Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 www.ventana.sierraclub.org

DEC, JAN, FEB OUTINGS

Hikers enjoy Fall Creek with its intact riparian canopy, well vegetated soils, and second-growth trees along the creek banks. Ventana staff Ventana Explore, enjoy, and protect the planet hile it is the intent of Th e Ventana to print articles that refl ect the position of c haPteR c haiR the Ventana Chapter, ideas expressed in W Th e Ventana are those of the authors and do not necessarily refl ect the position of the Sierra Are we ready to reduce tation and peat emissions. South Korea has care crisis could delay or thwart continuing Club. Articles, graphics, and photographs are greenhouse gas emissions? committed to adopting a 2020 emissions progress or prevent urgently needed legisla- copyrighted by the authors and artists and may cap and plans to spend $85 billion over the tion. Another impediment is the shortage be reprinted only with their permission. y the time you read this the Co- next fi ve years on initiatives that will en- of money fl owing to basic energy research DEADLINES FOR SUBMISSIONS penhagen Conference on Climate courage energy effi ciency, renewable energy and large-scale demonstrations of non- All materials for publication must be received by Change will be winding up and we including solar and wind power, carbon polluting energy technology. While the the deadlines listed below. No exceptions. Bwill know if we have the world’s leadership credit trading, hybrid cars, and biofuels. Obama administration and Congress have SUBMISSIONS FORMAT in agreement on reducing greenhouse gas Th ere is evidence that the United States directed some stimulus money to these ob- emissions. Th is conference is an opportu- Please limit articles to 800 words; letters to 300. is actually decarbonizing its economy at a jectives, such spending comes only after All submissions may be edited for clarity and nity to negotiate a successor treaty to the remarkable rate. Only three years ago, pro- decades of declining investment in newer Kyoto Protocol climate pact of 1997 and length. Email to [email protected]. Mail hard jections were that U.S. emissions of CO2 energy-saving practices. copy to editor, address below. put the world on track for sustainable en- would increase from 6 billion tons to 7.5 If you are interested in working on these PHOTOS ergy solutions. Th e global economy down- billion tons by 2020. Instead of increasing, issues with a national focus, go to the Sierra Photos submitted to Th e Ventana must meet the turn has created a small window of op- they fl attened out and then fell. But a na- Club National website for more informa- following requirements: No laser copies or inkjet portunity for change by plunging current tional preoccupation with the slow econo- tion and updates: www.sierraclub.org. outputs. Electronic photos should be no smaller and near future energy demands, but this my and competing issues such as the health —Rita Dalessio than 1200 x 1100 pixels or 300 dpi. Cover photos reduction is unlikely to remain as the econ- must be 3000 x 2000 pixels. Film photos, slides, omy rebounds. or negatives are fi ne. Please call the editor if you have any questions. According to world news reports, some major powers are taking strides to re- WHERE TO SEND SUBMISSIONS duce carbon emissions. China has already F RoM the e DitoR Send submissions to Debbie Bulger, Editor, 1603 been making investments in clean energy King Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, dfbulger@ technology, and in the last two years has health of the planet, the consequences for cruzio.com. It’s not about polar bears; emerged as the world’s leading builder of it’s about people our children and grandchildren, will be CHANGE OF ADDRESS more effi cient, less polluting coal power enormous. Do not call editor! Send address changes to: plants. While the United States is still de- ou may have seen the fi lm Earth Melting permafrost in Alaska, Norway, [email protected] or use the mail-in bating whether to build a more effi cient which poignantly portrayed the and other far north places will buckle roads coupon in each issue. kind of coal-fi red power plant that uses ex- plight of the polar bear. Because of and crack building foundations. Your beach POSTAL NOTICE climateY change, these powerful animals tremely hot steam, China has begun build- cottage could be fl ooded. Far worse, your Th e Ventana (015057) is published 6 times a ing such plants at a rate of one a month. may become extinct. Th e fi lm showed foot- country, state, or downtown could be sub- year, (Feb., Apr., Jun., Aug., Oct., Dec.) paid by India and the United States signed an age of a stranded polar bear on too-thin merged if you live in Bangladesh, Florida, subscription included in membership fee, by Th e agreement last month to collaborate on Arctic ice unwittingly swimming out to sea or Santa Cruz. Ventana Chapter of the Sierra Club, 1001 Center and certain drowning. Completely depen- Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Periodical postage energy security, energy effi ciency, clean- Fresh water will become more scarce in paid Santa Cruz, CA and at additional mailing energy technology, and research to reduce dent on sea ice for survival, the polar bear’s some areas; fl ooding will increase in oth- offi ces. greenhouse-gas emissions. Both countries very existence is threatened by a ers. Agriculture could be radically Postmaster: Send address changes to Sierra Club, will work together on wind- and solar- warming earth and consequent transformed as weather pat- Th e Ventana, P.O. Box 604, Santa Cruz, CA energy development and clean-coal tech- melting of that ice. terns and rainfall amounts 95061-0604. nology, including carbon capture and stor- Rising global tempera- change. Wildfi res will Editors: age. Indonesia, the third biggest emitter of tures also threaten the ex- become more common Debbie Bulger, [email protected], istence of the pica, a cuter Virginia Draper, assistant editor greenhouses gases after China and the US, with temperature rise. Production: is exploring several options to curb defores- than cute high-altitude Infectious diseases Debbie Bulger, Vivian Larkins, Dale Nutley mammal seen in the Si- such as insect-borne Writers: erra and other areas. Th e malaria and dengue Rita Dalessio, Debbie Bulger, Kevin Collins, pica has fur so dense it fever could become David Kossack, Jodi Frediani, Steve Zmak, Vote in the overheats easily in warm Mary Gale more widespread as the Photographers: Chapter election temperatures. Since they earth warms. Extreme Tim Jensen, Cecelia de Giere, Tom Moore, live at high elevation, they weather conditions will Joan Jones Holtz, Ventana Staff Ballot on page 15 have no place to go upward become more common. Proofreaders: to cooler areas. Sea level rise could cause Jeff Alford, Virginia Draper, Charles Koester, aven’t we had enough elections Scientists report that global Jim Danaher, Wolfgang Rosenberg, Robin Drury mass migrations of people in lately? No!! Th e Sierra Club strives warming threatens numerous other low-lying areas with resultant po- Distribution: to provide members with oppor- Keith Wood, Esperanza Hernandez, species including the lovely Bay check- litical instability. Th e Intergovernmental tunitiesH to participate in both activities and Beth Lilienthal, Debbie Bulger, Julie Hitchcock erspot butterfl y, emperor penguins, and Panel on Climate Change has estimated Advertising Sales: policy decisions. Since it is diffi cult to bring ribbon seals. But there’s shocking news that that 150 million refugees will exist in 2050 Debbie Bulger all members together to vote on policies, Carpentry & Software: most of the fi lms and fund appeals don’t due to coastal fl ooding, agricultural disrup- we ask all members to vote for Executive tell you. It’s not just about polar bears and tion and other climate change causes. Th e Anonymous Committee members who will represent Chapter website: picas. Th ese animals are only the symbolic pressure caused by such refugees could fuel http://ventana.sierraclub.org the membership as issues arise. canaries in the coal mine. It’s about people. military confl icts and topple governments. Th is year we also ask you to vote on three Polar bear survival will pale in compari- Climate change will mean more than 2009 bylaw changes designed to bring our Ven- son to some of the changes in store for hu- extinction for polar bears and picas. It’s Ventana Publication Schedule tana Chapter bylaws into compliance with man beings should carbon dioxide levels time we reframe the discussion. It’s about Issue Deadline Mailing Date the National Sierra Club’s guidelines. Th ese remain over 350 parts per million. Th ose you and me. It’s about our children, our #1 Feb. 1 Feb. 17 are fairly minor changes, having to do with of you who have been following this issue grandchildren, our friends and relatives. It’s #2 Apr. 5 Apr. 21 Ex-Com meeting frequency and the nomi- know that we are already at 387 parts per about what can happen to people unless we #3 Jun. 7 Jun. 23 nating process for chapter candidates. Th ey million. We are in the danger zone. Th e sit- #4 Aug. 2 Aug. 18 get serious about taking action. are self-explanatory, as shown on the ballot uation has been compared to having a high —Debbie Bulger #5 Sept. 20 Oct. 6 on page 15, and the current chapter Ex- #6 Nov. 29 Dec. 15 cholesterol count. Th e patient doesn’t die Com has voted to endorse them. immediately, but if counts are not brought Please take the time to read the state- Articles received after deadline back to safe levels, a heart attack or stroke ments of the candidates and to mark and may not be published. could follow. mail your ballot as directed. If we fail to take actions to preserve the 2 Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 Printed on recycled paper l etteRs Th eVentana welcomes letters Why salmon are going extinct Send to: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Th e Ventana, 1603 King Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Cumulative impacts devastating email: [email protected] Please include a phone number by Kevin Collins with your letter. Anonymous letters are not accepted. Letters may be edited for length. t can be confusing to hear that expen- restored, but this is an experiment, and the sive projects are being conducted to headwaters will remain inaccessible to salm- Thank you Celia Scott benefi t an endangered species, but at on. Diversion projects, such as the pumps in Th ank you, Celia Scott, for information Ithe same time be told that the animals are the Delta that send water south, cause con- about certifi ed wildlife habitats [Th e Ven- continuing to die out. Th e reasons are both siderable juvenile salmon mortality. tana, Vol. 48, No. 5, p. 5]. For years, I too simple and complex. Depending on where Th e many coastal rivers that are still have been looking for ways to formalize my you look in California, the problems for open to the ocean are often severely dam- unfenced Christmas tree farm as a wildlife salmon may be an issue of a dam built in aged by both current human actions and sanctuary. By default (defacto habitat?) 1955 or a stream pumped dry in the sum- destruction that occurred long ago. Large my fi ve acres welcomes all wildlife that is fenced out of neighboring vineyards. I feel mer of 2009. All these impacts combine to rivers in parts of Northern California that like Saint Francis opening doors to deer, harm these animals. appear wild and remote from human dis- squirrels, and gophers who’ve been bombed First it is necessary to understand that turbance are not healthy for salmon either. out of their shelters by explosives. However, vast regions of the state were forever elimi- Most have been dramatically impacted by this ecologic dynamic works both ways as nated as salmon habitat during the dam humanity. We have few true refuges for the bunnies sheltered on my place have building frenzy of the fi rst 70 years of the California Department of Fish & Game salmon left. Every creek remaining that been eaten by visiting bobcats and coyotes. 20th century. Th e Sierra Nevada and Cas- Th is large male coho is in spawning condition. supports salmon is important. Having just returned from teaching en- cade mountains once provided thousands Th e Salmon River in Northern California vironmental literature on a Fulbright in the of streams where salmon could reproduce. evade predators, to fi nd food, and repro- is a major Klamath tributary. It was dam- Balkans, I’m even more sensitive about ex- Salmon are now blocked from huge parts of duce in constantly changing environments. aged by dynamite and placer mining long ercising our rights to protect our individual their former range. Life in a hatchery concrete trough being ago. Huge amounts of rock were dumped wildscapes and the environment at large. fed food pellets does not select for survival Where I was teaching, tires were burned It was assumed that fi sh hatcheries could into its channels. Now this excess rock in a few miles from the city which had foul replace streams for the spawning and rear- traits. In only a few generations, many fi sh the river captures too much heat from the air. Also, there were no regulations about ing of young fi sh. In the long run this strat- from a hatchery have reduced ability to sur- sun. Th is heat is transmitted into the water old diesel burning cars. Th e students in my egy has not worked, but it has taken de- vive in the wild. during the low stream fl ows in the sum- classes could fi nd very little information cades for people to learn this. Th e salmon As major rivers and their tributaries are mer. Salmon die in warm water. Th e river for research projects about environmen- that remain in the Sacramento, the Feather, dammed and diverted, fi sh disappear. Th e still looks beautiful. Th e water is clear blue, tal problems, so teaching about American and other interior rivers where dams were tiny number of tributaries still accessible to but the river channel is severely damaged grassroots movements gave me a new- built, are nearly all hatchery origin fi sh. wild fi sh on the Sacramento River may not in complex ways that took scientists a long found respect for lawsuits. In the Balkans, Th eir genetic diversity has been severely re- be enough to sustain these animals. Th e San time to understand. It takes a long time there is often too little accountability. duced. Th ese artifi cial fi sh populations do Joaquin River was turned into a dry river- for the river to move out this excess rock I like too that certifying our individual not have the strength and adaptability to bed decades ago. It is now supposed to be and sediment. Th is river may not recover properties makes us personally responsible for wildlife. I only wish Celia could also replace wild fi sh because natural selection fi nd a way for us to keep our properties in was not at work in the hatchery to allow perpetuity as habitat, so that in the future only the fi ttest off spring to survive. c ontact youR R ePResentatives they remain sanctuaries instead of battle- Heavy fi shing pressure has also aff ected fi elds for the war against nature. the life cycle of Chinook (king) salmon. President Barack Obama U.S. Representative Anna Eshoo —Candace Calsoyas, Ph.D. Some of these big salmon once spent up to Th e White House 698 Emerson Street 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Palo Alto, CA 94301 UC Santa Cruz fi ve years in the ocean, but few Chinook live Washington, D.C. 20500 408-245-2339; FAX: 650-323-3498 Green building not supported past three years before being caught prior to Comment Line: 202-456-1111 go to website to email reproducing. Th e Chinook life cycle is now by County Vice President Joe Biden State Senator Abel Maldonado less diverse making these fi sh more vulner- I am in the fortunate (or frustrating?) 