Yosemite Conservancy Autumn.Winter 2012 :: Volume 03

YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: VOLUME 03 . ISSUE 02

Protecting Yosemite’s Diverse Habitats

INSIDE

Renewed Efforts in the Fight Against Invasive Plants Restoring Upper Cathedral Meadow Youth Learn About Nature Through Photography Expert Insights Into the Yosemite Toad COVER PHOTO: © NANCY ROBBINS. PHOTO: (RIGHT) © KEITH WALKLET.

MISSION

Providing for Yosemite’s future is our passion. We inspire people to support projects and programs that preserve and protect Yosemite National Park’s resources and enrich the visitor experience.

PRESIDENT’S NOTE

YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY COUNCIL MEMBERS Yosemite’s Habitats: CHAIR PRESIDENT & CEO Supporting Incredible John Dorman* Mike Tollefson*

VICE CHAIR VICE PRESIDENT Diversity Christy Holloway* & COO Jerry Edelbrock am fortunate to have lived in Yosemite National Park, where I spent many years enjoying its beauty — from watching the COUNCIL Michael & Jeanne Adams Bob & Melody Lind seasons change in the Valley, to observing Lynda & Scott Adelson Sam & Cindy Livermore wildlife in the meadows to gazing up at the Gretchen Augustyn Anahita & Jim Lovelace majestic big trees in Mariposa Grove. It Susan & Bill Baribault Lillian Lovelace amazes and humbles me to recognize the Meg & Bob Beck Carolyn & Bill Lowman Suzy & Bob Bennitt* Dick Otter interconnections of these diverse environments. David Bowman & Sharon & Phil Gloria Miller Pillsbury* Many of you probably have experienced similar awe-inspiring moments of Tori & Bob Brant Bill Reller wonder at the beauty of Yosemite’s natural landscapes. That’s why we are Marilyn & Allan Brown Frankie & Skip Rhodes* devoting this issue to highlighting Yosemite’s habitats and their incredible Marilyn & Don R. Angie Rios & Samuel Conlan Norman value, both to the plants and animals they nurture and also to us, as park Hal Cranston* Liz & Royal Robbins visitors and supporters. Read about the latest efforts to remove invasive Leslie & John Dorman* Lennie & Mike Roberts plants and how a high country meadow restoration is providing better Dave & Dana Dornsife* Dave Rossetti & habitat while improving your hiking experience. In Expert Insights, aquatic Lisa & Craig Elliott Jan Avent* Kathy Fairbanks* Marjorie & Jay Rossi ecologist Heather McKenny tells you why Yosemite toads are vital to the park’s Cynthia & Bill Floyd* Linda & Steve Sanchez* ecosystem — and what’s being done to protect them. Don’t miss updates on Jim Freedman Lisa & Greg Stanger* the highly anticipated restoration of Tenaya Lake’s East Beach, experiencing Don & Susan Fuhrer Jennifer & Russ Stanton the high country through art workshops and exciting trail repair news. Bonnie & Rusty Gregory* Ann & George Sundby* Chuck & Christy Clifford J. Walker* Holloway* Wally Wallner & Also in this issue, we’re sharing highlights from our electronic 2011 annual Suzanne & Dan Jensen* Jill Appenzeller report. Read about how your donations make a difference. Jennifer & Gregory Jack Walston Johnson* Phyllis Weber* & Art Thanks to your dedication as donors, these efforts ensure Yosemite’s habitats Jean Lane Baggett remain timeless and beautiful resources. Thank you for your support. Walt Lemmermann* Polly & Ward Wolff* See you in the park,

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Superintendent Don Neubacher

*Indicates Board of Trustees COVER PHOTO An ice skater enjoys the peace Mike Tollefson, President and solitude of Tenaya Lake last winter.

Join Yosemite Conservancy on Facebook and Flickr.

02 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG COVER PHOTO: © NANCY ROBBINS. PHOTO: (RIGHT) © KEITH WALKLET.

AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 CONTENTS VOLUME 03 . ISSUE 02

ABOVE First Snow, Tenaya Lake.

IN THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS

10 EXPERT INSIGHTS 04 STOPPING THE SPREAD Aquatic biologist Heather McKenny discusses the declining populations of Park scientists are using new technology Yosemite toad and what’s being done to to identify non-native plants in order protect them. to develop a park-wide prevention and treatment plan. 12 Q&A WITH A YOSEMITE INSIDER Valley District Ranger Jack Hoeflich answers questions about search and 06 RESTORING HIGH rescue and offers tips for staying safe COUNTRY HABITAT in Yosemite.

A restoration project in Upper Cathedral 14 PROJECT UPDATES Meadow in Yosemite’s high country Restoration efforts at Tenaya Lake’s provides better habitat while improving East Beach, 2012 trail repair activities your hiking experience. and monitoring changes in the park’s glaciers.

19 PROGRAM UPDATES 08 PARKS IN FOCUS: YOUTH DISCOVER YOSEMITE Find your inspiration by taking a high country art workshop or attending an arts THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY and science forum at Parsons Memorial Middle-school youth from the Lodge next summer. San Francisco Bay Area focus on nature 30 READER PHOTOS through photography. Yosemite Conservancy supporters share their special Yosemite memories.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 03 PHOTOS: © COURTESY OF NPS.

“Himalayan blackberry has displaced more than 100 acres of native vegetation in meadow and riparian areas with high plant and animal diversity.”

— GARRETT DICKMAN Biologist, National Park Service

REMOVING INVASIVE PLANTS STOPPING FROM YOSEMITE THE SPREAD

YELLOW STAR THISTLE SPOTTED KNAPWEED HIMALAYAN BLACKBERRY PHOTOS: © COURTESY OF NPS.

irdsongs, majestic waterfalls, granite monoliths and diverse wildflowers: These features are part of the spectacular natural ecosystems that make Yosemite National Park so special and memorable. Many people come to the park to experience the landscapes for which Yosemite is famous. Unfortunately, the visitor experience can be greatly compromised when weeds outnumber wildflowers. Highly aggressive invasive plants, such as yellow star thistle, Himalayan blackberry, cheat grass and velvet grass, threaten native vegetation, alter food supply for wildlife, increase fire OPPOSITE PAGE TOP A team of volunteers survey plants in Tuolumne Meadows. ABOVE Volunteers help remove invasive plants, such as the potential and reduce recreational quality. mullein and bull thistle pictured.

“Himalayan blackberry has displaced more than 100 acres of document invasive plants by taking a picture and a GPS native vegetation in meadow and riparian areas with high plant and point, and providing some basic but critical information animal diversity,” according to Garrett Dickman, a biologist for the about the plant. This app is available for free at CalFlora: National Park Service in Yosemite. “Yellow star thistle has displaced calflora.org/phone. Thanks to technological innovations, you many native plants, reduced the food supply for wild animals, and don’t have to be a park botanist to help survey invasive plants. the sharp spines stop hikers from even walking through it.” Along with park scientists, volunteers are encouraged to go hiking and capture valuable data about non-native species Invasive plants are not a new issue, as many species have been throughout Yosemite’s vast terrain. in the park for decades. People intentionally planted some species for landscaping, such as foxglove, bachelor buttons “We cannot do this project without the help of volunteers,” and black locust. Yellow star thistle likely arrived by accident Dickman says. “The park is too big for a handful of botanists on contaminated material such as hay or gravel. Cheat grass to survey, so we are asking for help from volunteers to survey sticks to clothing, car tires and animal fur, while Himalayan and treat invasive plants.” blackberry was planted for food. In the past three years alone, park biologists have discovered more than 30 new non-native In 2011, hundreds of volunteer weed warriors surveyed about species, and all of them arrived in Yosemite by accident. 280 acres of Yosemite Valley and manually removed invasive plants such as bull thistle. In 2012, volunteers incorporated To combat the spreading problem, Yosemite Conservancy the use of the smartphone app in survey efforts. This year, is working with the National Park Service to fund a multi- a group of Yosemite Conservancy work week volunteers also year comprehensive invasive-plant survey throughout the treated several acres of bull thistle and surveyed dozens of park. “This project will give us a picture across the landscape acres of prime habitat in Yosemite Valley for invasive plants. of which invasive plants are in the park and where they are located,” Dickman explains. “We will use this information to Visitors can help prevent the introduction of non-native species by reprioritize locations and species for treatment.” making sure shoes, cars and camping gear are clean before arriving in the park. Any burrs or seeds stuck to gear can accidentally The data collected from the survey will be used to create computer hitchhike to Yosemite and spread from there. Guarding against models and will form the basis for an effective prevention, invasive plants doesn’t stop at the park’s boundaries. You can also early-detection and rapid-response program for invasive-plant help your local communities by landscaping with native plants management in Yosemite. Park biologists have already made and by not planting species known to be invasive. By working enormous strides and are vigilantly guarding Yosemite Valley from together and staying informed, we can ensure Yosemite’s natural aggressive species moving farther up the Merced River corridor. habitats thrive for generations to come.

