Vol. ’06, No. 4 of 6 Journal of the Los Padres Chapter Sierra Club Condor Call Serving Ventura & Santa Barbara Counties August/September 2006

Coastal projects . . . Beaches . . . Back country . . . Islands Pgs. 1 & 2 Pg. 6 & 7 Pgs. 1 & 5 Pgs. 3 & 7 Condor Call Journal of the Los Padres Chapter Sierra Club Serving Ventura & Santa Barbara Counties August/September 2006 Venoco wants oil from Ellwood and Carpinteria bluffs By Robert Sollen “It would be like having a huge A 15-story high oil-drilling rig oil platform in our own backyard,” on the Carpinteria bluffs? the CVA said in its spring newslet- People who have succeeded in ter. With no structure in Santa Bar- keeping the community’s ocean- bara County taller, the drilling front natural find the concept tower will dominate the skyline and grossly incompatible. define the character of Carpinteria.” But Venoco Inc. wants to erect a How much oil would be produced is 175-foot rig onshore from which it uncertain, but many Carpinterians said would tap offshore oil deposits by that turning toward clean fuel produc- means of slant drilling. At a June 13 tion is far more important than extend- hearing about 30 people testified, ing the use of petroleum, a polluting all but one opposing the project. fuel that contributes to global warming. Another 427 protestors signed a ELLWOOD PROJECT petition circulated by the Carpinte- Meanwhile, offshore Goleta at ria Valley Association (CVA). The Ellwood, Venoco wants to drill 40 Adrienne, Sam and Oliver beat the heat on one of the Sierra Club’s outings to Seven Falls. (Photo by Robert Bernstein) signed petitions were submitted at new wells from Platform Holly, a the hearing which drew an overflow 40-year-old offshore structure in GAVIOTA PROJECTS audience at Carpinteria City Hall. state waters, within three miles of Public agencies and private con- shore. It wants state permission to tractors are preparing impact reports expand its offshore lease into areas ‘Horrible precedent’ predicted for expanding offshore oil produc- that the state took back from ARCO tion in Goleta as well as in Carpinte- in the 1980s in a settlement of a The future of the Gaviota Coast the eastern gateway to the Gaviota However at a July 27th hearing, ria. Both projects are Venoco ven- highly contested lawsuit over is again at a crossroads and needs Coast, and the community cannot there was so much testimony that tures. A hearing for the Goleta ARCO’s extended plans. your support. rely on the current Board of Super- many members of the public asked project came too late for a summary The Venoco plan, too, has been The community has struggled for visors to hold the line. These pro- that that deadline be extended, in this issue of Condor Call. VENOCO . . . see page 3 decades, since Selma Rubin and sup- posed residences, some as large as which could happen. In Carpinteria, the protests were porters stopped the development of 13,400 square feet, will dominate The Naples Coalition, of which varied, but many centered on the hundreds of homes at El Capitan in the landscape, importing urban the Los Padres Chapter is a mem- 175-foot drilling rig which was rep- EAVESDROPS the 1970s, to maintain the rural, agri- development into the last remaining ber, has proposed an alternative to resented on several large posters “We’d lie there beneath the cultural heritage of the Gaviota Coast. remnant of the Southern California the developer’s project where no distributed by the CVA. The struc- stars, mesmerized, wrapped in a But now, Vintage Communities coastline. building is allowed on the bluffs or ture would tower over the bluff near special magic until the tale ended of Orange County proposes to build “If this project is approved as marine terrace south of Highway Carpinteria City Hall and the harbor and the fire died.” up to 72 large residences at Naples; proposed, it will set a horrible prece- 101, nor in the public view shed seal rookery. —Bruce Brownell in a tribute to Frank Van Schaick, who passed dent for development of the rest of north of Highway 101. Comments on Venoco’s Ellwood COVER PHOTO the Gaviota Coast,” according to the WHAT TO DO project are due Sept. 15 to Peter Strait away June 20 at age 94. He was a The late Dick Smith, whose spirit lives of California State Lands Commission teacher and an author who for many on with a Los Padres Forest Wilder- Environmental Defense Center. There are many actions you can take The draft environmental impact to help preserve the Gaviota Coast. (http://www.slc.ca.gov), but there is a years wrote the “Nature Walks” col- ness named after him, is in for a lot of public hearing set for 3 and 6 p.m. umn in the Santa Barbara News- accolades via the Wildling Art report is out and the County Plan- —Send written comments to Aug. 30 at the Goleta Valley Community Press and co-authored two books Mvsevm’s exhibits, events and treks. ning Department is accepting com- Santa Barbara County Planning and Center that Sierra Club members with Dick Smith. Details on page 5. ments until the Aug. 28 deadline. NAPLES . . . see page 3 are urged to attend. Sespe forest land swap is no deal Letters are urgently needed to What it really does is to give Letters are urgently needed to Please let them know that you For more information on this stop a forest land swap that includes some of the most valuable forest Sen. Dianne Feinstein (http://fein oppose the land exchange and that issue or to help with trail work, con- important access points for the land to a water agency to develop as stein.senate.gov) and Sen. Barbara you would like the land to stay in tact Alan Coles of the Sierra Club’s Sespe Wilderness. it likes without public comment. Boxer (http://boxer.senate.gov) to the National Forest which belongs Southern California Forest Com- A bill by Rep. Elton Gallegly Congress underfunds the Forest stop this legislation in the Senate. to all Americans. mittee at: [email protected]. (HR 4162) passed the House in Service, which is forced to close June that gives United Water Con- roads and campgrounds, then Con- servation District 440 acres of the gress uses the closed facilities as Los Padres National Forest. It now justification for giving them away. goes to the Senate for approval. The news release touts that a new The land is located in Ventura trailhead for the Potholes Trail will be County at the southeast corner of the constructed as part of the exchange. forest close to Los Angeles and However, the access road will be includes the Blue Point Camp- transferred to the water agency which ground, a forest access road, a por- can impose any fee it wishes on forest tion of a proposed wild and scenic users unless they walk or ride a bike river, and the Agua Blanca and Piru there (as they can do now). Creek Trailheads, an important ac- The possible development at cess point for the Sespe. In exchange, Blue Point could adversely impact the forest service will receive 340 the adjacent Sespe Wilderness and acres of land on the western slopes compromise one of the wildest above Lake Piru that has been pri- areas left in Southern California. marily leased for grazing. Sierra Club and Forest Service vol- In typical fashion of anti-envi- unteers have been restoring the hik- ronmental legislation being submit- ing trails that enter the wilderness ted by Congress, the bill does the from the Blue Point area. They have opposite of what it purports to do. proposed a number of possible The news release issued by Gal- alternatives to the Forest Service legly states that the bill would elim- that would allow greater public inate private inholdings, consoli- access to the area while protecting date lands owned by the Water the natural resources. These propos- District around Lake Piru and pro- als have not been considered Local Rep. Elton Gallegly is proposing a land swap deal in and around the Potholes Trail (shown), but the Sierra Club vide better public access to the area. because of this legislation. opposes it for practical reasons. Write a letter to head it off in the Senate. (Photo by Alan Coles) 2•Condor Call – August/September 2006 August/September 2006 – Condor Call •3 Wind farm project eyes Lompoc site A plan to put up to 80 wind tur- bines along Miguelito Canyon ridges near Lompoc was unveiled in July to a packed house of interested citizens. The plan, a first for Santa Bar- bara County, could produce enough energy for all the power needs of the North County, but speakers worried about the turbines killing birds, night lights required by Fed- eral Aviation Administration, grad- ing on the ridges and the towers blighting the mountain views. Next up is preparing an environ- mental impact report, and anyone who wants to comment on what issues it should address may contact county Energy Division. The Lompoc Wind Energy Pro- ject details are on the county’s web- site, which also contains photos of Venoco proposes an onshore drilling rig that at 175 feet is taller than the Statue of Liberty (152 feet) and will dominate the Carpinteria Bluffs area along with making a lot of noise. the area and what a similar project (in Spain) looks like: www.countyof out the marine terminal from which is in charge of the Goleta project. able through State Lands Commis- sb.org/energy Venoco ... the produced oil is shipped to refiner- But many other public agencies will sion, website: www.slc.ca.gov. Cont’d. from page 2 ies by barge. Instead, the increased have input and influence in both devel- Ellwood project details are avail- delayed for years while the state, oil production would go by a nine- opments. The preparation of environ- able at the County Energy Division Oil decline Goleta, the county and the oil com- mile pipeline to Exxon Mobil’s Las mental impact statements for each pro- website: www.countyofsb.org/energy. pany wrestled over development con- Flores Canyon processing plant. ject will require several months. Official information on the ditions. Residents of the region have The city of Carpinteria is the lead Official Information on both pro- Carpinteria Paredon project is avail- sparks ideas repeatedly complained of gas odors. agency for the onshore drilling pro- jects, along with