TRUCKEE DONNER LAND TRUST

Preserving and protecting important historic, recreational and scenic open Fall/Winter Newsletter spaces in the greater Truckee region. Volume 32 ❖ Dec. 2007 Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 2 A message from the Board President

The acquisition of Waddle land trusts in .” The Board Ranch was, without doubt, one is also very proud to note that our of the ’s largest and Land Conservation Director, Sara most complicated conservation Taddo, was recently selected as the efforts in recent history. It Truckee Sunrise Rotary’s “Rotarian of took six major private and the Year” and that Kellie Wright, our public funding sources and the Development Director, was widely generosity of our loyal members quoted in a new book on fundraising to meet the $23.5 million price for conservation. tag. And it is worth every dime. With this significant effort and Had we failed, a massive resort achievement now complete, we will subdivision would have been not be resting on our laurels. Your built in the , with as Board continues to direct staff to many as 1,200 new residential aggressively pursue our conservation units. Simply put, if we wanted goals. We recently approved a series to save Martis Valley, we had of new projects in the Martis Valley, to buy it. So we did. And the near , and in the Truckee successful partnership and and Yuba watersheds. I do not collaboration that was created overstate the facts when I say that to save Martis Valley is now these projects encompass truly iconic being touted as the template landscapes. With your continued for resolving future land use support and encouragement, we are battles, both in our region, and confident that our future holds even elsewhere in the Sierra Nevada greater conservation achievements. range. But let’s pause – just for a moment The Truckee Donner Land – to admire what together we have Trust – your land trust – is preserved for ourselves, our children, emerging as one of the most and all future generations. Looking west from Dry Lake at sunset. Photo by nimble, collaborative and Kim Kornenich courtesy of the San Francisco efficient in the Sierra, if not in all of Warm regards, Chronicle. California. But don’t take my word for it. The Sierra Business Council Dear Friends, recently awarded our Executive In late October, the Truckee Director, Perry Norris, its Vision Donner Land Trust purchased 20/20 award “for his achievement Martin Bern Waddle Ranch. Acquisition of this in building one of the most effective Board President spectacular 1,482-acre property was completed in partnership with our steadfast friends and partner, The Trust for Public Land. Gone are the “No Trespassing” signs – Waddle Ranch is now open for you to hike, ski, snowshoe, run and mountain bike. (See the map on page 5.) We hope you will experience what we did visiting the property during the two-year period it took to complete the transaction. Coyotes hunting field mice, bears sunning in a meadow, bald eagles seeking prey, an eight-point buck snacking on bitterbrush, and thousands of ducks, geese and coots congregating on and around the misnamed Dry Lake, A user-friendly trail system already exists on the property. In 2008 we will be as they make a rest stop on their adding a new trailhead and links to other trails in the area. Photo courtesy of Olof migratory journeys. & Elizabeth Carmel of Carmel Gallery-Downtown Truckee. Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 3 Rim Trail Update Another busy year building the Donner Lake Rim Trail!

The summer trail building season the Rim Trail makes for a beautiful of 2007 was very productive. Thanks wildflower hike, especially if it is to the hard work of 150 volunteers, hiked as a loop using the Summit we were able to open just under Lake Trail and part of the Pacific three miles of new trail. Another two Crest Trail. miles is already under construction The other section of trail is called and should be open by next summer. Wendin Way after one of Truckee Use of the Donner Lake Rim Trail Donner Land Trust’s founding has exploded this season with the board members, Dan Wendin. It is connectivity provided by the two a new access route from the Donner new sections of trail. Lake Interchange/Negro Canyon The first section of trail is on trailhead to the Rim Trail, loosely Forest Service land between Castle following Gregory Creek. The trail Valley and Summit Lake, and was constructed to provide a more provides a scenic and continuous scenic, less steep route that is single- trail route between Tahoe Donner track instead of the old road that and Donner Summit. This allows previously functioned as the access hikers and equestrians to take the trail. It also allowed the Land Trust Rim Trail from Truckee to the Pacific to decommission the old, erosive Crest Trail, and allows mountain road (see article page 10.) Keep Kids from the Summit 7000 Soccer Academy bicyclists to ride from Truckee to the a lookout for animals while on share a day building the new access trail in Hole-in-the-Ground Trail. It crosses this trail; during construction we Negro Canyon to the DLRT. meadows, creeks, open granite, and regularly saw deer, coyote, bobcat provides panoramic views of Castle and bear tracks, as well as raptors Thank you to all who volunteered Peak and Donner Summit. In the and upland game birds. their time and money to construct spring and summer this piece of the Donner Lake Rim Trail. Without your support this project would not be possible. See you on the trail next spring!

