Author Archives: Shawn E. Bell

Fire Restrictions Lifted At Mojave National Preserve And Castle Mountains National Monument

After a period of heightened precautions, both units are reverting to their standard fire regulations because fire danger has decreased. For people heading into the preserve or monument, that means some activities tied to campfires are allowed again — but with clear, non-negotiable limits intended to keep public lands safe.
 
What’s Changed (And What Hasn’t)
The short version: fires are allowed again, but only in preexisting fire rings and approved containers. Officials are explicitly forbidding new fire rings. Collecting firewood or kindling inside the preserve remains prohibited — bring your own wood. When you leave camp, your fire must be cold to the touch. Do not leave any fire unattended.
 
Permitted fuel sources are limited. You may use charcoal briquettes or natural firewood — that is, fuels designed and commonly used for warmth or cooking. Lighting or maintaining fires with other materials is forbidden. That list includes, but is not limited to: flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, and other manufactured or synthetic materials.

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Exploring California’s Rich Bounty of National Parks

California boasts a remarkable distinction among the states of the U.S. It’s not just the golden beaches, towering redwoods, or sprawling deserts that make it a treasure trove of natural wonders. With nine national parks within its borders, California holds the crown for having the most national parks of any state in the nation:

Channel Islands National Park: Located off the coast of Southern California, Channel Islands National Park is an archipelago of five rugged islands renowned for their untouched natural beauty and abundant marine life. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and clearer waters, making them ideal times to explore the park. Continue reading

Invitation to Participate: Review and Comment on the Coyote Flat OHV Draft Environmental Assessment from May 18 to June 17

The Inyo National Forest has announced the release of the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Coyote Flat Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Enhancement Project.

A 30-day public comment period is open from May 18 to June 17, 2024. To access the EA, go HERE and navigate to the “Project Documents” Box folder widget. Follow the instructions to access the “EA Comment Period” folder to access the EA document.

The proposed action is a step towards addressing motorized trail management and safety concerns in the Coyote Flat area. It’s a chance to address sustainable recreation opportunities for various user groups and OHV green sticker vehicles. This aligns with the goals and objectives outlined in the Forest’s 2019 Land Management Plan, offering a hopeful future for the area.

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Question: When a writer presents their manuscript to an editor or a publisher, what prevents them from just stealing the work and publishing the book under their own names?

Answer: Professionalism. An editor or publisher will only ever get one chance to “steal” someone’s work. After that they’re out of business, sued into oblivion, and Chernobyl when it comes to ever being employable ever again. The only writer who is worried about an editor or publisher stealing their manuscript is the noob who doesn’t understand that their work isn’t worth stealing. The amateur. The wannabe too scared to break in who is looking for a reason – any reason – to ensure they remain anonymous and unpublished.

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Newly Renovated Pfeiffer Falls Trail in Big Sur Now Open!

California State Parks and Save the Redwoods League work tirelessly to reopen popular trail

On June 21, 2008 a lightning strike ignited the Basin Complex Fire, a wildfire that swept through 162,818 acres near Big Sur, forcing evacuations, and burning most of the Ventana Wilderness area. The fire destroyed much of the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park located the western slope of the Santa Lucia Mountains, and severely damaged the Pfeiffer Falls Trail, an easy 1.5 mile out-and-back trail with views of redwoods and Pfeiffer Falls.

After a 13 year renovation the trail is open again, thanks to the California State Parks and the Save the Redwoods League.

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