catalinae

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A publication of the Catalina Island Conservancy Winter 2003/2004 Santa Catalina Island: Unique and Rare

Santa Catalina Island is home to Starkey

many plant and species that are uncommon because there F. are not many of them living…anywhere. A plant or animal may be restricted to a very specific habitat such as a certain soil type or a streamside corridor, which may itself be uncommon. Limited in abundance and restricted in distribution, these organisms are rare. Rare species are particularly vulnerable to extinction due to both natural and human causes.

Some rare species, especially those found on islands, have an extremely limited distribution. Weighing little more than a penny, the Santa Catalina Island is both When distribution is limited to a specific area, the species is the smallest and most rare occurring on Catalina. designated as endemic. Santa Catalina Island has several human impacts such as development, active management is needed to endemics, including eight bird and alteration of natural cycles, and the reduce the impacts that we have mammal subspecies and six plant introduction of invasive plant and already had on the landscape. One species that exist nowhere else in animal species. We are lucky enough to ecological process that humans the world. The Santa Catalina have protected Santa Catalina Island have changed is fire. Fires are a Island Fox (Urocyon littoralis from extensive development. However, natural and necessary part of our catalinae) and Avalon Hairstreak protecting the land is not enough; island ecology and human fire (Strymon avalona) are two Please see page 3 examples of wildlife unique to Catalina. Likewise, the Santa Catalina Island Ironwood (Lyonothamnus floribundus spp. I N S I D E floribundus), a tall evergreen tree that once ranged throughout the About the Conservancy ...p. 2 Membership ...... p. 12 western United States, now occurs only on Catalina. From the President ...... p. 2 Support Opportunities: Giving at Year End ... Conservation Updates.... p . 6 p. 14 The number of rare organisms Volunteers enjoy throughout the world is rapidly an afternoon Volunteers in Action ...... The Work We Do: increasing, primarily due to p. 7 cruise. See page 8. Visitor Services ...... p . 1 5 Calendar of Events ...... p. 1 0 CATALINA ISLAND CONSERVANCY Fr o m t h e P r e s i d e n t B ENEFACTOR M EMBERS Robert Given, Chair Dear Friends, James H. Ackerman Paxson H. Offield In these first few months as President, I have met so Alison Wrigley Rusack many supporters of the Catalina Island Conservancy. What a pleasure to know that as we go forward in our goal setting, we have a cadre of members, volunteers, B O ARD OF staff, and island residents with ideas and energy to D IRECTORS contribute. Maria Pellegrini, Chair Norris J. Bishton, Jr. Robert Meistrell During this time of transition, I am privileged to be able Clifford Hague Anthony Michaels to work with Rose Ellen Gardner and to understand the Richard Harp Ann Muscat challenges and opportunities involved in the work of Charles Hathaway Calvin Parsons the Conservancy. I am therefore, pleased to announce Marie Knowles Ada Blanche Schreiner plans for acknowledging her many years of service to Directors Emeritus the Conservancy and to the community of Avalon.

A. Douglas Propst Robert Thorne In January, 2004, the Catalina Island Conservancy will host an appreciation and fundraising event.To honor Rose Ellen’s extraordinary service, we have established the E LECTED Rose Ellen Gardner Internship Fund. Rose Ellen, who graduated from Avalon High School, O FFICERS has championed the educational efforts of the Conservancy for nearly two Ann Muscat, decades. President/Chief Executive Officer J. Scott Wauben, The fund will offer an opportunity for local students to learn about careers in Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer conservation land management, while fostering knowledge about the island by working Bruce Guay, side-by-side with Conservancy staff.The program will include an introduction to several aspects of the Conservancy’s operations, such as ecological restoration, public education, D EPARTMENT botanical garden management, visitor services, airport operation, and facilities management. M ANAGERS I invite all community and Conservancy supporters to contribute to the Rose Ellen Gardner Internship Fund as a show of sincere thanks to an extraordinary woman …and as Lenny Altherr Director,Facilities an investment in the future of our island’s youth. Persons interested in details of the event Management and/or contributing to the fund should contact Erica Cushing at (310) 510-2595 ext. 114. Steve Dawes Supervisor, Special Projects David Gardner Director, Security Rebecca Guay Director, Visitor Services Mark Hoefs Director & Curator, Wrigley Botanical Garden Deb Jensen Director, Education Kathleen King Director, Volunteer Services Paul Moritz Director, Airport Operations Jane Pulsinelli Assistant Treasurer Peter Schuyler Director, Ecological Restoration Charles Wright Director, Development Conservancy supporter, Boyd Cargill, shown with Dr. Muscat, made the Contact Us initial contribution to the Rose Ellen (310) 510 - 2595 Gardner Internship Fund. [email protected] Bravo, Good Job!! or visit us at From meetings to patrol, the Ranger Department congratulates the Reserve 125 Claressa Avenue Avalon, CA Rangers on a job well done: Boyd Cargill, J. Paul DeMyer, Joseph Dlugokecki, Ronald Eroen, Cliff Hague, Richard Hague, Dean Hill, Bob Kopolow, Scott Patterson, Steve Schreiner, Visitor Services hours 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily Ronna Schreiner, and Chuck Wright.

2 Catalina Island Conservancy Island Rarity continued from page 1

Case Study #1

D. Knapp The Santa Catalina Island Shrew

Weighing little more than a penny, the Santa Catalina Island Shrew ( ornatus willetti) is believed to be the rarest mammal on Catalina. A subspecies of the mainland ornate shrew, this tiny insectivore occurs only on Santa Catalina Island. Very little information exists about its life history, abundance, and distribution despite several attempts to study it over the past two decades.

