27,500 the Current Acres Informational Newsletter for Summer 2020 (June-August) Since 1989 Conservancy

Reflections on the Great Pause of 2020 supply chains to be more local and resilient? Will we By Elena DeLacy retain these wonderful support networks to lift up our most vulnerable in times of need? I hope the answer is a As I write this article at my kitchen table, seques- resounding yes. tered at home since mid-March due to the global pan- This historic time has also made it clear that the demic, I feel privileged to live in a place where, in sec- greatest strength of any organization is its ability to onds, I can touch the earth, hear birdsong and hear the adapt to rapidly changing conditions. The talented team breeze through pine boughs. Not everyone is so lucky. of people who work at ARC are full of creativity and Over 110,000 people worldwide have perished from the determination, pivoting quickly to adapt to the shifting novel coronavirus. Millions of people in New York City priorities. To keep our work going now and in the and other urban areas all over the world only venture future, staff has been busily adjusting and finding new out of their apartments once a funding sources, which has week to shop for been especially challenging, groceries, if at all. Millions of given the circumstances. Our Americans have been laid off or Education Program, coordinat- have to stay home to care for ed brilliantly by Garrett Gust, is children who cannot attend now offering digital and online school. I have the extreme content. Chili Bar Park, man- good fortune to work for an aged by Kelly Croffoot, has organization that has retained remained open with adapted its entire staff despite cancelled check-in procedures. Our programs, declining revenue fantastic Board of Directors has and a dismal economy. I am remained supportive and honored to work beside people Pacific dogwood (Cornus nutallii) blooms at Lewis Ranch this Spring. steadfast in their support of our Laura Ashburn Photography. who care so deeply for their mission and staff. fellow humans and community that they are willing to Our community of supporters – thousands of sacrifice their money and time to organize the creation of people strong – are still out there sharing their gifts with protective gear for health care workers in need. The their communities and continuing to support ARC. We extraordinary creativity, compassion, collaboration and remain a land trust at our core, but this adversity has optimism that are evident in our local community have shown me that ARC is so much more than a land trust. been amplified all over the world. I have been rejoicing We are a support network, a community of helpers, a in the many stories of human kindness and generosity I buzzing hive of generosity and resilience. Thank YOU have been reading and hearing about every day. for being such an integral part of our collective success. I This global crisis, which has brought our econo- dearly miss seeing all of

you, and hope that once IN THIS ISSUE my to its knees, has also revealed what is really Feature Article 1 important to me: health, community, healthy food, clean again, very soon, we can Saying goodbye—Dick Bush 2 water, shelter, and nature – basically our habitat! The come together to Conservation Update 3 What’s Up At Wakamatsu Farm 4 Great Pause, as I will forever refer to this period in time, celebrate our success! Volunteer Spotlight—Gershon/Rossi 5 has thrown us off of the gigantic treadmill of life and For now, enjoy the beau- Ecological Beings article 6 Program & Hikes 7-9 given us a chance to re-think what our new normal will ty of the Sierra and stay Education Update & Teahouse 10-11 be. Will it mean less commuting to work and more well friends. Change article 31-Year Infographic & Volunteering 12-14 video and tele-conferencing, thereby reducing our Thank You Volunteers & Donors 14-15 dependence on fossil fuel? Will we re-structure our Become a Supporter 16 page 2 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

American River ARC Loses A Dear Friend

Conservancy Dick Bush loved the out- PO Box 562 348 Hwy 49 doors. He enjoyed traveling, camp- Coloma, CA 95613 ing, river rafting, and backpacking, (530) 621-1224 including backpacking across Death Fax: (530) 621-4818 Valley, and week-long backpacking Email: [email protected] trips with his young family in Website: ARConservancy.org Yosemite and . He ARC Board of Directors especially loved the Scott Vail—President and living in the foothills where he Kyle Pogue—Vice President established Madroña Vineyards. Steve Clark — Treasurer Dick also deeply cared about pre- Christina Salomon —Secretary serving healthy ecosystems and Cathy Ciofalo Carla Soracco Clint Collins places of natural wonder and beauty Suzanne Borth Rene Hamlin Lee Van Pelt for future generations to explore and

enjoy. He was a careful land stew- Staff ard in the way he farmed and lived, as well as through organizations Elena DeLacy Executive Director he supported. As the American River Conservancy’s mission of Dillon Brook ensuring healthy ecosystems in our local watersheds through Stewardship Manager conservancy, stewardship and education fit their values and interests, Melissa Lobach Dick and his wife Leslie were strong supporters of ARC and its work Development Manager since early on. Dick passed away on January 30, 2020. Though he no Autumn Gronborg longer can, he has helped ensure that others – both now and in the Forest Restoration Project Manager future – will be able to enjoy this area he so loved. Garrett Gust ARC would like to share our gratitude for the Bush Family for Stewardship & Education Coordinator their many years of generous donations, including their recent Marie Imler Bookkeeper request for community donations in memory of Dick Bush. By Julie Allen bringing in funding and potential new members, requesting Public Outreach & Office Manager donations to ARC in memory of our loved ones is a deeply altruistic Sue Robbins way of thinking forward to future generations who will depend upon Nature Center Docent the watershed for their own lives. For over a decade the Bush Kelly Croffoot Family’s fine wines at Madroña Vineyards have contributed to our Chili Bar Manager social gatherings and the fond memories of countless ARC friends. Dick will be a deeply missed at our future events, and our condolences are with the Bush Family in their time of loss. If you would like to make a donation to ARC in memory of Dick Bush, please contact us or note on check or online giving memo line. Please tell us how we are doing

