Bike Week: May 13-21 P

Volume 45, Number 2, 2006 www.ventana.sierraclub.org

M AGAZINE OF THE V ENTANA C HAPTER OF THE S IERRA C LUB

Who says you can’t go grocery shopping on a bike? Corinne Hyland brings home the groceries despite being 8 1/2 months pregnant. As a health educator for the County of Santa Cruz, Corinne practices what she preaches. About three weeks after these photos were taken, Corinne gave birth to a 7 pound 15 ounce baby girl, Evan Marie.

APRIL, MAY, JUNE OUTINGS Tim Hyland

Bike Week: May 13-21 p. 6

Explore, enjoy and protect the planet hile it is the intent of The Ventana to print articles that reflect the position Wof the Ventana Chapter, ideas CHAPTER CHAIR expressed in The Ventana are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the Monterey County voters may Yes on Community General Plan 3. The initiative increases the position of the Sierra Club. Articles, graphics Initiative amount of below-market-rate housing and photographs are copyrighted by the face land use issues The Community General Plan Initia- required in all new subdivisions from authors and artists and may be reprinted only wo critical land use measures may tive amends the County’s 1982 General 20% to 30%. with their permission. be on the June 6 ballot in DEADLINES FOR SUBMISSIONS Plan in four common-sense ways. 4. The initiative requires a vote of Monterey County. We urge all All materials for publication must be received by T 1. The initiative focuses develop- the people in order to change these basic Ventana Chapter Sierra Club members the deadlines listed below. No exceptions. ment and community investment in five land use policies. to vote NO on Measure C, the second SUBMISSIONS FORMAT existing communities: Fort Ord, Pajaro, The Community General Plan Initia- referendum to stop Rancho San Juan and Please limit articles to 800 words; letters to Castroville, Boronda, and Chualar. Each tive is endorsed by Sierra Club, the to vote YES on the Community General 300. All submissions may be edited for clarity of these communities has existing infra- League of Women Voters of the Salinas and length. Email to [email protected]. Plan Initiative. As we go to press, it is structure which can be augmented, has Valley and of the Monterey Peninsula, Mail hard copy to editor, address below. not yet certain if these issues will be on existing redevelopment plans, and has the Salinas Valley LULAC #2995, and PHOTOS the ballot. Photos submitted to The Ventana must meet expressed desire for some growth. many others. To learn more visit www. the following requirements: No laser copies or No on Rancho San Juan 2. The initiative requires adequate montereyplan.org or call 647-1058. inkjet outputs. Electronic photos should be no Rancho San Juan, proposed for 2,500 roads and a permanent water supply —Julie Engell smaller than 1200 x 1100 pixels or 300 dpi. acres between Salinas and Prunedale, was before or concurrent with new develop- Cover photos must be 3000 x 2000 pixels. Film This column was written by Julie Engell photos, slides or negatives are fine. Please call first approved by the Monterey County ment. a member of the Chapter Ex-Com. the editor if you have any questions. Board of Supervisors in December 2004. WHERE TO SEND SUBMISSIONS Because both traffic and water problems Send submissions to: Debbie Bulger, Editor were not addressed, four lawsuits were 1603 King Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 filed against the county. e-mail: [email protected] In November 2005 nearly 76% of F ROM THE E DITOR CHANGE OF ADDRESS Monterey County voters rejected Do not call editor! Send address changes to: Rancho San Juan. However, one day Why I support habitat preservation and restoration in the [email protected]. before voters went to the polls, the POSTAL NOTICE Arana Gulch Greenbelt Supervisors approved a so-called down- The Ventana (015057) is published 6 times a sized version of Rancho San Juan, year, (Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct, Dec.) paid by he City of Santa Cruz has released paving a bikeway through the Greenbelt subscription included in membership fee, by Butterfly Village. Within a month of for public comment a Master Plan would cause significant and non-mitiga- The Ventana Chapter of the Sierra Club, 1001 hijacking the election, Supervisors began Tand Draft EIR for the eastside ble damage to the tarplant. Center St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Periodical re-expanding Rancho San Juan. Greenbelt property known as Arana Bicyclists dealing with traffic on postage paid Santa Cruz, California, and at Opponents of the project then quali- Gulch. When I first moved to Santa Soquel Avenue might wish that a paved additional mailing