout. This shrub grows in chaparral and oak woodland from Contra Costa north to the Oregon border.

Eastwood Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa) is a small to medium-sized shrub growing 3-7 feet high in chaparral and mixed evergreen forests. It is common in chaparral in part of the Inner Black Hills area. The branchlets have spreading bristles and the ovary is hairy. The leaves are rounded at the base, dull green and distinctly petioled (having a leaf stalk). The flowers, which bloom in March, are white or pinkish. This shrub has many stems arising from the widely spreading root crown. This species does stump sprout following a fire, with numerous shoots arising from the crown. Eastwood Manzanita can be found in the coastal ranges throughout California.

The urn-shaped flowers of Manzanita.

Mount Diablo Manzanita (Arctostaphylos auriculata) prefers a southern and western exposure and is an important constituent of chaparral on the inner ridge of the Black Hills. This shrub has pink blossoms. The grayish- white leaves are heart shaped and have no leaf stem. The branchlets have spreading bristles and the ovary is hairy. This plant grows on dry slopes of sandstone in

the Mount Diablo region of Contra Costa and Alameda Counties.

Manzanita belong to the Heath Family (Ericaceae): The Madrone (Arbutus menziesii) is also in the Heath Family and grows on Mount Diablo. This is a widely-branched tree with shining evergreen leaves which are 35 inches long. The bark freely exfoliates, leaving a polished reddish or brownish surface. The flower appears in March and are small white bells which ripen into orange-red berries. On Mount Diablo, the Madrone grows on northern -facing wooded hillsides and canyon bottoms. It is common in redwood and mixed evergreen forests north to British Columbia.

Watching for and identifying the Madrone and the Manzanita species will add enjoyment to your hikes and an appreciation of some of the special plants on Mount Diablo.

THANK YOU

Ws sspscia/ly apprsciats th, gsnsrou1 contribution, of our many 1upport111, you maks our work protsctln1 Mount Diab/a pouib/1.

Diab/a Watch is published by SAVE MOUNT DlABLO, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving land on Mount Diablo and educating the public to the mountain's natural values.

Editor/Production Coordinator

Contributors this issue

Design/Illustration

Printing

Dann Mccright

Seth Adams

Sue Keeley

Genevieve Sattler

Susan Watson

Mimi Foord

J. Morgan

Graphics of Concord

Diablo Watch

The "little apples" of Big-berried Manzanita, Arcostaphylos glauca, found in abundance in Donner Canyon.

Restoration -fro111 page 1

clear that given the number of rare species, coordinated management of entire habitats for all species, rare and common, will be cost effective and successful in the long run. In the year of our 20th Anniversary, Save Mount Diablo and a collection of other organizations and agencies have begun the task of restoring what's been lost. Our efforts coincide with similar strategies at the state level.

The Mount Diablo Biodiversity Restoration Project (MDRP)

In 1989 Save Mount Diablo organized a program, "The Peregrine Falcon Restoration Project'' to reintroduce federally endangered peregrine falcons to Mount Diablo, where they had historically nested. Three years later not only was the project being judged a qualified success, but team members were considering other species. In December, old members and some new ones reorganized as "The Mount Diablo Biodiversity Restoration Project " to take on these new projects, laying the ground work . to become a part of one of the governor's "Bio regional Councils".

1) Peregrine Falcon Restoration, including long-term monitoring, public education and potentially one

final year of reintroductions. Diana Granados, Lindsay Museum, 935-1983

2) Large Mammal Reintroduction Feasibility Study. Potential large mammal restoration to Los Vaqueros, Morgan Territory Regional Park and Mount Diablo State Park

3) American Badger Survey and Potential Reintroduction. Assessment as to whether the American badger still exists on Mount Diablo, with potential for ground squirrel control.

4) Yerba mansa Unemopsis) reintroduction and augmentation. An unusual alkaline soils plant that had been extinct on Mount Diablo. Charli Danielson, CNPS, 525-9076.

5) Oak Restoration. A planting project in Walnut Creek's Shell Ridge Open Space. Dan Cather, 943-5848.

6) Bunch Grass Prairie. An attempt to restore 5 acres of oat grasslands to natives through mowing and a limited program of intensive planting, to develop management techniques and seed stock for the restoration of larger areas. Charli Danielson, CNPS, 525-9076.