Access to the new section of the Donner Lake Rim Trail: For hikers and equestrians: The new section of the Donner Lake Rim Trail can be accessed via the Pacific Crest Trail. Park at the I-80 Pacific Crest Trailhead. (Exit to the south side of I-80 at Boreal Ridge Rd and follow signs to P.C.T. Trailhead. Take the P.C.T. Access Trail to the P.C.T. and proceed north. Upon crossing the first fire road, turn right onto that road. The new section begins about 200 yards up the road, on the right. It is signed. For mountain bicyclists: Exit I-80 at the Castle Peak/Boreal/P.C.T. Exit and proceed North. Park where the pavement ends. Begin climbing Castle Valley Road. Take the second spur road on the right. It is signed, and the first spur road dead-ends in the meadow almost immediately. Proceed on this road for almost 1/2 mile. The trail is signed and on the The new section of the Donner right. Note: Bicycles are not allowed on the Pacific Crest Trail. Lake Rim Trail is officially approved. Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 4 Waddle Ranch the Land Trust will be investing in new trails, expanded parking, signage and rest rooms with composting toilets. Additionally, the Land Trust will be maintaining existing trails, working on keeping the forest healthy and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfire. The Land Trust is committed to being an exemplary steward of Waddle Ranch. Within a week of acquiring the property, the Land Trust had already removed excessive fuel load from 300 forested acres. Management of Dry Lake as a recreational fishery will also be explored. While closed to fishing by the public for the last half- century, there are rumors of large trout in the lake. “Our vision is to create seamless and contiguous open space with Looking south from the National Recreation Area to Waddle Ranch. the Martis Creek Lake National Recreation Area,” said Land After working for nearly three of this resource and the impacts Conservation Director Sara Taddo. years to line-up $23.5 million in from its development on the Waddle Ranch can be accessed funding, the Truckee Donner Land Valley, North and from State Route Highway 267 Trust, in partnership with The Truckee would have been simply or by crossing the dam at Martis Trust for Public Land, completed dreadful.” Creek Reservoir. (See map.) The the acquisition of Waddle Ranch But instead the Land Trust staff property already has a user- in the heart of the Martis Valley. is now drawing up plans to ready friendly trail system for hiking, Waddle Ranch is directly east Waddle Ranch for the public to running and mountain biking. of the popular Martis Creek enjoy. The Land Trust expects Lake National Recreation Area. significant year- Privately owned since the 1850s, round public it had been used for grazing use. Within cattle and harvesting timber. It days of the remains the most biologically announcement diverse property in the Martis that Waddle Valley, providing habitat for deer, Ranch was open mountain lion, black bear, and to the public, bobcat, as well as for countless hundreds of species of waterfowl and other hikers and birds. mountain bikers Waddle Ranch had zoning visited the entitlement for up to 1,200 property. homes. “If we had not succeeded, Working with another resort subdivision in the rangers from Martis Valley was inevitable,” said Martis Creek The Placer Board of Supervisors at Dry Lake, (from the Land Trust’s Land Committee Lake National left) Bruce Kranz, Kirk Ulher, Rocky Rockholm and Jim Chair, David Brown. “The loss Recreation Area, Holmes. Missing is Robert Weygandt. Their leadership played a critical role in protecting Waddle Ranch. Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 5 open to the public The loss of this resource and the impacts from its development on the Valley, North Lake Tahoe and Truckee would have been simply dreadful. David Brown – An astonishing number of birds and waterfowl can be observed at Waddle Land Trust Land Committee Chair Ranch. Photo by Kim Kornenich courtesy of the San Francisco Chronicle.

Future plans call for a new Placer County has ever made of $2 million to $3 million, trail to run east from Martis in conservation; a huge debt of imperative to completing the Creek Reservoir Road to the gratitude is owed to its Board of transaction. The balance came main trail and service road Supervisors and staff. The Wildlife from private individuals and that traverses Waddle Ranch Conservation Board added $6.5 foundations. (See the donor list from SR 267 to Dry Lake. (This million for the property’s habitat on pages six and seven.) trail is actually part of the old values. The Sierra Nevada Cascade Additional key partners Shaffer Sawmill Road.) It passes Grant Program administered included the Mountain Area through meadows and forest for by the State Resources Agency Preservation Foundation, Sierra approximately 2.5 miles before contributed $2 million and Watch, East West Partners, DMB ending just east of Dry Lake. Truckee Tahoe Airport District Highlands and Timilick at Tahoe. Once the Waddle Ranch increased their initial contribution management plan is complete, the property will be conveyed to the Truckee Tahoe Airport District. The Land Trust will then hold a conservation easement on the property that prohibits forever any development, including expansion of the airport, at Waddle Ranch. Funds used for the acquisition came from multiple public and private sources. Placer County contributed $10 million from open space mitigation fees. This is the largest investment Planned access trails for Waddle Ranch. Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 6 Thank You Waddle Ranch Donors Thanks to all those who contributed to the Truckee Donner Land Trust and The Trust for Public Land in support of protecting Waddle Ranch.