202-456-1414 100 Paseo De San Antonia, Suite 206 position of planning a new home in the able to droughts and poor ocean condition. San Jose, CA 95113 Hatchery fi sh may go out to sea but few- Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger 408-277-9461 Santa Cruz Mountains. In my initial en- State Capitol Building [email protected] thusiasm I intended to build the ultimate er and fewer return to spawn. Many people Sacramento, CA 95814 green home. However, the more I get into tend to think of fi sh as automatons. Th ey 916-445-2841 State Senator Joe Simitian are actually complex wild animals. Salm- FAX: 916-445-4633 State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 95814 the planning process, the less enthusiastic I http://gov.ca.gov 916-445-6747; FAX: 916-323-4529 remain due to the lack of support from ex- on must possess the ability to navigate, to [email protected] isting building regulations. Here is a short Senator Dianne Feinstein list of roadblocks I have run into so far: 331 Hart Offi ce Building State Senator Jeff Denham • One of my plans was to use bioswales Washington, D.C. 20510 369 Main Street, #208 202-224-3841; 415-393-0707 Salinas, CA 93901 for rain water runoff from my roof into the 1 Post Street, Suite 2450 831-769-8040 garden watering system. However, all roof regulations require the installation of a full- San Francisco, CA 94104 [email protected] runoff needs to be routed into plastic or size septic system. In fact, if I want to build go to website to email gravel dissipaters instead of bioswales with- green in the County, I fi rst need to build Assembly Rep. Anna Caballero Senator Barbara Boxer State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 94249-0028 out gravel. it the “old” way and then spend additional 112 Hart Offi ce Building 916-319-2028; FAX: 916-319-2128 • My heating system was to consist construction money to help heal the planet. Washington, D.C. 20510 100 West Alisal St., Suite 134 solely of a passive solar design in conjunc- Th ese hurdles are more frustrating in 202-224-3553; 415-403-0100 (voice) Salinas, CA 93901 tion with a masonry woodstove. Again, light of the fact that these kind of green 1700 Montgomery Street Phone: 831-759-8676; FAX: 831-759-2961 building regulations prescribe the instal- San Francisco, CA 94111 [email protected] alternatives are common practice and part go to website to email lation of a forced air or hydronic heating of the building code in other parts of the Assembly Representative Bill Monning system. world. Santa Cruz County has a long way U. S. Representative Sam Farr 701 Ocean Street, Room 318-B • I wanted to use my gray water for the to go before we are building green. 100 W. Alisal Street, Salinas, CA 93901 Santa Cruz, CA 95060; 831-425-1503 garden and install composting toilets. Th is —Peter Beckmann 831-429-1976 (Santa Cruz) 99 Pacifi c Street, Suite 555D 831-424-2229 (Salinas) Monterey, CA 93940 would eff ectively result in a reduced need Santa Cruz 202-225-6791 (FAX, Washington, DC) 831-649-2832; FAX: 831-649-2935 to treat any residential waste water. County [email protected] [email protected] Please recycle this paper again Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 3 during the lifespan of anyone alive today, regulatory agencies? breeding program on the north county If County Code were actually enforced, and salmon do not have much more time The California Department of Fish and coast. Our steelhead rainbow trout are in salmon would have a chance. Good inten- left. Logging and other impacts continue to Game (DFG) is supposed to “manage” our a little better shape. Steelhead are part of tions are not enough; good enforcement is cause additional long-lasting damage. wildlife for their intrinsic value. This agen- the family of salmon fishes, but they are also needed. The Mattole River drains California’s cy is expected to protect habitat. Unfor- different in important ways that make The salmon restoration efforts help but Lost Coast. People have spent decades try- tunately for salmon, DFG is not about to them more adaptable to adverse changes in are often tiny in comparison with the scale ing to restore salmon in this river. Salmon do what is necessary to protect and restore their environment. Steelhead still occupy of the problems. Often restoration money restoration itself began with people who salmon populations. DFG allows impor- streams from Carmel south. Up until the is allocated based on human needs and not live in the Mattole watershed. This water- tant rivers to be pumped dry for agriculture early 1970s the San Lorenzo River in Santa upon what is actually best for the salmon. shed was very heavily logged through the as has happened repeatedly on important Cruz was a famous steelhead sport fishing The Santa Cruz County Resource Conser- 1960s, and clear-cut logging continues to- salmon rivers such as the Scott River, a stream. Coho vanished from this river dur- vation District recently spent $800,000 to day. The giant, old-growth trees that nar- Klamath tributary. DFG will not intervene ing the early 1980s except for an occasional replace a culvert with a bridge over a small rowed and shaded the river were all cut to stop agricultural diverters from taking stray adult. waterway. This project might help, but down. The river channel structure was held too much water. Bad state water policy is Decades of intensive stream-side devel- $800,000 is a lot of money to improve fish together by the forest. When the forest was also involved. Many farmers hold adjudi- opment, road building, logging, sand min- passage into one tiny creek. The big proj- destroyed, massive soil erosion and flood- cated “water allocations” to water that does ing, agriculture, and water extraction have ects that would actually restore stream hab- waters ripped out the steam banks. Both not actually exist. added and intensified impacts upon fish. itat are very hard to tackle. Many landown- the upper tributaries and the main stem This July DFG recommended that the In Santa Cruz County salmon are subject ers, water districts, and municipalities may were filled with sediment. The river is now forestry regulations for salmon streams on to every impact, even dams. The head- be involved, and some will never cooperate. too wide, shallow and warm to be good for The permits can be duplicative and cause salmon, though small populations of sev- long delays. These types of problems hinder eral species continue to hang on. Salmon join the mountains to the oceans our ability to select projects that would be It could take hundreds of years for the best for the wildlife. Mattole River to return to its original pro- and tie together a web of life that connects It is time to be honest with ourselves. ductive condition. A lot of work has been Salmon are disappearing and the steps we done in the Mattole by people who love have taken so far are clearly not enough. wildlife, but they cannot undo the massive grizzly bears to mayflies. We could help these splendid animals damage. A giant forest must grow back, re- thrive once again. Salmon are remarkably colonizing river banks and narrowing the resilient, but they do not have much time channel. People can only hope to reduce the Central Coast ac- left. current impacts such as eroding road sys- tually be weakened! Relatively small tems and logging near the stream. One or- On January 1, 2010 changes in our behav- ganization is helping homeowners purchase the stream protection ior are necessary to big water tanks so they can stop pumping rules for logging in begin to save salmon the headwaters during the summer. This the Santa Cruz Mountains populations. However work is very creative and necessary, but it will be weaker than anywhere else on the some people will have will not stop all summer water diversion California Coast. Instead of habitat stew- to give up privileges nor end droughts. ardship, we get politics. that they currently en- These accounts of habitat loss on the The governor appoints the Director of joy. This cannot be Salmon and the Mattole are just two exam- Fish and Game and the Water Boards. It waters of Newell Creek was avoided. So far our society has decided ples of how our river systems were severely matters little whether the governor is a once salmon habitat. This site is now Loch to allow habitat destruction to continue degraded in fundamental ways. Similar Republican or a Democrat. Salmon have Lomond Reservoir. Several North Coast rather than to confront the social and po- events occurred all across California. Today, never received the protection they need streams in Santa Cruz County have diver- litical problems. Regulations are politically few rivers and creeks have conditions that from DFG or any other state agency. Many sion dams that supply water to the City of unpopular, and politicians are reluctant to support salmon as they once did before Eu- dedicated and conservation-minded people Santa Cruz. These dams reduce streamflow enforce them. The public will have to de- ropeans. The habitat restoration work that have joined the Department of Fish and and block fish access. mand effective rule enforcement or salmon would address these basic problems has Game only to discover that their superiors Water pollution is a problem almost ev- will not survive. hardly begun. will not allow them to protect California’s erywhere. Polluted runoff roars off streets We cannot just pick out a few creeks and and into our creeks. The lower San Lorenzo decide to protect them alone. We need to What about the wildlife. The federal agency charged with pro- River is a disaster area for fish. It is hot and protect all the remaining salmon habitats tecting salmon is the National Marine polluted with very little fresh water in the and begin to restore areas that were lost. Fisheries Service (NMFS) which is part of summer. Much of the water is taken by the Salmon once supported fishing ports NOAA. This agency is actually very small, City of Santa Cruz. from Alaska to Monterey. Many Native and its people are spread thin. It is subject River-mouth lagoons are very important American cultures founded their econo- to political constraints similar to those that nursery habitat for steelhead but this need mies on salmon. Salmon join the moun- affect DFG. NMFS has regularly taken has been virtually ignored in the way our tains to the oceans and tie together a web of much stronger positions in defense of rivers are “managed” for flood-control. The life that connects grizzly bears to mayflies. salmon than has DFG. If the recommen- Soquel lagoon still works for steelhead due Native Americans did not take all the fish dations issued by NMFS were followed, to good management by the City of Capi- nor did they destroy their rivers. We know salmon might have a chance. Much more tola, but it is hardly pristine. The soil ero- what is necessary to save salmon, and it is political support will have to be given to sion rates in the Santa Cruz Mountains are physically possible to do it. It will take a NMFS before this will happen. truly intense. The San Lorenzo River alone long-term commitment and the willing- These few examples will hopefully give transports massive volumes of sand and silt ness to enforce laws that have long been ig- you a window into the huge, long-term, every year. Every time anyone carves up the nored. We cannot continue to destroy the problems that salmon face. As California’s landscape, this erosion rate increases. Every biological productivity of the earth. human population expands, the impacts driveway, logging skid trail, and bare spot upon these fish only become greater. adds to the flood of sediment entering local If you have ever been lucky enough to streams. Salmon egg mortality is high when watch salmon jumping a waterfall and Local situation Santa Cruz County contains the south- gravel is laden with sand and silt. It is amaz- spawning in a tree-shadowed creek, you ernmost coho salmon population. Giant ing that they manage to spawn at all. understand why these animals inspired We have many good land use codes and conifer forests and coho exist together. Our reverence from every native culture. coho (or silver salmon) are near extinc- environmental regulations on the books in Santa Cruz County. They are not enforced.