7) Creek Survey. A project surveying Mount Diablo' s creeks as part of the Urban Creeks Council's larger Contra Costa Creek Inventory Project. Terri Williamson, 944-1491.

8) Feral Pig Management. Coordinate strategies to control feral pigs on public lands.

9) Rare Species. Continued monitoring of rare species on the mountain, including Alameda whipsnakes, eagles, San Joaquin kit foxes, etc.

AI though the list of projects is piecemeal, the successes and failures, the lessons learned from each project will aid in better management practices to preserve existing species as well as the ones no longer found on the mountain that we'll introduce.

For example, reintroduction of Yerba mansa-a project with good chance of success involving an unusual plant not yet endangeredwill involve the development of inexpensive techniques and volunteer help necessary to tackle more threatened plants. The American badger may have been wiped out on Mount Diablo by past poisoning of ground squirrels, and the controls necessary to maintain its existing or reintroduced populations may be applicable to the federally endangered San Joaquin kit fox, simultaneously providing a biological control for those very same ground squirrels that survived poisoning when the badger did not. Re-creation of a native bunch grass prairie will not only enable visitors to experience what the Diablo Valley once looked like, but might eventually reduce fire danger in the State Park's urban edges.

It's clear that, in this era of state budget cuts, private organizations must take on part of the responsibility for management that the State could once afford. It's also clear that the rewards will be considerable. You can already see peregrine falcons, the world's fastest bird, flying on Mount Diablo. One day soon you may also be able to picnic as a group of stately tule elk pass by on a nearby slope of bunch grasses still green in the summer's heat. We'll need your help, and we'll keep you posted.

Save Mount Diablo is working in cooperation with Tosco refinery to explore the potential reintroduction of spedes thought to be extinct on Mount Diablo.

Sponsors & Donors To SAVE MOUNT DIABLO'S 20th

Al & Natalie Davis

Fred & Margaret Klyver

Leanore Sanderson

Paul Popenoe

Alan & Jean Kunz

G. Sequin

Lee Briggs

Paul Wisecarver

Alan Carlton

Gael Rogers

Leon Hunter

Pearl V. Kauppinen

Alan Goldhammer

Gail Gordon & Jack Joseph

Linda & Steve Mehlman

Pete & Lori Musser

Alice M. Agogino

Gayle Bishop

Lloyd & Carole Mason

Philip LeBoit

Aloha Pridmore

Gene & Helen Snow

Lois O'Connor

Philip Wright

Antonette Haviland

Gene & Lee Millard

M.Jones

Phyllis B. Rasmussen

Assemblyman Phillip

Isenberg

Gene Wolfe

M. Lederer

Ralph & Arlene Reed

Barbara A. Walters

George & Dorothy Scheffel

M. Pelz

Rami Kahlon

Benjamin Billings Richards

George H. Finger

M.G.Mammon

Randy Domerco

Beverly Lane

Georgia Morrison

Mady Schubarth

Ray & Edna Hodgins

Bill Monaghan

Gloria Pulido

Margaret & Richard

Hackenbracht

Richard & Sandra Smith

Bob & Carla Doyle

Grant Bennett

Margaret K. Keath

Richard G. Gustafson

Bob & Pat Moran

Guy H. Harris

Marg'aret O'Dell

Richard W. Jensen

Bob Walker

H. Ward Alter

Mark Evanoff

Anniversary/Land Acquisition

Robert & Eldora Hoyer

Braddock & Logan Associates

Harold F. MacDonald

Marvin & Carolyn Schick

Robert F. Henderson

Bradely A. Finegold

Harold Neetz

Mary & John Hollis

Robert G. Hill

Brett & Sally Dixon

HarryM.Day

Mary I. Baldwin

Robert J. Erickson

Burton C. Bogardus

Harvey & Linda Green

Mary Jean Clark

Robert Main

Carl Betterley

Heather & Fred Estes

Mary L. Bowennan

Robert W. Jasperson

Carolyn & Tom Westhoff

Helene T. Frakes

Mary Lucas Shockley

Roger & Sue Lang

Catherine D. Locke

Henry & Althea Melancon

Mauricia Price

Rudolph E. Fink

Charlice W. Danielson

Hennan Kelber

Physical Therapy

Melva Woods

Russ & Patty Erickson

Chris Valle-Riestra

Honorable John Nejedly

Michael & Joyce Wahlig

Ruth & William Collins

Clare Richert

Hulet Hornbeck

Michael H. Tyrrell

Ruth Scott

Cora & Bruce Chamberlin

Ione C. Kapfer

Midge & Peter Zi.schke

S. Winchester

Dan & Diane Cather

J.H. & C.L. Whisler

Mike Shimansky

Sadie S. Doyle

Daniel Gorman M.D.