Technology is playing an important role in this project. A Learn more about becoming a Yosemite Conservancy smartphone app developed earlier this year allows users to volunteer at yosemiteconservancy.org

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 05 RESTORING HIGH COUNTRY HABITAT PROTECTING UPPER CATHEDRAL MEADOW

ABOVE View of Cathedral Peak from Upper Cathedral Meadow. In addition to being a popular hiking destination, this high country habitat is home PHOTOS: (ABOVE) © NANCY ROBBINS. (OPPOSITE LEFT TO RIGHT) © YOSMITE CONSERVANCY. to a variety of plants and wildlife.

almness and serenity: Being near a tranquil meadow bordered by the granite domes and alpine lakes of “Meadows are the most Yosemite National Park is enough to evoke these feelings. Meadows instill a deep connection with the biologically diverse and natural world, but these are not just beautiful places productive habitats — meadows are also flourishing natural ecosystems that support Yosemite’s plants and animals. in the Sierra.”

“Meadows are the most biologically diverse and productive — SUE BEATTY habitats in the Sierra Nevada,” says Sue Beatty, restoration Restoration Ecologist ecologist for the National Park Service in Yosemite. “They play an important role by capturing snowmelt in the deep soils and slowly releasing nutrient-rich water into the streams In Yosemite’s high country, popular hiking trails have evolved and rivers throughout the summer.” into large trail networks that intersect meadows, causing disruptions in water flow. Recognizing the significance of Meadows are also vital habitat to a variety of wildlife, meadows to the park’s entire ecosystem, Yosemite Conservancy especially numerous species of birds and bats that depend on and the National Park Service are working together to restore meadows for food, breeding and preparation for migration. these special places. The Yosemite toad, which is endemic to the Sierra Nevada, is one of many amphibian species that depends on seasonally In 2010, Yosemite Conservancy began funding a three- flooded meadow habitat for breeding. year restoration project to return natural processes to Upper

06 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG RESTORING HIGH COUNTRY HABITAT PHOTOS: (ABOVE) © NANCY ROBBINS. (OPPOSITE LEFT TO RIGHT) © YOSMITE CONSERVANCY.

BEFORE DURING AFTER

ABOVE The John Muir Trail in Upper Cathedral ABOVE National Park Service trail crews ABOVE The trail has been rerouted, allowing Meadow acted as a ditch, disrupting water flow. reroute the trail and replant salvaged plants. the ecosystem to return to natural conditions.

Cathedral Meadow, a wet meadow along the popular John through the deep ruts, trying to keep out of the mud,” Beatty Muir Trail and High Sierra Camp loop. Hikers and pack stock says. “This project is a win-win situation for both the visitor were constantly side-stepping the main path to avoid pools of and the meadow ecosystem.” water and, in the process, unintentionally creating new parallel trails. As many as 10 parallel trails, some up to 14 inches deep, Last year, more than 195 linear feet of rutted trail was restored, crossed through sections of the meadow, acting as ditches and including an area containing as many as 10 parallel ruts, the changing the natural water flow. highest number on the project. The restoration crew lived near the project site, resulting in numerous opportunities to answer Work completed during the past three summers includes questions from park visitors and teach youth groups about rerouting the trail out of the meadow and into the adjoining wilderness restoration. upland forest. Crews removed ditches, restored topography and replanted salvaged vegetation to facilitate the return to Visitors have an important role in helping the restoration natural conditions. The visitor experience, which was being succeed. Hikers should stay on the formal trail to give meadow affected by the former route, is now greatly improved. plants the time needed to grow, flower and produce seeds during the short growing season. “Staying on the trail will allow “Visitors and pack stock will no longer need to traverse these plants the best chance for success,” Beatty notes.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 07 FocusParks in PHOTOS: © COURTESY OF THE UDALL FOUNDATION. For young people who have never experienced the natural world through a camera lens, this program allows them to sharpen their focus on their futures. Through photography, underserved middle-school youth from the San Francisco Bay Area spend five days observing nature and learning about environmental conservation. Parks in Focus is more than just photography — it’s about introducing young people to a new way of seeing the world. While in Yosemite, these kids also work on a park–service project. By actively connecting with the park, they develop a lifelong stewardship ethic. Your continued support means more students will have this life-changing opportunity to learn a new skill and become future park stewards.

08 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG Youth Discover Yosemite Through Photography PHOTOS: © COURTESY OF THE UDALL FOUNDATION. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT A student poses with a pine cone during restoration activities in Mariposa Grove. A big tree from a unique perspective, taken by Monica, age 12. The students experiment with their digital cameras. A vision of Half Dome at sunset, taken by Isaac, age 11. Martin sets up for a low angle shot. A deer in its natural habitat, taken by Shontelle, age 14. A student receives hands-on photography lessons.

Parks in Focus is more YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY and the NATIONAL PARK SERVICE are proud than just photography — to partner with the Udall Foundation to connect youth to nature through Parks it’s about introducing young in Focus. Thanks to this productive partnership, more young people have people to a new way of the opportunity to experience Yosemite seeing the world. through photography.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 09 EXPERT INSIGHTS

SAVING THE YOSEMITE TOAD

HEALTHY ECOSYSTEMS DEPEND ON HEALTHY TOADS

BY HEATHER McKENNY, AQUATIC ECOLOGIST

LEFT A female Yosemite toad in its natural high-elevation aquatic habitat. PHOTOS: (LEFT) © COURTESY OF NPS. (ABOVE) © MATT SHARGEL. (RIGHT) © HEATHER MCKENNY.

itting quietly in the warm springtime sun in one The decline of the Yosemite toad is likely affecting the health of Yosemite’s picturesque meadows, you may be of high-elevation aquatic ecosystems. It has also reduced fortunate enough to experience the rare joy of the chances park visitors will be able to experience a natural hearing the Yosemite toad’s musical call. Hearing landscape with a full complement of native biodiversity. the toad’s chorus was once a common pleasure for spring visitors to the High Sierra. Sadly, Yosemite’s The Conservancy is funding a three-year project to conduct the meadows are much quieter today due to substantial first-ever park-wide survey for Yosemite toads. The park hopes population declines. to document as many toad populations as possible and to assess how different stressors may be affecting the toads’ distribution. The Yosemite toad, found only in the Sierra Nevada, was a Between 2010 and 2012, scientists surveyed 1,032 meadows historically abundant species occurring primarily in high- and found toads in 126. As part of the survey, information is elevation wet meadows higher than 6,400 feet in elevation. collected on whether toads are found in the meadows, as well Scientists estimate we have lost between 47 percent and 79 as information about the habitat and any signs of human use. percent of our Yosemite toad population due to factors such as disease, habitat loss and degradation, climate change and air This information is being used to develop a conservation plan pollution. Because of the decline, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife for restoring and protecting the Yosemite toad. The plan will Service considers the species a candidate for listing under the include identifying meadows for habitat restoration and making Endangered Species Act. science-based decisions about managing threats.