all other coastal able at the city’s website: www. The Fossil Free By ’33 campaign The plan would eventually phase ject, and the State Lands Commission California energy projects, is avail- carpinteria.ca.us. of the Community Environmental Council brought the public up to speed during a conference in July on how to get better at using all LNG battle expanding to legislators kinds of energy. Focusing on the theory that oil By Al Sanders web site and preparing to send some critical to our mission that we con- vessel connected to two new parallel supplies will soon peak and then The Steering Committee of the people to Sacramento to speak to centrate on educating the public subsea pipelines. The pipelines quickly decline, the CEC hoped to Los Padres Chapter’s LNG Task our legislators. Club members are with the facts on how harmful this would make landfall adjacent to the gather experts from the tri-counties’ Force have elected two new mem- urged to help out the effort by call- project will be for the environment.” Southern California Gas Company’s area, but Ventura and San Luis bers who are also on the chapter’s ing 488-7988 or visiting the web- LNG opponents won a small vic- Ormond Beach metering station. Obispo leaders were absent. Executive Committee. site: www.VenturaLNGTaskForce.com. tory by the recent announcement The vessel would be moored Nevertheless, the CEC confer- They are Joy Kobayashi and “The addition of Joy and Kesa that the Environmental Protection about 14 miles off the Ventura coast ence noted a number of possibili- Kesa Ryono, who have agreed to substantially strengthens the compo- Agency (EPA) agreed to extend the and 18 miles from Anacapa Island. ties, the most important being con- join Committee Chair Trevor Smith sition of the Committee since both public comment period to Aug. 3, The equipment on the vessel servation and energy efficiency. in taking on the Chapter’s mission are seasoned activists and both primarily because of its failure to includes eight submerged combus- Others include biofuels, hybrid to stop LNG in Ventura County. know how to compliment the work reach out to the Hispanic commu- tion vaporizers, four generator cars, wind, solar and ocean power. The committee is revising the of the committee,” said Smith. “It is nity. engines (one a backup), three spher- Some practical solutions were Mike Stubblefield, the Chapter’s ical LNG storage tanks, one diesel cited, such as the county’s new air quality delegate, had already fuel storage tank, and emergency “green building,” upgrading county prepared comments and testified at and auxiliary support equipment. air conditioning and lighting. Santa Condor Call the EPA hearing held in Oxnard, but The proposed permit and sup- Barbara City is considering an ONLINE: http://lospadres.sierraclub.org welcomed the extension in order to porting documents are available at agreement with a company that www.santabarbaratrailguide.com expand on comments and issues. the Ventura County APCD, local would build a large solar system on EDITOR: John Hankins, 745-5432 Stubblefield had previously com- libraries and on the EPA web site at: top of a maintenance building. 1056 Eugenia Pl., ‘A’, Carpinteria, CA 93013 • [email protected] mented that the project description www.epa.gov/region09. Ventura County Regional Energy ADVERTISING: Contact Condor Call Editor DEADLINES FOR ALL ISSUES: failed to consider the air pollution Alliance is also working with cities Copy Deadline: 15th—Advertising Deadline: 20th of month preceeding publication. from all the tugs and supply vessels and counties for solar energy projects. Publication schedule: Feb/Mar, April/May, June/July, Aug/Sept, Oct/Nov, Dec/Jan associated with the project. “I know EAVESDROPS To keep apprised of the efforts, log SUBSCRIPTIONS: Free to members why it’s being done this way,” said “If the whole world lived like on to: www.communityenvironmental Non-members, $5 per year. Contact: us, we would need about five Art Benkaim, 645 Costa del Mar, #C, Santa Barbara 93103 Stubblefied, “because if they in- council.org. Photos, news, tips always welcome! clude everything, as they should, more planets.” SIERRA CLUB they will be well over the federal —Comment from the Sierra Club criteria for significant impacts.” review of The High Price of Materi- Naples ... Los Padres Chapter • 965-9719 The proposed Cabrillo Port pro- alism, by Tim Kasser, which details Cont’d. from page 2 300 E. Canon Perdido, B-1, Santa Barbara 93101 ject by BHP Billiton consists of a the relationship between wealth and Development Dept., 123 East Ana- www.sierraclub.org/chapters/lospadres happiness. Erin Duffy Zellet, Staff, Chapter Coordinator • 252-6547 floating storage and re-gasification pamu, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 [email protected] until August 28. Santa Barbara 966-6622 • Ventura 488-7988 —Educate yourself and keep Change of Address: Member Services P.O. Box 52968, Boulder, Colorado 80322-2968 apprised of information via the or [email protected] or call (415) 977-5653 Coalition’s website, which offers National Office: (415) 977-5500 85 2nd St., 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105-3441 letters you can email directly to the Washington Office: (202) 547-5550 county: www.savenaples.org. 408 C St., N.E., Washington, D.C., 20002 The website has a link to the * CHAPTER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE * The Chapter Executive Committee meets on the fourth Thursday of each month Draft Environmental Impact Report. at IHOP Restaurant at the Casitas Pass Rd. exit off Hwy. 101 in Carpinteria, 7:30 p.m. —Volunteer for the Coalition, Rick Skillin (chair), 688-9703, [email protected] Mike Stubblefield (vice-chair), 988-0339, [email protected] which is run by community members Joe Connett, secretary, [email protected] like yourself. The outreach commit- Trevor Smith, 469-9765, [email protected] Kesa Ryono, 271-0506, [email protected] tee meets every Thursday night from Daniel Pearson, 488-5168, [email protected] 7 to 9 p.m. For details, contact coor- * GROUP REPRESENTATIVES * Arguello: Jerry Connor, 928-3598 dinator Kristen Hoye at 452-5936 or Conejo: Jeri Andrews, 379-2768 email: [email protected]. Santa Barbara: Ed Easton, 967-1113 Sespe: Alan Sanders, 488-7988 A word from the developer, Matt * GROUP CHAIRS * Osgood, in a newspaper interview: Arguello: Jerry Connor, 928-3598 Conejo: John Holroyd, 495-6391 “Fifty people showing up at a meet- Santa Barbara: Ed Easton, 967-1113 ing because they got an email the day Sespe: Joy Kobayashi, [email protected] before isn’t much of a resistance.” * CHAPTER SERVICES * Chapter-wide Outings: Jerry Connor, 928-3598 But plenty more turned out July Conservation Chair Ventura: Al Sanders, 488-7988 27th and the Coalition would like Consevation Chair Santa Barbara: Legal Chair: David Gold, 642-7748 even more people opposing the Political Co-chairs: developer’s plans in order to con- Joy Kobayashi, [email protected] Ada Babine, 962-2042, Council of Club Leaders vince a majority of pro-growth Treasurer: Richard Hunt, 962-8166 commissioners and supervisors that 222 E. Carrillo St., Santa Barbara 93101 Chapter ExCom member Mike Stubblefield (left) and Art Shafman prepare to tes- Typography & production by Jim Cook • Printed by Western Web Printing, Inc. the Gaviota Coast is too important tify against LNG proposals during a recent EPA hearing. (Photo by Al Sanders) to sacrifice. 4•Condor Call – August/September 2006 August/September 2006 – Condor Call •3 Chapter leaders on TV Los Padres Group News Earth Alert’s “Heroes of the major roles in events. Those include like lower Malibu or Marina del Rey. The public is welcome to our programs Coast” series of interviews with Cal- the 1972 passage of Prop 20, which In a year and a half, we’ve been able ifornia’s major coastal activists has created the California Coastal Com- to record 25 of these interviews, and CHAPTER EXCOM begun showing on the Adelphia Pub- mission and California Coastal Act. more are in the works,” Bridgers • The Los Padres Chapter Executive Committee now meets on the lic Access Channel 25 in Oxnard- “This is a labor of love, honoring said. fourth Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m., Carpinteria Library. Port Hueneme at 6 p.m. on Sundays. the contribution of the coastal “Since we’ve begun them, Ellen Next dates: Aug. 24 and Sept. 28. The series is a set of half-hour activists to California,” said Bridgers. Stern Harris—considered by many ARGUELLO GROUP interviews by Earth Alert Founder “Without their work, which most peo- as the ‘mother of the Coastal Act’— • Program information from Jerry Connor, 928-3598 and Director Janet Bridgers of ple take for granted, a great deal more has died of cancer. I knew Ellen was CONEJO GROUP coastal activists who have played of the California coast would look ill, and I wanted to honor her while • Get info from: http://users.adelphia.net/~conejo hiker. she was still with us . . . that’s why I SANTA BARBARA GROUP started this project,” she said. • Popular potluck at Rocky Nook, Sunday, Aug. 27. Details below. SESPE GROUP Bridgers believes that the work of • Oxnard/Ventura-based group information from Al Sanders, 488-7988. environmentalists will join the contri- butions to American history made by patriots, abolitionists, suffragettes, SANTA BARBARA GROUP Freedom Riders and feminists. “These movements are made up Don’t miss the picnic! of people whose individual contri- The Santa Barbara Group invites Plan to bring a dish to share, your butions are rarely known,” she said. all to a potluck picnic in Rocky Nook own table service, your own choice “This series begins to create a video Park on Sunday, August 27, begin- of beverage and food to barbecue, if record of some of California’s most ning at 5 p.m. This is always a very you like. We will provide a fire for significant coastal activists.” popular event with our members and barbecue and coffee. Earth Alert! is an Emmy-award we look forward to a good turnout. This is the right time to renew winning organization based in We have reserved Area 1, at the contacts with your hiking friends Oxnard; for more