J.O. Nadel

Miles & Janet Cobb

Sandra Avanessian

Dana & Mary Kilgore

Jack & Louise Kemp

Milton W. Kimball

Selma King

Dann McCright

James & Barbara Stevens

Mitzi G. Jarvis

Senator Dan Boatwright

Sylvia Nachlinger

James H. Galletl

Mr. & Mrs. A. M. Mardiros

Seth Adams

David A. Browne

Jax Kneppers Assoc.

Mr. & Mrs. Alvin A. Burton

Steve Barbata

David A. Goldberg

Jeff Johnson

Mr. & Mrs. Billy W. Baldwin

Steve Ross

David Bigham

Jenny B: Hannon

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Humm

Steve Siegal

Debby Shaw

Jeri & Joe Mone

Mr. & Mrs. Duncan Coplan

Steve Siegel

Diane & Joel Eisenberg

Jerry Fritzke-G.P. Fritzke Inc.

Mr. & Mrs. James R. Moore

Steven J. Correll

Dirk Mellema

Jerry H. Wright

Mr. & Mrs. John A. Spade

Superintendent Felix Arteaga

Dolores Annstrong

Jim & Marilyn Hogg

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph C. Kenston

Supervisor Tom Torlakson

Dolores H. Raskob

Jim Cutler

Mr. & Mrs. Neal Higgins

Susan Watson

Don & Cleo Reed

Jim Summers

Mr. & Mrs. S. H. Madin

Susana Cox Fousekis

Donald E. Holst

Joe & Susan Bell

Mr. & Mrs. Stuart

Sydney & Helen Hammill

Donald M. Jonte

John & Marian King

Mr. & Mrs. Wm. J. Toaspern

Terri Williamson

Donna Monroe

John A. Davis

Mr. Andre~ M. Sessler

Thomas & Margaret Tenney

Doris E. Allington

John C Tonner

Mrs. D.B. Kauffman

Thomas Weise

Dorothy L. Shahlazian

John Ginochio

Mrs. Howard Eddy

Tim & Kathy Truesdale

Edith & Frank Valle-Riestra

John Van Heertum

Mrs. Lenard Wilson

Tina Wilson

Egon & Inger Pedersen

John W. Schieffelin

Mrs. Phoebe Force

Tom & Chris Anderson

Eleanore Greenlee

Joseph Fox

Mrs. Robert H. Leslie

Tom & Jane Dunphy

Elias Katy

Judson Mygatt

Mrs. Ruth Jamison

Ursula Londahl

Elizabeth Carlton

Judy Adler

Mrs. T. F. Nelson

V.Jew

Elizabeth Zilen

Karen Talbot

Ms. Kathleen Correia

V .R. Custodio

Eric Hinzel-

Karen Winter

Ms. Margot Bevis

Valerie SchmidtInterior Plant Decor

Eric Zell-Zell & Associates

Karlene M. Pauffer

Ms. Thelma C. Dahlin

Verne E. Van Vlear

Ethel J. Bigham

Katherine Logan

Nadine L. Hitchcock

W.B. Service

Evelyn Munn

Kay Petersen

Nancy Gore

W.D. Thomas

Evert I. Schlinger

KenMeves

Nonnan Prickett

William & Genevieve Sattler

Florence Klinger

Kirk W: 'Otto

Otto Haubensak

William P. Mott

Francis T. Jones

Kristen C. Wick

Owen & Carly Owens

Wm. G. Woolworth

Frank & Betty Saarni

Larry Barlettani

Pat & Maureen Mimeau

Frank Sulzberger

Laura P. Ureke

Paul D. Spiegel

Mount Diablo, encircled by the Bay and Sacramento river, with San Francisco and Marin in the foreground. This view of Mount Diablo rising above the Bay Area is not one you'll see from an airplane Taken from a satellite 20 miles up, the photo was then shifted by computer to a view as though just above the

horizon. ElevaHons were superimposed and enhanced from U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) digitized maps to create a 3-dimensional image. For more infonnaHon or to get full-color reprints call (415) 777 - 7120. Photograph courtesy of the San Francisco Chronicle.