10 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG EXPERT INSIGHTS

HEALTHY ECOSYSTEMS DEPEND ON HEALTHY TOADS

BY HEATHER McKENNY, AQUATIC ECOLOGIST

LEFT A female Yosemite toad in its natural high-elevation aquatic habitat. PHOTOS: (LEFT) © COURTESY OF NPS. (ABOVE) © MATT SHARGEL. (RIGHT) © HEATHER MCKENNY. ABOVE Students from Seven Hills School in Walnut Creek, Calif. survey a high-elevation meadow in Lyell Canyon for Yosemite toads and other amphibians.

This project is also providing unique educational opportunities HEATHER McKENNY is an aquatic to students (ages 13–17) from Seven Hills School in Walnut ecologist at Yosemite National Park, where she has been overseeing the Creek, Calif., who participate in a week-long summer science Aquatic Ecology Program since 2008. program in Yosemite. They work alongside park biologists She graduated from the University of learning wilderness survival skills and help survey for Yosemite Vermont with a B.S. in biology and an M.S. in forestry. Saving the Yosemite toads, Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frogs, and other amphibians toad and the Sierra Nevada yellow- and reptiles. They are even helping find populations of Yosemite legged frog from extinction is the most toads that have not been documented previously. The experience important part of her job. She hopes has been life-changing for many of the students and has helped that one day these formerly abundant species will be restored throughout Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada. them appreciate the importance of conservation.

Saving the Yosemite toad from extinction is crucial for restoring a healthy ecosystem in Yosemite’s high country and for ensuring YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY has provided a three-year grant to fund a survey of the Yosemite toad and its high-elevation meadow future generations of park visitors can experience the joy of habitat. Data collected will help park scientists determine the hearing the toad’s tuneful call ringing across mountain meadows current status and distribution of the species, as well as factors in the spring. associated with species decline, such as climate change and visitor-use activities. The goal of the project is the development and implementation of a more informed conservation plan to Read more about the Yosemite toad project on our protect and preserve this unique species. website at yosemiteconservancy.org/magazine

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 11 PHOTOS: © COURTESY OF NPS

“The park ranger has historically been a ‘jack-of- all-trades’ profession.”

— JACK HOEFLICH Valley District Ranger

WITH A YOSEMITE Q&A INSIDER ABOVE Ranger Jack Hoeflich repairing cables on Half Dome.

ark ranger Jack Hoeflich was drawn Q :: What are your typical duties as Valley to Yosemite National Park while district ranger? working as a computer engineer in P A :: As the Valley district ranger, I’m responsible for visitor Silicon Valley. The allure of rock climbing and resource protection in Yosemite Valley, including search inspired him to leave his desk job to pursue and rescue, emergency medical services and law enforcement. his passions in Yosemite. Hoeflich moved I manage a permanent staff of 15, a seasonal staff of 28, and numerous volunteers and interns. from a volunteer to a search and rescue team member and, finally, a park ranger. Today, he The major duties vary by season and can involve a search is part of the Protection Division responsible and rescue incident or fatality, or a natural disaster — flood, rockfall, wind event, wildfire. In a typical summer, it is not for visitor and resource protection, including uncommon to be called out several times per week for a search and rescue operations. technical rescue or a backcountry medical emergency.

Q :: What brought you to Yosemite? Q :: The Protection Division must be ready to deal with all types of emergencies. How does A :: I grew up in rural Illinois and first visited Yosemite in your team train and prepare for such a wide 1988. I started rock climbing and was drawn to the sport variety of situations? by the combined mental and physical challenge and the A :: The park ranger historically has been a “jack-of-all- amazing terrain I could explore. In 1999, I took a leave of trades” profession. Rangers spend an incredible number absence from my job and spent the summer volunteering in of hours training in many disciplines. Much of their skill, Yosemite. I never made it back to my old career. Over time, I fitness and area orientation is developed while exploring the became a search and rescue team member, and in 2003, I was park on their personal time. offered a permanent job as a park ranger. We are successful in Yosemite because the magnificence of My love for climbing, my desire to live and work in such the park attracts outstanding rangers. Motivation comes from an amazing place, and my interest in protecting Yosemite the National Park Service mission and from the privilege of [brought me here]. being able to live here and enjoy the park as a home.

12 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG PHOTOS: © COURTESY OF NPS YOSEMITE INSIDER

“My love for climbing, my desire to live and work in such an amazing place, and my interest in protecting Yosemite [brought me here].”

— JACK HOEFLICH Valley District Ranger

ABOVE A search and rescue team is briefed near El Capitan. LEFT A rescuer and patient are lifted toward the summit of Half Dome.

Q :: What is the best advice you can give someone about staying safe in Yosemite?

A :: My advice to visitors is to understand your limits, respect the resource, and don’t underestimate the force of gravity and moving water.

YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY has given grants throughout the years to Yosemite National Park for a variety of search and rescue projects. For example, the Conservancy funded the construction of a helicopter-simulator rappel tower in Crane Flat to provide a better and safer training environment for search and rescue personnel. Additionally, the Conservancy has funded an upgrade of the search and rescue supply cache in Wawona to improve efficient deployment of gear in an emergency situation.

Give Gifts Inspired by Yosemite. Give gifts that will inspire the kids on your list to get outdoors. Explore our selection of young reader nature guides, Junior Ranger gear and more!

Purchases made at the Yosemite Conservancy store support our work in the park and help ensure its preservation for generations to come.

Shop now at yosemiteconservancy.org

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 13 PROJECT UPDATES

New Projects for 2012* RESTORING

CULTURAL & HISTORIC PRESERVATION YOSEMITE’S Historic Sachse Springs Cabin Restoration $64,464 Sharing Traditions Exhibit: History of Cultural Demonstrators in Yosemite $39,575 TRAILS HABITAT RESTORATION Mariposa Grove Restoration $1,000,000 Removing Invasive Plants from Yosemite $79,838 Tenaya Lake Restoration: East Beach $800,000 A LOOK BACK AT 2012 Wilderness Restoration with SCA Crews $199,699

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH Protecting Songbirds & Inspiring Visitors $37,233

TRAIL REPAIR & ACCESS Improved Trails & Wetland Restoration: Lembert Dome Loop Trail $193,596 John Muir Trail & Habitat Improvements in Lyell Canyon $120,000 Legendary Valley Trails Restoration $390,050 Restoring Popular Climbing Trails $57,000 Tuolumne & Merced Watershed Trails Rehabilitation by CCC Crews $429,305 Tuolumne Grove Trailhead Rehabilitation $120,428 Yosemite Trails Campaign $233,000 Youth Crews (YCC) Restore Campgrounds, Trails & Habitat $351,908

VISITOR SERVICES & EDUCATION Adventure to Leadership: Youth Development Program with ARC $93,120 Junior Ranger Program $96,000 Parks in Focus: Youth Photography Program $8,500 Parsons Memorial Lodge Summer Series $25,000 Teens Connect to Yosemite through WildLink $14,500 WildLink Alumni Explore Careers f you have hiked up the heart- in Yosemite $13,700 pumping Four Mile Trail, Yosemite Guide for Visitors with strolled to Lower Yosemite Language Disabilities $28,160 Yosemite Leadership Program Summer Fall or trekked the popular Internship $102,465 Lembert Dome Trail, you have Yosemite Nature Notes Web Video Series $38,000 experienced the results of your Yosemite Trip Planning Podcasts $29,000 Yosemite’s 150th Year Celebration $57,000 donor dollars at work in the park.I The trail network is critical WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT to ensuring visitors have access to Protecting the Great Owl $60,000 Protecting Yosemite’s Bears Through Yosemite’s many wonders. With Electronic Monitoring $117,700 your support, the Conservancy can continue to provide funding to TOTAL $4,799,241 Yosemite National Park to keep these *Total project funding is included for multi-year projects. trails in excellent condition. Color represents 2012 Youth in Yosemite Programs.