You are a vital part of American River Conservancy’s story. Without your support, we cannot conserve places where people and nature thrive or keep these treasured landscapes healthy and resilient. We want to make your experience the best it can possibly be, so please share your thoughts about our work. Your responses are confi- dential and anonymous. We will share general results with all supporters. Please see insert, or complete the online survey at http://tiny.cc/h17ynz. page 3 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

Land Conservation Update

For almost 31 years, ARC has worked with private landowners, public agencies and funding partners to preserve habitat, agricultural lands, recreational access and riparian corridors. Since 1989, ARC has protected over 27,500 acres through conservation easement and fee-title acquisition. Approximately 9,250 acres of land conserved by ARC since 1989 is classified as agricultural land – working farms and cattle ranches – while also serving as important wildlife corridors in the region. Why is this important? First, rangeland is largely situated in the foothill elevations of our watersheds, where there is an increased threat of subdivision and development, which also overlaps with high -conservation-value oak woodlands and riparian corridors. Second, as the human population grows, conservation of large open spaces is critical to allow systems to adapt and maintain resiliency in the face of changing ecological processes produced by climate change. By preventing loss and fragmentation of oak woodland habitats and by protecting intact riparian corridors and working agricultural lands, the Conservancy seeks to support a more resili- ent landscape and preserve the capacity of land managers to address the consequences of climate change in the region through adaptive management.

Lewis Ranch ARC is working to raise $4,470,000 in private donations and grants to acquire this 972-acre ranch located near the town of Greenwood. In March 2020, the Sierra Nevada Conservancy approved a one-million-dollar grant for this project. Lewis Ranch is situated on Greenwood Creek, a perennial foothill tributary to the South Fork American River. More than three miles of riparian front- Enjoy a Lewis Ranch virtual tour at: age, varying topography and a mosaic of vegetation https://youtu.be/XGdoHJWdydU types make the Lewis Ranch an extremely diverse habitat. A working ranch, the Lewis family and nearby ranchers have utilized the Ranch’s rolling hills as rangeland for nearly 40 years. Foothill yellow-legged frog, western pond turtle, Sierra newt, bobcat, grey fox, river otter, American kestrel, golden eagle and hundreds of other wildlife species use the area as a wildlife corridor. In fact, El Dorado County’s general plan identifies a portion of the property as an Important Biological Corridor.

Chapman Canyon The 543-acre Chapman Canyon property has recently been recommended for funding by the Wildlife Conservation Board. Located in the Middle Fork American River watershed in Placer County, this project will protect 2.5 miles of the unimpaired North Fork of the Middle Fork American River, as well as intact conifer/hardwood forest adjacent to a Designated Roadless Area. During a recent visit to the property, ARC staff observed several Giant sequoia (Sequioa sempervirens) thriving on the cooler north-facing slopes of the property. This project will protect important riverine stretches that provide cold water climate refugia for native species at an intergrade between conifer and hardwood forest types. Vegetation “transitional zones” such as these are important to protect in order to maintain habitat diversity in the face of climate change.

North Fork Conservation ARC is working with the Frost-Hurzel family to facilitate the permanent conservation of approximately 300 acres on the North Fork Cosumnes River and Steely Fork Cosumnes River near Somerset. Rick, Melinda, and son Teran are part of ARC’s Legacy Circle because of their intent to donate a Conservation Eaesement and Fee-title interest in the parcels that are currently under their care. ARC hopes to finalize this donation in 2020. The property, which is adjacent to BLM land, contains lush and diverse riparian habitat, mixed conifer forest, and ponds that support hundreds of native wildlife species. page 4 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

 Established in 1869  Site of 1st Japanese Colony in USA  Birthplace of 1st Japanese-American What’s up at Wakamatsu Farm?  Gravesite of Okei-san

This Spring is much different from our last

when WakamatsuFest150 planning was in full swing for the third consecutive year. Leading up to June of 2019, ARC was appealing to the widest range of supporters, performers, volunteers, and guests from around to world to participate in our sesquicentennial celebration. Held on June 6 to 9, WakamatsuFest150 was the biggest event ARC ever hosted. One year later while Wakamatsu Farm is relatively dormant during the present global pandemic, let’s take a quick look back and a brief glimpse forward. Held exactly 150 years after the Wakamatsu Colonists’ historic arrival date, over 4,000 people joined Japanese and American dancers at WakamatsuFest150 (photo by Betty Sederquist) WakamatsuFest150, including over 3,600 visitors, 100 performers, 100 vendors, and 200 $219,000. The funding helped ARC retain employees to volunteers. Celebrating 150 years of Japanese keep our mission moving forward this year. American heritage, three simultaneous stages offered All the better that ARC hosted the festival in 72 hours of entertainment, includ- 2019 given our Spring 2020 quaran-