Between 1941, when it was first described, and 2002, the Santa Catalina Island Shrew had only been seen and documented a total of seven times from Avalon, Middle, and Cottonwood Canyons. Since February 2002, monthly monitoring of reptiles, amphibians, small The Catalina Mahogany occurs naturally in only one remote , and invertebrates using permanently placed gully on the southwest side of the island. pitfall trap arrays has led to the capture of two additional in Cottonwood Canyon. Recently an intensive study was conducted by the Conservancy to suppression appears to be a factor in the rarity of some determine the distribution and abundance of shrews in of our plant species, such as the Island Tree Poppy this canyon. More than 10,500 trap nights of effort (Dendromecon harfordii) and Felt-leaf Ceanothus using pitfall and live-traps were necessary to capture (Ceanothus arboreus). just three additional individuals of this rare shrew subspecies. Although notoriously difficult to trap, We have also introduced many non-native and invasive similar studies on the mainland capture more far more plant and animal species. Introduced such as shrews per effort. feral pigs (Sus scrofa) and bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana ) threaten rare native species on Catalina such as the Two-striped Garter Snake (Thamnophis hammondii) Starkey

through habitat destruction and predation. In addition, F. it has been estimated that up to 32 of Catalina’s native plant species have been eliminated from the island or drastically reduced due to the impacts of non-native herbivores (Thorne 1976). Introduced animals such as Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus californicus) and feral pigs hinder oak production by browsing the young growth, disturbing the soil, and foraging on acorns. Invasive annual grasses such as Bromes (Bromus spp.) and Wild Oats (Avena spp.) also reduce oak seedling growth through crowding and water competition. Without the crucial replacement of aging oak trees, Catalina’s landscape could look significantly different in the future as the oaks die off and there are none to The endemic Santa Catalina Island Fox is found on Santa replace them. Catalina Island and nowhere else.

It is important to understand the causes of rarity to be Like past accounts, these most recent sightings suggest able to develop conservation strategies that reduce the that the Santa Catalina Island Shrew may be closely likelihood of a rare species going extinct in the future. associated with riparian and wetland habitats. These Through research, restoration of natural ecological habitats provide low, dense vegetation and heavy leaf processes, and removal of threats such as invasive plants litter with high insect densities, cover for nesting and and animals, the Catalina Island Conservancy is helping foraging, and protection from predators (such as cats, to protect the rare and unique plant and animal species foxes, owls, and snakes). Unfortunately, wet habitats of Santa Catalina Island. The help of the local Please see page 4 community and visitors is critical to our success.

Conservancy Times 3 Island Rarity continued from page 3 are a limited resource on Catalina total to 12 individuals. Propagation

both naturally and due to alteration D. Knapp and outplanting of this species in by humans and non-native animals. gardens throughout the island has Additionally, little is known of the also ensured that it will not be lost role feral cats (Felis catus) may have forever. in suppressing the population of shrews. Further research is necessary Protection of the natural population is to help us better understand which still a high priority. In 1999, the entire factors contribute most to the shrew’s gully (just over 100 acres) was fenced rareness so we can develop a against all non-native herbivores. conservation plan to protect it and Today, there are a total of 102 reduce its probability of extinction. seedlings and saplings, with three of them large enough to be considered Case Study #2 mature. But fencing cannot solve all of the threats facing this plant. It is also The Catalina Mahogany hybridizing with a more common species, Island Mountain-Mahogany The Catalina Mahogany (Cercocarpus (Cercocarpus betuloides var. traskiae) is an example of a species blancheae). Only six of the 12 plants that is extremely rare due to both are pure (Cerocarpus traskiae): five of natural and human factors. A small the others are hybrids, and the twelfth tree with curved leaves, fuzzy leaf is most likely a hybrid. The small undersides, and feathery fruits, its The elegant Santa Catalina Ironwood once ranged throughout the western population size of this plant threatens population consisted of only 40 to 50 its survival, making removal of the individuals when discovered by United States, but now is found only on Catalina Island. hybrid trees a poor option. The Blanche Trask in 1897. Found only on Conservancy is planning to outplant Santa Catalina Island, it occupies one more pure individuals of this tree in the remote gully on the southern coast of the island. future, both within its native gully and in comparable areas, and hopes to learn more about this diminutive tree and When rediscovered in 1967, only 5 to 6 individuals why it is so rare. remained, with no evidence of reproduction. Feral and non-native herbivores such as feral goats (Capra hircus), Thorne, R.F. 1976. Conservation and management of the feral pigs, and Mule Deer were the suspected cause. After natural flora of Santa Catalina Island. Unpublished report fencing two of the trees in the early 1970s, their health prepared for Center for Natural Areas, Washington, D.C. improved and a new seedling was discovered. A larger fence encompassing both of these trees along with their Denise Knapp associated habitat was constructed, and the results were Vegetation Specialist astounding: up to 23 seedlings appeared within the Angela Aarhus fence that year, which increased to close to 70 seedlings Biologist by 1987. Additional plants were also found, bringing the