information, visit far end of the park. Rocky Nook is and to get updated information on its website: www.earthalert.org. in Mission Canyon across from the what the local group is doing. Upcoming schedule for the Natural History Museum. Heroes series: Aug. 6—Dan Pearson, Ormond EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Beach wildlife Aug. 13—Susan Jordan, LNG New meeting time set Aug. 20—Pedro Nava on current The Los Padres Chapter Execu- causes, Lynnel passed away on issues, especially oil tive Committee will now meet on July 6. She was the wife of Condor Tony Biegen and Dianne Soini help maintain the Sierra Club Trail at Elings Park, Aug. 28—Peter Douglas, Part 1 the 4th Thursday of every month at Call editor John Hankins. of which part was taken over by mountain bikers, but rescued due to excellent re Prop 20 & history of the Coastal the Carpinteria Library 7:30 p.m. —Approved fund appeals to efforts primarily by Biegen, Jim Childress and Ed Easton. (Photo by Robert Commission You can get on the agenda mailing members for continuing opposition Bernstein) Sept. 4—Peter Douglas, Part 2 re list by emailing Secretary Joe Con- to LNG proposal off Ventura surviving coup attempts as the nett at: [email protected]. County and the urbanization of the Director of Coastal Commission The ExCom also appointed a new Gaviota Coast at Naples in Santa Sept. 11—Don May, LNG member, Trevor Smith, to replace Barbara County. Stories on these Expand sanctuary Sept. 18—Alan Sanders re Roma Dianne Safford who resigned are on pages 1 & 2. Armbrust & Cynthia Leake because she is moving to Oregon. Also, Santa Barbara Group Chair Sept. 25—Bob Sollen on the These were just two of a number Ed Easton and Chapter employee and ban jet skis 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill of actions taken by the ExCom over Erin Zellot attended the Sierra Oct. 2— Naomi Schwartz re his- the last few meetings. Others include: Club’s fund raising training. By Janet Bridgers Pearson provided several exam- tory of the Coastal Act. —Renewed the Santa Barbara —The chapter is now accepting Los Padres Chapter leaders testi- ples of the incompatibility of motor- office lease at $375 per month, with old cell phones for recycling in fied recently that the six-mile Chan- ized watercraft in an area that is sup- EAVESDROPS the Santa Barbara Group picking up addition to printing ink cartridges, nel Islands Marine Sanctuary posed to be managed like a marine “Those plein air painting journeys $100 of that. which earn money for us. Either boundaries should be expanded and wilderness area. into Santa Barbara’s back country —Requested the services of the may be dropped off or sent to the that obnoxious jet skis and similar “The noise and pollution from with Ray Strong made me fall in love Sierra Club conflict resolution com- Chapter’s office (address in Page 2 craft should be banned. these watercraft destroy the peace and with our California landscape and, at mittee to address conflicts within directory) or given to Erin at the The comments referred to the tranquility that are part of the experi- long last, I felt at home.” the ExCom. ExCom or SB Group meetings. Channel Islands National Marine ence people are seeking. But more —Jill Mackay, a UK transplant, —Agreed to oppose a Forest Ser- —Supported the Sespe Group’s Sanctuary’s (CINMS) new Draft important is the effect on marine and lauding painter Ray Strong of Santa vice land swap that may affect opposition to an amendment allow- Management Plan, which is a blue- avian wildlife that are terrorized by Barbara who passed away July 3 and access into the Sespe Wilderness. ing the Lang Homes development print for how the area is managed. these machines,” Pearson said. who helped create the Oak Group of See story on page 1. Port Hueneme, as well as the creation There were two public hearings; Sanders noted that when Califor- artists favoring the environment. —Donated $100 to the Lynnell of an Oxnard Harbor District overlay in Ventura on June 27 and Santa nia Department of Boating and Follow the artists’ exhibition by log- Hankins Memorial Scholarship in the Ormond Beach Specific Plan Barbara June 28. Waterways’ Director Raynor ging on to: www.theoakgroup.org Fund at Buena High School. A life- Area and annexation by the City of Los Padres Chapter Conservation Tsuneyoshi spoke in support of jet long champion of environmental Oxnard of any land within that SPA. Chair Al Sanders and Chapter Exec- skis he was choosing the interests utive Committee member Dan Pear- of the most intrusive users over son provided comments about pro- non-motorized uses. tection of marine mammals and “Jet skis are so dangerous and Condor Classifieds increased urbanized uses like jet noisy that they have no business in TREK PLANNING: 30 years experience YOGA HIKE: Add another dimension to SOUTHOLD, Long Island room and shared skis and cruise ships. any part of the Sanctuary. The very local & Sierras, maps included. 964-5153. your nature experience with yoga. Sun- bath hostel type, 3 beds in one room, 2nd term ‘Sanctuary’ is the antithesis of ROSEBUD CHOCOLATES: Gift-giving days, 10am. Call Tali, 448-2619. www. floor, Victorian. $500 week. Area of old the proposed uses. Therefore, jet skis made simple. Weddings, anniversaries, yogahike.com. 5 houses, barns, cemeteries, kayaking too. should be prohibited,” Sanders said. babyshowers, birthdays, or any special PASS ON your outdoor gear or whatever 962-6508. Ventura Surfrider representative occasion. www.rosebudchocolates.com or through the Condor Call classifieds. Just fill ACUPRESSURE MASSAGE for back, feet, Paul Jenkin added that, “Jet skis are toll-free 1-888-856-7166. in the blanks below and send us a check. hands, etc. for adults, children and ani- also a great danger to surfers and LIGHTEN UP. Professional organizing. Help- REAL ESTATE: I can help. Kevin Young mals; your home or office. Be healthy - swimmers because they can’t always ing create homes that uplift and enlighten. RE/MAX SB, 564-3400. www.sbre.com; Paula Westbury 962-6508. see beyond the swells and can run 805-680-903. [email protected]. 22 years experience, UCSB grad. over people in the water,” he said. Sanders and Pearson have been Classified Ad Placement Form participating in Sanctuary hearings, A classified ad in the Condor Call reaches over 6,500 Sierra Club members in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. Ads cost only $6 for three lines, and $1 for each additional line per issue. commissions and working groups for Specify by circling the months below. Deadline for next issue is September 20, 2006. over 20 years. Pearson made note of Questions? Call the Condor at 745-5432. this during the July hearing: “Some Enclose a check made out to the Condor Call, 1056 Eugenia Pl., “A”, Carpinteria, Calif. 93013 of us who have been providing testi- mony about the Sanctuary for many Memorial or Commemorative years are wondering all the while if Name: gifts are a unique way to honor anything positive will ever come of an individual or special event Phone: it. It is long past time to stop quib- and at the same time provide bling over small issues and to move important funding towards to the heart of the matter—like the Sierra Club’s long-term goals. expansion of Sanctuary boundaries.” And like the memories you hold, The comment period ended July this is a gift that will last 21, but you can still get a copy of forever. For more information, the Plan at the sanctuary office in call (415) 977-5653. Santa Barbara Harbor or Channel [email protected] Islands Harbor in Ventura, or public MEMORIAL/COMMEMORATIVES PROGRAM 85 SECOND STREET libraries. SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105 You can also ask for copies by CHAPTER CONTACT: phone (884-1464), email (mp.request CATHERINE GRAHAM, @noaa.gov) or on line: www. channel Number of issues: ____ Feb/Mar • Apr/May • June/July • Aug/Sept • Oct/Nov • Dec/Jan 682-1357 islands.noaa.gov. 4•Condor Call – August/September 2006 August/September 2006 – Condor Call •5 Outings Schedule Los Padres Chapter — Sierra Club http://lospadres.sierraclub.org

August 5 August 20 September 3 SAN JOSE CREEK LOOP: This is an easy 3 mrt HIKE LEADER’S BBQ: Hike leaders meeting with DOUBLE PARK HIKE: First a 2 mile wooded trail hike, exploring the neighborhood trails and roads Tri-tip BBQ and presentation on back country along San Ysidro Creek in Montecito, then after of San Jose Creek in North Goleta. We will begin orientation or just a good time. Bring a side dish, lunch another 3 miles stroll along San Antonio near the intersection of N. Kellogg and Calle Real drinks, and join us at 4pm. Call for details. Gerry Creek Trail. Easy pace, children welcome with and follow the creek on trails and adjacent roads. 