$1,000,000 or more Michael & Nancy Jo Heaton - Pete Cuttitta - Law Office of Gregory & Penny Gallo - California Resources Agency The Heaton Family Trust Porter•Simon Gallo Family Fund at Silicon County of Placer Ed & Donna Henney Ed & Joanie Ferrera Fund Valley Community Found. State of California Wildlife R. Duff & Carol Kurland - Lahontan Community Theodore & M. Christine Conservation Board Kathleen Bennett & Thomas Foundation Gazulis Truckee Tahoe Airport District Malloy Mr. Randy Gottfried Nancy & Max Gisko Toni & Dick Paterson Roger & Lynn Headrick Roy & D’Aun Goble

$250,000-$999,999 Tom & JoAnn Prescott William & Christney McGlashan Ms. Hedy Govenar Anonymous President’s Discretionary Carol Savary Michael & Gail Griesmer Emigrant Trails Greenway Fund - Truckee Tahoe Ellie Huggins & Dan Wendin In memory of Donald C. Trust Community Foundation McCormack Morgan Family Foundation $1,000-$2,499 Scott & Polly Ryan Calvin & Crystal Harling The Anderson Fund Michael F. Sabarese Fund - John A. Hartog Family Fund $100,000-$249,999 Foundation Barbara Grasseschi & Tony Truckee Tahoe Community of Bingham, Osborn & Yumi Nakagawa & Paul Crabb In memory of Matt Foundation Scarborough Foundation Bartlett Rusanoff Carolyn Johnson & Rick Mr. & Mrs. Jon Hartung Martin & Holly Bern Peter Davis Theis - Fledgling Fund Mr. & Mrs. William Haskell David & Linda Brown Fund Helene & Charles Linker Fund Steve & Raini Vallarino Dr. & Mrs. Milton D. Heifetz - Truckee Tahoe Community - Jewish Community Leroy Waddle Mr. & Mrs. Jim Hoelter Foundation In memory of Endowment Fund Joyce Waddle Armitage Jim Holmes Nathan Krissoff Mr. Park Loughlin Buzz & Jan Wiesenfeld Judy Howes & Family Nancy Bull The Simons Foundation $5,000-$9,999 Gene & Patricia Carter In memory of Adrian W. Howes $25,000-$99,000 Shirley & David Allen Fund Anne Chadwick Charitable Todd & Carol Huckins Greer & Veronica Arthur - Truckee Tahoe Community Fund - Truckee Tahoe Jerome & Nancy Ives David & Janet Bingham Foundation Community Foundation David & Barbara Kramen- Family Charitable Fund Annie & Richard Bennett, Jr. Douglas & Susan Chance Kahn - Community Foundation - Lahontan Community Family Fund - Silicon Anadel Law In Honor of of Western Nevada Foundation Valley Community Found. Robin Leong Clarence E. Heller Charitable Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Bonzon Critchfield Cohn Family Fund Carol Levy In honor of Foundation DiMarco Harleen Family Fund - East Bay Community Henry M. Levy Hayward Family Foundation - The San Francisco Found. Foundation Paul Marsili Rod & Jonnie Jacobs Robert & Mary Hery Richard Dakin Stephen & Andrea Brideau Kreitzberg Family Foundation Ilfeld Family Fund - Truckee Ms. Shanna O’Hare & John Miller Douglas & Cindy Silvani Lacey Tahoe Community Found. Davis North Tahoe Arts - Juniper Hills Residents Ed & Barbara Larson Marty & Rich Diodati Hope Page - Page Foundation Mellam Family Foundation Judith & Charles Munnerlyn Donner Lake Property Owners Catherine & George Petty J. Thomas & M. Catherine - Lahontan Community Association Barb & Ron Peyton Van Berkem - Ayco Foundation Jim Duffy & Kathleen Eagan - Fred & Sandra Romero Charitable Foundation Sheri & Jack Overall Truckee Tahoe Community

Stanley & Georgene Pasarell Foundation In memory of In memory of Wolfgang $10,000-$24,999 Mrs. Elizabeth B. Ross Foresight Fund/Cory Ritchie Donald C. McCormack Anonymous Ridgeview Fund - Silicon - The Parasol Community George H. Edmondson Mr. & Mrs. William F. Ausfahl Valley Community Found. Foundation In memory of Janet L. John R. & Gina Biondi Bruce Rueppel The Serendipity Fund Edmondson Robert & Diane Coleman Ms. Maia Schneider - The Parasol Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Euzent In Elsa Corrigan - Mamasake Rick & Ann Tavan Merle & Michael Fajans memory of Matt Rusanoff Robert K. & Patricia A. Gerald & Donna Silverberg The Braddock Foundation Bob & Penny Fink Dahl - Dahl Foundation Eliot & Christine Terborgh Christopher & Kristin Dennis & Pamela Fisco Bill Falik - Falik Family William & Mary Alice Thompson Tim & Cynthia Foster Philanthropic Fund Mary Tilden - Alpine Winter Dr. William & Elizabeth Fry Thauvette Laurie Poston & Brian Ferrall J. Stephen Thornborrow Foundation In honor of Dr. Peter & Sue David Giacomini - Sierra Family Fund - Jewish Tom & Pauline Tusher Loff Fry, Stephen Fry, Susan Mountain Mortgage Fund Community Endowment Marquita West Fry & Brian Van Rheenen, - Truckee Tahoe Community Fund Dennis & Katy Zirbel Dr. William & Elizabeth Fry Foundation Greg & Kristin Bennhoff Roxanne Duffield & Hans Wain William & Sara Jo Goerke $2,500-$4,999 Gallo - Silicon Valley Carolyn & Dick Warmington Andrea Walhof-Grisham John & Sharon Brauman Community Foundation Weaver/Dryfus Fund In memory of Jonathan E. Robert & Margaret Churn - Truckee Tahoe Community Grisham Foundation Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 7