14 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG PROJECT UPDATES PHOTOS: © COURTESY OF NPS.

ABOVE A team of volunteers from Tuolumne Climber Coffee builds a clearly marked trail near the “Lord Caffeine” climbing route in Olmsted Canyon near Olmsted Point.

ABOVE Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) crew members pause for a photo while hauling rocks on the trail between Sentinel Dome and Taft Point.

ABOVE A Yosemite National Park trail crew member fits a series of rocks into place on the new trail to the East Beach at Tenaya Lake. LEFT A Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) crew member breaks rock on the Lembert Dome Trail in Tuolumne Meadows. RIGHT California Conservation Corps (CCC) youth crew members Nick and Andrew move rock into place on the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail.

2012 was another busy year for trail crews, including several youth crews, who repaired stone steps, built bridges and eradicated social trails throughout the park. Yosemite Conservancy recognizes the importance of trails in protecting natural resources while providing visitors with memorable hiking experiences. That’s why we, together with the National Park Service, work hard to make sure these trails endure.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 15 PROJECT UPDATES

RESTORING EAST BEACH AT TENAYA LAKE

POLISHING THE JEWEL OF THE HIGH COUNTRY

ut a visit to Tenaya Lake on your 2013 summer calendar, and look forward to enjoying the results of a highly anticipated restoration project at the popular East Beach area. Work crews spent last summer completing a two-year restoration project to enhance the visitor experience while protecting wetlands.

“Thanks to the unwavering support of our donors, lakeshore ABOVE A visitor learns about Tenaya habitat at one of Yosemite’s most popular summer destinations is protected, Lake’s natural and cultural history thanks to new interpretive signage installed while providing visitors with a better place to connect to nature and family,” as part of the Conservancy-funded says Mike Tollefson, president of Yosemite Conservancy. restoration project. National Park Service trail crews rerouted the beach-access trail to a drier upland area and built elevated boardwalks and bridges to avoid areas of sensitive wetland habitat. The handicapped-accessible trail now includes interpretive

16 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG PROJECT UPDATES

LEFT The restoration at Tenaya Lake’s East Beach area protects habitat while enhancing the visitor experience at this popular and beautiful location. ABOVE Park rangers pose at the newly- installed communal picnic table at the East Beach area.

PHOTOS: (LEFT) © NANCY ROBBINS. (ABOVE) © YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY. (RIGHT) © NANCY ROBBINS. signage to educate visitors about the restoration and natural ecology of the area, while a new communal picnic table will Yosemite Conservancy better accommodate large family gatherings. has provided To encourage a healthy ecosystem to take root, restoration $1.7 million during crews replanted native willows and sedges along the old trail. These plants will help reduce lakeshore erosion and keep the past two years … natural processes intact. ensuring Tenaya Yosemite Conservancy has provided $1.7 million during the past two years to improve visitor enjoyment while ensuring Lake’s natural integrity. Tenaya Lake’s natural integrity will endure for generations. Thanks to your support, this jewel of the high country is shining more brightly than ever.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 17 PROJECT UPDATES PHOTOS: © COURTESY OF NPS. PHOTO: © JONATHON WOLF.

MELTING GLACIERS

PARK SCIENTISTS MEASURE GLACIERS

TOP McClure Glacier is one of Yosemite’s few remaining “living” glaciers. MIDDLE Park scientists drill a velocity stake into Lyell Glacier to measure how fast it is moving. BOTTOM A researcher inspects the meteorological station installed between Lyell and McClure glaciers.

ohn Muir’s legacy is strong — even at the highest reaches of Yosemite National Park. His many accomplishments include the 1872 introduction of measuring the McClure Glacier to evaluate its speed and size. Today, scientists are attempting to reproduce Muir’s research in order to compare current glacier ranges with historical dimensions.

The Conservancy is funding a three-year study of the Lyell and McClure glaciers — the largest in Yosemite — to understand the climate patterns causing the retreat of these valuable resources. Park scientists have been documenting the size and velocity of the glaciers, as well as the amount of water being delivered to the upper Tuolumne River. Field data will be used to build computer models to predict glacial behavior in response to future climate scenarios.

When this study concludes in December 2012, scientists will have a better understanding of how Yosemite’s glaciers are affecting valuable water resources.

18 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG PROGRAM UPDATES PHOTO: © JONATHON WOLF. ART WORKSHOPS

INSPIRATION COMES NATURALLY IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

“Painting outdoors makes you part of the place. You can’t make this up in the studio.”

— CHARLES WALDMAN Veteran Artist & Workshop Instructor

n the early morning on the bank of the Tuolumne River, a group of artists have joined to interpret a tranquil and serene scene. The group mindfully slows down and absorbs the elements one by one to avoid being overwhelmed, as the interplays among land, water and wildlife create an ever-present symphony. Their ears perk up as they hear sounds previously unheard;I their eyes absorb infinite shades of blue, gold, green and more along the riverbank. Each artist makes a soft shushing sound across the canvas with his or her brush, then pauses to marvel at the vault of precious gems that sparkle beneath the surface of the river or listen to the krauk of an ardent Clark’s Nutcracker dancing in the trees above.

“Painting inspires you to really see the depth in the trees, water and granite. You really need to focus not only your eyes, but also your thoughts,” says Catherine Cummings, a workshop participant. For Cummings and the other art students, slowing down and using all their senses is the first lesson.

LEFT Artist Charles Waldman at his easel preparing to instruct plein air participants in Tuolumne Meadows.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 19 PROGRAM UPDATES

“Painting inspires you to really see the depth in the trees, water and granite. You really need to focus not only your eyes, but also your thoughts.”

— CATHERINE CUMMINGS Workshop Participant

PHOTO: (LEFT TO RIGHT) © KEVIN MADDRY. © CHUCK WALDMAN. © CHUCK WALDMAN. “Painting outdoors makes you part of the place. You can’t make this up in the studio,” explains Charles Waldman, a veteran artist who has been leading Conservancy workshops for more than a decade. “Nothing you can imagine will come close to what you can discover being outdoors.” Waldman teaches a plein air workshop to artists of all skill levels. His workshop is just one of the many ways Yosemite Conservancy is engaging visitors in the high country through the arts.

In addition to painting workshops, Yosemite Conservancy also supports the Parsons Memorial Lodge Summer Series, a forum that features many notable scientists, authors, musicians and poets. The series takes place each summer at the historic Parsons Memorial Lodge in Tuolumne Meadows. Yosemite’s inspiring high country is the perfect setting for the series, where arts and science communities come together to share their discoveries.

20 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG PROGRAM UPDATES

“We hear nothing OUTDOOR so clearly as what ADVENTURES

comes out of Get Outdoors with silence.” Yosemite Conservancy Yosemite has so much to offer year- — DAVID JAMES DUNCAN round, and we want to share it with Author you. Join Yosemite Conservancy expert naturalists on a snowshoeing adventure to explore Mariposa Grove or join a photography expedition to improve your skills and experience breath-taking scenery.