964-5411 (SB) supervision. Bring lunch and water. Meet behind We’ll travel north of Cathedral Oaks Rd., then August 26 B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. return via creek trails, retracing part of our initial ANNUAL McGRATH TO VENTURA HARBOR VICKI 563-4850 (SB) route. Meet 9am at the Bank of America parking BEACH WALK: Meet at the parking lot at the har- September 4 lot, Hope & State St. GERRY 964-5411. (SB) bor just off Spinnaker Dr. at the far end of the MONDAY MORNING WALK - EMMA WOOD: Start August 6 Sheraton 4-Points hotel. To get to the parking the week off with a five-mile hike in our local PLAYGROUND: Explore the rock formations off lot, take an immediate right off Spinnaker just as area. Meet at 8:30am at parking lot end of Main West Camino Cielo. Steep but short with rock you turn off Harbor Blvd. Meet at 1pm, bring Street before the bridge. Pat 643-0270 (SP) hopping and exploring in a playground of boul- water. Moderate. Sheila 649-9044 (SP) ders. Bring lunch and plenty of water. Meet ROMERO CANYON LOOP: Hike up a trail with behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at trees and a small stream to a lunch spot, then EAVESDROPS 9am. ROBERT 685-1283 (SB) down an abandoned road with a beautiful view. “Can’t close the US border? August 7 Moderate 6 mrt. Bring lunch and water. Meet Charge every person crossing ille- MONDAY MORNING WALK - OJAI LAND CON- behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at gally the $5 Adventure Pass fee. SERVANCY: Start the week off with a five-mile 9am. Jasna 907-6026 (SB) hike in our local area. We’ll cross the Ventura August 27 Eleven million times five bucks River and hike into Wills Canyon. Meet at 8am at RED ROCK TO SWIMMING HOLE: Hike to below and the National Forest Service is Mission Plaza or 8:30am in parking lot Rice Gibraltar Dam and relax by/in the water. Moder- back in business. Voila!” Road Meiners Oaks. Pat 643-0270 (SP) ate 6.5 mrt. Bring swimsuit, wading shoes, lunch —Robert Hefferman of Lompoc. August 11 and water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. BEACH WALK - POINT DUME - EASY HIKE at Hope Ave. at 9am. DAVID 563-2176 (SB) SERIES: Easy 4 mrt hike with 250’ elev. gain. OUTINGS WRITE-UP DUE: Outings are due soon, September 6 Hike along the beach, up to the bluff. Bring water covering the period Oct-Jan (plus the 1st week CALABASAS PEAK: Moderate 5 mrt hike with and food. Meet in parking lot near Burger King on of Feb). Get them to your outings chair NOW! 900’ elev. gain. View of Old Topanga Canyon and Hampshire Road in Thousand Oaks at 8am for September 2 San Fernando Valley. Bring water, snack and lug- Folks having fun at a pool at Seven Falls in the Santa Barbara front country, a carpooling. LILLIAN TREVISAN 498-1623 (CJ) BACKBONE AND ZUMA RIDGE TRAILS: Moderate soled shoes. Meet at Burger King parking on popular place for Sierra Club outings. When’s the last time you hiked with us? August 12 paced 10 mile hike with 1400’ gain, 2400’ loss Hampshire Road in Thousand Oaks at 5:30pm for from Kanan Dume Road past Buzzard’s Roost to carpooling. JOANNE SULKOSKE 492-3061 (CJ) (Photo by Robert Bernstein) McMENEMY TRAIL: Hike from San Ysidro trail to Saddle Rock overlook, then back by dirt road to Zuma Beach, with return on the Park-Link Shut- September 9 starting point. Moderate 6 mrt. Bring lunch and tle. Meet 9am at Newton Canyon Trailhead on MONTANA DE ORO: Hike to Valencia Peak, out Conditions water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Kanan Dume Road. Directions: From PCH take the Badger, Rattlesnake, and Bluff Trails (8 mrt, A number of campgrounds and roads Arroyo Hondo Hope Ave. at 9am. Diane 687-1929 (SB) Kanan Dume Road 4.5 miles to just after first 1800ft. elev. gain). Bring lunch, water, camera, in Los Padres National Forest are closed or August 13 tunnel on left side, or 8 miles south of Ventura binoculars. Rain cancels. Meet at the Lompoc have restricted (no autos) access due to Preserve open SHORELINE PARK PICNIC AND BEACH WALK: Fwy on right just before third tunnel. The shuttle Civic Center at 8am. Hikes are subject to change, protection of habitats and species or are Share a potluck breakfast followed by an easy bus will get us back about 3pm. Bring water, always contact the leader. DEAN 736-6685 (AR) under repair. Before you go into the local The Arroyo Hondo Preserve on beach walk. Bring food to share. Coffee pro- lunch, lug-soled shoes and bus fare (call 888- MISSION RIDGE: Hike from end of Edison access backcountry, it’s a good idea to check the Gaviota Coast is open for free vided. Meet in the middle of Shoreline Park at 734-2323 for current fare). Rain cancels. road overlooking Rattlesnake Canyon, up new conditions with rangers. Numbers to call public hiking and picnicking on the 9am. ART 965-4850 (SB) SMMTF Wilderness Adventure. Leaders: HUGH connector trail to ridge and across to Tunnel WARREN 497-9612, HOWARD KAYTON (CJ) Trail. Primitive trail, steep at times and some (unless noted, all 805 area code): first and third weekends of each SCHEDULE YOUR OUTINGS: Outings for the period Oct-Jan (plus one week into Feb) are due ARROYO BURRO DOWN: Drive to trailhead on boulder hopping. Moderately strenuous 7 mrt. Los Padres National Forest Districts: month. Headquarters 968-6640 at your outings chairperson’s mailbox soon. Camino Cielo then down the mountain to the Bring lunch and plenty of water. Meet behind B Ojai Dist. 646-4348 In August the preserve is open Write-up your new outings and get them over to Santa Ynez River. About 7.5mrt, 2000’ elevation of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. loss/gain. Decent shade on the North side of the DAVE COOPER 453-4103 (SB) Mt. Pinos (661) 245-3731 Saturdays and Sundays Aug. 5 & 6 your outings chair promptly. mountain and the river should be running well. September 10 Santa Barbara 967-3481 and 19 & 20 and Sept. 2 & 3 and 16 August 14 MONDAY MORNING WALK – CARPINTERIA: Start Moderately strenuous. Bring lunch and water. El CAPITAN CANYON: Start at El Capitan Canyon Santa Lucia 925-9538 & 17. the week off with a five-mile walk in our local Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Camp, walk into the canyon, cross the creek and Other Areas: Come out and explore this pris- areas. We’ll walk from Bates Beach to Carpinte- Ave. at 9am. TONY 687-1929 (SB) climb up various ridges for great view of the Santa Monica Mts. Area 370-2301 tine canyon with eight miles of ria and return. Meet at 8am, Ventura car pool lot coast. Finish with a swim in the ocean (El Capi- Conejo Parks 381-2737 or at 8:30am. Pat 643-0270 (SP) Simi Valley 584-4400 trails along the ridges and gurgling creek. Picnic by the stream and visit August 16-22 Montecito 969-3514 BACKPACK FROM TUOLUMNE MEADOWS Forest Notes the historic 1842 Ortega adobe with (YOSEMITE) TO MAMMOTH LAKES: Moderately For updated information, news releases, visitors’ center and art gallery and strenuous one way by use of YART bus service. maps, and many other goodies, go to Los explore the Discovery Center in the Approx. 55 miles. Limited by permit availability Padres National Forest website: old barn. to 6 participants. Please contact hike leader for www.r5.fs.fed.us/lospadres Docent tours are also offered as detailed trip description, equipment needs, etc. Public’s Forest PETER SCIFRES (818) 991-5769 (CJ) Best website run by citizens of the Los well as opportunities for trail main- August 18 Padres Forest Association, with info as tenance and habitat restoration. MASH SITE - MALIBU CREEK STATE PARK: Mod- varied as wildflower alerts, trailwork Reservations are required; call the erate 8 mrt hike to Mash Site and Old Forest opportunities and factious issues, wel- preserve at 567-1115. Trail. Bring water, food and lug-soled shoes. comes your input too: Meet in parking lot near Burger King on Hamp- The Preserve is about 4.5 miles shire Road in Thousand Oaks at 8am for car- www.lpforest.org west of Refugio State Beach. pooling. LILLIAN TREVISAN 498-1623 (CJ) August 19 RATTLESNAKE TRAIL: Hike up a wooded canyon with scenic views to Gibraltar Rock. Moderate 5.5 mrt. Bring lunch and water. Meet behind B of Ongoing Outings A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. DAVE Every Monday morning COOPER 453-4103 (SB) Join Elizabeth Budworth and Patricia Jump every Monday morning at 8:30 a.m. for moderate Outing Notes walks in the Ventura and Ojai areas. Now in its seventh year, the walks last about two hours The two letter abbreviation at the end of and the group sometimes goes for coffee afterward. CALL 643-0270 or 642-6971. each outing is a key to the group who Every Wednesday has organized the outing. URBAN EVENING HIKE: Weekly urban hike in Ventura meeting at 6:45 pm for a 4 mile hike AR–Arguello Group up the hill to Father Serra’s cross with view of sunset over the ocean and the Channel CJ–Conejo Group Figueroa Mountain is just one of the vistas you’ll enjoy from the Sedgwick Islands, then down the hill to the ocean and walk to end of pier, then along beach promenade SB–Santa Barbara Group Preserve, which happens to be looking for volunteer docents. (Photo by to mouth of Ventura River. Meet at the fountain across the street from the San Buenaventura SP–Sespe Group Mission. DAVE RIVAS 701-2466 WLA —West LA (Angeles Chapter) Nick DiCroce) Tuesday Evenings All phone numbers are in area code HIKES: Short, easy 90-min. hikes at Surf Beach, the Mission, Miguelito Canyon, or other (805) unless otherwise noted. spots near Lompoc (approx. 3 miles) Novice hikers will find these hikes to be a good intro- The public is welcome at all outings listed, duction to group hiking. Meet in the parking lot behind the Lompoc Civic Center Pool by unless otherwise specified. Please bring Train to be a docent 6:25 pm for carpool to hike location. Wear walking shoes and bring a flashlight. Rain can- drinking water to all outings and optionally a Sedgwick Reserve, the “crown about the natural history of the cels. VERN 733-2903 or DEAN 736-6685. (AR) lunch. Study footwear is recommended. If Every Friday jewel of the University of Califor- reserve from UCSB faculty and you have questions contact the leader listed. nia Natural Reserve System,“ will local experts. They will also receive SOCIAL HIKE: An easy-to-moderate 2-4-mrt night hike in Santa Barbara front country, Pets are generally not allowed. A parent or beach, or back roads. Meet at 6:15 p.m. at the Old Mission. Bring a flashlight. Optional responsible adult must accompany children begin a training program for volun- instruction on how to lead children potluck or pizza afterward. AL SLAYDEK (SB) under the age of 14. teer teachers in October. and adults on educational hikes. Sunday Afternoons A frequently updated listing of all outings Weekly classes will be held on There is no charge for the train- CONEJO GROUP is leading a special series of Sunday Afternoon Hikes approximately can be viewed at: http://lospadres.sierra twice a month. These hikes are geared to the interests of individuals or families who wish the reserve in Santa Ynez through ing program, but participants are club.org. This website also contains links to February. Participants will learn asked to make a two-year commit- to take a 2-3-hr. walk in the outdoors with frequent stops to examine or study wildlife and the Group web pages. the ecology. Exercise is of secondary concern. The hikes are not intended to be strenuous, ment to the reserve’s educational but may entail some ascending of hills or walking on rocks. No pets or radios. TOM outreach program. MAXWELL, 492-2184 (CJ) Monthly Programs Other volunteer opportunities ARGUELLO GROUP: Slide shows, speakers, and movies—third Friday of each month. Don’t be, with my available at the reserve include: gath- Inquire for details: 928-3598. (AR) Lost? ering seeds and specimens for its COMMUNITY SERVICE: Help keep Highway 1 beautiful. Adopt-a-Highway trash pickup “Mileage Hiking Maps” native plant nursery, habitat restora- from the Lompoc ‘Wye’ to the Base boundary. Meet at Vandenberg Village Shopping Center tion, slide and photo collection cata- parking lot at 9 a.m. on the fourth Saturday of odd-numbered months. Rain cancels. For Book or CD has 139 Detailed Day Hikes 900 Miles of information contact Connie (805) 735-2292. loguing, photo assignments, event San Luis Obispo Outings Local Trails in Ventura, S.B. & L.A. Counties. To Order: coordination, trail mapping and main- THERE ARE MANY south San Luis Obispo County outings planned monthly that should (805) 984-1504 or (805) 984-5394 tenance, public relations, fundraising, interest Los Padres Chapter members and the public. They include hikes, bike trips, cam- www.geocities.com/oxnardhiker office and technological assistance. pouts, trail riding with horses, kayaking Avila and Morro bays, and treks through the Nipomo 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE Interested? Call Lucy Thomas at Dunes area. To get on the mailing list, contact the legendary Bil Deneen at (805) 929-3647 . . . about 18 cents a hike and years of hiking enjoyment and a or email him at [email protected]. $25 687-3507 or Kate McGuinness at great investment in your health and well being. +$4 S/H FREE WITH CD 693-1356. 6•Condor Call – August/September 2006 August/September 2006 – Condor Call •5 Dick Smith is true ‘wilderness spirit’ The Wildling Art Museum is Club. After he died in 1977, at the honoring the memory of Dick age of 56, his friends and area Smith with its annual Wilderness politicians joined forces to get leg- Spirit Award, along with an exhibit islation passed commemorating of his photographs, sketches and Smith’s innumerable contributions hand-made items. to Santa Barbara County. Often called the “conscience of In 1982, the 65,000-acre Dick Santa Barbara County,” Smith was a Smith Wilderness in the Los Padres reporter, photographer, naturalist National Forest was dedicated in his and conservationist who loved the memory, also supported by the back country wilderness, a large Sierra Club. portion of which is named after him. As a journalist for the Santa Bar- Wheeler Gorge Visitor’s Center off Highway 33 behind Ojai is a great place to stop for information, maps and materi- “Dick Smith and his Backcountry bara News-Press for 29 years, he als. It will also be the headquarters for a comprehensive training program. (Photo graphic by Mike Havstad) Wilderness” runs from September educated readers about the wonders 17 through January 7 at the Wilding of nature and wilderness through to pay tribute to his lifelong dedica- his photographs and articles. He Broad backcountry training tion to protecting wilderness areas. was especially interested in the Cal- During his lifetime, Smith ifornia condor, a fascination that worked diligently with legislators to began during a hike in the 1950s. offered by forest group help establish the San Rafael His determination to study the The first-ever Wheeler Gorge The docents would greet and Crowheart Zavalla, both Chumash Wilderness area, the first of its kind bird’s behavior and habitat, and Naturalist/Docent Training Program answer questions at the Visitor Cen- descendents; Kim Stroud of the Ojai under the 1962 Wilderness Act and later to champion its protection, is will launch on Sept. 9, and continue ter, introduce and set up LPFA’s Raptor Center, and Paul Jenkin of strongly supported by the Sierra one of Smith’s many legacies. for six alternate Saturdays to Dec. 2. Saturday Speakers Program and Ventura Surfrider Foundation and the tan beach is minutes away). Moderate 7 or 8 Smith wrote and illustrated books Sponsored by the Ojai Chapter of lead hikes, walks, and talks. The Matilija Coalition, among other mrt. on ranch roads and some trails. Elevation such as California’s Back Country the Los Padres Forest Association, Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center is experts such as Havstad. gain is about 600ft. Meet behind B of A on upper and Condor, Vanishing American to the purpose is to create a core of located eight miles north of Ojai on Topics covered during the train- State Street at Hope Ave.at 9am. CHRISTINE heighten ecological awareness of the excited volunteers empowered with Scenic Highway 33. ing sessions include workshops 963-2347 (SB) condor’s plight. Smith also helped a new-found knowledge, who “The program is based on the very dedicated to birds, water issues, OUTINGS DUE: Outings for the Condor Call, cov- ering the period Oct-Jan (plus one week into spark the national environmental would like to commit three hours of successful Topanga Canyon Docents insects, national forest policies, Feb) are due NOW! Get them together and send movement in 1969 with his iconic service or more per month to help Program, which has been in opera- Chumash legends and lore, and them to [email protected]. If you are going photograph of a cormorant covered in a variety of areas. tion for over thirty years. Many of plants and animals of the region. to be a little late, drop me a note. in oil off the Santa Barbara coast. the outstanding speakers from that Special segments will focus on spe- September 11 A gifted artist as well as a jour- program have graciously volun- cific topics such as the California MONDAY MORNING WALK: Start the week off Fires close with a five-mile hike in our local area. Meet at nalist, many of Smith’s outstanding teered to help us start up our own condor, mountain lions and amphib- 8:30am at Harbor Boulevard and Spinnaker. Pat photographs featuring sweeping program,” said Mike Havstad, host ians. 643-0270 (SP) vistas of the backcountry, soaring forest areas for the Wheeler Gorge program. For more information and regis- September 16 condors, and portraits of plants and In July and August, hundreds of Instructors include the local talents tration, contact Havstad at 630- REFUGIO BEACH TO EL CAPITAN: Car pool to Refugio Beach and walk to El Capitan or beyond. animals will be on view. firefighters continued to suppress of Julie Tumamite-Stensile and Pete 9977. Easy 6 to 8 mrt. Optional swim. Bring swimsuit, The exhibit will also highlight numerous lightning-caused fires old shoes, lunch, and water. Share parking fee. his sketches and illustrated photo scattered across the Los Padres Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope albums which he frequently gave to National Forest, prompting the U.S. Have a cool desert journey Ave. at 9am. DAVE 563-4850 (SB) friends who accompanied him on Forest Service to close some areas The California/Nevada Regional some vehicle routes and add signs. September 17 RATTLESNAKE TRAIL: Hike up a wooded canyon back country hikes. Smith loved to until further notice. Conservation Committee loves the September starts with a Tamarisk with scenic views to meadow. Moderate 3.5 mrt. work with his hands and tooled Visitors should first check inci- desert so much, it sponsors trips even eradication affair in Surprise with 1000 foot elevation gain. Bring lunch and leather, built furniture, carved wood dents of fire with the Service or the in the summer, although in cooler Canyon in the Panamint Mountains water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at and even built his family’s original nearest ranger station (list on page 4 places in mountains and valleys. from Sept. 2-4, and a similar Hope Ave. at 9am. Paul 964-9002 (SB) September 18 home. Known for his generosity, Outings) before they go into the For more information or a com- work/fun event in the Santa Rosa MONDAY MORNING WALK - OJAI LAND CON- Smith gave his handmade artworks backcountry. On line, go to: plete list of trips via email, contact Wilderness from Sept. 23-24. A SERVANCY: Start the week off with a five-mile to friends as gifts and several exam- www.inciweb.org Kate Allen, 32515 121st St. East, Toiyabe Crest backpack trip is hike in our local area. We’ll cross the Ventura ples of his sculptures and household www.fs.fed.us/r5/lospadres Pearblossom CA 93553, (661) 944- planned from Sept. 14-18 and River and hike into Wills Canyon. Meet at 8am at [email protected] Mission Plaza or 8:30am in parking lot Rice objects are featured in the exhibit. Also in response to the increasing 4056 or email . finally, Sept. 30 to Oct. 1, help Road Meiners Oaks. Pat 643-0270 (SP) A series of events such as guided fire danger and hot weather, addi- For a good guide to desert travel clean and plant trees at Cottonwood September 23 pack trips in the Los Padres National tional fire restrictions have been we recommend the Sierra Club Campground during National Pub- GAVIOTA CAVES EXPLORATORY: Hike from Forest, a panel discussion about the imposed, including no target shoot- book, Adventuring in the California lic Lands Day. Gaviota beach to the caves and wind tunnels in life and legacy of Dick Smith, a 16- ing except Winchester Gun Club in Desert, by Lynn Foster. From Oct. 14-16, there is a ser- the ridges above. If possible, we will do some cross-country exploration. Some rock scrambling page monograph, and educational Santa Barbara and Ojai Valley Gun Some of the upcoming trips vice day to remove barbed wire and agility required. About 4 mrt. Bring lunch and opportunities for children and adults Club. Hunters with permits are include: fences and the next day a celebra- water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at will complement the exhibit. exempt. Smoking is only allowed at In August you can backpack the tion of the Carrizo Plain National Hope Ave. at 9 am. ROBERT 685-1283 (SB) For details of this and other campgrounds, buildings or cars. Southern Sierra along the PCT trail Monument into a little-known area September 24 GOLETA BEACH/MORE MESA: Hike along the events and exhibits, contact The These are in addition to restric- from Aug. 16-20, and from Aug. of the Caliente Mountains. Then on beach at low tide and then up onto More Mesa, Wildling, 2329 Jonata Street in Los tions already in place for the sum- 19-21 go high in the Inyo Moun- Oct. 21 & 22, tour the Avawatz looping around. Easy 4-5 mile. Bring water and Olivos, 688-1082 or log on to www. mer, including no open campfires tains where the air is cool and the Mountains proposed wilderness a snack. Meet behind B of A on upper State wildlingmuseum.org except in designated camping sites. views spectacular to help restore area. Street at Hope Ave. at 9am. KEITH 965- 9953/681-0916 (SB) September 25 MONDAY MORNING WALK - McGRATH STATE PARK: Start the week off with a five-mile hike in our local area. Meet at 8:30am at car pool lot or park before bridge at Harbor Boulevard. Pat 643-0270 (SP) September 30 TOP OF BONEY: Strenuous 8 mi loop up the north- west ridge (some boulder climbing) and returning via the cabin site/monument. Wear hiking boots, bring water, snack, hat, sunscreen, and wind- breaker. Long carpool to the trailhead. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 7am. Note the early start time! DAVE COOPER 453-4103 (SB) October 1 GUADALUPE DUNES: Car pool to Guadalupe Dunes Beach Park north of Vandenberg. Walk over impressive dune area, then loop back along beach. Long drive and moderate 8 mrt walk. Bring old shoes, lunch, and plenty of water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. VICKI 563-4850 (SB) October 2 MONDAY MORNING WALK - OAK VIEW TRAILS: Start the week off with a five-mile hike in our local area. Meet at 8am at Mission Plaza for car- pooling or at 8:30am, 45 Alto Drive, Oak View. Pat 643-0270 (SP) The “Sierra Club Secret” is that you can meet fun-loving people on our October 7 hikes. Photo by Robert Bernstein BACKBONE TRAIL: Moderate paced 10 mile, 2000’ elev. gain hike from Malibu Canyon Road, past Mesa Peak, Elephant Rocks, Castro Peak to Kanan Dume Road, where we return via Park-Link Shuttle. Meet 8am at Pacific Palisades Rideshare Meet Singles. Point or 8:30am at Backbone Trailhead fee park- ing area or park on Piuma Road shoulder just east Join the Club today of Malibu Canyon Road. Parking area is on west W1000 side 3 miles from PCH (1 mile north of tunnel, or 5 miles from Ventura Fwy). Bring water, lunch, lug- soled shoes and bus fare (call 888-734-2323 for current fare). Rain cancels. Leaders: HUGH WAR- REN 497-9612, HOWARD KAYTON (CJ) 6•Condor Call – August/September 2006 August/September 2006 – Condor Call •7 Plovers get reprieve but threats remain By Al Sanders Information and comments on the An attempt to reduce protection proposed rule may be sent by Aug. for snowy plovers along California’s 21 to the Field Supervisor (Attn: beaches was recently thwarted, but WSP-4d), U.S. Fish and Wildlife the threats to the plovers and their Service, 1655 Heindon Road, Arcata, habitat remains real. CA, 95521. Phone is (707) 822-7201, or log on to: www. fws.gov/arcata. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser- vice (USFWS) in April formally currently being implemented. It decided not to delist the Western believes there may be 2,300 snowy Snowy Plover under the federal plovers based on a 2005 Survey. Endangered Species Act (ESA). Janet Bridgers of the Ormond The Service had received a petition Wildlife Patrol has a different take from the Surf-Ocean Beach Com- on the current success. “Anyone mission of Lompoc and a second who has any personal involvement petition from the City of Morro with this issue at all knows that it has Bay. The petitions contended that been the personal commitments of the Pacific Coast population does all the volunteers who have made the not qualify either as a distinct popu- difference in bringing snowy plovers The habitat and health of snowy plovers and other endangered beach birds are discussed by (from left) Reed Smith and lation or as a threatened species. back from the edge of extinction. Linda Kraus and others at the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology in Camarillo recently. (Photo by Al Sanders) However, the Service issued a pro- “The truth is that the civilians posed rule to encourage the develop- have done such a good job that their ment of habitat conservation plans efforts are now being used against EPA may tackle toxic Halaco (HCPs), conservation agreements or them to delist snowy plovers because management plans at the county of the population gains,” she said. By Al Sanders and take action, that would be great.” of their tests before deciding on level to meet recovery goals. The The list of Los Padres Chapter Los Padres Chapter members by Halaco, located at the south end measures for a longer-range clean- comment period (see box above) on members who have helped protect now are used to the broken of Perkins Road, is surrounded by up plan. this was extended from June 20 to plovers is long and impressive—a promises and failures to act that the waters of the Ormond Beach Much of this information was Aug. 21. The Sierra Club is preparing partial list: have characterized the ongoing bat- lagoon and wetlands area, displac- divulged to the public in great detail its own response to the use of HCPs, Chapter ExCom member Dan tles to get a clean up of wetlands ing habitat that the City identified at the May meeting of the Ormond but individuals are encouraged to Pearson has volunteered to haul signs that were converted to the Waste for restoration in the early 1970s, Beach Task Force. EPA also also submit comments. and nesting material to Ormond and Management Unit (fancy name for and perhaps creating a toxic hazard informed the public that a firm If these plans are approved, the Hollywood beaches for over 15 years ‘slag pile’) at Halaco Engineering’s to the wetlands. named Chickadee had made an Service would lift the prohibition and volunteers thousands of hours to Oxnard facility. The toxics issue is what the EPA offer to purchase the slag heap and on “incidental take,” meaning that patrol and report scofflaws to Oxnard So it is understandable that a little is now investigating. Past sampling then clean it up and place homes or any failures in the plan would not police. ExCom member Kesa Ryono caution is in order before anyone falls at the Halaco site documented the hotels on the site. result in violations of the ESA and a helped put up the first fences at in love with recent efforts by the Envi- presence of elevated concentrations Chickadee’s offer has not been higher legal proof of intent to vio- Ormond way back in 1992. ExCom ronmental Protection Agency (EPA) of copper, zinc, nickel, arsenic, cad- supported by local residents. “The late the act would be required. member Ed Easton has put similar to move forward on a cleanup plan. mium, zinc, chromium and radioac- last thing we want to see is one The Los Padres Chapter has effort into the plover protection at “We have all been lead down this tive scrap metals. The EPA believes environmental mess replaced by invested years of effort to support the Coal Oil Point and Chapter Chair path many times before,” said Port that, “heavy metals such as another,” said Ryono. “Commercial initial listing of snowy plovers in Rick Skillin worked to protect Hueneme resident and Chapter Exec- chromium, lead and beryllium, and or residential development placed 1993 and then to provide protection plovers on Santa Rosa Island. utive Committee member Kesa thorium radioisotopes pose the in the middle of a wetlands is at several local beaches. The USFWS Credit should also go to the Ryono. “But if they follow through major concern at this site.” clearly inappropriate.” noted that there had been improve- Environmental Defense Center for EPA sent an Emergency Response Ryono believes that wetlands ment, notably from increased nesting their work in establishing critical Team to Halaco in May to investi- restoration should be the primary success at chapter-area beaches, habitat for snowy plovers. Their River ‘banks’ gate compliance with previous per- option. “Many of us who live in including Ormond and Hollywood lawsuit in the 1990s forced the Long-term restoration of riparian mits and orders. Based on its obser- South Oxnard and Port Hueneme beaches, Santa Rosa Island, Coal Oil USFWS to list critical habitat. habitat for the Santa Clara River vations the team determined that believe that the City of Oxnard Point and Surf Beach. Incredibly, all of the energy Parkway Project began earlier this toxics were present that were a dan- should revive its plans to make this USFWS attributes increased pop- focused on delisting snowy plovers year thanks to a $208,000 grant ger to the community and the envi- area an attraction that we can all be ulations to “management actions” came from an unpublished master’s awarded by the Santa Clara River ronment that warranted removal. proud of,” she said. “Ormond is thesis that failed to find significant Trustee Council. EPA also initiated a process to deter- always called the jewel of Oxnard, genetic differentiation between The Santa Clara River is the last mine what kinds of actions were it deserves to be treated that way.” Pacific Coast and interior plovers, natural river in the area and the necessary to address the big issues of Meanwhile, a recent court ruling even though the issue had been rec- longest free-flowing river in Southern toxics at the slag heap. The fear is allows the plaintiffs in a civil suit to ognized during the listing process California. However, it faces major that these materials are migrating resume their proceedings which had and rejected as being irrelevant. threats from development, notably into the wetlands, the water table been held up by Halaco bankruptcy the massive Newhall Ranch project, and the surrounding area. proceedings. ABOUT THE PLOVER the first phase of which is eyed along EPA entered into an agreement Environmental Defense Center, The western snowy plover Highway 126 west of Interstate 5. with Halaco on July 19 that details ChannelKeeper and Lawyers for (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) In response, Friends of the Santa the next steps in securing the site Clean Water will again tackle one