Sharon Williams tion and are sustained by a small captive 4 The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 Printed on recycled paper by the big stick of litigation). What Coho need to recover This book is a must read for those who B ook R eview care about protecting planet earth. It could by David Kossack be the road map to the environmental sal- vation we all need. here are both short-term and long- bond for remediation should habitat dam- The Rebirth of term actions that can be taken to age occur. Such fees are part of the true cost Environmentalism, of land use. Former Yosemite improve coho, salmonid, and anad- Grassroots Activism from romousT fish survival. These actions need to Long term actions Supervisors call for be taken by public entities including the There are also critical longer-term chang- the Spotted Owl to the National Marine Fisheries Service, the State es necessary to complement immediate Polar Bear restoring Hetch Department of Fish and Game, California protection and restoration actions. These Douglas Bevington, Island Press, 2009. Department of Forestry and Fire Protec- longer-term changes would allow water- Hetchy tion, and City/County Planning Depart- sheds to recover from human-caused im- reviewed by Jodi Frediani wo former Yosemite Supervisors ments. pacts. ouglas Bevington’s new book, The have joined the Advisory Board of • Remove many human-made fea- Short term actions Rebirth of Environmentalism, pro- Restore Hetch Hetchy, the nation- tures from river floodplains, estuaries and alT advocacy campaign to bring the Hetch • Enforce existing laws which were vides a fresh and much-needed passed to protect fish and lagoons in order to restore streams to lookD into the world of environmental ac- Hetchy Valley back to life. B.J. Griffin and fish habitat. There are a more natural state and increase tivism. As we sit on the brink of global cli- Bob Binnewies are the new board mem- many good laws already stream complexity. mate chaos, rethinking our strategies and bers. Dave Mihalic, Yosemite Superinten- on the books to protect • Build full span Bridges applying successful methods will be key to dent from 1999 to 2003 has been a board endangered species, water and over rivers, estuaries, and lagoons to ensuring planetary salvation. member since 2006. Griffin served as -Su air quality, and watersheds. restore the natural watershed Bevington, who received his PhD in perintendent from 1995 to 1997; Binnew- They need to be enforced. hydrology and land form. sociology from the University of Califor- ies served as Superintendent from 1979 to • Return water diverted When old bridges are replaced, nia Santa Cruz, takes us back to the first 1986. without permit to creeks and rivers. Up full span bridges which do not Earth Day in 1970 and explores in-depth Griffin, who is a San Francisco resident, and down the Central Coast water that is harm fish hab- the relationship between the national envi- said, “I am delighted to join the fight to needed for fish survival is being diverted itat need to be ronmental organizations and the grassroots restore this unique ecosystem in Yosemite without permit. In many cases this activ- built. biodiversity activists from then until now. National Park. As our nation responds to ity has been documented by the California • Permanently Focusing on three case studies (Headwa- the challenges of climate change it is im- Water Resources Control Board during the protect and restore trees in riparian zones ters Forest Campaign, Zero Cut Campaign, portant to focus on environmental res- investigation of water complaints. Exam- through acquisition, carbon trading, con- and several grassroots biodiversity lawsuits toration as part of the solution. . . . I am ples include Carmel River (Monterey), San servation easements, or other methods. on endangered species), Bevington leads us confident that the studies performed by Vicente Creek (Santa Cruz) and Russian New programs to sequester carbon could be into the underbelly of the environmental Environmental Defense Fund, the State of River (Sonoma/Mendocino). used to protect salmon habitat contributing movement. There he examines the role of California, Restore Hetch Hetchy, and UC • Modify city and county policies to stream and river health. Public agencies volunteers and radical activists, movement Davis provide ample evidence that restora- which automatically remove fallen logs and (state and federal), as well as private enti- culture, organization, tactics and strategies, tion is possible while continuing to meet large woody debris from waterways with- ties that receive federal funding should be and funding, noting the pitfalls and suc- San Francisco’s water and power needs.” out consideration of fish habitat needs. required to dedicate existing and historic cesses associated with each. Initial restoration of the Hetch Hetchy • Require before and after “Upslope forest lands to such a carbon sequester old- Bevington fleshes out the differences Valley would take 10-12 years and cost Erosion Assessments” as conditions of ap- growth forest restoration program. between the insider strategies employed from $1.5-$3 billion. After 75 years there proval for certain land use permits that are by the nationals versus the outsider tactics would be no trace of past destruction. at high risk of putting excess sediment in of the grassroots biodiversity groups. He The State estimates that a restored Hetch waterways. Such assessments could help The Ventana needs holds a magnifying glass to the radically Hetchy Valley would be worth about $6 quantify the amount of sediment generated differing approaches of two operational billion annually and would provide habi- from silt-producing land uses including an office models: those that rely largely on political tat to more than 10,000 plant and animal species. logging, road building, mining, and agri- he Sierra Club is closing its Santa access versus those that primarily engage in culture. Guidelines for conducting such as- Cruz office, andThe Ventana needs litigation, direct action, or other “radical” sessments are in the Fish and Game’s Cali- a place to put out your newsletter. tactics. fornia Salmonid Stream Habitat Restoration WeT are looking for 100-200 square feet Bevington peels back the layers of the Manual. in Santa Cruz, either downtown, Harvey onion to reveal the historical actions of • Require a project applicant to pay West, or on the westside. Must be ADA ac- politicians, agencies, and organizations and for the staff review of an application and cessible. Shared space OK. We must have their backroom deals, which rarely receive follow-up assessments and monitoring. At access 24/7. coverage by the media. He shines a light on present, permits may be issued without ad- If you know of space to rent or have extra many environmental groups including Si- equate environmental assessments because space to share in your workplace, please call erra Club, Earth First! (the infamous forest of underfunding or other reasons. Project Paul Elerick, 688-2304. defenders), and the Center for Biological applicants should be required to post a Diversity (which uses compromise aided

Please recycle this paper again The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 5 c alenDaR Watsonville Wetlands Watch looking for Sierra Club Events docents Friday, January 8 he Watsonville Wetlands Watch Slides: Australia 2010 Docent Training Program Don Nielsen will present this slide will begin on February 24. Docent show from his trip to Australia last traineesT will be treated to an inside look summer. He will cover Southern at the Pajaro Valley and its wide network Australia and the Red Center. of wetlands. Local experts will share the Note: this is not a potluck. We will ecology, history and restoration of the wet- gather beginning at 7:00 p.m. and lands during this 7-week program, which the slide show will begin at 7:30 includes Wednesday evening presentations p.m. For directions call George, and Saturday morning fi eld trips. 531-2909. New docents will be prepared to lead Friday, February 12 walks and assist with fi eld trips. Docents also have the opportunity to help with com- Slides: munity events, participate in wetlands res- Washington, DC toration, work in the library or greenhouse Vilma Siebers will share her at the Fitz Wetlands Education Resource gorgeous pictures of monuments Center, and work on special projects. and cherry blossoms. Most of us Th e Watsonville Wetlands Watch is a have seen our stunning capital only nonprofi t community-based organiza- on TV. It is something else to be tion dedicated to the protection, restora- there in person and see our nation’s history close up. Note: this is not a tion and appreciation of the wetlands of potluck. We will gather beginning Pajaro Valley. For more information, visit at 7:00 p.m. and the slide show ww.watsonvillewetlandswatch.org. will begin at 7:30 p.m. Visit California’s Channel Islands. Th is photo was taken on San Miguel Ilsand by Joan Jones Holtz. To enroll in the 2010 Docent Training For directions call George, 531-2909. Program, please contact Kathy Fieberling, 345-1226 or kathyfi [email protected]. Th e Spring and Summer deadline for enrollment is February 10. and September are sponsored by Sierra Club. April 8-10 Channel Islands Trips All depart from Santa Barbara. Fees range California’s Channel Islands are Galapagos USA! from $590 to $785 and include bunk, meals, Wilderness Conference Marvel at the sight of whales, seals, rare birds, snacks, beverages, plus the services of a ranger/ Save the date for the Western Wilderness To change address by email: and wildfl owers. Hike the wild, windswept naturalist. For more info contact jholtzhln@aol. Conference planned by the Club and others. It trails. Kayak; snorkel. Discover remnants of the com. To make a reservation mail a $100 check will be held at UC Berkeley. Speakers, music, [email protected] Chumash people who lived on these islands payable to Sierra Club to leaders: Joan Jones food, more. Visit www.westernwilderness.org. Membership inquiries: for thousands of years. Or just relax. Th ree and Holtz & Don Holtz, 11826 Th e Wye St., El [email protected] 4-day fundraiser cruises in May, July, August, Monte, CA 91732.