Volunteers Make It Happen! The volunteer opportunities in the Ecological Restoration Department are countless and the valuable time that volunteers dedicate seems endless. Sincere thanks to the following; Rachel Adams, Michael Allen, Grant Amthor, Rita Amthor, Art Barker, Cheryll Blevins, Irene Blevins, Patrick Blevins, Paul Blevins, Jeff Chapman, Toyon Bay- CIMI, Jan Cokely, Tony Cokely, Estelle Conover, Juanita Constible, Pam Cooper, Travis Cooper, William Corey, Tyler Cummingham, Ann Cummings, Heather Cummings, Robert Cummings II, Katie Cunningham, Nicolette David, Joseph Dlugokecki, Dave Farley, Katharine Frank, Jessica Freedman, Fred Freeman, Diane Gilchrist, Johanna Good, Annerose Grellmann, Hans Grellmann,Tina Guagliardo, Mariana Guagliardo, Meaghan Guagliardo, Glen Gustafson, Carole Guttilla, Kim Harley, Lois Hart, Carole Hemphill, Michael Herrera, Annette Herrington, Glenn Hibbs, Judy Hibbs, Matt Hibbs, Dean Hill, Laurie Hill, Margaret Hinton, Sarah Hinton, Robert Husted, Deb Jensen, Liz Johnson, B.Z. Jones, Barbara Jones, Jupiter Jones, Thaddeus Jones, Kathleen King , Pat Klingensmith, Denise Knapp, Linda Kolden, Alex Lane, Paul Lane, Lance Lichtenhan, Mark Lloyd, Benjamin Lockhart, Leonard Lopez, Michelle Macleod-McGuirk, Robert Malone, Kyle Marsh, Orin Martin, Stephanie Martin, Dennis McDonald, Mary McGuirk, Paul McIlroy, Kathy McIntyre, Mary McKernan, Whitey Mendenhall, Amy Millan, Frank Minuto, Ron Mittano Montclair High School, Ryan Montgomery, Jennifer Moonjian, Bruce Moore, Patricia Moore, Hayato Nakawatase, Youth Group; Our Savior Center, Patrick Pavelski, Judy Pelouze, Richard Pelouze, Diane Bonjour Redlands Academy, Warren Roberts, Sandy Rodriguez, James Rosburg, Nathan Ross, Deaglan Ryan, Linda Salo, John Schauer, Maria Schauer, Kerstin Schmidt, Dylan Schuyler, Jaime Schuyler, Jeanie Shelton, Stephanie Shelton, Spencer Steed, Mary Stein, Nate Stevens, Shauna Stevens, Mary Story, Steve Story, Lisa Stratton, Matthew Sutton, Beth Vander Velde, Elizabeth VanWormer, Regina Varrin, 2003 Volunteer Vacations, Scott Wauben, Leilani Williamsen, Robbie Williamsen, and Lora York.

4 Catalina Island Conservancy Volunteers/Faces and Places

Volunteer pilot, Fred Freeman, assists biologists Mike Puzzo and Susan Cooper track Catalina Island Fox by air.

Catalina Island Marine Institute volunteers getting together for a group photo after their morning project in Middle Canyon.

Warren Roberts and the G.P.S. class from Rio Hondo Junior College take a break after a week of volunteer work.

Summer intern, Blake Bishton, works carefully as he prepares materials for an upcoming event.

Always happy to help, Tina Bertaud gets organized for a big mailing.

Volunteer group coordinator, Doug Millard, is caught in the middle as volunteers from Montclair High School take time out for a team building exercise.

Above and Beyond The Volunteer Department recognizes the following volunteers for participating with special events and our site managers that keep Bosky Dell, Summit Vista Garden and Haypress, beautiful. A big thank you to: NCCC Western Region Americorps, Anne Johnson Casa Colina, Dave Gardner, Odie Hernandez, Rickie Hernandez, Robert Husted, Jupiter Jones, Adam King, SEA Lab LA Conservation Corp, Paul McIlroy, National Sierra Club, Richard Pelouze, Bruce Seibert, Paul Carlton Sierra Sage Club, Esmeralda Soto, Mary Story, Steve Story, Chris Messett U.C.L.A., Cambel Berk University of Arizona, and Margarette Wagner.

Conservancy Times 5 Conservation Updates New Happenings in the Middle Ranch Hayfields

Sinkers and Floaters After acorns are collected, they are put to a test: do they sink or float when dumped into a basin of water? According to the experts, the “sinkers” are more apt to germinate when planted in the ground than the “floaters,” presumably because the floaters have shriveled up or been eaten by insects inside the shell. In January 2003, Avalon Elementary School second graders expanded the “Big Field” oak woodland project when they planted over 1200 “floater” acorns. Surprise! The germination rate (13%) was identical to hand-selected acorns (“sinkers”) of the same species planted the previous year. Because we planted several acorns per protective tree-tube, we have 217 tubes, more than 50%, with seedlings, which average 2 inches tall. This winter approximately 350 more seedlings will be added to the site towards a goal of over 2000 oaks in the big field.

This field in Middle Canyon is planted with over 1,000 acorns.

Seeds of Grass The biggest project of the year is a native grass production field. Americorps volunteers built a sturdy, deer-proof fence and planted over 3,500 seedlings of 8 different perennial grass species. Eventually this field will hold nearly 24,000 individuals from 12 native grass species. Native grasses are highly impacted by non-native annual grasses and it is difficult to find and collect enough seeds to do restoration.The production fields will enable the Conservancy to more successfully convert bare hillsides and weedy grasslands to native-dominated perennial grasslands.These plant communities will help stabilize the soils, provide habitat for animals while fulfilling their role as a The grass seed production field at the mouth of Cape Canyon. phase in natural succession.

Thank You For Your Contribution The Catalina Island Conservancy’s Administration and Accounting Departments thank volunteers for assisting with general office, special events, VIP driving and much more. Your time is appreciated: James H. Ackerman, Lenny Altherr, Linda Altherr, Craig Bailes, Norris Bishton, Jr., Murray Crow, Hayley Cushing, Caitlin Dawes, Joshua Dawes, Steve Dawes, Dave Gardner, Rose Ellen Gardner, Bob Given, Bruce Guay, Cliff Hague, Rick Harp, Charles Hathaway, Jorge Hernandez, Odie Hernandez, Michael Herrera, Mark Hoefs, Deb Jensen, Liz Johnson, Kathleen King , Denise Knapp, Marie Knowles, Anthony Michaels, Doug Millard, Ann Muscat, Paxson Offield, Calvin Parsons, Maria Pellegrini, Alison Rusack, Geoffrey Rusack, Ada Blanche Schreiner, Matthew Sutton, Kim Todd, Scott Wauben, Chuck Wright, and Rich Zanelli.

