Recreation
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is reminding those who visit state ecological reserves to be mindful of the site’s specific rules and regulations.
Many state lands not only provide public enjoyment and education regarding natural resources, but they also protect fragile habitat for a variety of threatened and endangered plants, mammals, reptiles and other species.
“It’s important to understand that activities vary from property to property and it’s the user’s responsibility to know what is permitted,” said CDFW Senior Environmental Scientist Julie Horenstein. “Whether you are hiking, fishing or wildlife watching, users should stay in designated areas, observe usage rules posted at each site and respect the property. In the end, the primary purpose of ecological reserves is to protect special species and habitats.”
According to state law (Title 14, CCR Section 630), CDFW is obligated to protect and maintain designated ecological reserves which includes enforcing the rules.
Reserves open to the public have hours from sunrise to sunset. On all state properties, it is illegal to feed wildlife, operate motorized vehicles outside of designated areas, disturb bird nests, release any fish or animal, start any fire or light fireworks or other explosive or incendiary devices, disturb habitat, alter the landscape or remove vegetation.
Failure to comply with the law could result in a $1,000 fine and up to a year in jail.
Lastly, when visiting California's ecological reserves, remember to pack out what you pack in and leave behind the treasures you find for others to discover.
This will ensure the ecological reserves will continue to protect sensitive species and habitats and be there for future generations to enjoy.
For more information on CDFW’s ecological reserves, visit www.dfg.ca.gov/lands/er/ .
- Details
- Written by: Editor
LOWER LAKE, Calif. – The next monthly guided nature walk at Anderson Marsh State Historic Park will be held on Saturday, July 12.
Bring your binoculars and meet in front of the Ranch House at 8:15 a.m. for time to experience the early morning wildlife to be found in the Ranch House and Barn complex yard – the walk begins at 8:30 a.m.
Led by park docent Billy Gear, this walk will cover the Cache Creek Nature Trail. The theme will be plants, birds and insects of the riparian habitat, along with a general history and description of the park.
Come and view the birds, dragonflies, butterflies and other wildlife and wildflowers that can be found in the Park this time of year.
There is no fee for those attending.
There will not be a tour of the Ranch House after the July walk.
For more information about the nature walks or about how you can help support AMIA’s campaign to keep the park open and thriving, please visit www.andersonmarsh.org or www.facebook.com/AMIA.org , or contact the organization by telephone at 707-995-2658 or email
- Details
- Written by: Editor
School is out, summer is here and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is encouraging families to spend time enjoying the outdoors.
With long, hot days ahead, parents may be looking for family activities to keep school-age kids active and engaged during summer break. California is home to some of the world’s most iconic landscapes where outdoor activities and educational opportunities can be found in nearly every corner of the state.
“State wildlife areas and ecological reserves offer unique opportunities for outdoor education – whether catching a trout in a mountain stream or simply enjoying a spectacular sunset in the midst of some of the state’s most pristine and valued wild places,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “It’s important for children to know these places exist and that they share in the responsibility of the future of these lands through responsible recreation and stewardship.”
CDFW manages over 900,000 acres of land statewide specifically designated as wildlife areas and ecological reserves that host abundant opportunities to get outdoors and explore natural places.
Although the primary purpose of these lands is to secure and protect wildlife habitat, the public may visit, learn about and responsibly enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, bicycling and wildlife viewing on many of these areas during the summer.
There are also hunting opportunities available on many of these properties in the fall and winter months.
For those who have not spent much time in the outdoors, visiting a wildlife area and ecological reserve is an easy introduction to outdoor activities.
Because of the wide distribution of these areas, they can usually be found close to home and the entry fees are very affordable.
In many cases, there is staff available to answer questions and provide informative tours. Some areas have visitor centers that offer wildlife learning opportunities through displays and exhibits.
Visit the CDFW Web site at www.wildlife.ca.gov and click on the state map to find the region you are interested in visiting, and then click on Wildlife Areas/Ecological Reserves.
Close attention should be paid to any special restrictions – some areas require the purchase of a day pass – so carry some cash for parking. All areas are unique in the types of activities that are allowed.
Here are some suggestions to ensure an enjoyable outdoor experience:
• Research the area before you go;
• Know the regulations before visiting;
• Let friends or other family members know where you will be and for how long;
• Dress for the weather; layering clothes may be necessary for sun protection or cool mornings;
• Bring plenty of water and carry a daypack for food and snacks;
• If planning to hike with young children – keep it short;
• Avoid strenuous activities during the heat of the day;
• Wildlife areas have bugs, so be aware of mosquitos, ticks and the possible bee sting;
• Carry a small first aid kit and use sunscreen.
Some general guidelines should be followed while visiting wildlife areas:
• Do not feed wildlife.
• Dispose of trash properly – if no trash receptacle is available, carry trash out of the area.
• Leave plants, rocks and historical items as you find them.
• Enjoy these areas responsibly and remember that you are visiting wildlife habitat.
For more information about wildlife areas and ecological reserves, please visit the CDFW Lands Program at www.dfg.ca.gov/lands .
- Details
- Written by: Editor
HIDDEN VALLEY LAKE, Calif. – The HVL Men’s Niners Golf Club held a medal play tournament on Thursday, July 3.
The results were:
- First flight: Bill Brewster and Dave Mann tied for first with the lowest nets of the day, 31. Joe Valley was third with 32.
- Second flight: Don Dornbush was first at 33. John Jones and Jim Hodges tied for second, 34.
- Third flight: Sam DeBone was first, 32. Tommy Sowell was second, 34 and Bob Schossler third, 35.
Closest to the par 3 pins were Paul Bertlin and Fred Figg.
Chip-ins were scored by Adckinjo Esutoki and Bruce Brashares (Brashares' for an Eagle on hole No. 2 – Well done Bruce!).
Sixty-seven men participated in this event.
- Details
- Written by: Editor
How to resolve AdBlock issue?