William Wendin Dr. & Mrs. Lawrence Danto Dr. Richard & Jean Park David Myrick Stephen & Karen Wiel Patrice Davison In memory of Adrian Howes Mary & Riley Neel Harvey & Barbara Witt Ann De Braganca Gena Pennington Janan New Anita Cole & Canice Wu Steven & Marilyn Disbrow Jennifer Perga In honor of Merrill Nisam Carlos Yrueta Mr. & Mrs. Richard Dobson Isabella Marie Haver Suzanne Peipher Dr. & Mrs. Charles R. Zipkin Elwood Dryden Ernie Pitz Carrell & Deirdrellen Peterson Thomas & Deborah Tom & Nancy Poulin $500-$999 Lawrence Ricciardi Echenique Mr. & Mrs. Jim Powell Robert Abrams Barbara Rumph Rachel Blau & John Eckhouse John & Barbara Reding Chris & Susan Adams Peg Rutt Pam & John Eisele Robert J. Rhodes Susan & Bob Adams R. Louis & Phyllis Salaber Naomi Feger & Mr. Bowen Amelia & Harvey Rose Scott Showen & Peter Amsden Mr. Charles Schmuck Feger Max & Joan Schlienger Aufmuth Family Fund - East William & Leslie Sims Miranda Fram Kathy Semrad Bay Community Foundation Ellen Sirbu Freya & Jacob Fuchs Norman Singer George Birdsong Mark Steidlmayer Richard & Barbara Grandy David & Chris Slater Coralie & Joe Burgess Mr. & Mrs. John Stewart Thomas & Mary Gray Genny Smith Howard & Sue Busby Stephen Walker Rebecca Nystrom & Marijean Kendra Smith Edward Chapman Robert & Carol Walsh Greene Virginia Snider Beth Cobert & Adam Cioth Dr. Lawrence & Caroline Julie Grisham In memory of Tom & Bobbi Specht Mr. & Mrs. Gary Convis Werboff, MD Jonathan E. Grisham Carol & Michael Spiering Wayne Crow Ralph & Antoinette De Vere Charles & Marcia Growdon Bill & Jodi Sterling Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Davidson White In memory of James & Raymond Sturges B. Craig & Christine F. Duncan William Whiteside Barbara Cohn Zeiler John & Heather Svahn Susan & Eric Dunn Kirsten Williams Patrick Haden Mary Lois Thompson Mr. Harrison Dunning Karen Witt & Stanley Wingate Alan Harris Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Tierney Chester & Ingrid Eccles Angie Wulfow Lynette & Benjamin Hart Paul Vatistas Sean & Isabel Ehringer We would also like to Charlotte & Robert Hartman Howard Williams Mr. & Mrs. Robert Elo thank the following for Kathryn Brown & Jim Hendon Uzelle Williams Mr. & Mrs. Horst Eltner Jim & Jeannie Hentz Leota & Glenn Woods their support in protecting Mike & Sue Friedenbach Mr. & Mrs. Jonel & Lois A. Hill Karen & Joel Zeldin Waddle Ranch. Isaac & Renee Goff Dorothy Hinze Vicki Peet & Steve Zimmerman California Department of Jeff & Caroline Hamilton Bill & Jennifer Hoback Fish and Game Alan & Wendy Harris Under $100 Steven Hodapp Olof & Elizabeth Carmel John & Noelle Allen Hetz Carey & Scott Andre Marjorie Hoffmann Dragonfly Jeff & Cathy Lang Hilary Andrews Richard Holmes DMB/Highlands Group, LLC Robin Leong Charles Banfield In honor of Ralph & Barbara Christy Hunt Theresa May Duggan Stephen & Tamara Lieberman Doris Banfield Allan & Elaine Johnson - East West Partners Alvin Markovitz Betty Bauer Johnson Family Trust Joanie & Ed Ferrera Geri & Joe McDonald Pauline & John Beare William & Patricia Gibbons- Ken Geil & Janice Forbes Mike & Cathy Moll Don & Joyce Bennett Johnson In memory of Sue & Mike Friedenbach Mr. & Mrs. John Moran Mr. John Buchanan Donald C. McCormack Julia Gold Mr. & Mrs. B. J. Polak Jo Ann & Daniel Cobb Catherine Katz Ed & Donna Henney John & Laura Reynolds Adrienne DeBisschop Lori Kelley Law Office of Porter•Simon Jeanne & Stephen Schapp Gail Estrella Mr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Knapp Mountain Area Preservation Martha Simon In Honor of Marcia Fogel Kris & Arjen Kuyper Foundation Alexander Aston Geraldine & Gordon Gadsby Dr. & Mrs. Philip Langley Northstar-at-Tahoe Eleanor Swift Debra Garcia Nils & Marie Lang-Ree Jim Olmstead Tracy Grubbs & David George In memory of Donald C. Tom Pillsbury Richard Taylor Douglas Gray McCormack Prager, Sealy & Co., LLC Terry Watt Mr. & Mrs. Jim Gribble Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth Lewis Scott Ryan Verne & Betty Willaman Joseph Grulich Theresa Lewis Sierra Business Council Sue Zimmerman Nancy Hadlock Mr. & Mrs. Charles Jr. Sierra Watch Paul & Rhonda W. Hardy $100-$499 Luckhardt Richard Taylor Mr. & Mrs. Alan C. Hebert David Kean & Tanya Africa James & Elizabeth Mailhot Timilick at Tahoe David Heep Joy Ames Bill & Norma Markley US Army Corps of Engineers David Heilbrun Elizabeth & Robert Andersen Patsy McGaughy & John Marx - Martis Creek Lake Mr. & Mrs. John & Eloice Richard Anderson Melissa Mayfield Tom & Cathy Van Berkem Marie Helms Branko & Joanne Beronja Edward & Karen Mazur Roxanne Duffield & Hans Wain Lani Houck Mr. & Mrs. George Brandt Jill McMichael Terry Watt Michael Hughes Bob & Pat Breckenfeld Janice McNeilly Heidi Zimmerman Richard Hutchison In memory of Donald C. Mr. & Mrs. Thomas E. Morton Marie Zolezzi Jean Joseph McCormack Patsy Nelson Please call if you have any Beverly Kennedy Julie Bryant Lynn Newhall corrections. Any donations James Kless Grendell Burrell Teresa O’ Dette not included will be listed in Mr. Walter P. Knoepfel David & Andrea Campos Kay Osborn our Spring 2008 newsletter. Ria Kubota Mr. & Mrs. Donald Cooper Thank you for your support. David Littlejohn Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 8 P roject Updates I do not overstate the facts when I say that these projects encompass truly iconic landscapes. – Martin Bern, Board President Perazzo Meadows The Land Trust, in partnership with The Trust for Public Land, has reached a tentative agreement with the owner on this 980-acre acquisition that includes 2.5 miles of the Little . This area is incredibly rich in biological and aquatic habitat value due to its proximity to neighboring public forestland and critical watersheds in the Truckee River system. It is located in the eastern division of the Sierra Nevada checkerboard. The Sierra checkerboard is a land ownership pattern that alternates between public and private lands, and dates back to the nineteenth century when the federal government granted every other square mile to the railroads as incentive to complete the transcontinental railroad. This checkerboard pattern presents many challenges when addressing management of the forests for forest and watershed health and wild fire response. It is imperative that the most accessible and biologically rich sections of this checkerboard be protected for public use, water quality and Identified by The Nature Conservancy as a portfolio site, Perazzo biological habitat. Meadows includes 2.5 miles of the Little Truckee River, wetlands and critical habitat.