6 Catalina Island Conservancy Volunteers in Action Conservancy Staff are Volunteers Too!

Lenny Altherr and Doug Millard cooking up Doug Millard and Cindy Lazaris greet guests Lori some tasty chicken and steaks. and Dave Montomery at the garden entrance. Marineros Served Up Well! Mingling Mixer Rare, medium or well done was the question of the A Mixer indeed! The Wrigley Memorial and Botanical evening as Catalina Island Conservancy staff cooked up Garden was the location for the Chamber of Commerce perfect steaks and chicken for the annual Marinero Fall & Visitors Bureau mixer in August. Hosted by the Cruise to Moonstone Cove on Saturday, September 13, Catalina Island Conservancy, the evening was enjoyed 2003. by more than one hundred guests.

The cruise was complete with the Conservancy staff Twenty Conservancy staff volunteered their services to volunteering to do much more than cooking alone. The do an array of jobs. Starting at the Garden entrance, morning started with a nature hike for all the early guests were greeted, given nametags, and handed clue birds, and the evening festivities included wine tasting, sheets for the evening’s Treasure Hunt. The Hunt was a presentation about the Bald Eagle Reintroduction designed for guests to locate selected Conservancy staff, project, and a Volunteer Program presentation. each carrying a different clue. The combined clues spelled out the Conservancy’s mission statement. How much better can paradise possibly get?

Volunteers Rich Zanelli, Bruce Guay and Kim Todd diligently staff the wine table. Not too far away from the entrance, more volunteers were on hand pouring wine and serving sodas and water. As guests mingled and made their way up through the Garden, there were several tables filled with delicious appetizers. Once reaching the base of the Memorial, volunteers at a second beverage table, the dessert table and a prize table were waiting to receive guests. We’re still not certain who had the most fun, the guests or the volunteers! Kathleen King Director, Volunteers

You Are a Star Thank you Caitlin Dawes for all of your volunteer help this summer, at the Airport-in-the-Sky!

7 Conservancy Times Volunteers Welcome Back! accomplish in a day. We believe we go to great lengths Casa Colina Centers for Rehabilitation-Outdoor to change the inaccessible to accessible. Having a Adventures has variety of people, with different disabilities, on a ridge been volunteering taking out an old fence or removing non-native plants with the Catalina presents a challenge, but not a challenge too big for Island Conservancy the group to handle! for the past eight years. During this We look forward to every trip. The partnership between time projects have Casa Colina Centers for Rehabilitation and the Catalina included non- Island Conservancy is here to stay. Gus Lazear native plant Casa Colina Program Coordinator removal, trail building, fence removal, nursery Volunteers Set Sail development and ‘’Welcome aboard,” the captain said in a hearty voice as much more. each of thirty-eight volunteers boarded the sailing ship Outdoor Adventures has also been fortunate enough to ‘’Lynx” on Wednesday, May 28, 2003. experience many different locations on the island, which most visitors do not even know exist! Through Lucky Cliff Hague had the winning bid on the Lynx this time we have also seen the evolution of the Laura package at the 2003 Catalina Island Conservancy Ball. Stein Volunteer And lucky were the volunteers who were the recipients Campground. We of Cliff’s generosity as he donated the package back to would like to report the Conservancy. The invitation list included all that most of our group volunteers that still prefers the outdoor contributed shower, but love the their time and indoor plumbing! effort to the Ball. This effort is unique because Outdoor In addition to Adventures, visiting the three-hour twice a year for a cruise, Cliff weekend, has brought provided a over 100 different variety of participants all with appetizers, various types of disabilities. Many participants come beverages and dessert. It’s safe to say that almost year after year to work with the Conservancy. Each everyone had seconds on the dessert of raspberries person that participates on this trip has such a positive soaked in Grand Marnier! The afternoon cruise was experience in giving back to the environment that the both relaxing and educational as the ship’s crew “work” aspect of the trip becomes “fun.” The past trip, explained the historical use of the square top-sail March 28-30, was no exception. We worked near the schooner. Designed and built to interpret a privateer or nursery, ensuring that the weeds were not outgrowing naval schooner from the War of 1812, the ship and crew the seedlings that were planted in this area. The only operate with the maritime traditions of early 19th real challenge was a rattlesnake that got in our way. Century America. The weather was perfect during our stay, which made the time fly by. Many thanks to Cliff for a thrilling cruise! Kathleen King Over the years we believe our group has surprised the Director, Volunteers Conservancy with the amount of work we can

Helping Hands The Facilities Management Department gives a heartfelt thank you to the following volunteers for all of their efforts: Rachel Adams, Jani Eisenhut, George Foote, Fred Freeman, Eileen Gleber, Lois Hart, Benjamin Lockhart, Paul McIlroy, Robert Morison, Hayato Nakawatase, Calvin Parsons, Patrick Pavelski, James Rosburg, Kerstin Schmidt, and Spencer Steed.