offices. fied a second referendum, Measure C, Postmaster: Send address changes to Sierra Cruz in 1988, the property was full of bikeway could be built through Arana Club, The Ventana, P. O. Box 604, Santa Cruz, for the June 2006 ballot. Ventana cows. At the time I was unaware of Gulch without damage to the environ- CA 95061-0604. Chapter of Sierra Club urges you to vote another resident of that coastal prairie ment, but they are wishing, not looking NO on C. remnant: the Santa Cruz Tarplant at the facts. The botanists say that the Editor: Debbie Bulger, [email protected] The “downsized” project contains (Arana Gulch variety). The tarplant’s environmental damage would be signifi- (no change of address calls, please!) 1,147 houses, and a golf course/resort. It flower is not showy. You might walk cant. Production: will generate 13,000 additional car trips right by it without taking notice. But it I will be embarrassed if our city Debbie Bulger, Vivian Larkins, on already gridlocked roads and will has one very important distinction. It decides to ignore the science. I will be Dale Nutley increase water consumption in an area of grows nowhere else in the world. It is horrified if this city of mine, a city Writers: Julie Engell, Debbie Bulger, severe water overdraft. officially listed as “threatened” by the which has solar panels on its city hall, Bill Magavern To learn more about Rancho San Juan Federal Government and as “endan- applies for a permit to “take” (kill) an Photographers: call Julie Engell, 633-8709 or visit gered” by the State of California. endangered species. I will be more than Linda Smith, Richard Stover, www.stopranchosanjuan.org. When I walk on the other Greenbelt disappointed in our City Council mem- Tim Hyland, James McGrew, properties owned by the City, I expect bers. Jean Brocklebank, Greg Meyer, Kevin Collins Recycle unneeded items; to have an experience in which Nature is But there is another choice. A bike- Proofreaders: paramount. I do not expect or want way on the railroad right-of-way would Richard Stover, Wolfgang Rosenberg, snag $ for Sierra Club paved paths through the Pogonip. I provide a traffic-free east-west bike route Charles Koester, Jim Danaher, o you have furniture, sports recoil in horror at the thought of paving without harming endangered species. Eloise Graham, Vivian Larkins equipment, or other items you a path through the glorious goldfields That is why I and the Sierra Club whole- Distribution: no longer want or need around Keith Wood, Jerry Houser D that blanket parts of the Moore Creek heartedly support purchase and con- Debbie Bulger the house? I had a Nordic Track I was Uplands. Why, then, would the City struction of the rail trail: A bikeway that Advertising Sales: no longer using. I placed an ad in The consider installing a series of paved paths would go for miles in a car-free environ- Debbie Bulger Ventana, asked the purchaser to make on the smallest of its Greenbelt lands? ment, not just the quarter mile crossing Late Night Food Delivery & Software: the check out to “Sierra Club,” and was The lure of a bicycle connection Arana Gulch. Richard Stover Chapter website: able to help the Club and clean out my through Arana Gulch has many people I hope you will contact the Santa http://ventana.sierraclub.org garage at the same time. Such a deal! discounting the environmental damage Cruz City Council and urge them to act Free classified ads that paving such a connection would cre- on the science not on wishful thinking. The Ventana is offering free ate. As a frequent bicyclist, I understand Let them know that we may have a legal that lure. Bicycling is a non-polluting and, most certainly, a moral imperative 2006 classified ads, on a space avail- VENTANA PUBLICATION SCHEDULE: able basis, for items worth $25 or more form of transportation that the Sierra not only to preserve the tarplant, but Club encourages. We need more bike- also to restore it by implementing a Issue Deadline Mailing Date when the owner agrees to have the pur- #3 May 15 May 31 chaser make the check out to “Sierra ways and bike lanes in this community. sound tarplant management plan. #4 Jul. 17 Aug. 2 Club.” It’s easy. It recycles. Best of all it I am a member of People Power, the We need more bikeways in Santa #5 Sep. 25 Oct. 11 bicycle advocacy group; I am also a Cruz, but we should not eradicate #6 Nov. 27 Dec. 13 helps the Club fund conservation and advocacy. member of the California Native Plant endangered species in order to get them. Society. I cherish biodiversity, not only —Debbie Bulger Articles received after deadline may For more information call 457-1036. —Debbie Bulger for itself, but for its importance to not be published. humans. The Draft EIR states that