Other Checkerboard Acquisitions Not all our projects are in the hundreds or thousands of acres. We are currently under contract for 30 acres at the head of Perazzo Creek. The property is mostly a wet meadow adjacent to one of oldest stands of red fir in the Tahoe National Forest. Additionally, we should have another 440-acres just south of White Rock Lake signed- up by the end of the year. We are hoping both of these acquisitions will eventually be added to the proposed Castle Peak Wilderness Area.

Currently under contract, a 30-acre wet meadow at 8,200 feet in the Sierra Checkerboard.

Donner Memorial State Park We are in the early stages of working to protect over 300 acres at the western end of the Donner Lake Watershed below Donner Summit. The area has considerable biological importance and fantastic potential for new trails connecting to the Summit and Schallenberger Ridge.

Schallenberger Ridge on the right, 1,972 acres, acquired in 2002 and now part of Donner Memorial State Park. In 2007, the Land Trust later added another 300 acres to Donner Memorial State Park and are hoping to add several hundred more acres in 2008. Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 9 P roject Updates

Martis Valley Now that we have closed on Waddle Ranch, we are pursuing other developable parcels on the northeast side of State Route 267. We envision our acquisition work in the Martis Valley to continue for several more years and our stewardship and restoration efforts for several more decades.

A group of birders enjoying the many rewards of the Martis Valley. The lush wet meadows of the Martis Valley provide ideal habitat for a number of species.

Donner Summit We closed this summer on a 23-acre conservation easement on Donner Summit. The acquisition was funded through an anonymous donor. We continue to explore conservation options on the Summit. We have started discussions to acquire more than 1,800 acres on Donner Summit.

Tall skis, bear-trap bindings and wool britches, the Warming Hut while its rope tow was in use, circa 1956. The Warming Hut was designed by renowned San Francisco architect, George Homsey. Photo by George Homsey.

Gray Creek Canyon We are in the process of conveying five parcels totaling over 1,350 acres to the California Department of Fish and Game for long-term management and the public’s enjoyment.

Arguably the most dramatic canyon along the I-80 corridor, Gray Creek drops nearly 6,000 feet in six miles.

Airport Flats Airport Flats is the wide-open landscape across from the new Ag station on I-80. Keeping this area open space is a high priority for the Town. East West Partners, the Town of Truckee and the Land Trust reached agreements on transferring development rights from Airport Flats to East West’s Old Greenwood development immediately west of Airport Flats. East West would purchase 73 acres and donate the land to the Land Trust in exchange for being able to develop 26 additional units within Old Greenwood. Airport Flats is considered the gateway to the Truckee Community. Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 10

Truckee River Day

A hearty thank you to Integrated Environmental Restoration Services of Tahoe City for their expertise and for donating thousands of dollars worth of services to complete this project.