ing music, dancing, lectures, VENUE RENTALS tine. Sadly, this Spring we had to demonstrations, and more during are now available! cancel all Farm classes, field trips, ideal weather. Our new tea house volunteer days, events and all other Create your own memorable buzzed with tea services. Scholars programs. We even postponed our experiences at Wakamatsu Farm. and performers from as far away as first Obon Festival until 2021 New York City and Tokyo spoke Contact ARC for details. (sorry!). But this fertile period has and performed. The Colony email: [email protected] allowed us to plant seeds for the or call: 530-621-1224 history was dramatized during dai- Farm's future, especially newly en- ly live-action plays, meaning we hanced outdoor education program- have an excellent script for future productions. ing and remote learning. We are also planning a Fall Celebrating together were honored guests of the actual Harvest Festival on October 24th. When we can all Wakamatsu story, including Colony descendants and gather again, Wakamatsu Farm will be available for the heirs of the Matsudaira clan line and the Tokugawa event rentals. For more information visit: Shogunate. Docents gleefully interpreted to diplomats www.ARConservancy.org/wakamatsu-events. and politicians like the It takes colossal efforts from volunteers, staff, Consul General of Japan and and others for the outreach needed to turn a cultural former Governor Jerry landmark into a destination Farm for future Brown. Over 20 news sources generations. Looking back, we ask: "Was it all worth shared the festival with the it?" Considering all the positive outcomes and feed- rest of the world. Social me- back, and people still praising their festival experienc- dia outreach was unchart- es, the answer remains "Yes, absolutely!" Thank you ed. For posterity, we im- again to all who helped and joined. If you came, or proved infrastructure, built you couldn't, find our retrospective video here: new stages, installed drinking www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUVGzsdpbik&t= fountains, and unveiled a We look forward to seeing you soon at new monument from Japan. Wakamatsu Farm.

Newly donated arch for Covering all expenses, the picture-perfect moments experience raised over By Melissa Lobach page 5 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

Volunteer Spotlight

Keith Gershon and Janet Rossi By Elena DeLacy

I caught up with Janet Rossi and Keith Gershon over the phone (due to the stay-at-home order) in April to learn a little bit more about these 2016 recipients of ARC’s “Volunteer of the Year” Award. Both Janet and Keith are avid outdoor enthusiasts, and moved to the Placerville area from the Bay Area in 2011. Keith, an accomplished whitewater kayaker, had been coming to the South Fork American River since the late 1970s, when his love of whitewater boating began. Janet, who is retired from the medical profession, spends a lot of time skiing, snowshoe- ing, hiking, biking and enjoying the outdoors in many forms. It would be remiss of me to mention Janet and Keith and not mention their loyal companion, Byrd. If you have ever been to the Nature Center during a mailing, or met Keith and Janet at Cronan Ranch on the trail, you’ll know who I’m talking about – this sweet little cattle dog is never far from their side. Keith, who grew up in Chicago, came to at the age of 22. His first job in the Golden State was as an apprentice electrician. He eventually went on to become the Di- rector of Electrical Safety at the Lawrence Berkeley and Law- rence Livermore Labs. A skilled electrician, Keith has volun- teered hundreds of hours completing electrical work for ARC. He says that his most memorable volunteer moment was com- pleting the electrical work at the American River Headwaters Camp. “It was an interesting challenge, because even the small- est job requires two or three trips to the hardware store. There is no hardware store up there. Every last nut, bolt, cover plate, box - you name it - had to be purchased in advance.” I think it’s a testament to his skill that he was able to finish the job without any extra trips to the hardware store. Janet, who was raised in California, has worked as both a Physical Therapist and Physician Assistant in emergency rooms, jails, and several different hospitals, including Marshall Hospital in Placerville. She loves to travel, and her wanderlust has taken her to Italy and all over the United States. Janet is a regular volunteer for mailings, has helped clear blackberries at Spivey Pond, done trail work, and is a Certified California Naturalist. Janet’s most memorable volunteer moment was doing trail work with Vicky Vail. During the process, she was clearing vines that she later found out were poison oak. After that experience, she knows what to watch out for! Community is very important to Janet and Keith. ARC isn’t the only organization they are active in – they also volunteer at the Gold Trail Grange in Coloma. Between the boating community, ARC and the Grange, Janet says, “we have found our ‘tribe’ – wonderful people who share a lot of the same values like taking care of our environment and taking care of our community.” This community has shown they care about Janet and Keith, too. In 2017, when the river was threatening to carry their house away and they had to evacuate, “all of these people just showed up without us having to call anyone. Interested in The community showed up with trucks and trailers to Volunteering? help us in our crisis,” said Keith. When asked why they

Go to ARConservancy.org/join-us give so much of their time to ARC, Keith responded, “It’s Use the VOLUNTEER FORM to sign up very simple. As far as I am concerned, ARC gives me for your specific volunteer interests. back way more than I give as a volunteer. We do a lot of receiving from ARC. Besides protecting the watershed, which is absolutely vital, ARC gives us all of these beauti- ful places to recreate.” page 6 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August) We Are Ecological Beings Garrett Gust

We are a part of this planet. By that, I mean it is more than a floating rock in space that serves as a convenient habitat to host people and all carbon-based life. Our planet is a system; a series of interrelations which dually exerts forces on us and which we exert forces on. I would say this concept is timeless; a simple walk outdoors in a blizzard or rainstorm will serve to remind you that we too are subject to feeling those forces of nature, especially if we are unprepared. On the flip side, we see and experience everyday the multitude of ways we exert forces on nature (think dams, roads, houses, farms, emissions, pollution). As we adapt and adjust in trying times, try to remember that we are entangled in both natural and social systems. Not only are we intertwined with the natural systems that we cherish -- our rivers, mountains, and plant and animal communities, but we are also profoundly connected with others at the local, regional, national, and international levels. Chorus frog on Amaranth at Right now some of us may be feeling quite disconnected from both our natural and social Wakamatsu Garden communities, but the more we recognize and pay attention to the ways we connect to things around us, the more we can reflect on the critical importance of open space, access to natural areas, and sharing experiences together outdoors. This concept speaks to a critical foundation of ARC’s education programs -- that we are ecological beings. So, each spring, summer, and fall -- on field trips, at summer camp, and in public programs -- we take people of all ages out-of-doors, into the very systems of which we are a part; to learn about them, to recreate in them, and to appreciate them. We put our bodies, hearts, and minds back into the systems, back out into the weather, and we disconnect from electronics and reconnect with each other. We do this collectively as a group to share not only experiences, but camaraderie and companionship. In short, we offer valuable opportunities to reconnect with ecology, to reconnect to community, and to remind ourselves of the roles and responsibilities that come along with being part of the systems of our planet. Things may look different this year. To offer programs, we have to adapt and modify how we go about them to ensure that we keep our community safe. But know that we are committed to continue offering ways for everyone to participate as social and natural beings in all of the wonderful systems of which we have always been a part.