UPCOMING 2013 OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

JANUARY 12 Mariposa Grove Snowshoe Trek

JANUARY 17–20 Winter Landscape Photography

FEBRUARY 9 Trek to the Edge: BOTTOM LEFT An example of a finishdplein air Dewey Point Snowshoe 1 painting. LEFT Program participants find inspiration while on an Outdoor Adventure with FEBRUARY 22–23 professional artist and guide Charles Waldman. Photographing the “Firefall” ABOVE Dana Fork in the Afternoon by Charles Waldman, painted at one of the many Tuolumne MARCH 9 Meadows locations visited during the workshop. Sequoias & Snowshoes: Explore Mariposa Grove in Winter

MARCH 16 “We hear nothing so clearly as what comes out of silence,” says David James Trek to the Edge: Duncan, an author whose presentation, The Wild Without and the Wild Within, Dewey Point Snowshoe 2 was among several presentations at Parsons Lodge, where offerings explored MARCH 22 subjects from species extinction to yoga and meditation. Secrets of the West Valley MARCH 24 The subjects vary, but the common thread is that by learning to slow down and Spring Canyon Flowers connect with our natural places whether through writing, meditation, or art — APRIL 5–6 we are really making discoveries that connect us with ourselves. Leave No Trace Trainer APRIL 13 As Waldman reminds his students: “The point is not just to make a painting; it is to A Saunter with John Muir engage in this dialog with our world … to live life. This is a path of discovery.” MAY 16–19 Spring Light Photography

Looking for inspiration? Join us for a painting or photography workshop to MAY 25 hone your artistic skills. Winter photography workshops are available now on Photographing the “Moonbow” 1 our website at yosemiteconservancy.org/adventures MAY 31–JUNE 2 Yosemite’s Birds of Prey

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 21 2011 Annual Report

A Special Message From the Chair & President

hen we reflect back on the past year, we are delighted and humbled by the commitment of our donors, volunteers and park partners to help provide for the future of Yosemite National WPark. From habitat restoration, to trail repairs, to providing opportunities for deeper connections with the park, the Conservancy’s support serves as a visible reminder of passionate efforts to preserve and protect Yosemite. In this report, we are thrilled to share our successes — none of which would be possible without the profound dedication of people such as you.

2011 was a busy and exciting year for projects and programs in the park, especially our two signature projects: Youth in Yosemite and restoring the East Beach at Tenaya Lake. Youth of all ages participated in programs designed to build park stewardship, self-confidence and leadership skills. We have broken ground on the restoration of Tenaya Lake’s East Beach, setting the foundation for new ecologically friendly trails and the replanting of native willows along the shoreline and in the surrounding wetlands.

These accomplishments would not be possible without your commitment:

• $9.3 million in support provided to Yosemite for projects and programs • More than 42,000 supporters • 55 miles of trail and 40 acres of meadow restored throughout the park • More than 27,000 young people participated in Conservancy-funded youth programs that encourage future park stewardship • 56 park-enhancement projects funded, ranging from trail and habitat restoration to cultural resource protection and enhanced visitor services

We thank you for your unwavering support in protecting Yosemite today and for future generations.

See you in the park,

John Dorman, Chair Mike Tollefson, President

Please enjoy highlights of our 2011 annual report. The full-length report can be viewed on our website at yosemiteconservancy.org/annual-report

PHOTO: © JOSH HELLING. ’11 ANNUAL REPORT

Our Work is Everywhere

Your Support Makes an Impact

f you’ve visited Yosemite, you’ve experienced the difference our support makes. From the installation

of bear-proof food lockers in Valley campgrounds, to PHOTO: © KEITH WALKLET.

the restoration of miles of trail in the high country, the ABOVE Workweek volunteers restore habitat in Yosemite Valley. work we support to preserve and protect Yosemite’s natural wonders and enrich the visitor experience is everywhere. In 2011, we funded 56 projects throughout the park, including Art and theater programs, Outdoor Adventures, restoration of 55 miles of trail and 40 acres of meadow. From bookstores, volunteers and wilderness-support services Yosemite Valley to Wawona to the high country, our support provide visitors with more opportunities to connect with is making a big difference in restoring natural ecosystems, Yosemite on a deeper level. protecting wildlife and improving the visitor experience.

Our Support is Everywhere

Think about your most recent visit: Did you stay in a Valley campground or go to a performance at Yosemite Theater? Then you benefitted from a Conservancy project or program.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 23 ’11 ANNUAL REPORT

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The amounts presented here are derived from Yosemite Conservancy’s audited financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2011. Support & Revenue A copy of the audited financial report is available on request. $12,866,122 Statement of Financial Position As of December 31, 2011 Visitor Services ASSETS & Programs Current Assets Investment Income $510,572 Cash & Investments $14,792,449 & Other Revenue Receivables & Other Assets $1,541,089 Retail & Publishing $95,686 $901,264 Total Current Assets $16,333,538 Pledges Receivable, Net of 4% 7% Current Portion $325,664 1% Furniture & Equipment, Net of Accumulated Depreciation $317,066 88% Land Held for Future Use $764,200

TOTAL ASSETS $17,740,468

LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Accounts Payable & Accrued Contributions $11,358,600 Expenses $554,205 Grants payable to Yosemite National Park, Current Portion $1,735,794 Total Current Liabilities $2,289,999 Grants Payable to Yosemite National Park, Net Current Portion $63,775 Cause Related Individuals Foundations TOTAL LIABILITIES $2,353,774 $1,150,026 $9,338,796 $541,468

NET ASSETS Unrestricted* $10,431,178 Campaign for Temporarily Restricted $3,941,807 Yosemite Trails Events Corporations Permanently Restricted $1,013,709 $298,914 $212,242 $116,068 TOTAL NET ASSETS $15,386,694

TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS $17,740,468

*Reserves are maintained to meet future grant obligations to Yosemite National Park.

24 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG ’11 ANNUAL REPORT

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2011

The amounts presented here are derived from Yosemite Conservancy’s Aid to Yosemite National Park audited financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2011. $8,794,067 A copy of the audited financial report is available on request. Statement of Activities As of December 31, 2011 Retail & Publishing Visitor Services $927,835 & Programs SUPPORT & REVENUE $1,380,289 Contributions $11,358,600 Retail & Publishing $901,264 16% Visitor Programs & Services $510,572 10% Investment Income & Other Revenue $95,686 74% TOTAL SUPPORT & REVENUE $12,866,122

EXPENSES Aid to Park Park Enhancements $6,485,943 Retail & Publishing $927,835 Park Enhancements $6,485,943 Visitor Services & Programs $1,380,289 Total Aid to Park $8,794,067 Administrative $602,321 Fundraising $2,195,260

TOTAL EXPENSES $11,591,648

Visitor Services Habitat Restoration Trail Repair & Education $1,037,872 & Access Note to Financial Statements $2,601,633 $1,066,150 Total support for Yosemite National Park was projected to be $9.3 million. This support is composed of park enhancements, programs and services. Final aid to Yosemite National Park reflects the actual number in audited financial statements. One of the significant non-cash support items Campaign for Scientific Research Cultural & Historic reflected in the $9.3 million is the value of volunteer hours. Yosemite Trails $119,140 $51,528 The Conservancy contributed $355,000 in value based on $298,914 volunteer contributions to Yosemite National Park in 2011.

Other Pass-thru Gifts & Grants $355,000 in support was $370,920 provided to Yosemite in the form of volunteer service. Wildlife Management Project Administration $18,900 $920,886

THANK YOU

In Memoriam We are grateful to our donors who honor and remember their friends and loved ones with a memorial gift to Yosemite Conservancy. Below we list the names of those individuals remembered with gifts received between January 1, 2011 and July 31, 2012.