2 The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 Printed on Recycled Paper Endangered species action heats up in the Senate LETTERS or over 30 years the Endangered The Ventana welcomes letters. Send to: Species Act has worked to safe- guard America’s fish and wildlife LETTERS TO THE EDITOR F by preventing the extinction of hun- The Ventana, 1603 King Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060 dreds of animals across the country. or email to [email protected] Thanks to the Endangered Species Act, Please include a phone number with the wolf has returned to Yellowstone, your letter. Anonymous letters are wild salmon still spawn in the rivers of not accepted. Letters may be edited the Pacific Northwest, and the bald eagle for length. once again soars from coast to coast. Representative Richard Pombo (R- Actually arboreal Tracy) is working to degrade the I am writing to you about the salamander Endangered Species Act, sell off millions pictured in the last issue of The Ventana. of acres of national forest and national The species is actually an arboreal salamander— a common amphibian on the west side park properties, open the California of Santa Cruz. Winter is a good time to find Coast to offshore drilling, and drill in them in your yard under wet boards, potted the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. A plants and yard clippings. I found one just illustration by Adrian Cotter bill that would gut the endangered last week under a kayak that was on the species act has passed the house and is ground in my backyard. In spite of their Largest-ever mercury study finds 1 in 5 before the Senate. Sierra Club is working name, they seem to spend a lot of time down to ensure that the Endangered Species on earth (or maybe I don’t spend enough women with dangerous levels Act remains strong so that future gener- time climbing big, old oak trees). ations of Americans are able to enjoy In my experience, the ensatina appears to fish and wildlife just as we have. be much less common on the Westside. With esearchers in North Carolina mercury into waterways where it accu- their bright orange belly and dark red back, released results in February of the mulates in fish and makes its way up the How to help they more closely resemble the California Rnation’s largest study ever on the food chain. Mercury contamination is Let Senators Boxer and Feinstein newt. I can usually find them in spring and effects of mercury on the U.S. popula- especially dangerous for women of child- know that you support a strong summer under the duff and downed logs in tion. It analyzed hair samples from more bearing years because mercury exposure Endangered Species Act with full public the sycamore groves along the San Lorenzo than 6600 women from all 50 states and in the womb can cause neurological participation. River. They are easiest to find in areas with found that 1 in 5 women of childbearing damage and other health problems in Volunteer to table in Morgan Hill to big trees and sandy soil. (After I look at age exceeded the EPA’s recommended children. educate Pombo’s constituents about his them, I always return the log back to its orig- inal location.) I have watched for many years limit of 1 microgram of mercury/gram Find out more about what fish are positions. Call Deirdre at 423-6857. and have not seen the lovely mating dance of hair. most contaminated with mercury. Visit For more information see: described by Stebbins. I once heard from a The hair samples came from public sierraclub.org/mercury. www.sierraclub.org/esa. student of Professor Stebbins that he mercury-testing events sponsored by the observed the dance only once with a captive Sierra Club and Greenpeace and individ- pair of ensatina. I keep hoping to see it some- uals who ordered testing kits online and day live here in Santa Cruz County. In the mailed a couple of inches of hair to the Contact Your Representatives meantime, I will keep turning over logs and lab. The samples were analyzed by Dr. President George W. Bush (831) 424-2229 (Salinas) rocks during wet periods. Steve Patch and fellow researchers at the The White House (202) 225-6791 (FAX, Washington, D.C.) —Greg Meyer 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW [email protected] Environmental Quality Institute at the Washington, D.C. 20500 Santa Cruz University of North Carolina, U.S. Representative Anna Eshoo Comment line: (202) 456-1111 698 Emerson Street Editor’s Note: Asheville. Researchers found a direct FAX: (202) 456-2461 Palo Alto, CA 94301 See p. 9 for comparison photos of the arbore- relationship between mercury levels and [email protected] (408) 245-2339 al salamander and the ensatina.- fish consumption. FAX (650) 323-3498 Vice President Dick Cheney go to website to email Coal burning is the main way mercu- (202) 456-1414 [email protected] State Senator Abel Maldonado ry gets into humans. Rainfall brings the 100 Paseo De San Antonio, Suite 206 Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger San Jose, CA 95113 State Capitol Building (408) 277-9461 Sacramento, CA 95814 [email protected] (916) 445-2841 FAX: (916) 445-4633 State Senator Joe Simitian www.governor.ca.gov State Capitol, Room 4062 Sacramento, CA 95814 Senator Dianne Feinstein (916) 445-6747 FAX (916) 323-4529 331 Hart Office Building [email protected] Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-3841; (415) 393-0707 State Senator Jeff Denham 1 Post Street, Suite 2450 369 Main Street, #208 San Francisco, CA 94104 Salinas, CA 93901 go to website to email (831) 769-8040 [email protected] Senator Barbara Boxer Assembly Representative Simon Salinas 112 Hart Office Building 100 W. Alisal Street, Rm. 134 Washington, D. C. 20510 Salinas, CA 93901 (202) 224-3553 (831) 759-8676 FAX (831) 759-2961 (415) 403-0100 (Voice) [email protected] 1700 Montgomery Street San Francisco, CA 94111 Assembly Representative John Laird go to website to email 701 Ocean Street, Room 318-B Santa Cruz, CA 95060; (831) 425-1503 U. S. Representative Sam Farr 99 Pacific Street, Suite 555D 100 W. Alisal Street Monterey, CA 93940 Salinas, CA 93901 (831) 649-2832 FAX (831) 649-2935 (831) 429-1976 (Santa Cruz) [email protected]