Non–Sierra Club Events of Interest Th e following activities are not sponsored or administered by the Sierra Club. Th e Club makes no representations or warranties about the safety, supervision, or management of such activities. Th ey are published only as a reader service.

Wednesday, January 13 City of Santa Cruz, and Watsonville. Call 427- For more info: Karin Grobe, 427-3452, Monterey CNPS 3452 or register online at [email protected]. Climate Change Legislation www.compostsantacruzcounty.org. Habitat restoration Jason Kestrel Burnett will speak on Sponsored by S.C. Co. Board of Supervisors; Saturdays Volunteer to restore native habitat in State Parks in Monterey Co. Wear layered work implementing climate change legislation. produced by County Public Works Recycling Garland Ranch Hikes Burnett has served as Deputy Administrator and Solid Waste Services. clothes. Bring water & snacks. Tools & gloves Th e Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District of the EPA where he coordinated energy and provided. Carpools meet at Rio Rd. Park and docents lead hikes at Garland Ranch every climate change policy and as an EPA Senior Ride. Rain or shine. Contact Jan Shriner, Saturday. An updated list of all hikes may be Policy Advisor on air quality standards and [email protected], 236-0905. Website: www. found on their website: www.mprpd.org. power plant regulations. Elks Lodge, 150 Mar montereybay cnps.org. Vista Drive, Monterey. $18 includes buff et Santa Cruz CNPS lunch. 12 noon. Reservation required for lunch Watsonville Fourth Saturday (375-8301). Lecture at 12:30 free. Sponsored Habitat restoration Habitat restoration - by League of Women Voters of the Monterey Volunteer to restore native habitat in State Parks Watsonville Peninsula. in Santa Cruz Co. Wear layered work clothes. Sponsored by Watsonville Wetlands Watch. Bring water & gloves. Tools provided. 10:00 FREE Wormshops 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Meet at the Fitz a.m. to 1:00 p.m. We work rain or shine, but Wetlands Educ. Resource Center at Pajaro Saturday, April 10, 1-3 p.m., Grey Bears if things get particularly unpleasant, we call it a Learn how worms can eat your food scraps and Recycling Center, 2710 Chanticleer Ave., S.C. Valley HS. Gloves, tools, and snack provided. make beautiful compost for your garden. Master day. Contact Linda Brodman, redwdrn@pac bell. Call Jonathan Pilch, 728-4106, for more info. composters will teach you everything you Sunday, May 2, 1-3 p.m., Quail Hollow Ranch net, 462-4041. Website: www.cruzcnps.org. No experience necessary. need to know. Pre-registration required. Free County Park 800 Quail Hollow Road, Felton January 9, Willow planting at Año Nuevo/ and below wholesale worm bins for residents Cascade Creek of unincorporated Santa Cruz Co. and Scotts Saturday, June 19, 1-3 p.m., Grey Bears Valley. $50 charge for residents of Capitola, Recycling Center, 2710 Chanticleer Ave., S.C. January 18, Quail Hollow Ranch County Park

6 Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 Printed on recycled paper Lawsuit looms over n ewscliPs fi sh-killing water diversions Underwater trash Everything’s connected he Center for Biological Diversity NOAA researchers have discovered huge When trees fall into a creek and eventual- and others warned the State Water amounts of trash under the waters of the ly fi nd their way to the ocean, they not only Resources Control Board of intent Central Coast. Most of the rubbish revealed provide habitat for salmon and steelhead, toT sue if it doesn’t stop authorizing water by the underwater survey was recreational they also provide food for deep-sea, tree- diversions that are killing imperiled salm-

fi shing gear. Dana Watters of NOAA’s Fish- eating crustaceans. Th ese wood munchers, Cecelia de Giere on and steelhead in the Russian River and eries Service in Santa Cruz estimates that Munidopsis andamanica, look rather like Gualala River watersheds. Water diversions there are 7000 pieces of trash per square lobsters and, despite living in the deep sea, and pumping from streams for vineyards in kilometer. Now that’s disgusting. eat trees. To learn more, google Munidopsis Sheila in June 2008 in Sitka, Alaska. the area deplete rivers and creeks of water andamanica. needed by fi sh. Coho and Chinook salmon Success story Sheila Dunniway and steelhead trout, which are protected Th e US Fish and Proximity saves $ under the Endangered Species Act, need Wildlife Service has re- A new study concludes Californians loved to hike adequate water for spawning. moved the brown peli- could save money and cut greenhouse gas heila Dunniway, a long time Sierra When freezing temperatures hit Califor- can from the Endan- emissions by living near transit and shop- Club hike leader, died in October. nia’s coast, vineyards pumping water for gered Species list due to ping. Th e study found the 1.8 million Sac- She loved leading hikes in Pogonip grape “frost protection” can dry up rivers its recovery. Th e pelicanY ramento area residents living close to transit Sand Fall Creek. She also enjoyed the Sierra and their tributaries, stranding and killing is still protected under and shopping spend $2 billion less/year on Club slide shows. She was a teacher, librar- young fi sh. Th e Center asserts the Water the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, but is no cars and related costs than those living in ian, and a docent at Henry Cowell. In addi- Board is violating the Endangered Species longer deemed likely to become extinct in less convenient areas. To learn more visit tion Sheila delivered Th e Ventana to stores Act by allowing these water diversions. the foreseeable future. Th e brown pelican http://transformca.org. Residents of other and coff ee shops. was decimated by the use of the pesticide urban areas saved even more. Sheila will be remembered for her viva- Two bills supported by Club DDT which was banned in 1972. cious personality and her quick wit. She is are passed Florida panther in trouble deeply missed by her countless friends and overnor Schwarzenegger signed Richardson Grove Th e endangered Florida panther will her family. only two of the twelve bills sup- threatened need migration corridors and additional ported by Sierra Club in the last protected habitat to adapt to predicted sea Caltrans wants to widen Highway 101 Glegislative session. Th e signed bills were level rise from global warming. Th e Sierra Become a at Richardson Grove State Park just north AB 975, which requires corporations with Club has petitioned the US Fish and Wild- of the Humboldt County line. Th ese huge more than 500 service connections to in- life Service for a critical habitat designation master composter trees provide crucial habitat for endangered stall water meters, and AB 920, which re- for land that will help the panther migrate he County of Santa Cruz is now ac- birds like the marbled murrelet and threat- quires utilities to pay owners of solar and to new ground. Loss of habitat is the great- cepting applications for the 2010 ened salmon and steelhead. other renewable energy systems for surplus est threat to the survival of the estimated Master Composter Training Pro- electricity generated. Th e cathedral groves by this State Park 90-120 remaining panthers. gram.T Master Composter training provides Vetoed bills included SB 372, which are too important to cut down to enable hands-on experience managing compost would have prohibited disposition of state even bigger trucks to rush through. To sign End mountaintop removal piles and worm bins and exposes par- park lands unless approved by the Legisla- a petition, visit the website of the Center ticipants to Santa Cruz County recycling, A new report, “Mountaintop Removal ture; AB 1173, which would have contin- for Biological Diversity, www.biological- composting, and landfi ll facilities. In ex- Coal Mining, Too Costly to Appalachia’s ued the phase-down of mercury in light- diversity.org/ and click under “Action” at change for the training, Master Compos- Economies,” highlights the benefi ts for Ap- ing and provided incentives for recycling the top of the site. ters volunteer to teach others about com- palachia from ending mountain top remov- of fl uorescents; and SB 406, which would posting and recycling at community events. al mining and developing clean, renewable have added one or two dollars to vehicle When: Th e training includes fi ve week- energy sources. Read the report at www. registration to be used to reduce green- day evening classes and four Saturday fi eld Moving? sierraclub.org/coal/factsheets.aspx. house gasses. trips, February 3-March 24, 2010. Applica- Please fi ll out and mail the change of Rare ringtones tion deadline is February 2, 2010. Where: address form on p.15 or email Want your phone to sound like the cry Weekday evening classes take [email protected] place at Th e Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th of a Mexican gray wolf or a beluga whale? To change address by email: Th e post offi ce charges us 70¢ each if Download free endangered species ring- Ave. in Santa Cruz. Field trip locations vary. Contact: [email protected] they handle the address change. tones at www.rareearthtones.org/ringtones. To request a class agenda and Please help the Club by handling application, call the Rotline at 423-HEAP Membership inquiries: address changes in a timely fashion. or apply online at www.compostsantacruz- [email protected] Thanks! county.org.