The Ripple Effects of the Pandemic

While social distancing and shelter-in place orders due to COVID-19 have isolated us all, we remain united in support of our community’s health and well-being. During the pandemic, we have extended ourselves and leveraged resources in new and creative ways, including: · Offered rent relief to the farmers at Wakamatsu Farm; · Donated weekly fresh organic produce to those in need via Gold Trail Union School District and The Center for Violence-Free Relationships thanks to a COVID-19 relief grant from the Sacramento Region Community Foundation; · Established the Nature Center as a drop site for a Snack Food Drive benefitting our local domestic violence safe house; · Established the Nature Center as a drop site for mask-making materials; · Offered webinars as a new option for outdoor education; · Encouraged staff to volunteer paid time in our community to help those in need (safely, of course); · Followed California State mandates for social distancing and avoiding public gatherings; and · Continuous cleaning and sanitization of Nature Center to prepare for reopening.

Thanks to our supporters, board, and staff, so many ripples are helping so many lives while keeping us all connected. Feel free to JUMP IN or contact us if you want to help too! page 7 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August) Program Calendar

June Saturday the 6th 8am-5pm Granite Chief Day Hike Saturday the 13th 9-10:30am Dreamcatcher Class Saturday the 20th 10am-12pm Beginning Birding Friday the 26th 5:30-8:30pm Endless Summer Nights-Concert Saturday the 27th 9am-1pm Cronan Adventure Hike Sunday the 28th 10am-12pm Poetry Workshop Sunday the 28th 10am-11am Tai Chi

July 11th-12th 8am Sat—5pm Sun Granite Chief Backpack Trip Friday the 26th 5:30-8:30pm Endless Summer Nights-Concert Saturday the 10th 10am-12pm Ink & Paint 101 Wednesday the 15th 9-11am Standup Paddle Boarding Saturday the 25th 9am-3pm Cosumnes Meadow Hike Sunday the 26th 10am-11am Tai Chi

August Saturday the 8th 8am-3pm Geologic History Hike 8th-9th 8am Sat-5pm Sun Granite Chief Backpack Trip Friday the 26th 5:30-8:30pm Endless Summer Nights-Concert Wednesday the 14th 9-11am Standup Paddle Boarding Saturday the 15th 9am-12pm Wildlife Photography Hike Sunday the 30th 10am-12pm Poetry Workshop

The American River Conservancy is located in the American River Nature Center inside the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park at 348 Hwy. 49, Coloma, CA The Nature Center & Bookstore are open to the public Friday Thru Sunday from 10 am- mm. Our offices are open to volunteers and supporters Monday thru Friday from 9 am- pm and weekends from 10 am- pm. We can be reached by phone at ( 30) 621- 122 or online at arconservancy.or . page 8 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August) Programs Plus All Programs are TENTATIVE Geologic History Hike of the Sierra Nevada Saturday, August 8th 8am-3pm ONLY, due to rapidly changing State Enjoy a day at Wright's Lake where you will guidelines for social gatherings. explore different geologic environments, including See our website calendar for updates, meadows, forests, glacial and water features with full descriptions, and to sign up. spectacular views of Crystal Basin. Well-behaved dog on-leash welcome. Suggested donation: $5/members ARConservancy.org/events or $10/non-members. No dogs allowed unless otherwise stated

American River Foraged Dreamcatcher Class Beginning Birding Saturday, June 13th 9-10:30am Saturday June 20th Join Jamie Hieronimus of Shoshone heritage 10am-12pm for instruction in creating dreamcatchers, passed Interested in birding but down through generations. Jamie’s mission is to con- unsure where to start? Natural- nect people with nature and God. Gaining knowledge ist and wildlife photographer along the light nature walk to the river, along with Hayley Crews will lead this class plant identification and usage, are major lessons in the introducing the hobby of birding making of your Foraged Dream Catcher. All materials at a beginner level. Responsible and instruction provided. Cost: $50/members, $60/ teens+ welcome. Suggested non-members. donation: $10/members, $15/ non-members. Capturing Wakamatsu: A Poetry Walk/Workshop Cronan Mountain Adventure Hike June 28th & August 30th 10am-12pm Saturday, June 27th 9am-1pm Taylor Graham, El Dorado County’s first Poet Join Tom Petersen on this 5-6-mile loop hike Laureate, and award-winning Sacramento-area poet from Cronan trailhead to the Down and Up Trail to Katy Brown, will lead an exploration of farmhouse, the Connector Trail towards Magnolia, then turn back barn, and surroundings, then ask participants to write and take the NEW Connector Trail back to the top of a poem inspired by what they’ve experienced. the mountain and back down to Cronan. Suggested Suggested Donation: $5/members, $10/non-members. donation: $5/members, $10/non-members.