Please Recycle This Paper Again The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 3 Fight to save Monterey pine forest continues Cover: The blue-flowering Ceanothus rigidus is one of the plants of special concern on the Pebble Beach property. Coastal Commission likely to rule on Pebble Beach development in June

ierra Club activists from around In 1990, the Pebble Beach Company, California joined Ventana Chapter then owned by Sumitomo Bank of Smembers at the 13-hour long Japan, abandoned those assurances, pro- Coastal Commission meeting on March posing a fifth golf course. Since actor- 10 in Monterey. Nearly 300 people (150 turned-real-estate-developer Clint of them Sierra Club members) crowded Eastwood and a consortium of golf and into the conference room where the business notables purchased the Pebble meeting was held and listened to over Beach Company in the late 1990’s, they 100 speakers. Members of many other have continued to lobby furiously for environmental groups also were present. approval of this fifth golf course. The day before, the Commissioners The 1985 approval of the Spanish Bay had toured the Pebble Beach property to project had numerous binding condi- see for themselves just what the develop- tions including conservation easements ment plans would entail. Club activists on the Sawmill Gulch site. The current were on hand to point out the destruc- plan calls for removal of those conservation of habitat and threats to 19 species tion easements to build a high intensity of special concern including the equestrian recreation site that would California red-legged frog, the beautiful severely impact the adjacent fragile Monterey ceanothus and the rare, deli- Huckleberry Hill Preserve. There was cate Yadon’s piperia. also to be restoration of sand dunes and At the Commission meeting the next forested areas and the existing Haul day, the Sierra Club’s attorney, Tom Road was to be closed. These promises Lippe deftly dueled with Tony were never kept. Lombardo, representing the Pebble The Coastal Act, of course, prohibits Beach Company. Incredibly, Lombardo the wholesale destruction of environ- described the development plan which mentally-sensitive coastal habitat and includes cutting down 17,000 trees as a resources for golf. The Coastal Act “protection plan for the forest.” requires balance, and implicitly recog- Lippe, an expert on coastal law, criti- James McGrew nizes that humans cannot live on golf cized Monterey County for not comply- Sierra Club members protest the Pebble Beach Company’s plan to cut down a total of alone. Native Monterey pine forests, on ing with the Coastal Act and affirmed 17,000 trees for the 21st golf course in Monterey County. the other hand, are a rare and increasing- that the properties earmarked for devel- Many speakers from both sides ly threatened ecosystem. The BOULDER CREEK opment are Environmentally-Sensitive addressed the Commission on various How to help BREWERY Habitat Area (ESHA) and as such, sub- aspects of the plan. Proponents for the •If you have not already done so, ject to protection. “It’s rare to see a proj- project said that Measure A was please write the California Coastal ect in which there is such a wide gap endorsed by the voters. Opponents Commission and ask that they protect between the proposal and what the law pointed out that Measure A was never the genetically-diverse native Monterey requires,” he responded to Lombardo’s attached to a specific plan. Many testified pine forest ecosystem for future genera- assertion of protection. they felt “duped” when they learned that tions. Golf can be played anywhere; Measure A and the plan would in fact once the native Monterey pine forests Open 7 days a week Moving? cut down over 17,000 trees and destroy and the plants and animals they shelter one fifth of the remaining native are gone, they are gone forever. Mail S.C. Coffee Roasting Co. Coffees Monterey Pine Forest in the world. Organic Coffee Please fill out and mail the change your letters to California Coastal Homemade Desserts of address form on page 15 or Four is enough Commission, 725 Front Street, Suite Lots of other goodies! email: In 1985, when the Coastal 300, Santa Cruz, CA 95060-4508. [email protected] •Consider attending the Coastal Pouring our 1996 1st place Stout Commission approved the Spanish Bay The post office charges us 70 cents each if Commission meeting in June in Santa and 2000 Bronze Winning golf course and resort at Pebble Beach on they handle the address change. Please a 6-5 vote, the Pebble Beach Company Rosa where the final decision on this Summer Wheat help the Club by using the coupon on Restaurant open at 11:30 every day assured the Commission that four golf issue will likely be made. For more Serving food and grog page 15. courses would be all that the Company information contact Coastal Chair to 11 PM Weekdays & 12 AM Weekends Thank you would ever need or ask for. D’Anne Albers, 375-1389. Deborah A. Malkin ATTORNEY AT LAW Specializing in Wills, Living Trusts, Tax-saving Trusts, and other forms of Estate Planning. Also offering assistance with Conservatorships and Probate. Free initial consultation Discount offered to Sierra Club members. The Creekside Offices at 2425 Porter St., Suite 15 • Soquel, CA 95073 • 831-462-9100

4 The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 Printed on Recycled Paper Clean Money for a Clean Environment Sierra Club Awards $1000 Scholarship by Bill Magavern and Trent Lange at Monterey Science Fair