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Please recycle this paper again Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 7 Habitat Trust Fund producing results in Marina by Steve Zmak with excepts from the tunity to connect the southern corridor of sand Dune Habitat Restoration Plan dunes (Marina State Beach and Fort Ord Dunes State Park, more than 1,000 acres t is the goal of the Ventana Chapter, in various stages of restoration), with qual- City of Marina and Monterey Peninsu- ity dune habitat north to the Salinas River. la Regional Parks District (MPRPD) to Native plant species stabilize the sand with Iwork cooperatively to preserve and enhance deep, extensive root systems, as well as enhance Marina’s native coastal habitat for the en- habitat quality. Plant restoration supports joyment of all and as an invaluable natural native wildlife populations (especially special asset for future generations. status species) by providing a variety of species- In 1986, the Ventana Chapter, City of specifi c food and shelter.” Marina and the fi rst two hotel developers On September 16, 2009, the Chap- in Marina’s Coastal Zone reached agree- ter also awarded a grant of $35,100 from ments to create the Marina Coastal Habitat the Trust Fund to the City of Marina for Protection, Conservation, and Restoration biological surveys of the fi ve vernal ponds Trust Fund as a mitigation measure to pro- within the city limits as the fi rst phase of vide ongoing habitat improvements. All their restoration. Th e Chapter is currently seven hotels in Marina’s Coastal Zone pay reviewing a second application from the a 35¢ transient occupancy tax per occupied city for $52,000 for phase 2 of the restora- room per night into the trust fund. With tion eff ort: hydrologic studies of the largest accrued interest the fund has reached close of the city’s vernal ponds (Locke-Paddon), to $400,000. and updating the 1994 coastal vernal pond In August 2008, MPRPD applied for a Concrete slabs are removed from the back dunes at the eastern edge of the 62-acre Marina Dunes Preserve along restoration and management plan. Phase grant to partially fund their master plan for Dunes Drive in Marina. 3 will be implementation of the updated the 62-acre Marina Dunes Preserve. In April were acquired by the Big Sur Land Trust and cies from northern and southern California restoration plan guided by MPRPD’s vi- of 2009, the City and Chapter mutually conveyed to the Park District. and a large number of endemic species (native sion for the Locke-Paddon Park as an ac- agreed to grant MPRPD $75,000 to fund “Th e site is located within an environ- species of restricted distribution), resulting in tive education center showcasing a variety weed eradication, the containment of non- mentally sensitive area known as the Marina areas of remarkable plant diversity.” of local coastal habitats including grassland, native trees, sand stabilization / recontour- Dunes, which includes approximately 626 Since the trust fund’s creation, it has only scrub and oak woodland. Th e Park District ing, and the planting of native coastal species acres west of Highway 1 within the City of been accessed once, in August 2001 by the also intends to increase the trail network, to augment the existing dune community. Marina. Th e Marina Dunes are part of the Park District, in the amount of $9,800 to install raptor boxes, and expand picnic and Th e Marina Dunes Preserve is located more extensive Monterey Dunes, which extend implement the gateway for the Preserve. passive recreation areas. on the city’s northern border at the end of from Monterey harbor north to the Salinas Th is second grant continues the Chapter’s Excerpts from the Dune Habitat Resto- Dunes Drive and adjacent to Marina State River mouth. Th e diff erent geologic histories of and City’s commitment to fully realize the ration Plan, Marina Dunes Preserve, pre- Beach. “Ten acres of the Marina Dunes Pre- these dunes give rise to an unusual mosaic of Park District’s vision for the Preserve. pared by Joey Dorrell-Canepa, Native So- serve has been owned and managed by the vegetation found nowhere else along the Pa- “Successful restoration will provide limited lutions, San Juan Bautista, CA are used in MPRPD as a public access corridor since cifi c Coast of North America. Th e Monterey public access to an extraordinary showcase of this article. Th ese excerpts are indicated by 1990, and in 1998, an additional 52 acres Dunes contain a unique blend of coastal spe- coastal dune habitat, and provide an oppor- quotation marks and italic type. Photos by Tim Jensen Tim Photos by

Dilapidated fencing is replaced to protect restored areas from human and pet impacts, and delineate public After elimination of exotic species, a variety of stabilization and re-vegetation techniques may be chosen for the access corridors to the beach. treatment area, including straw planting. 8 Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 Printed on recycled paper

Habitat Trust Fund Coho Recovery Plan long overdue Ballot initiative could raise producing results in Marina money for State Parks

unding for State Parks has reached a crisis. Governor Schwarzenegger pro- posed closing most parks to balance theF budget. To remedy this, Sierra Club, California State Parks Foundation, Th e Na- ture Conservancy, and Save the Redwoods League will be circulating a ballot initiative for signatures beginning in January. Th e purpose of the initiative is to pro- vide reliable funding to the 278 California state parks in order to protect California’s natural resources and wildlife for future generations. Past underfunding of the State Park system and wildlife conservation has resulted in a backlog of more than a bil- lion dollars in maintenance and improve- ments, threatening our natural and cultural resources, recreational opportunities, and wildlife habitat. Rebuilding the State Park system and pro- tecting the State’s wildlife resources would

NMFS fi le photo NMFS fi grow California’s economy and create jobs by drawing millions of tourists each year to National Marine Fisheries Service personnel inspect this dam in September 2009 on San Vicente Creek above Davenport. Th e dam diverts contribute to the State’s multibillion-dollar water necessary for coho and steelhead. A State investigation in 2001 identifi ed that a third of the water diverted was spilled as waste. Th e inadequate design of this old dam can drain the creek during the driest months. tourism economy. More funding would help with operation, maintenance, and re- by David Kossack pair of facilities including park visitor cen- oho were listed under the values of endangered species and habitat paring a letter from multiple members ters, restrooms, campsites, and ranger sta- Endangered Species Act as protection. Does that commitment still of Congress to the National Marine tions. It would also expand public access to “Th reatened” in 1996 and the hold? Fisheries Service addressing the need to state parks and natural areas and enhance CCentral California Coast population To make matters worse, there is no fed- return water diverted without permit the safety and security of park visitors. relisted as “Endangered” in 2005. A eral requirement to follow a Coho Recovery and/or spilled as waste to creeks and riv- If enough signatures are obtained and draft recovery plan as part of the en- Plan once it is issued. Such a plan would es- ers which coho depend upon. the ballot initiative is passed by the vot- dangered designation was scheduled tablish target population sizes, which until Farr’s offi ce was also intrigued by the ers next November, the State Parks and for June 2007 with a fi nal plan to be met, would maintain the endangered status opportunity to apply carbon sequester Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund will be completed by December 2007. Now, of coho in this area; however, it would lack eff orts to the protection and restoration established. Monies would be raised from at the end of 2009, with local coho regulatory power. of streamside habitat necessary for coho an annual $18 surcharge imposed on most populations at the edge of the abyss, Congressional representatives Sam Farr through the protection of coastal old- vehicles after January 1, 2011. Vehicles a Recovery Plan remains elusive. In and Anna Eshoo have been helpful with growth forests. At the request of Farr’s subject to the surcharge and all occupants 2009 alone the Coho Recovery Plan previous eff orts to motivate protection and offi ce, the Chapter has prepared back- of those vehicles would receive free day use has been delayed at least four times. restoration for anadromous fi sh and their ground material for a second congres- admission for all State Parks throughout Repeated delays under the Bush Ad- habitat. In June 2009 the Chapter asked sional letter to the appropriate agencies. the year. ministration were expected, though Farr and Eshoo for assistance in determin- At press time the Chapter is continu- To view a draft of the language of the ini- unwelcome. At least at one point the ing why the plan is taking so long. ing its contact with Farr’s and Eshoo’s tiative or to volunteer to gather signatures, Obama Administration expressed a On the positive side, Farr’s Washington offi ces on this issue. please go to the Chapter website at www. willingness to address the important offi ce in has expressed an interest in pre- ventana.sierraclub.org.

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Please recycle this paper again Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 9 o utings