Edward & Harriett Abbott Barry Biscombe Mary Louise Callas Bruce Cowan James Farris Keith Goodin Sidney Abed Arthur M. Bishop Peter Callizo Andrew Roy Cox Richard Fauver Dennis Gorman Barbara Carr Acevedo Vivian Marie Bishop Ruth Camaraota Scott P. Cranny Bernard & Jeanne Favaro Anna, Thomas & Robert L. Adams David Bixler Ryan Cameron Ruth D. Crawford Kenneth D. Fawcett Vernon Grady Judy Aguayo Daniel K. Blair LCpl William G. Camp James Crichton Mollie Felso Gebing Sue Ann Graf Joanne Aker Beverly Blake Matt Cannon Bev Cross Lynn Lee Ferrin David Gratton Marcos Akiaten Thomas Blankenship Vincent A. Capuano Louie Cruz Crystal Coral Fesperman Daniel R. Gravelyn Maxine S. Akin James Bleak Judy Carballo Sunnie Cullings Jack Finch David Gray Richard A. Alter Sylvia Bleiweiss Jeanne Carevic Lynda Cunningham Commare Frances Eugenia Grinwaldt Angelo Ambrosio George R. Blitch Bob & Lydia Carlsen Christopher Curatalo Finocchiaro Jack A. Groner Inge Amodeo Alan Bodine Ronald D. Carlston Scott Cuthbert Nic Fiore & Midge Fiore Margo Gross Anne Anderson Ralph Boemio & Paul J. Carment Pierre d’Albert Beverly Fischer Dr. Nathan Gross Milton Anderson the Boemio Family Cara-May Carpenter Grace Dalton Betty Fisher Michele Amy Guard Stephen W. Anderson Rev. Ralph Bolin Dorothy Carson Burt L. Davis Jr. Lenora Fitting Hans Guenther Eugene Angell Matthew Bolton Elliott Chamberlain L. Eston & Ethel O. Davis Margaret M. Fletcher Fortunato Guerra Carol Antoine Irene Bonelli Albert S. Chan Eva Davis Richard C. Fletcher George Guntermann Fausto Araujo Joe Borruso Alvin Chan Robert C. Davis Jr. Mary Bell Floyd Larry Gutierrez Rosasco F. Araya Patricia Boyd Beulah Chandler Beverly H. Day Chris Alex Fong Michael E. Hade Cesar Arias Lesly Jane Boyer John C. Cheslock Brian Dessin Day Bertha Forrest Gaylen D. Hafner Margaret L. Armstrong Pete Bradley Guy H. Chick Mabel M. Day Hubert Forsyth Paul Hahn Barbara Arnold Kathryn L. Breeze John W. Childs Evans de Geost Louise France Wesley L. Halbruner Marshall Arnold Jr. Patricia M. Brennan Karen Louise Chin Katherine S. DeBrecht Robert Eugene Frederick Chris Hale Ted Arnold Sally Brennan Chloe Jim Deckard Frederick Frei Sharon Joy Hale Jean & Chuck Atthowe Olga & Edgar Brewer Virginia Choate Emma Delgado Barbara Fromm Thomas L. Hall Harry L. Baer II James Brice Jesus Christ Gladys Deming Nancy Lee Fry William A. Halliday Robert C. Baldwin Patricia Brien Tess Christensen Wilfred Denise Robert L. Fry Woody & Ruby Hamilton Anton K. Ballendorf Christine J. Brock Anthony T. Chwala Helen Dewit Carol Fuentez Bill Hammaker Lenore Barbata Elbert Brock Sam & Jean Ciccarella Wade H. Dozier Jr. James Galbreath Leslie Hampton Charles Barker Dale Bromberger Leonard Cipriano Ismael & Pauline Duarte Robert M. Gale Charles C. Hansen Jr. Mary V. Barmettler John Brooks Frank Cirari Harry L. Ducey Osa Middleton Galloway Edward Hansen Elton “Barney” Barnett Frances K. Brossy Mike Clark Dale Dumond Lorine W. Gamlen Laura M. Hansen Richard Bartholomew Mr. & Mrs. James Brouder Doris Cleary Jason Dunbar Daisee Dawg Garber Natalie Hansen Cora Barton Alvin Edmund Brown Eleanor Clements Sam & Connie Dunham Isabel Garber Sue Hansen Bruce Bartram Avery Brown Dorothy Cochran Gerald Dunn Eileen Gardner June Hardie Gino & Mary Battagin Bernelda Brown Robert L. Cochrane Jack Dupuis Charlotte E. Gaston Kenneth Hargreaves Bob Baty Wallace W. Brown Rod Collier John Ansley Edwards George Nester Gee Thomas Harper Matthew A. Baxter III Donald Bruzzone Arthur Collins Katha Gail Edwards Leland F. Gerber Charles W. Harris Dolores Belew Duncan Buchanan Ava J. Collins Thomas Edward Eggers Karen Ann Gibson Ceacy Hart Leon Bell Robert Henry Buchholz Henry Eaton Collins III John R. Eifler Patricia G. Gibson Steven Hartman Al Bellucci Edward Buckley Laura Collins Gary Eisenberg Mike Gilbert Jack Rockwood Harvey Jim Benedict Bill & Lois Budd Harold & Dorothy Comins Judith Elliott Nancy Gildersleeve Elfriede Haugg Barbara Berlin Charles C. Buettner Francis R. Connett Marilyn Ellis Edwin P. Gills Harford Holmes Hays James Dana Bernier Anna Burch Jeffrey Scott Cooke Carol A. Englehorn Anita Gilpeer Ronald W. Heierman Pastor Dale Bethel Cecile Burleigh Harold Cooper Mary Elizabeth English Keith Glover Arthur G. Hemler Gene Bianchi Tom Burns Phyllis Ann Cope Elda Ensminger Rich Gnagy Rick Hemminger Dorothy T. Biddick Maureen Burrows Marc Corradini Erick C. & Linda Erdman Jane Goeb Candace Henry William Biggerstaff Kenneth V. Byram Theo Corros Nancy Erickson Matt Goettsch Peter Henshaw Robert C. Bilek Angela Byrd Jane Corso Scott Erickson Tsuyoshi Goka Howard D. Herbert Jr. Virginia Bingham Michael A. Calderon Louis P. Corso Michele Evans Dr. Michael D. Goldman Angel Hernandez Ned Birdsall Rebecca Caldwell John Edward Cotter Abigail Ann Fahrner Richard N. Goldman Hugo Herrera

26 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG

CORNER Winslow Woythaler Vaughan Vridhachalam DONOR DONOR

Mr. & Mrs. James Winters Sr. Winters & Mrs. James Mr. Wohlers Par Wolfe F. James Millicent A. Wollenweber Wood Jim Worley & Ellen Howard Vanderveer Walterlynn Wrahtz Lee & Betty Ed Ernest E. Wuethrich Carl Wulf Otto Yamamoto Joe Dr. Yasaki Eiko Jessie Yearian Bill & Ruth Yee Albert & Evelyn Yoshimoto Rose Yost F. L. & Joan Frank Robert L. Young Yuill Jerome Chun Yun Polly Zilisch Ginger Zlotnick David Dr. Jennie Strain Jennie Lola Strong Stulik & Marie Edward Suddjian Steve Sumo Beverly Mary Sutliff Taber Ryan Jr. Tamayo Ruben Manuel Taylor Ned Elouise Teague Brown Thoman Paul Thomas Marian Carol Thompson Keenen Mrs. Tibke USMC Tijerina, R. Sgt James Todd Wayne Trumbly Victoria Utton Fran Vail Milton Jr. Vallot Tony Buskirk Van Lena & Erle Alex Vasquez “Bob” McKinley Robert Reese H. Vaughn Lorraine Venezia Casey Vesely Russell Victoria Vic Barbara A. Villiotti Richard E. Voll Garudamangalam Vuoso George Wagner Kurt William A. Wahler Walden Don Walker Darlene Wallace Harold McClean Walton Martha Watkins Rudy Weigel Sara Jackie Weston Jim Weston P. Nancy Wetter Curtis Whedon John Jr. Williams S. Paul Harry Williamson Jr. Williamson Paul Otto L. Wilson Aric Wilt Winard Steven P. & Ethel T. Thomas

ose C. Stein, RN ose C. Stein, izoo & R L. S Standley Schuhrke Bonnie Smith Cay Smith Jr. B. Smith Edward Smith Gay Liz Smith Smith Marcia Smith Marilyn Smith Morgan L. Smith Ruthann R. Smith William Leo Snowiss Earl D. Snyder E. Soares John Soder Madeline Soffa Michael Arthur Soliva Solovei Norman Allen Spannuth Arnold Spear C. Allan Spencer L. Spencer Jeannette Spivey Paul Springer Virginia Marvel Stafford Chester Stanchina & Emily-Ann James Dwight Steinert Stets Natalie Stickney Jeanne Stiles David Charles Stone Stone Fred A. Stover John L. Strach Jeffrey Stanley Archer Stanton James J. Stapp William Steach Jeffrey Sr. Stebbins T. Hubert Stedman Preston Steel Marilyn L. Stein Frederick Dr. Warren Schmid Warren Schmidt Josephine Anne Schneider Schneider William Schrette Hildie Leo Schuchard Kenneth & Genevieve Morris Katherine Schulz Schuyler Arent Chuck Schweiker Scott W. Richard Bukett Kristy A. Seligman Semerling Helen Seymour Wil Esther Shandler IV Shawhan William H. & Mrs. Sheely Mr. Alain Shelburne Ann Shepherd Shepherd Driver Eliot Wilson Mary Lou Sherf Shuman Robert John Laing Sibbet Rev. Simmons Ruby Aitken Simón Susan Simons Robert Steven Sinclair Terry Louis Sisler G. Shirley N. & Warren