ith political corruption scandals as confidence in government has risen. n March 19 the Ventana Chapter of pesticide-free farming. bursting out everywhere, Not surprisingly, legislators elected awarded a $1000 college scholar- The scholarship will go WCalifornians now have a real with Clean Money in Arizona and Oship to Michelle Bush of Soledad directly to pay tuition at opportunity to turn the tables on pol- Maine have much better environmental for her entry in the Monterey County her college of choice. luters and developers by weakening the voting records than those elected with Science and Engineering Fair. The dominance of big money campaign con- private money. Legislators in Maine award, presented by Chapter Chair Rita tributors. AB 583, the California Clean who used Clean Money scored nearly Dalessio, is designed to encourage stu- Money and Fair Elections Act, is the twice as high with the League of Con- dents to submit science fair entries best hope in years for a fundamental servation Voters as those who did not. which examine environmental issues. change that would finally give the envi- We need the same reform in The Chapter’s criteria for evaluating a ronment a more level playing field in California. If passed, AB 583 would put winner is the impact of a project on The Bird Feeder Sacramento. To the surprise of many, a similar full Clean Money system on the improving the environment. A Birder’s Emporium Assembly Member Loni Hancock’s bill ballot, giving voters a historic chance to Three Chapter Executive Committee has already passed the State Assembly; change the system. The bill is now in the Members were volunteer judges for the now it needs the approval of the Senate State Senate, where big money oppo- event. Besides Dalessio, they were Dr. and Governor before it can be put on the nents will desperately try to stop a David Epel, recent recipient of the pres- ballot for a vote of the people. reform they know will make politicians tigious Ed Ricketts award for lifetime Everything for the wild bird enthusiast You know the problem: Environmen- accountable to the voters instead of to achievement in Marine Biology and talists are frequently up against develop- them. We can’t let them stop it. Kimberly Marion, a graduate student in including bird feeders, houses, baths, ers and corporations that contribute mil- Californians need to demand this sweep- International Environmental Policy at field guides, bird books, videos, lions of dollars to political campaigns. ing reform which will finally let the vot- the Monterey Institute of International cassettes, t-shirts, posters, Environmentally-friendly candidates ers take control of politics. Studies. often can’t get elected because they don’t If we want clean air and clean water, “These science projects are outstand- binoculars, note cards have enough money to compete against we have to have Clean Money. That’s ing,” Epel said. “I am pleased to see the seeds, and more. corporate-backed candidates. why Sierra Club California strongly innovation and ideas that students are In Sacramento, good environmental endorses AB 583, and urges you to help generating that may one day help to pro- bills are often killed by legislators or a us pass it. tect our natural resources.” governor that have received large cam- Take action Ms. Bush’s excellent exhibit described paign contributions from the polluters 347 SOQUEL at OCEAN Take action by writing and calling her study of the silverleaf whitefly or developers we’re fighting. Santa Cruz • 457-8240 Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata to which is well known for its resistance to Clean Money public funding of elec- urge him to support AB 583. John Laird pesticides. Ms. Bush’s field of interest Open Mon. - Sat. 9:30 - 5:30 tion campaigns would drain the swamp is a co-author of this bill. Go to could have lasting importance in the area Sun. 11:00 - 4:00 of corruption by providing competitive www.CAclean.org to use its easy online amounts of public campaign funds to letter-writing and faxing tool, sign the candidates who voluntarily limit their petition, and get calling information. campaign spending and show a broad base of support. In cases where non-par- Bill Magavern is the senior representa- ticipating candidates or attack ads by tive for Sierra Club California. outside groups exceed Clean Money Trent Lange is the Vice President of the expenditure limits, additional public California Clean Money Campaign and a funds are provided to Clean Money can- longtime Sierra Club member. didates so that they always have a level playing field. Arizona and Maine (where Clean Money systems have been operating for Make a difference six years) have proven it works. Voters’ choices increased as more qualified can- Join Sierra Club didates, especially women and minori- California’s ties, could run for office. Clean Money Legislative Action candidates now hold nearly 80% of the Network legislature in Maine and 10 out of 11 statewide offices in Arizona, including the governor’s office. Voter turnout and http://cal-legalert.sierraclubaction.org participation has increased significantly

Please Recycle This Paper Again The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 5 . Bike Week 2006 May 13-21

Santa Cruz Monterey For complete event information visit www.bike2work.com Saturday, May 13 Saturday, May 13 Celebrate the clean air way to commute or run errands. Bike Tour Healthy Living Festival Join local historian Ross Gibson on this Information on healthy living activities. easy-paced ride. 10:00 a.m. Meet at Live music. free bike rentals. Window on Spokesman Bicycles, 231 Cathcart. Bring the Bay Park, Monterey. 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. water. Helmet required. Light snack provided. Thursday, May 18 Thursday, May 18 Bike to Work/School Bike to Work/School FREE breakfast for those FREE breakfast for those who ride bikes. who ride bikes. Various Various locations throughout county. locations throughout the county. Friday, May 19 Movie: Beijing Bicycle Saturday-Sunday, May 20-21 Chinese film with subtitles. 8:00 p.m. BMX National Olympic parking lot next to Central Library on Qualifier Church Street. Hosted by Santa Cruz Manzanita County Park. Guerilla Drive-in. www.manzanitaparkbmx.com. Sunday, May 21

Rail and Trail Day Sunday, May 21 Ride the train from Santa Cruz Depot Park to Roaring Camp in Felton. Bring Bike for the Kids ride your bike for a group ride back to Santa Sponsored by CASA of Monterey Cruz along scenic Highway 9. County. For more information contact Siobhan Greene, 455-6800, www.casa Vicki Winters and Miranda monterey.org. Baker head home after a visit to downtown Santa Cruz. Photo by Richard Stover

WITTWER & PARKIN, LLP Practicing in the areas of Environmental and Land Use Law

147 S. River St., Ste. 221 Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Phone (831) 429-4055 Fax (831) 429-4057

American Dream Realty Mary Park REALTOR 831-239-2834 [email protected]