In the interest of facilitating the logistics of some outings, it is customary that participants west above Carmel Valley, down to Holt Road and o utings R atings make carpooling arrangements. The Sierra Club does not have insurance for carpooling back to most of our cars. After, you are all invited to “Kaffee und Kuchen” at my place, Mid-Valley Gar- arrangements and assumes no liability for them. Carpooling, ridesharing, or anything General information: den Homes #53, to celebrate the New Year. 8 miles similar is strictly a private arrangement among the participants. Participants assume the and 1500' elevation gain. Bring water and lunch, op- All outings begin and end at the trail- risks associated with this travel. tional hiking sticks; wear sturdy shoes. Meet at Mid- head. Carpooling to and from the trailhead CST 2087766-40. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State Valley parking lot opposite Chase Bank at 10:00 a.m. is strictly a private arrangement between of California. Call for a space. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467. the driver and the riders. Carpool drivers are not agents or employees of the Sierra Participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. To read it before choosing to Saturday, January 2 Club. participate on an outing go to www.sierraclub.org/outings/chapter/forms. Hike: DelaveaGa park explanation of ratinGs: Tour one of Santa Cruz’s local parks. 6-7 miles in- Tuesday, December 29 cluding the east side. 1000' elevation gain. Meet at The outings described vary in difficulty Hike: carmel to pebble beacH 10:00 a.m. at the Santa Cruz County Government from leisurely walks to strenuous hikes. The D eceMBeR This lollypop loop begins in Carmel and leads into Center to carpool. Call Nick for more information. following explanation is a general guideline. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101. (For more information about the difficulty Saturday, December 19 the quiet forest of Pebble Beach. Lunch gives us the Hike: soberanes creek/rocky riDGe option of a Poppy Hills sandwich. 6½ miles with Saturday, January 2 of a particular outing, call the leader). 750' elevation gain. Arrive early; we depart at 10:00 Walk: Between 2-5 miles, leisurely pace. 5-mile loop with 1700' elevation gain and great ter- a.m. sharp from the Rio Road Park & Ride. Call for Hike: Garzas creek complex Easy: No more than 5 miles; slight eleva- rain variety. We’ll follow the Soberanes Creek Trail a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777. Let’s burn off some of that Holiday excess and maybe tion gain; easy pace. into a sublime redwood grove, then climb steeply today’s hangover too. We’ll do the entire portion of Moderate: 5-10 miles; up to 2000' gain; to grassy knolls for a spectacular view at lunch. The East Garland Ranch in and around Garzas Creek. descent will be along Rocky Ridge with more views. boots; better than average fitness required. anuaRy That includes Terrace Trail, Veeder, Garzas Creek, Strenuous: Boots highly recommended; hiking poles helpful. J Redwood Canyon, and some of East Ridge Trail. May involve off-trail hiking; Bring water and lunch. Call for meeting location. demanding pace; for experienced hikers in 7-8 miles with 2500' elevation gain. Great for new- Rain cancels. Leader: DJ Goehring, 277-9908. Friday, January 1 good condition only. comers or those looking for a good workout. Shorter Hike: GarlanD to my place and longer versions possible. Bring water and lunch. Wednesday, December 23 Missing the traditional New Year’s Hike? Let’s try a Meet at Mid-Valley Shopping Center at 9:00 a.m. Hike: santa cruz GarDens Leader: Larry Parrish, 622-7455. M eeting P laces anD arana GulcH new tradition: from the parking lot at Safeway Mid- Valley, we’ll carpool to Garland Ranch, climb to We’ll start at Santa Cruz Gardens Park near the beau- Directions: Snively’s Ridge, at a moderate pace and still a little tiful Chaminade Resort and hike the trails around higher to a sunny spot for lunch. Then we’ll turn Rio Road Park & Ride: This parking lot upper Arana Gulch passing some of the historic is on Rio Road in Carmel. buildings and orchards of the area. Some of the trails Save-Mart / Bagel Bakery: (formerly are narrow and might be slippery if there has been a Albertson’s) South of Monterey on Hwy. 1. lot of rain, so boots recommended. Bring water and lunch for this 7-mile hike. Meet at Sears 41st Ave. at One mile past Ocean Ave., turn L on Carm- 9:30 a.m. to carpool ($1), or drive up Thurber Lane, el Valley Rd. Almost immediately, turn R at take a left on Katherine and park along the street in the light. Save-Mart/ Bagel Bakery on the R. front of Santa Cruz Gardens Park. Leader: Diane Santa Cruz County Government Center: Cornell, 423-5925. The large grey building at the corner of Ocean “Peace begins & Water in Santa Cruz. We meet at the corner Monday - Saturday, December 28 - January 2 of the parking lot nearest to the intersection. HoliDay service in tHe Well Within” Felton Faire: The shopping center at the carrizo plain national monument junction of Graham Hill and Mt. Hermon The Carrizo Plain, near San Luis Obispo, is a vast Rds. in Felton. We meet at the edge of the grassland home to pronghorn antelope, tule elk, kit Safeway parking lot nearest Graham Hill Rd. fox, and a wide variety of birds. A welcome hike Dec. 41st Avenue / Sears: From Hwy. 1 in 28, three and a half days of service modifying barbed Capitola take the 41st Ave. exit. Go to- wire fencing, and a full day for hiking and exploring are planned. Use of accommodations at Goodwin P RIVATE SPAS & SAUNAS OVERLOOKING ward the ocean on 41st Ave. Pass the main Ranch included. Limited to 14 participants, $30 Mall entrance and turn right into the next covers five dinners. For more information, contact A J APANESE GARDEN entrance near Sears. We meet behind the leader: Craig Deutsche, [email protected], bank located at 41st and Capitola Road. (310-477-6670), or co-leader Melinda Goodwater, MPC parking lot: Monterey Peninsula [email protected], (408-774-1257). College Parking Lot. From Hwy. 1 take the Fisherman’s Wharf exit, go straight u Massage Therapy one block, turn L and L again into the first parking lot: A. This is the site of the Thurs. Farmers Mkt. Plenty of parking with no fee u Skin & Body Care on weekends. u All Natural Skin Care Moving? Products Please fill out and mail the change of address form on p.15 or email [email protected] The post office charges us 70¢ each if they handle the address change. Please help the Club by handling address changes in a timely fashion. 417 Cedar St., Santa Cruz 831-458-WELL. Visit our web site at www.wellwithinspa.com Thanks! 10 The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 Printed on recycled paper o utings

Wednesday, January 6 ing lot (corner of Reservation Road and Hwy. 68) senior Hike: Watsonville slouGH at 9:00 a.m. Rain cancels. Call for a reservation or We’ll begin the New Year at the Wetlands of Watson- directions. Leader: Monique Fargues, 384-3234. ville Nature Center and walk 3+ miles along parts of Sunday, January 17 the Watsonville, Ohlone & Struve Loop Trails. Facil- ities & lunch back at Ramsay Park. Th ere should be Hike: Jacks peak lots of beautiful birds & ducks along the way. Bring We’ll walk around Jacks Peak clockwise, starting water, lunch & binoculars. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Sears at the elementary school on Olmstead Road (near 41st Ave. or 9:50 a.m. at the Nature Center, 30 Har- Monterey airport). 6 miles with less than 1000' el- kins Slough Rd. Leader: Beverly Meschi, 475-4185. evation gain. Beautiful views of Monterey and Point Lobos. Bring water and lunch. Heavy rain cancels; Saturday, January 9 dribble doesn’t count. Wear clothes for the winter Walk: pebble beacH & asilomar weather. Confi rm by calling. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 4-mile loop, starting on neighborhood streets and 624-1467. then thru dunes, between fairways, out to Point Joe Tuesday, January 19 and back along the beach boardwalk. Quiet neigh- borhood, possible spouts from migrating whales. senior Hike: natural briDGes Meet across from the Fishwife Restaurant on Sunset We’ll walk the trails at Natural Bridges through Drive and Asilomar Blvd., Pacifi c Grove. Call to re- woods, grassland and along the beach, for an easy, serve a place and for meeting time. Bring snack and 2 miles. After lunch at the picnic tables, we can take water. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215. an optional extension along part of West Cliff Drive and back. Bring lunch and optional binoculars. Meet

Sunday, January 10 Moore Tom at Sears 41st Ave. before 9:30 a.m. ($2 carpool) or Hike: WHale peak @ soberanes point at the Delaware Ave. entrance to Natural Bridges at Participants on November hike from Old Coach Road to San Juan Bautista. How about a trek around and up Whale Peak at 9:50 a.m. Leader: Jean Harrison 425-5447. Soberanes? We’ll hope for a clear day to watch for Tuesday, January 12 the season. 5 miles with no more than 600' elevation Th ursday, January 21 whales, so bring binoculars if you have them. Dress Hike: carmel river beacH gain. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Santa Cruz County in layers (windy up top!!), bring lunch and water, ex- Hike: lanD of meDicine buDDHa Short 3–4 mile hike along the Carmel River Beach Government Center to carpool. Call Nick for addi- pect to be back at meeting place by early afternoon. tional information. Leader: Nick Wyckoff 462-3101. Th is 6-mile loop with 500' gain includes a redwood Rain cancels. Meet at the Rio Road Park and Ride at Trail, abundant with birds, small rodents, and ma- forest, a beautiful creek, and Fetid adder’s tongue. rine mammals such as otters and whales. Bring bin- 10:00 a.m. If you need further directions, call by Jan. Saturday, January 16 Bring water but no lunch. Arrive early; we depart at 9. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565. oculars, if possible, lunch and water. Meet at Rio 8:30 a.m. sharp from Shell station by Home Depot Road Park and Ride at 11:00 a.m. to carpool. Santa Hike: fort orD GrasslanDs in Seaside or from the back parking lot of the Con- Tuesday, January 12 Cruz people meet at the Sears carpool site at 10:00 Come explore Fort Ord Public Lands. Moderate gregational Church of Soquel at 9:20 a.m. sharp. Call senior Hike: upper ucsc campus a.m. (no leader) and meet the rest of us at Rio Road 8-mile loop partly on trails and road. Bring water for reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777. Park and Ride at 11:00 a.m. Leader: Phyllis Hilton, and lunch. Meet at the Creekside Trailhead park- Explore trails and fi re roads at the upper end of the 372-1714 or 869-9811 (cell). UCSC campus. 3 miles on mostly fl at ground thru redwoods. Bring lunch and water. Meet at Sears 41st Saturday, January 16 Ave before 9:30 a.m. or park near the gate at the Hike: nisene marks intersection of Empire Grade and Chinquapin fi re road. Rain cancels. Leader Xavier Ballard, 430-8292. We can’t pass up January without a hunt for Fetid adder’s tongue, the fi rst blooming local wildfl ower of

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Please recycle this paper again Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 11 o utings