8 Catalina Island Conservancy Volunteers

Fence Walkers Celebrate 2003 Fence Walkers One hundred-forty-miles! That’s exactly how many miles Dennis McDonald has walked in several Fence Walker Name MIles Sections. Nicolette David 4.4 On August 27th Fence Walkers gathered for a pizza party and milestone recognitions hosted by Kathleen King and Lisa Stratton 25.3 Linda Altherr of the Volunteer Services Department. Dylan Schuyler 7.1 Handing out certificates, hats and shirts, the evening was Jaime Schuyler 3.2 full of heartfelt appreciation for those that have taken Ron Salo 25.3 special care of monitoring our conservation project fence Linda Salo 25.3 lines. Dennis McDonald 140.0 The number of monitored miles each Walker contributes Leonard Lopez 14.5 determines milestone marks. Fence Walker hats are Grant Amthor 11.5 presented at the twelve-mile mark and Fence Walker shirts Rita Amthor 11.5 at the twenty-four mile mark.What happens at the 140-mile Steve Story 42.5 mark you ask? We’re still working on that one! Mary Story 13.6 Robert Husted 2.2 Howard Fineman 5.8 Jani Hall 14.4 Judy Hibbs 60.8 Glen Hibbs 40.6 John Reese 38.3 Jeff Jensen 41.6 Bruce Moore 23.2 Steve Story, Dylan Schuyler, Linda Altherr, Dennis Patricia Moore 24.0 McDonald and Robert Husted, all part of the Fence Walker Team.

Welcome New Volunteers May-August 2003 Volunteering can be an exciting, growing, enjoyable experience. It is truly gratifying to serve a cause, practice one’s ideals, work with people…solve problems…see benefits and know one had a hand in them. ~Harriet Naylor

Rachel Adams, Beth Allen, Michael Allen, Judy Atchison, Dana Aurand, Craig Bailes, Ian Bailes, Art Barker, Rick Beauregard, Daniel Berman, Blake Bishton, Cheryll Blevins, Irene Blevins, Patrick Blevins, Paul Blevins, Gene Bradford, Susan Braucht, Nancy Brown, BSA Troop #149, Brian Clifford, Jan Cokely,Tony Cokely, Juanita Constible,Travis Cooper,Tyler Cunningham,Katie Cunningham, Amber Davison, Barb Ezell, Katharine Frank, Jessica Freedman, Kimberly Garner, Diane Gilchrist, Eileen Gleber,Tina Guagliardo, Mariana Guagliardo, Meaghan Guagliardo, Glen Gustafson, Steve Hayes, Carole Hemphill, Margaret Hinton, Sarah Hinton, Martha Hunter, Roger Isaacson, Linda Kolden, Paul Lane, Jeremy Leonard, Lance Lichtenhan, Benjamin Lockhart, Michelle Macleod-McGuirk, Kyle Marsh, Orin Martin, Stephanie Martin, Aladdin Masry, Danny McCormick, Mary McGuirk, Kathy McIntyre, David Meller, Nicola Menzies, Michael Merello, Robert Meyer,Virginia Meyer, Curt Miles, Amy Millan, Doug Millard, Jennifer Moonjian, Hayato Nakawatase, Devender Narang, Mairah Ocallaghan, Mary Odano, Our Savior Center Youth Group, Patrick Pavelski, Rebecca Petrella, Micah Phillips, Mary Pritchett, Mike Puchak, Diane Bonjour; Redlands Academy, Nidya Rivera,Warren Roberts, Serene Rock, Nancy Roisum, James Rosburg, Nathan Ross, JadeSanders, Juan Sandoval, Donna Schafer, John Schauer, Maria Schauer, Kerstin Schmidt,W. Douglas Serrill, Stephanie Shelton, Greg Snaer, Katie Sobczak, Spencer Steed, Nicole Stephenson, Nate Stevens, Shauna Stevens, Jensen Thrane, Ellen Turnbull, Beth VanderVelde, Chris VanEtten,Thea VanLancker, Elizabeth VanWormer, Regina Varrin,Tom Wadman, Matt Ward, Leilani Williamsen, Robbie Williamsen, Rich Zanelli.

Conservancy Times 9 C ALENDAR Y our guide to getting EDUCATION OFFERINGS VOLUNTEER HAPPENINGS

Jan. 3, The HIKE Volunteer Vacations 8:00 a.m. Hermit Gulch loop. Focus will be Volunteer Vacations are an exciting on the rare, native, and endemic plants of change of pace from the usual vacation. the island. Your experience will serve as an excellent Reservations must be made by Dec 27. opportunity to learn about the unique ecology of Santa Catalina Island, give back to the environment, and have Jan. 14, Evening Nature Program some fun at the same time. 7:00 p.m. “Tales of Whales” Find out about local cetaceans May 10-14, 2004 and their habits. May 24-28, 2004 Metropole Conference Room. June 7-11, 2004 Feb. 7, The HIKE June 21-25, 2004 8:00 a.m. From oak woodland restoration sites in Middle Canyon to the deep shade of mature oak trees in Bulrush Island Fires Research Canyon. Reservations must be made by Jan 31. The Ecological Restoration Department is looking for a volunteer who loves island history, enjoys organizing facts Feb. 11, Evening Nature Program and catches interesting details.The volunteer will work out 7:00 p.m. "Turtle Hurdles” Come learn about the life of the Catalina Island Museum to hunt through island cycles and lifestyles of these ancient animals. newspapers from 1936 to present, for any stories Metropole Conference Room. referencing wild fires on Catalina Island.This project affords flexibility, any day or time the Museum is open. March 6, The HIKE 8:00 a.m. Cottonwood Canyon in spring.Wildlife abounds. Save our Seeds The canyon is home to numerous archeological sites. Seed Seekers are gaining on us! Train on the various Reservations must be made by Feb. 28. techniques needed for seed processing and help us to stay ahead of the Seed Seekers. Learn the different types of March 10, Evening Nature Program island seeds and how they are propagated. Join us for a ride 7:00 p.m. "Seafood Salad” Early humans on the island out to the James H. Ackerman Native Plant Nursery where depended on the ocean for most of their food.Today, we Mike will train you on the various seed processing still appreciate the bounty of the sea.This program techniques. includes tasty opportunities! Metropole Conference Room. Follow a Catalina Feral Cat Path Learn more about the island feral cat situation. Twenty paths have been selected and marked to collect data. This information will increase our knowledge in the Want to join in on an education program? Contact the Education habits of the feral cat population. Follow their trails Department (310) 510-0954 or [email protected] through different parts of the island as you "treasure hunt" areas that range 3/4 to 1 1/2 miles each. Darcee will train and help you to understand the importance of recording data from what they leave behind.