$500 Donation to the Sierra Club upon close of escrow

6 The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 Printed on Recycled Paper C ALENDAR

Non-Sierra Club events of interest The following activities are not sponsored or administered by the Sierra Club. The Sierra Club Events Club makes no representations or warranties about the safety, supervision or management of such activities. They are published only as a reader service. by a ranger/naturalist. Proceeds from this four-island tour will benefit Sierra Club Saturdays (see dates below) political programs in California. Other Tuesday, April 25 dates offered in summer. Costs include Habitat restoration — sumptuous meals, snacks, and bunks on California Native Plant Society Astronomy Workshop the boat. For more information contact Volunteer to restore native habitat in Join Joe Jordan for an evening of stargaz- Joan Jones Holtz, [email protected], State Parks in Santa Cruz Co. Wear lay- ing. Start with a talk about constellations, 626-443-0706. ered work clothing. Bring water & observational astronomy, and equipment. gloves. Tools provided. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 Continue with a hike to view planets, p.m. We work rain or shine, but if things galaxies, and nebulae. Bring binoculars if Friday, May 12 get particularly unpleasant, we call it a you have them. Wear warm clothing. To Potluck & Slides: Peru & day. Contact Linda Brodman, 462-4041, sign up call 459-2807 or via Ecuador [email protected]. website: www.ucscrecreation.com. $20 General This slide show by Cecelia includes pho- www.cruzcnps.org. Admission. Sponsored by UC Santa Cruz tos from Machu Pichu, Cuzco and the Recreation. April 8, Sunset Beach State Park Galapagos. The potluck begins at 6:30 p.m. Bring food to share and your own April 29, Natural Bridges State Park Free Wormshops (dates following) plate, cup, utensils, and serving utensils. We love home-cooked food, but store-

Learn how worms can eat your food Albie Miles May 13, Soquel Creek , Capitola bought items (minimum value $4) make scraps and make beautiful compost for See this slide and many others in living great contributions too. For directions your garden. FREE workshop for Santa color at the April 14 potluck. Second and Fourth Saturdays call George, 335-7748. Cruz County residents. 1:00-3:00 p.m. Habitat restoration — Optional worm bin, $15. Call to reserve Watsonville worm bin. Sponsored by Santa Cruz Friday, April 14 County Board of Supervisors. Call Karin Second and fourth Saturdays each month. Potluck & Slides: Yunnan, China Be prepared Grobe, 427-3452. Sponsored by Watsonville Wetlands “One of the Last Great Places on Earth: Watch. 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Meet in in an emergency Saturday, April 15, Wilder Ranch A Recent Tour of the Yunnan Province ign up for this fast-paced, hands on Orchard Supply parking lot at Green of China” presented by Albie Miles of Valley Road and Main Street in Saturday, May 20, Grey Bears Recycling UCSC. In an area roughly twice the size class on wilderness first aid. Watsonville. Gloves, tools and lunch pro- Facility, 2710 Chanticleer, Santa Cruz of California, the Yunnan Province con- SWhether spending time in the vided. Call Laura Kummerer, 728-4106 tains over 16,000 native species of plants, backcountry is your passion or your for more information. No experience Saturday, June 17, Aladdin Nursery, 2907 278 species of mammals, 793 species of profession, you should never have to necessary. Freedom Boulevard, Watsonville birds each with high rates of endemism. ask, “What do I do now?” In this Sunday, July 23, Quail Hollow County The slide show is a result of a five-week course, you’ll learn how to prepare for Saturday, April 15 Park, 800 Quail Hollow Road, Felton tour in the summer of 2005 by Ed the unexpected. In just two days, you’ll Grumbine of Prescott College and Albie have the knowledge, skills and ability That’s My Park Day Miles of UCSC. The potluck begins at to make sound decisions in emergency Celebrate and support our State Parks. Saturdays 6:30 p.m. Bring food to share and your Sponsored by Friends of Santa Cruz State situations. This course is ideal for trip Garland Ranch hikes own plate, cup, utensils, and serving uten- leaders, camp staff, outdoor enthusiasts Parks in partnership with California State sils. We love home-cooked food, but Parks. To learn more visit The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park and individuals in remote locations. District docents lead hikes at Garland store-bought items (minimum value $4) www.scparkfriends.org. make great contributions too. For direc- Taught by Wilderness Medicine Ranch Park every Saturday and invite Institute. 16 hours. $175 General regis- Sierra Club members to join them. An tions call George, 335-7748. Saturday, April 22 tration. updated list of all hikes may be found on Class series on April 15 & 16; April Bird-A-Thon their website: Thursday, May 4-7 www.mprpd.org. 29 & 30 and May 13 & 14. Call 459- Have fun birding and help raise money Channel Islands Cruise 2807 or visit www.ucscrecreation.com for outdoor education scholarships. to register. For more information contact Visit the Channel Islands National Park David Hille, 335-3205, with Sierra Club members accompanied [email protected].