Cosumnes Headwater Meadow walk Saturday, July 25th 9am-3pm Meander through a beautiful meadow of the Middle Fork Cosumnes River, with lunch adjacent to a waterfall. Enjoy a brief discussion of meadow restora- tion project with volunteers from the Cosumnes Coali- tion. Suggested donation: $5/members or $10/non- members. Page 9 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

Open Space Easy Tai Chi – Qigong falls and Indian petroglyphs. The hike is moderate June 28th & July 26th 10-11am with no step elevation gains. Total round trip is 10 Let the open space of Wakamatsu enhance our miles in and out. Cost: $20/members, $25/non- overall wellness via movement exercises. Instructor members. Gigi Tze-yue Hu is a semi-retired Asian Studies educa- tor and author. She offers Tai Chi – Qigong classes to Endless Summer nights - Concerts at the Farm select community groups. Ages 8+ welcome with Fridays, June 26th, July 10th & Au ust 1 th 5:30-8:30pm adult. No prior experience is required. Suggested Enjoy a warm evening in the Keyaki Garden at Donation: $5/members, $10/non-members. Wakamatsu Farm and hear your favorite classic rock, blues, jazz, and country tunes! Still Rock’n & Friends is Ink and Paint 010: Natural paints from our your local “Feel Good Music” Band. This local band landscape includes Craig Harper, Dennis Edwards, Lenny Brann, Saturday, July 11th 10am-12pm and John Hobbs. Still Rock’n enjoys having guest musi- Join Judi Pettite of Bio Hue for a primer on best cians sit in on a few songs and that just adds to the plants, mushrooms and soil to use in your homemade good vibes they like to ink and watercolors. We'll make a few batches of color put out. Suggested Do- and try them out! All supplies provided and sample nation: $10. sheets are your take-home. Check out some of her projects @biohue on IG or at judipettite.com. Judi lives S.U.P. on Lower Lake and works in Placerville, foraging and cultivating Clementine th color in her dye garden. Some of her favorites include Wednesdays, July 15 & th indigo, walnut, madder root, weld, red earth, and August 12 9-11am mushrooms. Cost: $55/members, $55/non-members. This adventure is for SUP enthusiasts, beginner to intermediate. Enjoy Wildlife Shooting – No Guns Please the beauty and serenity of Lake Clementine in the th Saturday, August 15 8am-12pm Auburn State Rec Area with volunteer Ami Stroud. Your local safari host, photographer Ken Ma- Suggested Donation: $5/members, $10/non-members. har, will point out wildlife while traversing a mild hike (location TBD). Ken will give step-by-step Granite Chief Whiskey Creek / Five Lakes Trail / photography instructions to participants. Camera not Shanks Cove Trail necessary. Ken is a local photographer who has led Overnight Backpack Trip several African safaris and generously volunteers for Saturday August 15th 8AM to ARC. ken-mahar-photos.com for samples of his work Sunday August 16th 5PM and for upcoming safaris. Ages 12+ welcome. Suggest- ARC volunteer Tom Dodson ed donation $5/members or $10/non-members. will lead this exploration of the Area from the Grayhorse Valley Trailhead, Grayhorse Valley Trail (15E11). This is not a beginner’s backpacking trip. Cost: $40/members, $55/non-members. Granite Chief Picayune Valley Day Hike Saturday, June 6th 8am – 5pm ARC volunteer Tom Dodson will lead this ex- Many thanks... ploration of the Granite Chief Wilderness Area to the volunteers who led a hike, taught a Picayune Valley starting at Talbot Creek. We will hike workshop, or offered/gave a presentation this up along the middle fork of the American River pass- spring. We can only offer these programs ing through an old growth forest. After crossing the because of your commitment to our communi- ty. If you would like to become a volunteer, headwaters of the middle fork we will emerge into the complete the Volunteer Interest form at Picayune Valley. In the valley we will explore water- ARConservancy.org/join-us page 10 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August) Education Update By Garrett Gust

This spring has been a difficult one for environmental education at American River Conservancy. With the circumstances surrounding COVID-19, we canceled our in-person programs to keep our communities safe. While we were devastated that so many students, community members, and learners were going without our programs, staff has responded by developing new infrastructure and by adapting some of our programs online. The new spaces, the Food Lab and Nature Play Space, are both exciting new elements that will greatly enhance our programs as soon as we open up for in-person business! In the meantime, our online programs are a temporary fix to provide ways for our communities to learn, connect, and stay engaged during these trying times. As soon as it is safe to do so, we will resume our regular programming!

Nature Play Space ARC’s new natural materials play area! This area is designed by the creative minds of Wild Immersion and ARC staff to allow children to imagine, play, and create in a context that is entirely constructed of materials sourced from nature. By removing standard play elements that are built and designed with plastic, the goal is to build positive associations of nature by linking play with the great outdoors! This space will build familiarity, comfort, and confidence in young learners while inspiring them to explore, discover, and appreciate the natural world.

This spring we are scheduled to complete three elements of the Nature Play Space:

The Dry Creek Run This element is designed to look and feel like a dry river bed. Granite rocks, sand, and gravel all come together to give learners an idea of what makes up a river system. The native plants on the banks demonstrate valuable ecological and biological lessons. Oh, and the best part, the whole thing doubles as a fun, engaging natural movement course.

The Log Balance Section - Coming soon! These cedar logs are a play element that will challenge balance, build confi- dence and teach responsible recreation. With non-standardized materials sourced from nature itself, youth will have to make informed decisions about where to step next and how to navigate this natural maze.

The Tracking Pit This interactive zone has three sections with different substrates, allowing learners to observe and appreciate various ways the ground can affect tracking and movement. These substrates can be used for lessons on tracking local fauna, or youth can experiment for themselves by moving in different ways through the pit!