has lived on the west coast for thou- Clara River, Center for Biological and doing initial cleanup actions. of the most complicated legal chal- Snowy plover and eggs. Photo by Al sands of years. It is a sparrow-sized Diversity and Wishtoyo Foundation EPA is now waiting for the results lenges in recent memory. Sanders (5 to 7 inches long), light colored filed a lawsuit against the Army shorebird with dark patches on Corps of Engineers alleging it has either side of the neck, behind the failed to address cumulative impacts Suit aims at lead bullet ban eye, and on the forehead. The of development. Pacific coast population is a feder- To get involved and/or keep up A coalition of conservation and versity (CBD), Natural Resources the state quarter as a symbol of our ally listed threatened species. By with events, contact the Friends of health organizations announced in Defense Council (NRDC), Physi- natural heritage, but if we want 1970 the number of areas where the Santa Clara River; call Ron Bot- July that they will sue the California cians for Social Responsibility condors to survive, we must stop snowy plovers were breeding had torff at 498-4323 or log on to: www. Fish and Game Commission for (PSR), and the Wishtoyo Foun- poisoning their food supply.” been reduced to 88 in California, fscr.org. continuing to allow use of toxic lead dation, along with representatives The intent to file suit follows Washington, and Oregon. That ammunition. from the hunting community served failure by an Assembly committee number fell to 33 by 1993 with only Experts say lead bullets are poi- a 60-day notice of intent to sue to pass local Assemblymember 20 in California. soning rare California condors, under the federal Endangered Pedro Nava’s bill (AB 2123) that Snowy plovers are threatened due which feed on contaminated car- Species Act. would not only limit use of lead to habitat loss, human disturbance casses left behind by hunters, who “Lead poisoning from ammuni- bullets, but also provide non-lead and predation. Because the birds and also risk poisoning themselves by tion is the single greatest obstacle to substitutes at no cost. eggs are camouflaged, beach visitors eating shot or bullet fragments the recovery of wild California con- More information about condors can unintentionally disturb resting embedded in meat. dors,” said Jeff Miller with the and the lead poisoning threat can be birds or wander right through a nest- The Center for Biological Di- CBD. “California put the condor on found at www.savethecondors.org, ing area, never knowing of any dam- age they have caused. Visitor use of the beach close to Help stop Alaska oil lease nests causes adult birds to stay off Condor Call the nest, exposing eggs to harmful on the web On September 27, the Bush mated 45,000 caribou, 60,000 geese ment of the Interior, asking that the temperature changes, predators and at: administration could auction off the and hundreds of species of birds. lease sale be cancelled. You may also the elements. Beach fires and fire- first oil and gas leases to oil compa- In response to a request for com- send it to the Sierra Club which will works disturb the nesting birds. www. nies in the Teshekpuk Lake Special ments on whether or not to weaken ensure the letter gets to the right peo- Kites, paragliders and ultralights lospadres.sierraclub.org Area of the Western Arctic. T-Lake area protections, more than ple at: Save T-Lake, c/o Sierra Club flown above nests look like preda- The decision to open up the area to 215,000 citizens spoke out in oppo- AK field office, 333 W. 4th Ave. tors, causing the adults to flee and santabarbaratrailguide.com leasing eliminates long-established sition. Yet the Department of Inte- #307, Anchorage, AK 99501. sometimes to abandon nests. Other wildlife and environmental protec- rior dismissed these diverse voices. For more details on what you can enemies include dogs and cats, and tions first put in place by Reagan The Sierra Club is asking its do to protect the Arctic, call (907) natural predators such as gulls, Administration Interior Secretary members and friends to take a minute 276-4044 or email: betsy@sierra crows and raptors, ground squirrels James Watt. It is home to an esti- today to send a letter to the Depart- clubalaska.org and shrikes. 8•Condor Call – August/September 2006 August/September 2006 – Condor Call •7 Hiking the web Do you know of a web site that would interest Los Padres Chapter members? Send it in to the Condor Call editor (new email: [email protected]) or call him at 745-5432. All begin with www. unless otherwise specified. Coast projects at Naples ...... savenaples.org Solar energy ...... newsolarhomes.ca.gov Sea Center (Stearns Wharf) ...... sbnature.org/seacenter Ormond Beach forums . . . http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ormondbeach Water saving guide ...... sbwater.org Beach webcams live! Live inland and want to know These are live cams that show what the beach is like on any given the action right away and give you a day? panorama, too. It’s easy because there are web- There are four cameras at the cams located at the Santa Barbara Santa Barbara Yacht Club, while Harbor and Ventura Beach right the Ventura one is atop the Crown near the piers. Don’t get up, just fire Royale Hotel (formerly Holiday up your internet connection and Inn). The webcam addresses, which you’ll see whether the weather is you should bookmark, are: clear or cloudy and the surf is stu- www.sbyc.org pendous or sucks. http://web.insidevc.com/webcam Opposition increasing Vehicle tracks and garbage spoil habitat areas on Hollywood Beach, but so does the grooming of natural plant material. over Island hunting (Photo by Al Sanders) By Carolyn Greene Somewhat ironically, it should fur- There are many places on this ther be remembered that it was a local HOLLYWOOD BEACH wondrous planet I know I will Republican, Rep. Robert Lagomarsino, never visit due to constraints of who helped establish the park in 1980. time, money and remoteness. Yet, I Matthew Hogan, acting assistant Agencies insensitive to beach am comforted and inspired know- Secretary of Interior for Fish, Wildlife The population of some endan- an Environmentally Sensitive Habi- tee member Trevor Smith believes ing that such unique, wild and nat- and Parks, wrote Hunter in May say- gered birds at Hollywood Beach has tat Area (ESHA). that the dredging work by the Corps ural places exist. ing that even the Bush administration crashed, probably because govern- One of the conditions applied by is being compounded by Ventura The northern Channel Islands, just opposes his hunting proposal because ment agencies are not treating it as the California Coastal Commission County’s beach grooming and other a few miles off our coast, are such the park was created, “to restore the to Ventura County for approval of management activities. remote places—sometimes appear- native ecology of the island and open the Boating Instruction and Safety “The County keeps grooming ing as mirages offshore, sometimes it to the public for hiking, camping, Terns ... Center project in the Channel the area where both terns and clear enough to seemingly touch. sightseeing.” The National Park Cont’d. from back page Islands Harbor was that the beach plovers are trying to nest. They Often called the “Galapagos of Service is also opposed to continuing 1990 by organizing volunteers to would be considered sensitive as place trash cans right in the heart of North America,” these islands are a the hunt beyond 2011. erect signs and fencing and to defined by the Coastal Act. the ESHA area and drive every- precious ecological resource with The Park Service cannot fulfill watch over nest sites to deter tres- As of two years ago, Hollywood where they want within the area almost 150 species of plants and ani- its mission to restore and conserve passers. The OWP was responsible Beach seemed to be on its way to re- that should be protected,” said mals found nowhere else on Earth. unique island ecosystems while for getting hundreds of citations establishing habitat for California Smith. Fortunately for all of us and for future more than 1,000 deer and elk feed written for off road vehicle viola- least terns and Western snowy Terns and plovers prefer to nest generations, the Channel Islands on rare oak and pine seedlings and tions and for dumping and littering. plovers. Close to 50 least tern nests in the area just beyond the high tide became a National Park in 1980. numerous other plants that occur We also reported violations by and seven plover nests were success- line, known as the wrack line, and That’s why I oppose the proposal only on these islands. the Baldwin Company that lead to ful in that year. However, the ESHA like to use the organic material that that would continue big-game hunt- The non-native animals also one of the first cease and desist designation has not been followed washes onto the shore for cover and ing for military families for non- attract non-native golden eagles orders ever issued by the California by supporting action from responsi- to forage. native “trophy” elk and deer on that have decimated native island Coastal Commission and which ble agencies of both species. “The county has picked up most Santa Rosa Island past the year fox populations. lead to a restoration order by the The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser- of the sticks and seaweed that 2011, advanced by San Diego-area Some of the quotes in a June 10 Department of Fish and Game. We vice gave permits to the Army Corps makes up the wrack line,” said Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Alpine). article in the Ventura County Star— reported violations of 1600 stream of Engineers allowing ‘take’ of both Smith, “they are destroying it, This would require closing a major- ”Disabled veterans’ group likes alteration regulations that forced least terns and plovers in 2005. The removing any native vegetation and ity of the island to the public. island hunting idea”—were both the Ventura County Flood Control Corps then dredged the area. The dune formation and driving through The 2011 deadline was agreed