www.ventanawild.org P.O. Box 506, Santa Cruz, CA 95061 831-423-3191

Please Recycle This Paper Again The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 7 Arana Gulch Greenbelt again targeted for development

he City of Santa Cruz has released The facts remain clear: The City has its Draft Master Plan and the proposed development on Environ- TDraft Environmental Impact mentally Sensitive Habitat Areas in the Report for the 68-acre Greenbelt proper- Coastal Zone on Greenbelt property the ty called Arana Gulch. The City plans to public expects to be restored and main- finalize the Master Plan concurrently tained to enhance its natural resources. with the final EIR for the proposed proj- Instead, the city is proposing biotic ect that would bring bridges, ramps, destruction that would be significant, paved trails and retaining walls to the unmitigable and irreversible. creeks, riparian woodlands and meadows Many Sierra Club members are bicy- of this Greenbelt. cle riders. The Club supports transporta- Arana Gulch Greenbelt is a biologi- tion which reduces emissions and mini- cally unique and fragile environment. It mizes fuel consumption and impacts on is the only place on earth where a dis- the land. Bicycling is one of the best tinct subspecies of the Santa Cruz tar- ways to travel. The Club supports bike plant grows. This rare plant is listed as lanes on Soquel Avenue and on the rail “threatened” by the Federal Gov- corridor (one-quarter mile south of the ernment and as “endangered” by the project). Both of these routes are envi- State of California. ronmentally superior to destroying habi- The Arana Gulch Greenbelt provides tat on the Arana Gulch Greenbelt. irreplaceable habitat for this and many This issue will likely come to the other species, including Steelhead trout, Jean Brocklebank Planning Commission and the Parks and The facts remain clear: The City has proposed development on Environmentally Sensitive great blue heron, Francisco dusky-footed Habitat Area in the Coastal Zone on Greenbelt property the public expects to be restored Recreation Commission in early sum- woodrat, purple needlegrass, California and maintained to enhance its natural resources. mer. Watch for the dates in The Ventana oatgrass, California poppy, yarrow, and other local media. For more infor- owl’s clover, Indian soap root, yellow ramps and retaining walls throughout the As required by California law mation check the Sierra Club website, Mariposa lily, golden brodiaea, Greenbelt to provide “a bicycle connec- (CEQA), Alternatives to the Project are www/ventana.sierraclub.org, or email California voles, Botta’s pocket gopher, tion” to be shared with wheelchairs, presented in the Draft EIR. These are Patricia Matejcek, [email protected]. fox, skunk, long-tailed weasel, snakes, skateboarders, and pedestrians. The outlined on page 9. Ironically, only The Arana Gulch Draft Master Plan is red-tailed hawks, red-shouldered hawks, paved, highly-engineered paths are very Alternative 2, which would destroy crit- online at www.ci.santa-cruz.ca.us Choris’s popcorn flower, San Francisco different from the dirt paths and trails ical tarplant habitat (including seedbed) /pr/parksrec/pdfs/06aranaupdate.pdf; popcorn flower, Gairdner’s yampah, and carefully developed to protect sensitive in a significant and unmitigable way, the DEIR is online at www.ci.santa- more, too numerous to list in this article. species on other city greenbelt properties. promises to attract sufficient funding to cruz.ca.us/pr/parksrec/parks/arana Until the late 1980s, the presence of The environmental damage of this enable the City to manage the tarplant. drafteir.html. Both documents are also cattle on the property assisted the rare development would be significant and The promise that the federal monies available at the Santa Cruz Central tarplant by removing the annual, non- could not be mitigated according to the received for the paved bicycle connec- Library, 224 Church Street, and at the native grasses and restoring the strong draft EIR. It is this biotic destruction tion would provide sufficient funds to Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation which has engendered opposition from develop and implement a Tarplant Department, 323 Church Street. the California Native Plant Society. Management Plan is vague and unen- The environmental damage Proposed paved trails would traverse forceable. would be significant and existing tarplant habitat, and the city None of the proposed alternatives could not be mitigated would have to apply for a permit to includes a commitment and specific plan “take” (kill) these endangered plants if to restore and properly manage the according to the draft EIR. they proceed with the project. endangered tarplant which the city has In addition, the retaining walls and known about since before it purchased ramp required to link the bikeway to the property. sunlight that it requires. Since the cattle Brommer Street would be built in the were removed, the number of tarplants floodplain north of the Harbor’s dry has declined, as the City has failed to storage yard in an area the Coastal implement effective restoration and Commission has required the Harbor management strategies for this endan- District to vacate, protect, and revege- gered species. Simple, inexpensive meth- tate. The Coastal Commission has ods of controlling annual grasses such as repeatedly communicated to the City mowing and raking or the seasonal use that the resources in this area are pro- of sheep could accomplish the task. tected by the Coastal Act. The Funds for such management have been Commission has also previously available from the California Depart- informed the City of its concern that the ment of Fish and Game. bikeway project “would not avoid iden- The proposed project seeks to use fed- tified biological impacts as required by eral highway monies to expand and con- the Local Coastal Programs and the struct a network of paved paths, bridges, Coastal Act.” c 2006. Rustle the Leaf is a trademark of GO NATUR’L STUDIOS, LLC. Used by permission