Volunteers from Truckee High School help out on Truckee River Day. Thank you to our wonderful volunteers and businesses who offer time, expertise, and Restoration and a new trail completed passion to the Land Trust. in Negro Canyon Ace Mountain Hardware Chris Jennerwein American Hiking Society Lloyd Johnson Over 100 volunteers from Truckee High School joined Backstreet Framers Greg Jones Lyndi Beale Peter Jones Land Trust staff on Truckee River Day to decommission an Martin Bern Tanya Africa & David Kean old logging road on the east fork of Gregory Creek in Negro Gene & Ann Bowles Dr. James W. Kirchner Canyon. David Brown Eric Larusson After years of use and degradation from poor drainage, Jeff Brown Susan Levitsky the dirt road was severely eroded, releasing large amounts Kenny Burt Tam & Steve Lieberman of sediment into Gregory Creek and Donner Lake. The road California Land Title Co. of Tom & Laurel Lippert had become unpleasant and difficult to hike or bike. In the Nevada Co. Charlie Long past, the dirt road had served as an informal access trail Carmel Gallery- Kathy MacKay for the Donner Lake Rim Trail. Following purchase of the Downtown Truckee Judy & Bill Mayorga Rob Flesher & Anne Cervino Andrea Mummert eastern portion of Negro Canyon by the Land Trust earlier Pat & Angela Costamagna Nevada Co. - GIS this year, a much more enjoyable and environmentally- Barbara Grasseschi & Noon Rotary sound access trail was constructed immediately east of the Tony Crabb Lou & Lacy Norris old road. Corey Dehorn Offroute.com The new trail and eradication of the logging road were Seanna Doherty Stefanie Olivieri funded through a generous grant provided by the Truckee Judy Dowdy Adriane Olson Tahoe Community Foundation’s Nature Fund. Dragonfly Will Ortman The new trail, constructed by scores of volunteers and Kevin Drake Placer Co. - GIS under the John & Elizabeth Eaton Glenn Polochko Mayumi Elegado Sky Rondenet direction of Karen Ellis Jo Sander Donner Lake Dario Estrada Catherine Schnurrenberger Rim Trail Merle & Michael Fajans Luke Shacter Coordinator Faerthen Felix Sierra Club John Svahn, Bob & Penny Fink Sunrise Rotary has opened to Foothill Associates Heather Svahn rave reviews. Richard Fores Tahoe Donner Association The United Steve Frisch Tahoe Rim Trail States Forest Emma Garrard Truckee High School David Giacomini United States Forest Service Service OHV Dave Gibbs Val Videgain road to Summit Jeff Hamilton Roxanne Duffield & Hans Wain Lake remains Calvin & Crystal Harling Lisa Wallace open and is Hartley Appraisal Services Bill Wendin clearly marked. Steve Hilarides Sara Whidman Mike & Debbie Hogan Steve Willer Who would have thought de-commissioning an Integrated Environmental Julia & Lorenzo Worster old logging road could be so much fun? Restoration Services Jackie Zink Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 11

Completed Projects & Current Priority Areas

Leave A Legacy of Thank you to the pen pace following businesses O S ... for participating The Land Under Our Feet…hiking Schallenberger Ridge, skiing Coldstream Canyon, or simply enjoying the stunning views in our Buck for of the surrounding peaks from the Donner Lake Rim Trail. Open Space Program Leave a legacy and help us protect open spaces for future Best Western Truckee Tahoe Inn generations by including the Truckee Donner Land Trust in your Dr. Robert Colpitts, DDS will or other estate plans. Cottonwood Restaurant Estate gifts can reduce your income taxes, reduce or eliminate Donner Truckee Veterinary Hospital capital gain taxes, reduce your gift or estate tax, provide income Dragonfly to you and your loved ones, and help support our efforts to protect Pacific Crest Restaurant our area’s most important treasures. Pianeta Ristorante Leaving a bequest is simple and gives you the freedom to make Sierra Pet Clinic a significant difference. To make a bequest, consult with your legal SnowTech advisor or contact our office.

 Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 12 In Memory of... George Carne In “retirement” Don turned his considerable energies toward local government and community service. He was elected to two terms on the Truckee Town Council and twice served as Mayor. He served as board president of the Tahoe Donner Association and the Truckee Donner Land Trust. He was a board member of the Truckee River Watershed Advisory Group, Nevada County Solid Tiki passionately participated in the Marin County Community George Carne, a world traveler, Waste Commission, Nevada where she lived for over 50 years. grew-up in Nebraska and enjoyed County Local Agency Formation She was the voice of KTIM’s Terra golfing, hiking, cross-country Commission, League of California Linda Home Town News and a skiing and volunteering. Although Cities Task Force and a number of writer for many Marin County George visited most of the world, other government committees. publications. the Sierra was his first love. He In recognition of his ongoing Tiki shared Hal’s dream to often said, “Truckee is the best efforts, in 2003 the Truckee build a trail around Donner Lake playground in the world.” Rotary Club awarded him its to be enjoyed and treasured for He moved to Truckee in the “Service Above Self Award.” generations to come. 1960s and built a passive solar Later taking on one of his more difficult assignments, at the time home in Tahoe Donner. Even into All memorial gift donors his 80’s, George spent countless of his death he was chairman of days, skiing and hiking. He spent the Airport Community Advisory will be noted in our Spring each and everyday enjoying the Team. 2008 newsletter. land he loved. Don was known for his fair, George had three children, balanced, prepared and thoughtful John, Kate and Sidney, and five ways. He was a people person grandchildren. The Land Trust is with friends from all walks of life, honored that John and Sue Carne, was young at heart, cheerful and a along with family and friends, wonderful host. He was proud of lovingly set up a memorial fund in his wife and children, and happy Looking for the George’s name. He will be missed. beyond words with his retirement life in Truckee. perfect gift for Don McCormack someone who seems Tiki Parker Long-time Land Trust supporter to have everything? Tiki Parker passed away this October. Tiki was married to Hal Give the gift of Parker, one of the founders of the open space for all Donner Lake Rim Trail, for 52 years. occasions. To her many friends and family, “Giving, living, loving An honorary gift is a and laughing will forever be the thoughtful way to show Tiki way.” Tiki had a full and your friends and family how adventurous life. Her creativity much you care about them Don McCormack, a civic leader and gutsy attitude towards and the environment. in Truckee with few peers, passed life was inspiring, especially Call the Land Trust at away in June of this year. After a to her children. She was an lengthy and accomplished career accomplished artist and won 530-582-4711 for more with Shell Oil Co., Don and his many awards at the Marin County information. wife Diane and their much-loved Fair for her cloisonné jewelry, Dachshunds, retired to Truckee. photo memory quilts and pine needle baskets.  Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 13 Business Partner Profile David Robertson of Lost Trail Lodge

David Robertson moved “I feel the backcountry to Tahoe City as a young boy should be available in 1966. . “ I would rise early to all, not just a few.” before being bused to Truckee for The Land Trust, with school, and ride my bike to Page the community’s Meadows; I couldn’t get enough support, is making this of it.”. In winter he skied and possible.” We would worked at Granlibakken like to thank David In 1998, after a short stay Robertson, his family in Montana, David returned and Lost Trail Lodge to Truckee. His love of the for their support. The backcountry, skiing, and a passion Land Trust could not for music led him to build Lost accomplish its goals Trial Lodge. Surrounded by without partnerships forest in Coldstream Canyon, the with folks like David off-the-grid Lodge offers ideal Robertson. David Robertson also serves as Chief Entertainer for Lost Trail access to some of the Sierra’s best For more Lodge, a homey sanctuary deep in Coldstream Canyon. backcountry skiing and ski- information about touring, hiking, and climbing. On Lost Trail Lodge visit a snowy day David can be found www.losttraillodge. Have you renewed your 2007 membership? A long- at the Lodge’s piano, or in front com or call of the fire with mandolin or bass (530) 320-9268. time supporter will match your contribution dollar guitar in hand. for dollar if you maintain or increase your giving. Commenting on his support of the Land Trust, David said, Please help protect more of the open spaces you value. Call 530-582-4711 to give by phone.

Board Update Welcome Chris Fellows

The Land Trust Board of Chris is the founder and owner of Directors is pleased to announce the North America Ski Training the election of Chris Fellows to Center, a high performance ski the Board. With his wife Jenny, school based in Truckee. “I am thrilled to be on the Land Trust’s Board,” Chris said. “Like a lot of folks, I am concerned about the pace of development and the loss of natural Chris on the hill making it look so easy. lands in the Truckee Donner region. I like the Bern said. “He’ll be a real asset to Land Trust’s approach the Land Trust’s Board.” of creating a win-win Chris is on the Professional for public and private Ski Instructors of America interests.” National Demonstration Team “Truckee is at its and also serves on its Board of heart still a ski town, and Directors. Chris is very connected Chris and Jenny and their Chris and Jenny and their three children, to the ski industry,” three children, Colter, Monique Monique, Heath and Colter. Board President Martin and Heath, live in Tahoe Donner.

Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 14 Thank you to the following Business Partners A lean ship Ace Mountain Hardware • Albertsons • Truckee Donner Land Trust understands donors expect their Arbor Home Mortgage, Inc. • Cabonas contributions will be put to good use. We are proud of running a lean • Capital Beverage Co. • Carmel Gallery and efficient organization. The chart and table below provide summary Downtown Truckee – Elizabeth & Olof information for the most recent fiscal year. If you have questions or Carmel • Castle Peak Vacation Rentals would like to receive a copy of the Land Trust’s IRS form 990 or audited • Castle Peak Snow Removal • Chase financial statements please contact our Associate Director, Stan Wingate International – Trinkie Watson • Citizen’s at [email protected]. Bank of Northern California • Conservation & Preservation Counsel • Dennis E. Zirbel, Uses of funds for the year ended 12/31/06 LLC • DMB/Highlands Group, LLC • Total program Donner Lake Property Owners Association expenditures 91% • Donner Memorial State Park • Donner Truckee Veterinary Hospital • Dragonfly • East West Partners • Florian’s Fine Wines & Specialty Foods • Geocadd Aerial Surveys • Management Green River Productions • Hartley & Support 6% Appraisal Services • Home Concepts • Integrated Environmental Restoration Services • Isabella O. • Jackass Ridge • Law Office of Porter • Simon • Los Gatos Construction Co., Inc. • Lost Trail Lodge Fundraising • Maui Vacation Rentals - Andrea Thomas 3% • Martis Valley Associates – Anne Dain Goeschl • Northstar-At-Tahoe • Offroute. com • Parr Goldman & Byrne • Pinnacle Summary of Lands Real Estate • Plumas Bank • Ryan Group Architects • Serene Lakes Property Owners Conserved Association • Sierra Business Council • Sierra Mountain Mortgage • Sierra Sun 1/1/07 through 10/31/07 Total from founding (1990) through 10/31/07 • The Pour House • The Sohagi Law Number of Projects Completed 4 Number of Projects Completed 35 Group, LLC • Squaw Valley USA • State Acres 4,791 Acres 12,442 Farm Insurance – Tahoe City • Streamline Fair Market Value $25,877,300 Fair Market Value $43,844,999 Consulting Group • Sugar Bowl • Tahoe Property Group, LLC • Tahoe Sierra Eye & Optical • Talisman Cellars • The Estates Group – Tom Pillsbury • TIP, Inc. • Tony Hardy Construction Inc. • Town & Country Storage • Truckee Auto Mall • Truckee River Associates • Truckee River Watershed Council • Truckee-Tahoe Lumber • Twin Peaks Catering • Sagehen Creek Field Station The Land Trust would not be able to accomplish our goals on the Donner Lake Rim Trail without the following foundations: Lahontan Community Foundation • New Belgium Brewing • Teichert Foundation Truckee Tahoe Community Foundation Our latest acquisition, Waddle Ranch, is open for the public to enjoy. Fall 2007 Newsletter Page 15