interesting and ingenuous. According District to cease draining the results were predictable—no terns the habitat area. In effect, there is upon by the National Park Service to a Vail and Vickers’ representative: Ormond lagoon. We reported viola- have nested at Hollywood since the no ESHA there is no habitat.” and the island’s previous owners, “We want a solution that doesn’t tions by Halaco Engineering that habitat was altered and plovers tried Smith frequently calls the Conser- Vail and Vickers Co., which received result in the annihilation of these became part of the litigation that to nest this year unsuccessfully. vation Committee to verify his obser- almost $30 million in taxpayer herds. We are happy it is bringing a resulted in closure of the plant. Sespe Group Executive Commit- vations, establishing himself as one money when it sold their portion of public disclosure on what to do with The chapter has also participated of Ventura County’s leading activists. the island in 1986. these wonderful animals.” in planning issues that may have an “Trevor really cares about protecting Rep. Hunter’s proposal to con- In late July, however, the PVA effect on Ormond habitat and was EAVESDROPS wildlife and has the ability to see tinue hunting in Channel Islands told Hunter it now opposes his ini- the primary force in stopping many “Life is not measured by the problems that other people never National Park passed the House of tiative because of “the numerous projects being considered by the number of breaths we take, but notice,” said Point Mugu Wildlife Representatives (supported by Rep. obstacles inherent to the island, cities of Oxnard, and Port Hueneme by the moments that take our Center Director Dan Pearson. Elton Gallegly, R-Simi Valley, but including ingress and egress, logis- and Ventura County that would breath away. “ —Alan Sanders opposed by Rep. Lois Capps, D- tics, personal safety and cost far have a harmful effect on area —George Carlin Santa Barbara) but was opposed by a outweigh the possible, limited ben- wildlife. The chapter continues to bipartisan vote in the Senate. efit it could provide.” provide leadership to the Ormond Despite losing support of a key Does it seem rather ludicrous for Beach Task Force and Observers to of this work was a great success military group recently, Hunter’s supporters to want to preserve these implement a consensus plan. through the 1990s as the numbers proposal is still pending and may be magnificent animals so they can be Least terns had not nested suc- of nests constantly increased even- revived when Congress reconvenes slaughtered by hunters? cessfully at Ormond for at least 25 tually reaching a high of nearly 100 in September, so continued public Could the military reserve space years prior to our Chapter’s nests. opposition is necessary. for hunting on islands that are not involvement. Our Chapter’s efforts were part of the national park, such as We are now in our 17th year of merged with the Western Alliance San Clemente or San Nicolas? Or leadership in protecting least terns, for Nature to form a partnership to Island chick could they use military bases such snowy plovers and all other area protect Ormond wildlife in 1993 as Camp Pendleton, Vandenberg or wildlife. named the Ormond Project under on webcam Hunter-Liggett, or an area closer to But we did have help. Ventura which the patrol now functions. It’s been since 1949 that a bald Hunter’s San Diego-area district? Audubon, Surfriders, Environmen- The patrol is always looking for eagle was hatched on the Channel Why close off part of a national tal Coalition, Ormond Beach volunteers; call 488-7988 for Islands where the population was park with unique, rare and endan- Observers, Point Mugu Wildlife details. RECYCLE decimated because of DDT pollu- gered species and habitats? Center and others helped acquire old cellphones, pagers, PDAs, tion. Sierra Club members and friends and construct miles of fencing. All chargers & ink cartridges But in April the first chick since who oppose the hunting should then broke from its shell and in July contact Representatives Gallegly WITH US and the it fledged from Santa Cruz Island. and Capps, and Senators Feinstein Flushed drugs still harmful Chapter gets funds. Eagle fans were delighted to and Boxer to voice strong opposi- In the past, the public was ad- remove or destroy the chemicals watch its progress via a special tion to continuing private hunting vised to flush unwanted medicines found in many drugs, which conse- Drop off or mail to our office webcam installed by Channel operations on Santa Rosa Island down the toilet as a poison preven- quently end up in surface water. (address on page 2) or Islands Live, a new project that uses past 2011. tion measure. The best way to dispose of call Erin, 965-9719 technology to let the public see —Carolyn Greene is a 35-year But recent studies indicate that unwanted medicines is to take them what’s happening on the islands. Sierra Club member (Conejo the pharmaceuticals found in waste- to a Household Hazardous Waste Underwater cams are also used. Group) and is one of about 200 water may have an adverse effect Collection Center or event. Check it out for yourself at: National Park Service volunteers at on the environment. Sewage treat- To find out more, log on to: www. http://chil.vcoe.org. Channel Islands National Park. ment facilities are not designed to nodrugsdownthedrain.org. How life turned for beach terns By Al Sanders snowy plovers in violation of the Official site monitors started to stop overflights by ultralights as After two consecutive years of Endangered Species Act and that find abandoned eggs and even dead well as the paragliders. large scale site abandonment, they were harming most other chicks and adult terns. During 2004 The results of stopping these endangered California least terns avian species as well. and 2005 most of the nest sites aircraft have been profound. have returned to nest successfully Paragliders are restricted to were abandoned. After two years of Least terns and snowy plovers at Ormond Beach this summer. flying below 500 feet and have constant harassment it appeared benefited immediately. The comeback apparently con- the capability of flying just a few that the Ormond least tern colony But just as important is the firms a theory that the impacts feet above the ground at very was on the verge of site abandon- increase of many species with created by motorized paragliders slow air speeds. Birds react to the ment and local extirpation. lesser levels of protection. were the determining factors that aircraft as if it were a large preda- Many attempts were made by Upwards of 200 elegant terns are had previously decimated the tor. With least terns this would the Los Padres Chapter, Ormond now roosting at Ormond. Black bird’s population. mean that the whole colony Beach Observers, Earth Alert, the skimmers, night herons and great Volunteers have located 57 would fly towards the aircraft and Beacon Foundation and others to blue herons are again a constant nests and many have already pro- swoop or “dive-bomb” the air- persuade the pilots to fly else- presence. Water foul of many duced chicks. craft to try to scare it away. where. Many responded by sup- varieties are back in numbers. The one observable factor that This tactic often works with sea porting the petition to delist snowy “It is simply amazing to see has occurred at the beach, thanks gulls, but is inadequate to deal plovers and least terns. They how wildlife over the whole of to many citizens and the Oxnard with man and machines. Terns refused to stop flying over the nest the Ormond area has responded City Council, is the forced would often and repeatedly be off sites, even insisting on doing their to the removal of the paraglid- removal of motorized paragliders their nests for a half hour at a time, take-offs near snowy plover nests. ers,” said Bridgers, who also that had been harassing Ormond making the nests vulnerable to Eventually the Chapter changed serves as a volunteer on the wildlife for over two years. other predators but, more impor- its efforts to try to persuade Ormond Wildlife Patrol (OWP). These unregulated personal tantly, subjecting the eggs to expo- responsible agencies to do some- “There is absolutely nothing as aircraft started appearing in large sure, rendering them infertile. thing to stop the flights over nest- joyous as the calls of least terns numbers early in 1994. It was Witnesses on several occasions ing areas. We were unsuccessful in in the spring.” immediately apparent to Ormond photographed and videotaped the getting enforcement of ESA and For many volunteers the joy of volunteers and wildlife officials paragliders hovering over the other laws, and U.S. Fish and this year’s success is tempered that the paragliders were harming nest sites with least terns flying Wildlife Service biologist Chris with the frustration of how difficult and harassing both least terns and around them in panic. Delith assisted in finding an it was to get anything done. “Least applicable municipal code that terns are an endangered species. It was usable by the City of Oxnard. shouldn’t have been this hard and Earth Alert Director, Janet taken this long to stop something Bridgers, devised a campaign to so wrong,” said Bridgers. educate Oxnard City Council Our Chapter has lead efforts to members about the paraglider protect least terns and snowy problem. In October 2005 the plovers on Ormond Beach since Council unanimously passed an TERNS . . . see page 8 ordinance to prohibit take offs of motorized aircraft from within Next issue of city limits with the exception of Oxnard airport. Delith joined with our chapter and many others Condor Call to support the new ordinance. comes out 1st of October Meanwhile, citizens communi- DEADLINES: cated with Camarillo Airport, Editorial: Sept. 15 Advertising: Sept. 20 At 83, Jean Bridgers (right) is the oldest volunteer for the Ormond Wild- which leases space to ultralight Questions? Call 745-5432 life Patrol, and her daughter Janet may qualify for the most enthusiastic. aircraft flyers. The goal was to (Photo by Al Sanders)