Category Archives: Conservation

Conservation, National Forests, National Parks, State Parks

U.S. Forest Service Keeping Its Logo!

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

When the United States Department of Agriculture released its Visual Standards Guide back in January, it contained the ominous phrase ‘agency logos are being phased out and replaced with a standardized signature model to be adopted by all USDA agencies.’

This reminded me of the Borg’s ‘you will be assimilated’ phrase from Star Trek the Next Generation.  And, given that the USDA is the same department that oversees things like the homogenization of milk, it makes absolute sense that they’d want to make sure that their employees, vehicles, websites, uniforms, etc. would all be … ‘assimilated.’

But here’s the thing.  The U.S. FOREST Service is all about forests and forestry.  The USDA’s logo is described – by the USDA themselves – as “a graphic representation of the land — the foundation of all agriculture — and the Department’s initials. The symbol’s colors — dark green and dark blue — represent the essential elements of earth, air, and water. Together these elements comprise the symbol.”

Falling back on my Southern California roots and lingo: “Dude.  Really?“

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Conservation, Offroading - General, State Parks

Rep. Paul Cook Offers Alternative Plan to Twentynine Palms Base Expansion

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

This just in!  Representative Paul Cook (R-Yucca Valley) has issued a statement regarding the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center’s planned expansion in Twentynine Palms, California:

“The training of the U.S. Marine Corps is vital to the safety of the American people, and the exercises taking place on the Twentynine Palms base enable our Marine forces to defend our nation and its allies throughout the world. However, I can’t support the expansion plan offered by the Marine Corps, which would hand them ownership of Johnson Valley. Marine Corps ownership would prevent many public-space activities, including big public off-highway events like King of the Hammers, from taking place. Offroaders and other users of Johnson Valley make huge contributions to the economic well-being of the Morongo Valley, and losing that revenue during slow economic times would be devastating.

“Protecting the Marine Corps’ budget is extremely important to me, and I believe the funds set aside for purchasing this land for the Marine Corps could be put to better use.

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Conservation, National Forests, National Parks

CDFW Creates First Bighorn Sheep Herd in 25 Years

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife and volunteers from around the state, have established a brand new herd of Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep.

During the last week in March ten 10 female and four male bighorn sheep were captured from two of the largest existing herds in the Sierra Nevada and released together at Olancha Peak near the southern end of the Sierra Nevada range in Inyo County.  The Convict Creek and Mount Gibbs herds were augmented by adding six females to those small herds.

From the press release:

“This is the first reintroduction effort of a new herd of Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep since 1988,” said Tom Stephenson, CDFW bighorn recovery program leader.

Historically, Sierra bighorn were abundant throughout the Sierra Nevada; however, by the 1970s, only two herds remained. Disease spread by domestic sheep and unregulated commercial hunting are believed to have caused their demise.

“Many endangered species remain on the brink of extinction with poor prospects for recovery after they receive federal protection,” said Stephenson. “Through our conservation efforts, we have a unique opportunity to reach recovery goals for an alpine specialist that is native only to California.”

You can read the full press release HERE.

Conservation, National Forests, National Parks

Public Comments Period for the Merced River and Tuolumne Meadows Plans Extended

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

Yosemite National Park has announced an extension of the public comment period for the Merced Wild and Scenic River Draft Comprehensive Management and Environmental Impact Statement (MRP) through Tuesday, April 30, 2013. (the public comment period was scheduled to close on Thursday, April 18, 2013).

From the press release:

“The MRP is an expansive document which guides park management actions for many years. We want to make sure the public has a thorough opportunity to review the draft plan and submit comments,” stated Kathleen Morse, Yosemite National Park’s Chief of Planning. Continue reading →

Conservation, Kayaking, National Forests, National Parks, State Parks

TROUTFEST 2013! Catch ’em, Clean ’em, Cook ’em and Eat ’em!

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

California Department of Fish and Wildlife in central California is gearing up for TroutFest 2013.

TroutFest is an annual event that is offered free to introduce families to the sport of trout fishing.

From the press release:

“Beginner, novice and experienced anglers alike will find that this activity-filled day features something for everyone,” said CDFW Education and Outreach Director Kirsten Macintyre. “If you are looking to build your fishing skill set or find an enjoyable activity for the whole family, Trout Fest is a great place to start.”

TroutFest will be held at the following locations: Continue reading →