Thank you for your continued support of the Catalin You may send your tax deductible year end contribution in th

1 0 Catalina Island Conservancy g . . Featurin involved on C atalina

GPS Mapping Opportunity Participate in a hands-on, field class to learn how to use our Trimble Explorer GPS units.Then travel around the island mapping utility poles or non-native tree species in the Middle Canyon watershed area.Volunteers should enjoy hiking and be able to hike over rigorous terrain.Vehicle and training are provided. Let us know your schedule.

Would you like more information about these and other volunteer opportunitites with the Catalina Island Conservancy? Call Director of Volunteer Services Kathy King at (310) 510-2595, Join us as we explore the island by foot on ext. 102 or email [email protected] the first Saturday each month. Sign up for the HIKE by calling (310) 510-0954.

SPECIAL EVENTS January 1 - 17, Christmas Tree Recycling Help stop erosion on Catalina Island. Bring your Christmas tree to the parking lot at Wilcox Nursery to be recycled. Please be sure to remove all stands, ornaments and tinsel. Flocked trees cannot be accepted.

February 21, 24th Annual Avalon Harbor Underwater Cleanup Anticipating 500 divers to clean Avalon Bay (a once a year diving advantage). For more information, go to www.ccd.org or call Jill Boivin (310) 510-2595 x 123. You can help prevent erosion on the island April 3, Catalina Island Conservancy Ball by recycling your Christmas tree. Our largest fund-raiser of the year.This year’s black-tie event is hosted by Balboa Yacht Club. For more information please see the back page of this issue.

April 23, Earth Day 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. It's an Earth Day Celebration at the newly refurbished Nature Center at Catalina's Airport-in-the-Sky! So, get on the bus and head on out to the hills for a special day of extra-fun environmental activities! Round trip transportation from Avalon will be provided all day. Call (310) 510-0954 for additional information.

a Island Conservancy. Help researchers collect data on the feral he enclosed envelope. cat populations in the interior.

Conservancy Times Memberships Move Us A warm welcome to our new members! (5-1-2003 through 9-30-2003) AMIGOS Michael and Jan Franklin FRIENDS OF CATALINA $100 annual dues Hans and Annerose Grellmann Erik and Megan Hand $25 annual dues Maureen Casiello Ronald Harrison and Richard Magnus Emily Allen Steve English and Molly Munger Oliver and Helen Henrickson Andy, Shelli, Samantha and Harwood Mark and Marsha Helm Len and Carolyn Hitchin Alston Matt Herndon and Cathy Somerton Barry and Cinda Hoeven Bill and Nancy Anderson Don and Margaret Louderback Robert and Ilene Hoffman Sussan Boyd Bill Scarberry Mark and Michelle Hoherd Jason and Jennifer Campbell Len and Monica Horstman Rochelle Casolaro and Vincent Casolaro CATALINA CONSERVANCY Charles and Barbara Hughes Jeff and Julie Christiansen DIVERS Alex Irving Georg Coermann and Baerbel Buge $100 annual dues Scott Jarema Barney and Judith Connaughton Timothy and Mari Anna Johnson Esther Cummings Steven and Wendy Jones Wendell Cole Amber Davison John Keith and Lindsay Tognetti Reed and Anne Copsey JoLynn Edmiston Christopher and Tracy Keys Gary Gilpin Susan Enguidanos Daniel and Betty Kilmer Dennis Gunn Dorian Eveland Steven and Janet Kiser Katie Horn David Fox Art Knowlson Albert Laubenstein Katharine Frank David and Deborah Lake Jorge Ledesma Sarah French Ray and Elizabeth Lewis Steve Oliveau John and Kathy Gilliland Anthony Long Nick Riolo Mark and Lisa Gordon Craig and Deborrah Lugo Genoveva Ruiz David and Kathleen Guzman Hugh McDaniel Gary and Marjorie Sanders Dianne Haggerman Don and Carol McKibbin Michael Sauer Leonard and Judy Halpin John and Pat Merrell Roger and Debra Urbach Suzanne and Kim Haug John and Jodi Miller Ed Hayduk Max Moosmann Jenipher Hernandez CATALINA CONQUISTADORS Steve and Cindy Norstrom Mike Hudkins and Karen Richards $100 annual dues Robert and Mary Palmer Tim and Robin Ives Sigrid Pepper Jennifer Kelly Joseph and Barbara Mendelson Eric and Eileen Peters William and Gayle King Gary and Nancy Pickett Blake and Terri Quinn Peter and Meg Kohn Bret Prichard Keith and Robyn Randle Fernando and Shelley Ledesma Wayne Rodgers Carol Levenson and Robert Jordan Eduardo and Renee Savigliano Sum Li CATALINA CABALLEROS Brian and Kathryn Smith Thomas and Carol McMillan $100 annual dues William and Nancy Smith Frank and Nancy Medlock Mary Kay Stearns Thomas and Sherry Money Brian and Jan Besser Michael and Gloria Sullivan Theresa Morris Bernadette and Tyrone Byrd Mike Talbot David Morris Cliff Hague Jay and Jane Torre Nancy Murray Manuel Hidalgo Richard and Annette Townsend Ms. Thomas and the 4th Grade Class Thomas Vyse and Dolores Kneece Ed and Sue Pirrell James and Janet Wentz James and Jeanne Preston CATALINA MARINEROS Ron and Judy Wood Jeff and Linda Raymond $100 annual dues Don and Michele Yahn Jim and Ramona Richardson Philip and Stephanie Rodriguez Diane Adler ISLAND RESIDENTS John and Claudia Rohring Daniel and Elizabeth Barnes $25 annual dues Nancy Roisum David and Stefanie Beek Stephen Rose Kevin and Sofia Bicknell Glenda Aparicio Dan and Jenny Shepherd Jim and Chris Brennan Patrick and Martha Hunter Susan Sherman Bruce and Judy Brilhart Scott and Annie Moyse Jeff and Sue Singer Craig and Sue Burnett Jo Ann Stewart Greg Tice and Teresa Milly James and Terri Collings Kevin Tison Ted Cox STUDENTS Bradley Walker and Catherine Najm- Max and Patty De Zemplen Walker William and Amy Doyle $10 annual dues Ben West Alexandra Dunlap Emily Casiello Linda Whiting George and Kate Eastman Jessica Casiello Leonard and Paula Woo Ray and Diana Elam Erik Ragsdale Tony and Molly Yannakakis Christian Emsiek Elizabeth VanWormer Michael and Kimberly Fowlkes