Trails & Vistas 4th Annual – “Passages” – September 9, 2007

Trails & Vistas is a partnership of three local non-profit organizations, The Truckee Donner Land Trust, InnerRhythms Dance Theatre and Arts For the Schools. As an event partner, we believe this art walk strengthens the ties between art and the environment while increasing awareness of conservation.

InnerRhythms Dance Theatre performing in a meadow. Trails & Vistas photos courtesy of Jeff Engerbretson.

A special thanks to founder and Chief Red Hawk performs native flute Creative Director, Nancy Tieken Lopez, songs. Choreographer, Elizabeth Archer and Trails & Vistas was a great Graphic Designer, Cesar Lopez, and to success with all tickets sold out. Over all the artists and volunteers for making 450 hikers enjoyed a unique art event this year’s event a great success! that offered the Truckee and North Lake Tahoe community an original art production that involved dance, music A Balinese Legong dancer was Please visit www.trailsandvistas.com for and installation art on a hike on the accompanied by the traditional more information. Pacific Crest Trail. Gamelan Sekar Jaya orchestra.

“Seasons of Martis” Many thanks to our local art community.

More than 70 artists from the Truckee-Tahoe region and around the country collaborated in the Seasons of Martis, an exhibit spanning four local art galleries and the month of October. The exhibit conveyed the story of the Martis Valley through color and form while helping raise funds for the Land Trust’s acquisition of Waddle Ranch. The 1,500 ranch is at the heart of Martis Valley. Seasons of Martis included the first Plein Air, or outdoor painting, event organized by local artists and gallery owners. The paintings, created over a single weekend by 20 talented artists, were later auctioned with part of the proceeds donated to the Land Trust.

Many thanks to: Reno artist, Mike Callahan, braves the cold to participate in the Seasons of Martis Plein Air art event. Laura Read Judy Mayorga Truckee Gallery Andy Skaff Thank you to each of the 35 local artists Carmel Gallery East West Partners and 32 plein air artists who explored and Downtown Truckee through the Tahoe interpreted Martis Valley for Seasons Riverside Studios Mountain Resort of Martis. North Tahoe Arts Foundation

The Truckee Donner Land Trust was founded in 1990 in order to preserve and protect important historic, recreational and scenic open spaces in the greater Truckee region.

Tel. 530.582.4711 Fax 530.582.5528 email: [email protected] website: www.tdlandtrust.org The Truckee Donner Land Trust is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations to the Land Trust are tax-deductible under the Internal Revenue Service Code.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Martin D. Bern, President Noelle Allen Hetz, Vice President William Thauvette, Secretary/ Treasurer David Brown Chris Fellows This gentleman has been spotted numerous times at Waddle Ranch. Photo by Kim Kornenich courtesy of the San Francisco Chronicle. William Goerke Jeff Hamilton This newsletter is printed on recycled paper using soy ink. J. Thomas Van Berkem NON-PROFIT ORG. ADVISORS Gene Bowles U.S. POSTAGE John Cobourn PAID Kathleen Eagan TRUCKEE, CA Greg Faulkner PERMIT #138 Ralph Hunt TRUCKEE ❖ DONNER Judy Mayorga L A N D T RUST William McGlashan P.O. Box 8816 Stephanie Olivieri Truckee, CA 96162 James L. Porter, Jr. ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Craig Ritchey Kathleen Ritchie

STAFF Perry Norris, Executive Director Stan Wingate, Associate Director Kellie Wright, Development Director Sara Taddo, Land Conservation Director Dale Lawrence, Membership Coordinator John Svahn, Donner Lake Rim Trail Coordinator

COVER PHOTO: The misnamed Dry Lake at Waddle Ranch. Photo by Kim Kornenich courtesy of the San Francisco Chronicle.