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 27 2012 :: AUTUMN.WINTER YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG Rozell Rosenthal

E. Ruch Roger J. Rulec James Russell Lorene Ryan Jack V Robert Ryder, Ann Rytting Saale Mildred & Don Mary Saatjian Raymond Saatjian Salvatore Edward Jr. A. Sandell James MD Sands, P. John Sarconi Luanne Schellinger H. Don Katherine H. Schenck Lois B. Schilder Schiller Mabel Schimandle Jim Robert O. Roth, MD O. Roth, Robert Rowe O. Dick Rowell Galen D. Roybal David L. Arthur B. & Dorothy Fess Parker Fess Jr. R. Parmeter John Partin Adeline Patterson Don Paulin Kenneth L. Pauls Theresa Pearson & Elrose John Pearson Ted Perasso Herb Petersen Theodore H. Peterson David Peterson Esther Dimotakis B. Phillips Elmer Phillips Tameka Philpott Lorraine & Russell Pierce Dana Kitty Pirie Lee R. Platt Post Edward Post & Margaret Hays Kris Poyhonen Prommer Alfred Puccetti Henrietta Carl Purdy Pyle Dorothy Quinn Huber Luise Carolyn Quinn Kent Radcliffe Harold Ralston Clare Nancy Ramsey Mathilda H. Ray James Read Elizabeth Reams & Rose George Family The Regan Rehfeld Marion Rehman Dennis Reiter Paul Alberta Renk Annabelle Richards Lee Richards Warren Larry Richey Anne Riddle Jo Ridgway Frances Bert Riggio Allen C. Riggle, MD E. Robinson Bruce Rogers Nancy Rosen Arthur A. & Frances Rachel Rosenbach L. N. & Betty Robert

Offermann Debbie O’LearyDebbie Olguin John L. Oliver Robert Oliverio “Gene” Egidio O’Loughlin Jim Olsen Dean Bryan O’Neal Russell Orantes Mercedes C. Orozco Andrew Orville Orton Ostrander F. W. Oswald Mary Sheppard Otsuji Kyle Ann Otter Sibyl Owens Michael Timothy Pack Richard Paddock Brewster William Ralph Park

Fred Merrifield Fred Merrill Ernest David Bob Messman Metcalf Eric Charles Meuel Meuel Harriett Meyer Greg Meyer Milton Michielssen Art Pat & Bryan C. Mier J. Migliazzo Samuel Miller Chester & Helen Miller Maria Miller Thomas P. Mills Doris D. Mills Ivan S. Minney Marjorie Minnig Evelyn Moeller Curt S. Moeller Gabrielle Linda E. Molyneux Monaco Gabriel G. Monaco Robin Mondientz Helen Alma Moore Moore & Olga Woody Angelo J. Moresco Morimoto William Morphey Roger Morris Olga H. Morse Susan Moskalik Michelle Ragnwald Muller Mundy Joseph W. Murphy Elda Najarian Barbara Nakano Walter Narzisi Joanie Neely Will Nemeth Steve Newman & John Peggy Ralph Newman M. Newton Victoria Louise Kirtley Nichols Nickel Gil Niedermeier Frank Nihill Cornelius & Mae Nishkian Ellie Noonen Margaret North Armstrong Evan MD G. Oakes, Donna Obymako Nancy Al O’Connor O’Connor Alan P. Albert Jr. C. Oetting & Elizabeth Paul

McKinnon Lohkamp McKnight Edouard McLaughlin Paul McLellan Bud & Sonia McLure Craig McMullen Edward Leslie Chase McNeill McNulty Lynn L. Mears Edward Medley Steve Meehan Vaunita Kaesy L. Mendoza G. Menick Alfred Mericle Louise Watson Richard Lohsen Richard Long Karen B. Lovelace Jon Charlotte M. Lundberg MacGregor Neil Anthony Machado Michael Maclean & Robert Jeanne Macomber John Madison Bruce Maggio Al & Dorothy Magill P. John Mahoney & Olive John III Major Louis Hendrix & Mrs. Makis Mr. Malerbi Jean S. Mann Mildred E. Manning Michael Manuel Jay Lorraine Marcone Marek Ellis Marotto Ennio Martin Tim Martin William Maskal Richard E. Matthews George Mattutat W. Robert Maurer Jeff Anne McBride Jessie R. McBride Joseph Thomas McCall McCarty Francene A. McClure Craig McDonald Amy Ayotte McDonald Rush Caroline Sr. McDonnell John McGinness Elizabeth McGinty Kurt A. McKeever James McKillip Wayne Charles Lachlan

Dr. George Lavers George Dr. Law Sharron S. Leas John Ledbetter Lloyd Lee Wallace Scott Allan Lehmann N. Leichtfuss Virginia Lemos Robert Lennen W. Richard Ami Leso Alan Leventhal Stephen Raymond Arthur Lewis L’Heureux & Michelle Paul Lind Dorothy Lindsey & Amye Bill Harry Lindsey Lisker Howard Peter Little Alan Norman R. Loeb Donald Dr. Cunningham Eileen

urt Wroble K Hoffman Inman R. “Bud” Valantino Jackson Bernice Jackson Jess Jackson-Araya Topsy Jawetz Ernest Jernigan James Henry Charles Joerger Johnson Martin Daniel M. Johnson Daniel L. Johnson Martin Johnson Samuel Jonasky Mitch Barry Jones Jones “Chuck” Morgan Charles M. Jones M. Jones Ethel Llewellyn Jones Jones Russ Juhler Jim Juhler Robert G. Kamena John Kangas Robert Kayton Howard Kern Dickie Kieran Sonya Barry S. King Kinney Jon Kneiding M. Maxine Kate Knight Knoop William Knowlton & Jean Donald Kopp Andrew Evan Henry Kuropat Kuropat Joan LaFlanne Haley LaFleur “Papa” George LaFleur “Mimi” Elise Laird Robert Thelma Lambert Lammi Phillip G. Lamson Baldwin Dr. Lane Bill R. Lane James E. Laubscher Roy Holahan Eugene Holberg Meessy Gerry Holcomb Holmes Winston Jr. Hoppe Emil Jr. E. Horn Ernest Bob Houser H. Houser Robert Hubbard Douglass Huffaker Jeffrey Huffington Mrs. John D. Hughes L. & Joan Robert Harry Hull & Mable Hurley Donna Jr. Huston Brian William N. Ida James C. Ignasiak Gloria Ilchert & Frederick James Kenneth Hess Kenneth James Hevner Robert Hewett Dennis Higelin Thomas Robert Hill & Mildred Walter B. Hill Walter Dr. Hiller Ryan Loralee Hiramoto Hocking Gilbert John Hodgin Lane “Bumpa” “Bill” Parker William

PHOTO: © KEITH WALKLET. DONOR CORNER PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE ALLEGRI FAMILY. Rock of Ages: Perfect Setting for Family Album

ach year since 1983, Don Allegri’s family has traveled to Yosemite, where they take a special photo on the same rock. The photos document Don’s two sons,

Joseph and Justin, growing from infants to young men, reminding the family 1983 of their multigenerational connection to Yosemite.