1 2 Catalina Island Conservancy Member Happenings

Catalina Caballeros again join Los Caballeros’ Catalina Island Trek

Many members of the Catalina Caballeros support group of the Conservancy, are also members of Los Caballeros, an organization of men who share an interest in horses that was formed shortly after World War II. One of the principal purposes of the group is to enjoy the comaraderie and horsemanship of planned rides and excursions.

Since then, there have been 54 Los Caballeros Catalina Island “treks.” The entire ride group, averaging about 100, plus their horses are transported to Catalina Island.The horses are loaded into vans and along with supplies, baggage, hay, and feed are stowed on barges and head to the island for a five-day ride.

Included in the five-day event are a rodeo, horsemanship clinics, special rides, trail horse competition, cowboy music, and a Lloyd Mokler (r), a senior member of the Conservancy nature ride. Los Caballeros, joins Terry Chapman (l) in greeting Ann Muscat at the rodeo. Rowing Around the Island

Conservancy Board member Charles Hathaway, along with his two sons and a grandson, entered the recent Around- the-Island rowing event sponsored by the California Yacht Club.They are pictured in the photo taken at Catalina Harbor preparing for the event. Left to right are sons Tom and Steve, grandson Sterling, and Charles.Total on-the-water time for the four was 10 hours, 8 minutes and 32 seconds.

Sixteen rowing shells competed in the two-day event that started and ended at the yacht club’s facility in Catalina Harbor.The overnight stop was at Newport Harbor Yacht Club’s facility at Moonstone Beach.The fastest total on-the-water time was by Conservancy members Craig Leeds and Margie Cate in a 2-person shell.Their time was 6 hours, 28 minutes and 23 seconds.

The rowing event alternates annually between an Around-the-Island row and a Catalina-to-Marina del Rey row.

Making the Difference With the assistance of Volunteers, the Catalina Island Conservancy is able to provide a wide curriculum of courses and classes specifically designed for students. The Education Department appreciates the following volunteers for dedicating their valuable time: Judy Atchison, Ian Bailes, Jeff Chapman, Judith Clark, Estelle Conover, Pam Cooper, Caitlin Dawes, Joseph Dlugokecki, Rita Dlugokecki, Bob Given, Dean Hill, Laurie Hill, Jeff Jensen, Erik Katzmaier, Nancy Kellogg, Ron Lowder, Mary McKernan, Whitey Mendenhall, Robert Meyer, Virginia Meyer, Ron Mittano; Montclair High School, Andrea Morison, Youth Group; Our Savior Center, Calvin Parsons, Richard Pelouze, Micah Phillips, and Steven Pillman.

Conservancy Times 1 3 Support Opportunities GIVING AT YEAR-END If you are like many people, you do your major giving toward the end of the year.This probably occurs for several reasons.The closing of the tax year encourages income tax deductions; a barrage of earnest non-profit appeals arrives in the mail; financial planners review overall estate and financial plans; the desire to help a favorite non-profit secure the funds to complete their annual work; and the wish to help an organization start out the next year financially strong. The Catalina Island Conservancy would like you to consider us for a year-end contribution.The following tips may help you to make the most of your year-end giving.

CONSIDER THE EASIEST – GIFTS OF CASH THE BEST GIFT IS AN UNRESTRICTED GIFT Cash and checks are the most common forms of charitable gifts. This gift is the mort important type that can be given. It If you itemize your tax deductions, these gifts are fully allows the Conservancy to use the funds contributed for deductible to the fullest extent of the law. the most important conservation need at the time. TALK TO YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISOR DO YOUR GIVING EARLY If you are not sure about how to make a This is especially true if you want to make a year-end contribution, ask your tax gift of stock or want to consider planned preparer, attorney, or other financial advisor giving.Your professional advisors are busy as about the method of giving that is most B. Ezell the year winds down, so the sooner you can advantageous to you. get your gift activity going, the better it will IF YOU HAVE STOCKS, REVIEW THEM be for everyone concerned. If you have stocks that you have held for MEMBERSHIPS HELP TOO more than a year and they have Memberships in the Conservancy have the appreciated in value, it may be prudent for same deductible basis as a contribution. If you to make your year-end gift using them. you are not a member of the Conservancy You may avoid capital gains tax and also and would prefer to become one at this time claim a charitable deduction. rather than make a regular contribution, call THINK ABOUT PLANNED GIVING our membership department at (310) 510 If a contribution is not something you can 2595, extension 114 to receive information. do right now, consider announcing a PROJECT GIFTS ARE FAVORED BY SOME planned gift – either through your will, as a If you have a favorite area of the beneficiary in your life insurance policy, with a charitable trust, Conservancy’s work, you can direct your contribution toward it. or other formally planned future contribution. It may be wildlands restoration projects, education, fox recovery, MEMORIAL GIFTS volunteer programs, or ecological research. Just indicate it on Year-end gifts can be made in memory of a loved one or special the return envelope and we will honor your request. friend. Memorial gifts of any size will be entered in the NAMING OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE Conservancy’s Book of Memories. A $250 memorial gift qualifies If you want to consider a major gift, naming opportunities are for a personalized brass plaque in the memorial case at available.This may be naming a project after the donor, a Catalina’s Airport-in-the-Sky. specific activity, a distinctive fund, or a special structure.