The Nature Play Space is an ongoing project that needs your support! We are looking to expand the infrastruc- ture and elements of the project, seeking creative and engaging curriculum to bring to programs, and we are looking for interested groups to come use the space once we are all able to come together again. If you want to get involved, please email ARC’s Education Coordinator at [email protected].

Going online!Our education staff is working hard to provide some online resources for our community! Check in all summer for more online webinars, videos, online trainings, and more! Page 11 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

Little Teahouse in the Garden…the story of the tea house at Wakamatsu Farm By Sue Bertram

The story of the tea house, found in the gardens leading to Okei-san's gravesite, starts as a dream of some docents of the Wakamatsu Farm. Historically, the samurai on the farm probably did not have a specific tea house, but they probably did practice the art of the tea cer- emony. Knowing this and the importance of the ceremony to the samurai culture, the idea of a tea house did not seem historically out of place and was a way to teach Japanese culture to students and visitors. This idea was brought up to a group of

Volunteers and staff the day the new tea house arrived on wheels construction students at Cordova High School in Rancho Cordova and they accepted the project as their entry for the Sacramento Regional Builders Exchange (SBRX) Design-Build Competition in 2019. Led by their teacher, Mr. Andre Leineke, the students researched the design, learned and practiced construction techniques, and construction safety. In the end, the final team of 8 students had 18 hours over two days to complete the construction of the basic building. The team won Best Architectural Design in the competition. The building was delivered to Wakamatsu Farm right after the competition. The area for placement was pre-prepared so the French doors faced the direction of Okei-san's burial site, the direction toward her homeland, and, each window overlooked the fields and hills of beauty and peace found in her California home. Though the delivery of the building was exciting, it was obvious that it needed a great deal of work. The docents who volunteered to work on the tea house, the Tea Team, found that many of the measurements on the little building were irregular. But through the dedication, cooperative hard work and talent of the team - the doors were installed; drywall and taping done; a porch designed and built; the hip roofline was fitted with an overhang and roofing material; and plenty of painting was done. Later a deck was built to put next to the building for larger tea ceremony demonstrations. All this was in 31 days. The tea house was finished and used for demonstrations during the 2019 WakamatsuFest 150 event on June 6th after being delivered on May 2nd. The volunteers who worked on this project have good reason to be proud of this addition to Wakamatsu Farm. It is now a place to tell the wonderful Wakamatsu Farm story. The next dream? A tea garden and meditation area around the tea house. The Wakamatsu Tea Team is ready for this next challenge. Want to be a part of this talented group? Please contact me, Susan Reiko Bertram, through Dillon or Garrett at ARC. Thank you to Straightline Construction for the donation of the roofing materials; to Paint Spot for donation of the exterior and interi- or paint; and to the Maintenance Crew and Wood Mill at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park for the planks and natural branch- es that help to remind us of the history and natural surroundings of this beautiful area.

Suzie Morioka Bertram is a Wakamatsu docent and volunteer who managed the tea house project from idea to completion. With her tenacity, dedication, and leadership, the Wakamatsu Tea House was completed with help of these volunteers: Scott and Vicky Vail; Steve and Lucinda Parker; Joan Mengelkoch; Barry Brooks; Michael Quirk; Pat Monzo; Cynthia Chaponot; Dillon Brook; Garrett Gust; Janet Rossi; Mary Smith and Tracy Bertram. Tea house today, still a wonderful work in progress page 12 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

CHANGE — WILL WE COPE? By Carla Soracco

“My daughter is sixteen-and-a-half. Sixty years from now she’ll be in her mid-seventies. I have absolutely no idea what the physical world will be like then. What the changes will be.” Jack Womack, science fiction writer. (New Yorker, p. 59, December 16, 2019.)

Recently an article in the Clipper Business Review reported that Combellack’s were closing their family clothing store after 131 years. In the interview, the current family owners discussed what it was like growing up in Placerville in the 50’s, 60’s and even the 70’s. I remember that world. The Placerville Sanitarium, affectionately know as “the SAN,” is where I was born in 1938. It was the only hospital in the county of 13,229 people. I graduated from Placerville Grammar School and El Dorado County High School. In 1956 our senior class outing was a picnic at Bass Lake. In those days it was a rain-filled reservoir. I moved on to college in 2007—Laurel Gromer & Carla picking wildflowers for the Bay Area. At that time the county had 18,000 permanent residents. It the Nature Center’s annual spring display. currently has more than 180,000 residents. Both my parents lived in El Dorado County. My mom lived at . My dad died in Placerville in 2007. Friends and I purchased a small USFS cabin near Echo Lakes in 1970. Consequently, I spent a lot of time in the Sierra foothills and the high Sierra, visiting family, skiing, hiking, backpacking, and just hanging out at our cabin. Traveling regularly from the Bay Area, I watched the landscape that I loved change before me. I began to mourn for the loss even then. These reminiscences indicate how much my world view is shaped by how it was between my birth and 1980. By 1980 El Dorado County began to change more rapidly. Developers became part of its reality. My golden hills be- gan to disappear. Sadly now all are gone. Traffic increased, more areas were fenced off, Chili Bar Swimming Resort was a part of the past. However, my little watering holes still have a 20th century feel. Yes, there are Cameron Park and El Dorado Hills and the Tahoe basin. Pollock Pines and Shingle Springs are larger than Placerville was in those days. But my life was and still is in the quieter parts of the county. It was an epiphany when I realized my world view was 20th Century, but it was now the 21st Century, and change was occurring even more rapidly. I was going to close these thoughts with an appeal for you to do all you can to protect our open spaces, rivers, and air to ensure that your children and grandchildren will have at least some of the outdoor, open-space pleasures we enjoyed. Then I was going to ask you to give to ARC. All of a sudden everything changed again. It is the third profound change in my lifetime. First there was the disappearing landscape, then the internet, and now a pandemic. COVID-19 has forced us to ask some serious questions. What are our values? How do we balance the economy, life, health? How important have our open spaces become? It is amazing how many folks are flocking to their parks on foot, on bikes and horses. Remarkably our air is cleaner, but our pocketbooks are leaner. When this health and economic crisis is past, remember how much our open spaces have contributed to our mental and physical health. Think how much we need to protect and expand them from too much development, insuring that our rivers, clean water and cleaner air are available for those coming after us. When a form of normalcy returns, and perhaps even now, give deep thought to what you can give to organizations like the American River Conservancy, protectors of 27,500 acres of land in El Dorado County for multiple purposes—air and water, recreation, and agriculture. Remember how much these foothills and mountains have given us, and give back to protect what you can. Be an annual giver, make a legacy gift, volunteer, and talk to others to support us. With your help, some of these open spaces may still remain in 60 years. I hope so. page 13 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