Friday – Sunday, January 22 – 24 Sunday. Camping Friday and Saturday night will be traversing the Ridge and Panorama Trails. 8 miles Wednesday, February 3 WilDerness restoration: in a Park Service camping area (no water, portable and 1200' elevation gain. Be prepared to wade Big Hike: sanborn county park DeatH valley national park toilets). Leader: Kate Allen, [email protected], Sur River. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Carmel Save Mart. Sanborn Co. Park, ½ mile from Saratoga, has Come help protect Death Valley National Park from 661-944-4056. Returning around 5:00 p.m. Heavy rain cancels. For a rich history from the Ohlones, through 1850 abuse by illegal off-road traffic. This wilderness resto- more information call me. Leader: Jack Glendening, homesteaders, to the site of the famous hostel and ration project along the park’s scenic eastern bound- Sunday, January 24 484-6929. an environmental education center today. It is the ary in the Amargosa Valley involves the installation Hike: pinnacles third largest of the Santa Clara County Parks. We’ll of signs, raking out of vehicle tracks and moving Cool weather is the best time to visit my favorite Friday, January 29 walk around the historic house within the park that rocks. Meet late Friday afternoon, or early Satur- place to hike! Always wonderful views, amazing geo- Hike: Henry coe state park was built by Judge Welch in 1904. Last spring we day morning, work Saturday and part of the day on logic formations, and usually dryer than the coast. It’s a longish drive to Henry Coe State Park, in the walked down from Castle Rock State Park into San- 12 miles, 1200' elevation gain. Call me for carpool hills east of Morgan Hill, but it’s worth it for the born, but this time we’ll start in the park and walk information. No rain cancellation! Leader: John green rolling hills, oak studded meadows, and in- up Sanborn Trail to Skyline Blvd. and return down Howerton, 476-4253. teresting visitor center. We’ll hike a moderate loop the Peterson Trail. Bring water and lunch and wear of 5–6 miles and have time to look around the old sturdy shoes for this 8-mile hike through redwood Tuesday, January 26 ranch buildings to learn about the history and con- groves and past walk-in campsites. Meet at Sears senior Hike: rio Del mar beacH servation of the area. Bring lunch, water, and wear 41st Ave. to carpool at 9:00 a.m. or at 9:50 a.m. in Hike up one hill or stay on flat ground as we enjoy sturdy shoes. Call leaders ahead of time just in case the Sanborn Co. Park parking lot off Hwy. 9 above our own backyard. You can stop at two miles or con- the park has been closed due to funding cutbacks. Saratoga. Leader: Diane Cornell 423-5925. tinue for four. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Home Depot parking lot at 9:45 a.m. at the Rio Flats parking lot. Bring lunch in Seaside. Santa Cruz hikers may meet at 41st Ave. Saturday, February 6 & water. Leader: Beverly Meschi, 475-4185. Sears (no leader) at 8:30 a.m. and make their own Hike: GarlanD park way to the Park. (Take the East Dunne Ave. exit from This is a 4+ mile hike up to the Mesa via foothill Thursday, January 28 Hwy. 101 and follow signs to the Park’s main en- trails, Buckeye and Waterfall. Back via Fern, Mesa, Hike: molera beacH trance.) We should be at Henry Coe parking lot by and Lupine Loop Trails. Nice valley views. Trails around 10:00 a.m. Heavy rain cancels. Leaders: Cath may be muddy. Meet at Save Mart, Carmel Ran- To view the many colorful and fanciful ocean-cre- Farrant and Mary Dainton, 372 7427. ated rock sculptures along Molera Beach, this West cho Blvd., to carpool. Please call leader to reserve Molera loop hike is timed to an especially low tide, space and for meeting time, or if wanting to meet allowing a return walk along the sandy beach after at Garland Park. Bring snack/lunch and water. Rain F e BRuaRy cancels. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215. Sunday, February 7 Tuesday, February 2 Hike: cHalk mountain senior Hike: antonelli ponD Starting at Whitehouse Canyon Road we will ascend We’ll walk along the west side of Antonelli Pond then to Chalk Mountain, then up to the Henry Creek through the Homeless Garden, across Terrace Point Trail, returning via the Tree to Sea Trail. Outstand- to the Seymour Center which we’ll visit briefly. We’ll ing views, wildlife, and fungi make this a great win- return through DeAnza to the picnic tables by the ter hike! 12 miles, 1200' elevation gain. Meet at the beach at Natural Bridges for lunch. An easy, flat 3 Santa Cruz County Government Center at 8:00 miles. Bring lunch, and optional binoculars. Meet a.m. to carpool. Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253. at Sears 41st Ave. before 9:30 a.m., ($2 carpool) or at the Delaware Ave. entrance to Natural Bridges at Sunday, February 7 9:50 a.m. Leader: Jean Harrison, 425-5447. Hike: toro or fort orD? From high in Toro Park we see great views of Ft. Ord, and vice versa-so which shall we do? Both hikes are not more than 5 miles, easy pace, and take us up Harriet Brown and down moderate hills where early spring flow- Attorney at Law ers like Zyggadene might be seen. We’ll take a vote JD; LLM in Taxation when we meet and see what folks favor. Wear sturdy shoes; bring a walking stick if you have one, and wa- ter and snack or lunch. Hard rain cancels. Meet at •••• 10:00 a.m. near the bathrooms in the BLM parking lot at Fort Ord, near the intersection of Hwy. 68 and Reservation Road. For more info google Fort • Estate Planning Ord Public Lands to look at a map or call the leader by Saturday, Feb. 6!! Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565. • Trusts / Wills • Conservatorships Tuesday, February 9 • Probate senior Hike: capitola JeWel box • Adoptions Have you ever noticed that some streets in Capitola are named after jewels? Join us in the Jewel Box as • Elder Law we walk down to the wharf and along the esplanade. Then we’ll explore Depot Hill. About 4 miles. Bring onsult with someone who shares Cyour values. For over 35 years I have been helping clients protect and provide for their families and resolve conflicts through creative solutions. •

55 River Street, Suite 100, Santa Cruz 831-460-1946; Fax: 831-426-0159 [email protected]

12 The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 Printed on recycled paper o utings Ventana Chapter Mailing AddressT he Ventana Chapter, P.O. Box 5667, Carmel, CA, 93921 Email: [email protected]W ebsite: www.ventana.sierraclub.org lunch or buy lunch. Possible visit to City of Capitola M aRch Chapter Executive Committee Museum. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. Chapter Chair Rita Dalessio 16 Via Las Encinas Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-7046 Leader: Denise Lucy, 464-3808. Saturday – Sunday, March 13 – 14 Treasurer Joel Weinstein 140 Carmel Riviera Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 625-5586 Other Members Julie Engell 15040 Charter Oak Blvd. Prunedale, CA 93907 633-8709 Tuesday, February 9 fence removal: carrizo plain George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 706-4233 Hike: West riDGe trail loop Help remove fences. At this time of year, the Car- Susan Van Stirum 26140 Zdan Road Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-2091 rizo may be turning green, and if the winter has been Steve Zmak 3200 Crescent Ave. Marina, CA 93933 883-4459 Join us for this 8-mile Nisene Marks hike with 1000' Ed Thornton 402 Watson Street #4 Monterey, CA 93940 224-4178 elevation gain through a lovely shaded forest of red- wet, there should be wildflowers. Work Saturday, Nicole Charles 2936 Yorktown Court, Marina, CA 93933 925-381-1982 woods, tanbark oaks, maples, ferns, and Fetid adder’s camp and potluck dinner that evening. Hike Sun- Dale Agron 26122 Carmel Knolls Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 624-3038 tongue. Bring water & lunch. Arrive early; we depart day. Bring leather gloves, warm clothes with long Admin Chair/Sec Mary Gale 25430 Telarana Way Carmel, CA 93923 626-3565 at 8:45 a.m. sharp from Shell station by Home Depot sleeves and long pants, food for potluck on Satur- Coastal Chair in Seaside or from parking lot behind Aptos Station day night. Leaders will be at Selby Camp on Friday Conservation Committee night for those who want to arrive early. Leaders: Co-chairs Gudrun Beck 23765 Spectacular Bid Monterey, CA 93940 655-8586 at 9:30 a.m. sharp. Bring water & lunch. Call for Gillian Taylor 52 La Rancheria Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-0298 a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777. Cal and Letty French, 805-239-7338. Prefer e-mail: Local Wilderness Committee [email protected]. Chair Mike Splain P.O. Box 66882, Scotts Valley, CA 95067 359-2489 Wednesday, February 10 Computer Database Hike: JosepH D. Grant county park Stephanie Kearns 740 30th Ave. #67 Santa Cruz, CA 95062 475-1308 NC/NRCC Reps Joseph D. Grant Park is a world apart from the rest George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 706-4233 of Santa Clara Valley. It is a grassland hillside of tran- Patricia Matejcek P.O. Box 2067 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 761-3263 quility just north of Henry W. Coe State Park. We’ll Political Compliance Chair be taking a 9-mile hike on the Antler Point Loop George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 706-4233 Trail which passes Grant Lake and goes to the high- Sierra Club Council Delegate George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 706-4233 est point in the park. Bird watching is exceptional as Alternate Rita Dalessio 16 Via Las Encinas Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-7046 raptors perch on the tall oaks to hunt the grasslands. Transportation Committee Mt. Hamilton will be behind us as we look over the ATTENTION:ATTENTION: Chair Neil Agron 26122 Carmel Knolls Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 624-3038 south Bay Area. Bring lunch and water. To carpool Outings Chair meet at Sears 41st Ave. at 9:00 a.m. ($4). To meet PotentialPotential Anneliese Suter 9500 Center St. #53 Carmel, CA 93923 624-1467 us at the trailhead, drive 7.9 miles up Mt. Hamil- Membership Chair ton Road and continue for another 100 yards to the Advertisers!Advertisers! Judy Karas 60 Boronda Lane #7 Monterey, CA 93940 372-5762 Ventana Editor Grant Lake parking lot on the left for a 10:10 a.m. Debbie Bulger 1603 King Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060 457-1036 start. Leader: Diane Cornell 423-5925. Pajaro River Committee Sierra Club Member Lois Robin [email protected] 861-464-1184 Saturday, February 13 Profile Hike: mittelDorf to tHe coast Santa Cruz County Group of the Ventana Chapter Advertising in this newsletter packs Website: www.ventana.sierraclub.org Let’s see if we can make it: go up Echo Ridge to the more clout into your advertising dol- Mailing Address: Sierra Club, Santa Cruz Group, P.O. Box 604, Santa Cruz, CA 95061-0604 highest point of Mitteldorf Preserve and from there lars. Sierra Club members are one of the email: [email protected] down to the coast via Rocky Ridge. We’ll do this most valuable audiences in America. strenuous hike of about 15 miles and 2000' eleva- Executive Committee tion gain at a very slow and careful pace. Car shuttle. They are “opinion leaders” and “influ- Chair Aldo Giacchino 1005 Pelton Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95060 460-1538 Bring a lot of water and food. Call for a reservation. entials;” by any name they are some of Vice Chair Kevin Collins P.O. Box 722 Felton, CA 95018 335-4196 America’s most sought-after advertising Secretary Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467. Other members Kristen Raugust 454 Swanton Road Davenport, CA 95017 423-8566 targets. Their own purchasing activity is Charles Paulden 415 Palisades Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 462-3423 Sunday, February 14 substantial. But, more important, they Paul Elerick 1960 Jennifer Dr. Aptos, CA 95003 688-2304 Hike: DanisH creek influence others—in everything from Dennis Davie P.O. Box 651 Capitola, CA 95010 566-7447 opinion and outlook to choice of prod- David Kossack P.O. Box 268 Davenport, CA 95017 427-3733 Let’s go out to the beautiful woods of the Los Padres Patricia Matejcek P.O. Box 2067 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 761-3263 Dam. We’ll hike 3+ miles up the Big Pines Trail and ucts. They are not only consumers, but Mark Sullivan 500 Chestnut,Ste 200 Santa Cruz, 95060 576-2619 then drop down to secluded Danish Creek camp. If also doers and leaders. Treasurer Aldo Giacchino 1005 Pelton Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95060 460-1538 this trail is impassable, we’ll consider alternate routes. Conservation Chair About 9 miles and 1400' elevation gain. Please call Club Members are among the most Patricia Matejcek P.O. Box 2067 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 761-3263 Forestry Chair for meeting time and updated information. Leader: active, affluent audiences of adventure Larry Parrish, 622-7455. Dennis Davie P.O. Box 651 Capitola, CA 95010 566-7447 travelers and year-round outdoor Outings Chair sports enthusiasts your advertising dol- George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 706-4233 Transportation Chair lars can buy. It’s an unduplicated audi- Paul Elerick 1960 Jennifer Dr. Aptos, CA 95003 688-2304 ence with the power to buy your prod- Coastal Chair ucts and services. Patricia Matejcek P.O. Box 2067 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 761-3263 Water Chair Ken Reiller 990 Hecker Pass Rd. Watsonville, CA 95076 728-4046 Sierra Club Members are Great Prospects c lassiF ieD Median Age: 41 Male/Female: 63% / 37% Rates: $6 per line for Sierra Club members. Payment must accompany all ads. Make checks Median Household Income: $56,227 payable to: Sierra Club. Approx. 35 characters Attended/Graduated College: 81% per line. Spaces and punctuation count as Professional/Technical/Managerial: 36% M eeting s cheD ule characters. Typewritten or computer generated copy only. Outdoor Sports Enthusiasts Ventana Chapter (Monterey County) Santa Cruz Regional Group Backpacking/Hiking 4 times more active OFFICE SPACE—The Ventana is seeking office Information: 624-8032 Executive Committee: space in Santa Cruz. Downtown, Harvey West, than the average adult Mountain Biking 5 times more active Executive Committee: Second Wednesday of the month; or Westside. Need 100–200 square feet. Will Call 460-1538 for meeting place and time. need access 24/7. Must be ADA accessible. Will Cross-Country Skiing 5 times more active First Thursday of the month; consider shared space. Do you need someone to Whitewater Rafting 5.5 times more active Call for meeting place and time Conservation Committee: help pay the rent? Call Paul Elerick, 688-2304. Source: 1996 MRI Doublebase Conservation Committee: Call 761-3263 for meeting dates and times. HOW ARE YOU REDUCING YOUR For Rate Information, Contact: For dates and times, call 655-8586. Forestry Task Force: CARBON FOOTPRINT? Polar Bears want to Debbie Bulger - 457-1036 Third Wednesday of the month, 7:30 p.m.; know. Email [email protected]. Call 566-7447 for meeting location.