Don has passed along his passion for Yosemite to his sons, just as his mother did while he was growing up. For Don, there is something timeless about Yosemite that flows from one generation to the next.

As a Friend of Yosemite Conservancy, Don plays his part in preserving the park. He says that whether on a hiking trail with his sons or enjoying the view from Glacier Point, he knows his support is behind the restoration of these trails and viewing areas. 1988 “These trails are our access to some of the most beautiful views on Earth. I want my grandchildren to share these places, too.”

— DON ALLEGRI 2012 Yosemite Conservancy Donor & Volunteer PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE LANDGREBE FAMILY. Yosemite: Where Honeymoons Last Forever

ohn and Carolyn Landgrebe spent their honeymoon in a snow-covered Yosemite cabin. In 2011, they joined their family at The Ahwahnee to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. The event was commemorated with their own J custom T-shirt, which read, “Yosemite: Where honeymoons last forever.” John purchased a section of the cable that was used on Half Dome from 1934– 1984 to celebrate his hike to the top. “Being able to sit on the edge of the visor, looking down several thousand feet to Mirror Lake below was truly spectacular … That piece of cable occupies a special place in our home,” he says. ABOVE John and Carolyn Landgrebe take their young family on a Yosemite backpacking adventure in June 1976. John and Carolyn find something amazing in each visit to Yosemite, whether it is a physical challenge or something new learned from a campfire interpretive program.

28 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG VOLUNTEER CORNER

Do You Have What it Takes? Volunteer!

ur volunteers are passionate supporters of Yosemite who give generously of their time and skills. Work crews stay for one week in Wawona, Yosemite Valley or Tuolumne Meadows, completing projects ranging from campground PHOTO: (RIGHT) © STEVE BICKNESE. renewal to habitat restoration. Visitor- ABOVE Paul Gan (left and back row, third from left) with his fellow volunteers after completing a week-long restoration project to rehabilitate the Lower Pines Campground. information volunteer opportunities are also available for supporters who want to share their knowledge and love of Campsites Renewed Yosemite with visitors. With Help From Yosemite If you have a passion for the park and a desire to serve, then you have what it takes Conservancy Volunteers to be a Yosemite Conservancy volunteer.

Learn more about volunteering at hile on vacation from his job as an architect, Paul Gan of Union City, yosemiteconservancy.org Calif., has volunteered for two years to help make Yosemite an even better place. PHOTO: © YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY.

WWHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A CONSERVANCY VOLUNTEER? A few years ago, my wife, Liz, and I met park ranger Shelton Johnson, and I was inspired by his love and passion for the national parks. It’s important to me to protect and conserve Yosemite, as well as to give back to the park that has given me so many wonderful memories.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT BEING A CONSERVANCY VOLUNTEER? I enjoy the experience of working and living alongside other passionate volunteers. During one week volunteering, I learned more from my peers about Yosemite than I ever had before in my 40 years of visiting the park.

WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS DID YOU WORK ON THIS PAST SUMMER? Our team refurbished fire rings and campsite benches at North Pines, Upper Pines and Lower Pines campgrounds.

Thank you to Paul Gan and all the work-crew volunteers for your dedication to ABOVE Conservancy volunteers work Yosemite National Park! together to replace benches on campground picnic tables.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 29 READER PHOTOS

YOSEMITE THROUGH YOUR LENS

YOSEMITE’S MAJESTY AS CAPTURED BY OUR SUPPORTERS

01 03

Do you have a special memory you would like to share?

We love to see photos from your first or 100th visit to Yosemite. Our staff will select a few for printing in each Visit Yosemite Conservancy on Facebook or Flickr and share any issue of Yosemite Conservancy. photos of a special place you like in Yosemite.

30 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG DONOR GUIDE

YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY Magazine of Yosemite Conservancy, published twice a year. It’s Easy to Connect EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jennifer Miller With Yosemite CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Heather McKenny Michelle Slocombe Conservancy Noel Morrison Mike Tollefson

DESIGN PRINT PRODUCTION Plumbline Studios TradeMark Graphics, Inc. CONTACT US Gifts of Stock STAFF :: San Francisco Office Make a significant contribution to Darlene Bellucci, Associate Director of Planned Donor Services & Major Gifts Yosemite Conservancy protect and preserve Yosemite. Kim Coull, Development Director 101 Montgomery Street, Suite 1700 We want to thank you for your gift. Edin Draper-Beard, Executive Affairs Manager Please contact Darlene Bellucci at Jerry Edelbrock, Vice President & COO San Francisco, CA 94104 800-469-7275 x 318 or Patrick Heryford, Institutional Giving Officer 800-469-7275 or Debra Holcomb, Associate Director Annual Giving 415-434-1782 [email protected] & Development Operations to notify us of your gift. David Jaeger, Donor Relations & Development Fax: 415-434-0745 Projects Manager [email protected] Joseph Le Conte Legacy Society Sara Jones, Data Entry Assistant Holly Kuehn, Development & Donor Services Asst. STAY CONNECTED Leave a lasting legacy to Yosemite. Jennifer Miller, Marketing & Communications Director Learn how your gifts have supported For more information about making Adriana Pannick, Development & Events Associate a legacy gift, contact Darlene Bellucci Michelle Slocombe, Marketing & Yosemite. Visit our website and Communications Associate sign up to receive our monthly at 800-469-7275 x 318 or Kit Thomas, Controller e-newsletter. [email protected]. Mike Tollefson, President & CEO Christina Yu, Donor Services Assistant Visit yosemiteconservancy.org Gifts in Honor STAFF :: Yosemite Office WAYS TO SUPPORT Inspirational gifts that help provide Aline Allen, Yosemite Art Center Coordinator for Yosemite’s future. Tom Arfsten, Valley Complex Supervisor Friends of Yosemite Nicole Brocchini, Yosemite Museum Store Supervisor Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/gifts- Pete Devine, Resident Naturalist Protecting the beauty and wonder of honor or for more information, call Teresa Ellis, Sales Information Assistant Yosemite for future generations. 800-469-7275, or email us at Rachel Gibbons, Sales Information Assistant 03 Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/ [email protected]. Schuyler Greenleaf, Projects Director friends-yosemite Michelle Hansen, Inventory Coordinator Suzy Hasty, Volunteer Program Manager Gifts in Memory Todd King, Deputy GM, Retail & Publishing Director Sequoia Society Recognize a loved one with a special Michelle Kuchta, Accounting Assistant Making a monthly donation is an Olotumi Laizer, Sales Information Assistant gift that protects and preserves easy way to make a lasting difference. Belinda Lantz, Retail Operations Manager Yosemite. Denise Ludington, Accounting Supervisor Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/ Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/gifts- Noel Morrison, Communications Manager sequoia-society memory or for more information, Elvira Popken, Valley Sales Supervisor John Samples, Warehouse Coordinator call 800-469-7275, or email us at John Muir Heritage Society Angie Sberna, Accounting Director [email protected]. Shelly Stephens, Inventory Manager Investing in Yosemite’s future Laurie Stowe, Wilderness Center Manager with generous gifts of $1,000 or VOLUNTEER STAFF :: Southern California Office more annually. OPPORTUNITIES Patti Johns Eisenberg, Major Gifts Officer Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/ Greet park visitors, restore meadows Autumn.Winter 2012 :: Volume 03. Issue 02 john-muir-heritage-society or repair trails. © 2012. Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/ Federal Tax Identification #94-3058041 volunteer, or call 209-379-2317

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 31 Yosemite Conservancy 101 Montgomery Street, Suite 1700 San Francisco, CA 94104

Celebrate Your Yosemite.

Honor every unforgettable moment you’ve experienced in Yosemite by sending a year-end gift to preserve and protect this remarkable place.

Donate online now or mail your support with the enclosed envelope. yosemiteconservancy.org