Volunteer Opportunities

ARC is unable to provide volunteer workdays at this time. We will keep you informed via our weekly emails and social media channels if the situation changes to the point that we are able to host stewardship opportunities. ARC is committed to following the federal, state and county guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic. If the situa- tion changes to the degree that these gatherings are allowed we welcome community members to join us in opportu- nities such as trail work, gardening, environmental education and river cleanup efforts. Visit ARConservancy.org/ events for updates.

Conservation The American River Conservancy protects habitat, native fisheries, scenic vistas, and recreational lands within the upper American River and Cosumnes River watersheds. To date, we have suc- cessfully protected over 27,500 acres.

Stewardship Land stewardship is the recognition of our collective responsibility to retain, manage and enhance the quality and abundance of our land, air, water and biodiversity.

Education ARC continues to offer high quality educational |programming in the form of Nature Bowl, Nature camp, Public Programs and Hikes, and California Naturalist Classes. page 14 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August) Eddies… Volunteering January-March 2121

Thank you to all the individuals that volunteered their time during the early Spring months. Before social restrictions were enacted volunteers helped with pulling weeds, building trails, maintaining agriculture are- as and many other necessary tasks. In addition, we are thankful to how our community has responded and assist- ed those in need during this trying time. "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead, anthropologist, recipient of the Plane- tary Citizen of the Year Award in 1978.

Aguilar, Briegan Giles, John Monzo, Pat Tanimoto, Herb Apodaca, Jacob Graham, Taylor Paige, Karen Tze-Ye Hu, Gigi Augustine, Nancy Hamlin, Rene Parker, Lucinda Vail, Vicky & Scott Bean, Mike Hanebutt, Marcia Parker, Steve Van Pelt, Lee Bertram, Susan Hayes, Janet Pearson, Tracy Walrond, Cece Borth, Suzanne Holmes, Bill Peeters, Leif, Luka & Wister, Tara Brooks, Joan & Barry Holmes, Patrick Michelle Brown, Katy Jaski, Karla Pogue, Kyle Bryant, Lance Jensen, Bill Rake, Don Carlson, Greg Jensen, Deb Raley, Stephanie Ciofalo, Cathy Johnston, Nicole Rosa, Vicki ARC Wish List Clark, Steve Krocheski, Melissa Rossi, Janet  Surge protectors Collins, Clint Leffler, Trish Salomon,  Kegerator Cort, Cathey Martin, Bev Christina  Large area rugs Davidson, Doru McAllister, JoAnn Seabury, David  30-40 Gal. Storage Containers Ennis, Lisa Mengekoch, Joan Soracco, Carla  Boot scraper Evans, Pam Mone, Catherine Tanimoto, Betty  Blender or food processor  Telescoping paint-brush pole  Animation designer expertise  Photos of ARC properties  Volunteer!  Photo button-making machine Other ways you can support  Workplace giving  Golf carts (donation or rental) ARC!  Become part of the Legacy Circle pro-  12-passenger van gram with bequests or  Snack bars donations of securities, stocks,  Grocery gift cards retirement plans, estates or other  Potting soil investments (These offer income tax and capital Have an old car you’d like to  Michael’s gift cards have towed? gains tax savings)  Amazon (smile.amazon.com)  Small stepstool or ladder Contact DonationLine.com or  Sponsor a California Naturalist  20 matching round table cloths 1-888-448-3345  Sponsor a school field trip  160 matching napkins To date we’ve earned over $51,000  In-kind donation of goods or services  from DonationLine! 160 matching water glasses/goblets  Gift memberships  Lawn games (i.e. bocce ball)  Give in honor or memory of  Microphone stand  Give the gift of land  Dual axle trailer  Establish a charitable fund  50-Gallon trash bags  And of course you can use the ARC  Tool box (small, with basic tools) Bookstore as a gift giving source for birthdays and holidays

OUR MISSION The American River Conservancy serves our communities by ensuring healthy ecosystems within the Upper American and Upper Cosumnes River watersheds through land conservation, stewardship and education. page 15 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August)

Thank you, American River Conservancy January-March 0202 Supporters! To become a supporter see page 16, or visit us at ARConservancy.org