REMEMBER THERE ARE NUMEROUS WAYS THAT YEAR-END GIVING CAN LOWER YOUR TAXES WHILE INCREASING THE CONSERVANCY'S ABILITY TO PRESERVE AND PROTECT CATALINA ISLAND. THE CONSERVANCY NEEDS AND APPRECIATES YOUR SUPPORT.

You’re a Lifesaver Catalina Island Conservancy Ball, Underwater Cleanup, Video, Trade Shows, and Golf Tournaments are just a few projects that volunteers help the Development and Membership Department achieve. Our deepest gratitude to the following volunteers: Tina Bertaud, Randy Boelsems, Jill Boivin, Dirk Burcham, Lynn Burt, John Celick, Bruce Cook, Hayley Cushing, Caitlin Dawes, Odie Hernandez, Judy Hibbs, Susy Horowitz, Richard Pelouze, Don Robarge, Christian Rondestvedt, Ted Sharshan, Jim Steffen, Loretta Steffen, Steve Story, and Todd Warshaw.

1 4 Catalina Island Conservancy The Work We Do

The Truth About Visitor Services

The day started out like any other Monday in summer. Not too busy by late afternoon, no cruise ship that day. I receive a call from Avalon Sheriff’s Station dispatch.They report a deer caught and injured near town.The deer will probably have to be put down and they would like assistance.The location they describe is not on Conservancy property, and deer belong to the State of California, but I let them know that I will inform the Ranger on duty so he can follow up. I contact Jim, our Ranger, about the deer by radio. He advises me that the California Department of Fish & Game has a couple employees on the island at present and he will try to contact them.

Meanwhile Jim is dealing with a broken down vehicle that may pose a danger if left in its current location after dark. He asks me to look up the license plate number in our database to see if we can identify the owner. At the same time, the phones are ringing, and people are waiting at the counter for hiking permits. Liz, our front desk staff, is Visitor Services staff keeping it under control. (l to r), away making the afternoon post office drop. Rebecca Guay, Liz Johnson, and Diane Conover. A call comes in from a hiker on his cell phone. He thinks he is lost, he is almost out of water, it is warm outside and he is getting worried. I try to help him figure out where he is.

After determining that the broken down vehicle is not in our database as an annual permit, I check the daily card key list to see if we can identify the owner that way.The phones are still ringing. One of the calls is an employee to inform me about the deer. I let him know that a Ranger has been contacted.

In the meantime, I am trying to keep the hiker calm and have him tell me what his surroundings look like. I give him landmarks to look for to try to head him in the right direction. I advise the Ranger of the hiker.The phones are still ringing and people are still waiting. A Deputy Sheriff calls to tell me about the deer. I explain to him what’s going on. He asks for the Institute for Wildlife Studies’ phone number.

I cannot find any information on the disabled vehicle. I can only assume the vehicle is out there without a permit. Now the hiker sees a landmark and I think he is headed the right direction but he is still worried. I get his cell phone number so that I can call him back and keep track of him. By now, Jim has dealt with the deer situation. He has determined that the vehicle will have to stay where it is for now and heads for the hiker. A few minutes later Jim calls to inform me the hiker is on his way back to town, and Jim will stop by the office to follow up on the vehicle.

Somewhere in all this Liz has returned and has helped the people at the desk.

Just a typical hour at Visitor Services, mid-July....

Visitor Services Staff answer phones, offer Ranger support, issue various permits, manage the Jeep Eco-Tour reservations, continue a fifty year rainfall log, design, purchase and sell retail Conservancy logo items, among many other tasks.There’s always a smile waiting, even on a day that starts out like any other Monday. Rebecca Guay Director of Visitor Services

You Make The Difference Visitor Services gives a warm thank you to the following volunteers for their dedicated time as Catalina Conservancy Greeters and Eco-Tour Drivers; Rita Dlugokecki, Judy Hibbs, Paul McIlroy, Mary McKernan, and Jim Watson.

Conservancy Times 1 5 Save this date! April 3, 2004 9t h Annual Catalina Island Conservancy Ball

SANTA CATALINA - TH E ISLAND O F ROMANCE Have you ever wished that you could be whisked away in a time machine to the days when elegant couples twirled around the dance floor to the sounds of a big band in the Casino Ballroom?This is your chance!

On April 3, 2004, the Balboa Yacht Club is proud to host the ninth annual Catalina Island Conservancy Ball. This exciting event features a black-tie dinner dance with gourmet fare and live and silent auctions. All proceeds from the evening will go the Conservancy to enable it to continue its work preserving the island that is truly a Southern California treasure.

Don’t be left out. Please call the Balboa Yacht Club information line at (949) 673-3515 ext.147.

Catalina Island Conservancy P. O. Box 2739 Avalon, California 90704 www.catalinaconservancy.org

The mission of the Catalina Island Conservancy is to be responsible stewards of its lands through a balance of conservation, education and recreation.

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