Please recycle this paper again The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 13 c h a P t e R e l e c t i o n s Ventana Chapter Candidates Ex-Com for the past three years. Presently the Monterey Peninsula. As your representative, I’ve commented there is minimal representation from Santa I was captivated by the diversity of the on environmental impact reports includ- Cruz County on the Ventana Chapter Ex- ocean and its coastal communities. Once ing Monterey County’s 3rd, 4th and 5th ecutive Committee. Providing necessary I learned that there was a California State attempts to update its General Plan. I’ve David S. representation is essential for Santa Cruz is- University in the area, I decided to move to commented on a proposed bike path “on Kossack sues and improved communications as well Monterey. Upon graduating with a B.S. in steroids” cutting through sensitive habitat. as the depth and breadth of the Chapter. It Environmental Systems and Science Policy, I’ve represented the Chapter at public would be a privilege to serve on the Ven- I went to work at the Monterey Bay Aquar- meetings and worked with allied organi- tana Chapter Ex-Com. ium as an educator in order to inspire ocean zations to maximize the Chapter’s effec- conservation. tiveness. I represented the Chapter in a always enjoyed the outdoors: giant By living in the Central Valley and on the coalition which developed a water project kelp to giant sequoia, it didn’t matter Central Coast, I have seen firsthand what proposal for the Monterey Peninsula. The to me. I just liked watching things do a precious resource both fresh water and proposal, if adopted, would increase reli- Iwhat they do. I wasn’t much past five when Marika salt water are. I would be honored to serve ance on conservation and reduce reliance it happened: the wildlands and rivers that on Ex-Com. Thank you for your consider- on desalination. I enjoyed were being lost; the results were Martin ation. I want to continue my decade of work not the wonderland promised, and I found to improve the Monterey County General myself a conservationist. Plan. Key policies still need to be included In the late ’70s I spent a couple of years such as prohibiting new cultivation of steep in Central America experiencing the reefs, slopes. The current draft plan proposes to t a young age I was introduced to mountains and forests of this region; my Julie mitigate development impacts through interests in how things work led me to aca- nature and immediately fell in love policies, measures and programs that are demic degrees from Berkeley and Davis; and have been hooked ever since. Engell yet to be developed. In fact there are 95 AGrowing up in California’s Central Valley, the mixed blessing of seeing that things such deferrals contained in the plan which aren’t working has led me to invest myself I was immersed in the San Joaquin Delta Supervisors will likely adopt next spring. I in projects to protect and restore the last with the bountiful Pacific Ocean to one have the experience required to watch and pieces of functioning ecosystems. side and the majestic Sierra Nevada Moun- participate in this process. I hope you will I enjoy both Sierra Clubs: as a partici- tains on the other. Not only did my loca- elect me to work for you again. pant on hikes and outings and addressing tion play a large role in the relationship I ’m asking for your vote to another term the challenges of effective conservation have developed with the outdoors, but my on the Chapter Executive Committee. through Sierra Club leadership and activ- parents did as well. Yearly family outings It has been an honor to represent you took place in Yosemite, Mount Diablo and Iin the past. ism. I have served on the Santa Cruz Group Santa Cruz Group Candidates

Nisene to the Sea, No on J, Rail Trail, Stop tive Committee for two terms. Since I first the Seawall, and bike supporters to help started serving, I have come to realize that preserve our beautiful area. many parts of the environment are at risk. conservation, riparian corridor protection, Charles Your vote will keep me on the SC Execu- From global warming to fish extinction to and storm water runoff management. Al- tive Committee. water conservation, there is a lot to do. though the struggle for resource conserva- Paulden I will support efforts by other Club mem- tion is a broad one and I work pro-actively bers in the goal of preserving and restoring to shape policy, the battle is often fought as much of the natural environment and defensively on a project-by-project basis. habitat as possible. We need to be sustain- To that end, I have been able to participate able in order to protect this planet. We have regularly at County Planning Commission With an intimate relationship and com- Kristen to make our urban areas more human and and Board of Supervisors meetings and to mitment to preserving the natural world, I Raugust earth friendly. I oppose widening Highway critique environmental review of projects promote preservation of open spaces, for- 1 and support the purchase of the rail line. to reduce the negative aspects of develop- ests, and farmland through green business, I am not only asking for your vote but ments. building and urban planning. I support your help and participation. Thank you. I feel that I have been very effective on the land use where the natural environment’s conservation front, and if elected, I hope health is the primary focus of planning. came to Santa Cruz County from San to continue my ongoing efforts in these ar- The Sierra Club’s Growth Guidelines call Francisco in 1967 and have lived in the eas, and also be a resource to support the for urban centers close to civic amenities Davenport area since then. I love living work of other Committee members. I have and along transportation networks while Iin the country. As a boy and a young man, Michael previously served on the County Housing preserving outlying lands. I spent much time in the Sierras. Advisory Commission, the County Plan- I support our General Plan’s ideal of wa- My intersection with the Sierra Club Guth ning Commission, and numerous work- terways as parks and open space. came through my grass roots involvement ing groups involving County, regional, I advocate Rodeo Gulch as a mid-county in coastal viewshed and beach access issues and Monterey Bay Sanctuary issues. That regional park with porous trail systems for on the Davenport Coast. There have been experience, my passion for protecting the bikes and walking and storm water directed many development projects that fortunate- environment, and my background as an into retaining areas being cleansed and fil- ly have not come to fruition on the North look forward to the opportunity to serve attorney have combined to empower my tered by the earth while recharging our wa- Coast thanks to local environmental orga- on the Executive Committee. I have personal contributions. I now ask for your ter tables. nizations and the Sierra Club. been involved as a citizen activist in the support as I seek election to the Executive I worked with Save Lighthouse Field, Iareas of coastal water quality, coastal lagoon Committee. I have previously served on the Execu- 14 The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 Printed on recycled paper Voting Instructions and Executive Committee Ballot

Review candidate statements on page 14 and mark your ballot below. Mail this entire page using a recycled envelope from junk mail with a new label you affix. (Be sure to mark out the computer code on the envelope bottom if there is one). The ballot must be postmarked by January 2. Monterey County members may vote for bylaw changes and for Chapter candidates only. Santa Cruz County members may vote for bylaw changes and for BOTH Chapter and Group Candidates. For joint memberships, mark a vote in both columns. After you complete your ballot, TEAR OFF THIS ENTIRE PAGE and mail your completed ballot to Mary Gale, Chapter Secretary, 25430 Telarana Way, Carmel, CA 93923. Call Mary at 626-3565 if you have any questions. Your mailing label on the back of this page ensures that the vote has come from a valid member of the Club. Ballots and mailing labels will be separated by the Chapter Secretary to ensure a secret ballot.

Bylaw Changes: The Chapter is updating its bylaws to comply with National Sierra Club guidelines and proposes the changes below. Please vote yes or no on each one yes no 3.10 Ex-Com Meetings: The Ex-Com shall hold regularly scheduled meetings at least 4 (changed from 12) times per year at times and places communicated in advance to all Chapter members. 3.11 Special Meetings: Ex-Com business may, if necessary, be conducted at a Special Meeting. A Special Meeting may be called by the Chair or any 3 (changed from 2) Ex-Com members with at least one week’s notice, unless all Ex-Com members waive this notice requirement. 4.3 Petition Candidates: The name of any Chapter member proposed in writing by at least 50 (changed from 25) Chapter members prior to the deadline for submission of petitions, and who gives consent, shall also be included on the ballot.

VEGAN SHOES Ventana Chapter Both Santa Cruz and Monterey members may vote for these Write ups on p. 14 •• Vote for up to 3 candidate individual or 2nd joint member 1st joint member Julie Engell David Kossack Marika Martin

Santa Cruz Group Only Santa Cruz members may vote for these Write ups on p. 14 •• Vote for up to 3 candidate individual or 2nd joint member 1st joint member Mike Guth Charles Paulden Kristen Raugust

What does the Executive Committee do? The members of the Executive Committee make Chapter and Group policy for the Club. These representatives meet to discuss issues and hear reports from subcommittees such as the Conservation Committee, Transportation Committee, and the Forestry Com- mittee. Executive Committee members make financial decisions and supervise local Club operations such as budget and fundraising. Please recycle this paper again The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 15 Ventana staff Volume 48, Number 6, 2009 www.ventana.sierraclub.org It isinfactaBANEBERRYandit'sfruitPOISONOUS.Eatingitscanmakeyouveryill.Pleasenotethisyourprintedissue. IMPORTANT NOTICE:THISPLANTWASINCORRECTLYIDENTIFIEDINTHEPRINTVERSIONOFVENTANAASAREDCURRENT-ITISNOT.

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