General & Recurring Donors Jolly, Jacqueline Wakamatsu Surfside Hawaii, Inc. Aagaard, David Kerr, Betsy Atwater, Keith Tustin Family Fund Altaffer, Renee Kiehne, Kristine Bella Vista Bed and Breakfast Wilson, Cathy Ellen Amemiya, Yoshiko Kipping, John Cleary, Gary Zappettini, Paul Amen, Shoshanna Knapp, Stephanie Couderc, Diane Andrew, Jane Lawrence, Jeff Duchart, Florence Jane Van Camp: Archer, Mahala Lipshin, Irene Hopkins, Susan Morgan, Cathryn A-Total Fire Protection Liu, Grace Juckniess, Pamela Beichley, Kathleen Lowis, Janeene Komai, Chris Wilbur Yost: Bisconte, candace Lowry, Polly Nichi Bei Foundation Ahern, Thomas Boyes, Lynnee & Bob McGann, Carolyn Oki, Lorence & Cynthia Caplan, Robert Bradshaw, Betsy Meral, Gerald Saito, Dr. Gary & Nobuko Cole, Verna Brewer, Linda Meyer, Virginia Sierra Nevada College, DeCristoforo, Tony and Elinor Bush, Diane Mone, Catherine Soohoo-Baxter, Virginia Gale, Jack Buss, Margaret Murphy, John Tashima, Helen Hauge, Naomi Butler, Alice O.A.R.S. West, Inc. Ybarra, Jack Kenagy, Jay & Melba Byrne-Mulliken, Taira O’Farrell, Susan Menke-Clark, Carol Campos, Marianne and Jeff Orth, Donna & Thom Trails/Land Donors Norris, Patrice Canfield, Sarah Owens, Dee Blumenthal, Lindsay Relfe, Patricia and Don Carrasco-Minton, Julie & Jonas Minton Parker, Steve & Lucinda Duval, Ashley Tingley, Delores Castro, Thomas & Julie Pasquini, Fred & Sharon Fisher, Jan Watson, Debbie Chasse-Crouse, Elizabeth Pesheck, Belinda Franklin, Jody Yost, Craig & Mary Jane Cozzolino-Maher, Julie & James Pingle, Ray & Jana Gaddini, Michael Crews, Hayley Purgett, Cheryl Tucker, Shanea In memory of her mother Marcia: Crisp, Sue Rake, Don Rake, Don Lipshin, Irene... Damer, Michael Ramirez, Teresa Greer, Leslie DeLacy, Elena Ramstrom, Carl Ober, Frank Dessaux, Lyn Ransom, Gary Loeffelbein, Ruthie Draxler, Cassandra & David Reeves, Tom Lum, Rachel ...Marcia, my Mother, Edmondson, Nina Roberts, April passed away at the age of 97 Evans, Pam & Loyd Rossi, Janet In Honor & Memory of... Fatooh, Mary Roy, Sudipto in 2014. She taught me to Finley, Scott Rutherford, Katie Dick Bush: love nature, the environ- Foley-Munoz, Patricia Sasaki, LaVerne & Helen Caramagno, Patty ment, our planet, by her care Ford, Eric T. and Joann Schwarzbach, Catherine Cecchettini, Peggy & Ron Foster, Dorothy Scott, Charles George Combellack, June and reverence for our earth. Gaddie, Vivian Simpson, Barbara Covington, Suzanne From the smallest plant to Gautier, Anthony Soohoo-Baxter, Virginia Dusek, Clare Giles, Mary Lou & John Stroth, Karen Elliott-Klemm, Mary the most awesome sunset, Gold Trail Grange Taggart, Gregory Honerlah, Randy she knew everything in our Hansen, Joyce Temple, Danielle Jodar, Sherril natural world needed and Hardy, Kathy Thompson, Robert & Wilda Kushner, Cathy Harris, Karen Craig Tubbs, Janelle Kushner, Marcia required our stewardship. I'm Herrin, Janet Vail, Vicky & Scott Morgan, Cathryn grateful to be able to carry Houghton, Barbara Walsh-Curley, Christina Peek, Don & Katy on her life lessons. Hughes, Tanya Waite, Joy Perryman, Sydney Hutton, Kathy & Kevin Wilmot, Robert Seibel, Richard Imgrund, Gerda Winkelblack, Louise Soohoo-Baxter, Virginia Jensen, Debra Yano, Marcella Parsons, Richard Johnson, Kathleen Beauchamp David and Betty Ann Aguilar Karin & Jack Johnston, Tamara Brown, Dawn Motoda, Daryl

page 16 The Current Summer 2020 (June-August) Preserving Rivers and Land for Life I would like to share the American River Conservancy’s vision of tomorrow. Nourish the Legacy Through Sustainable Giving visit arconservancy.org to make a secure online donation

RECURRING GIFT: New Supporter Name D.O.B. $____/MONTH Renewing Supporter Address OR Gift Membership ANNUAL SUPPORT: City, State, Zip $ ___ OTHER In Remembrance/Honor of ______

Phone # Cell Phone # $ 1000 ______

$ 500 ______Email Address / ( ) $ 250 Please contact me about Credit Card# Expiration Code Mo./Yr. (on back) $ 100 planned giving/Legacy Circle $ 75 Make my gift anonymous Signature $ 45 Donations of $45 or more will receive a 1-year membership. Your gifts to ARC are tax deductible. Please make your check payable to the American River Conservancy 348 Highway 49  PO Box 562  Coloma, CA 95613  (530) 621-1224 ARConservancy.org

American River Conservancy P.O. Box 562 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. Postage Coloma, CA 95613 PAID Permit No. 7 Coloma, CA Return Service Requested 95613

The American River Conservancy and Nature Center Provide Natural History The Current is printed on Interpretive Services in the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, Coloma, CA recycled paper

This institution is an equal opportunity provider