8 The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 Printed on Recycled Paper The four alternatives Sempervirens Fund raising money to purchase Alternative 1: No Project Alternative Lompico headwaters Alternative 1 would keep the site in its ATTENTION:ATTENTION: existing condition. No Master Plan and no Santa Cruz Tarplant Adaptive PotentialPotential Management Program would be adopted. Management actions would be limited and Advertisers!Advertisers! the Arana Gulch Interim Management Plan would remain in effect. No new trails Sierra Club Member would be developed on the site. This alter- Profile native would eliminate most of the project impacts but would not contribute to the Advertising in this newsletter packs achievement of any of the project objec- more clout into your advertising dol- tives. lars. Sierra Club members are one of the Alternative 2: Reduced Creek View most valuable audiences in America. Trail Alternative They are “opinion leaders” and “influ- Alternative 2 would include the same entials;” by any name they are some of paved trail system as the proposed project America’s most sought-after advertising but would not include any trail segments targets. Their own purchasing activity is within Port District property. Trail access substantial. But, more important, they Kevin Collins to Arana Gulch would continue to be pro- The Sempervirens Fund has only until June 30 to raise the remaining funds needed to save influence others—in everything from vided by the existing trail segment along the Lompico Creek headwaters and the Malosky Creek Forest. opinion and outlook to choice of products. They are not only consumers, but the western edge of the dry storage area at he Sempervirens Fund has secured letter-writing campaign in support of also doers and leaders. the Upper Harbor. This alternative would an option to buy the Lompico keeping this forest intact. include the long-term Santa Cruz Tarplant Creek Headwaters from Redwood Undeterred, Redwood Empire sub- Adaptive Management Program. T Club Members are among the most Empire. The Fund has only until June 30 mitted a new timber harvest plan which active, affluent audiences of adventure Alternative 3: Unpaved Trail System to conclude this $5,600,000 deal which was under review when news of the deal travelers and year-round outdoor with Hagemann Gulch Bridge includes the 425-acre Lompico Creek between Sempervirens and Redwood sports enthusiasts your advertising dol- Alternative headwaters and 200 acres in the Malosky Empire was announced. lars can buy. It’s an unduplicated audi- Alternative 3 would have the same trail Creek watershed. The Malosky Creek Forest is a mixed ence with the power to buy your prod- network as the proposed project except For years the Lompico Watershed redwood forest carpeting steep ravines ucts and services. that no trails would be paved and no trails Conservancy and the Club have been above residential areas in the San Loren- would comply with Americans with trying to save the Lompico property zo Valley. This property supplies water Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Due where towering redwoods rise from to the town of Boulder Creek. This land Sierra Club Members are Great Prospects Median Age: 41 to unpaved surfaces and gradients, trails deeply incised sandstone canyons above was slated to be logged by Redwood would not be accessible for wheelchairs Male/Female: 63% / 37% the community of Lompico. Lompico Empire with helicopters flying logs over Median Household Income: $56,227 and some street bicycles. Without funding Creek is the primary source of water for neighboring properties to a landing off Attended/Graduated College: 81% for paved, multi-use trails, there would be this small community. site. As California struggles to locate Professional/Technical/Managerial: 36% uncertainty about funding and implement- A timber harvest plan for the new sources of water for people and Outdoor Sports Enthusiasts ing the Santa Cruz Tarplant Adaptive Lompico Creek Headwaters had been wildlife, it is vital to preserve forestlands Management Program. submitted in 2001 and had been that surround drinking source headwa- Backpacking/Hiking 4 times more active Alternative 4: Unpaved Trail System approved by the California Department ters. than the average adult without Hagemann Gulch Bridge Mountain Biking 5 times more active of Forestry. The tree cutting was Fundraising has begun in this most Cross-Country Skiing 5 times more active Alternative stopped on appeal due to the leadership aggressive campaign in the history of the Alternative 4 would provide unpaved Whitewater Rafting 5.5 times more active of the Lompico Watershed Conservancy Sempervirens Fund. Please give gener- Source: 1996 MRI Doublebase trails and would not include the Hagemann which galvanized opposition, convinced ously. To donate visit www.semper Gulch Bridge. This alternative would pro- the County of Santa Cruz to file an virens.org or call 650-968-4509. For Rate Information, Contact: vide public access for pedestrians and some appeal, and organized an unprecedented Donations are tax deductible. Debbie Bulger - 457-1036 bicyclists but would not comply with ADA requirements. Since no bridge across Hagemann Gulch would be constructed, CORRECTION this alternative would not provide a new Will the real ensatina please stand up? west entrance or east-west trail connection. As with Alternative 3, all trails would e might get an A in editing but our biology skills could stand improvement. Luckily we have readers who set us remain unpaved and not qualify for federal straight. The ensatina pictured in our last issue is actually an arboreal salamander. Greg Meyer of Santa Cruz not funding, resulting in uncertainty about Wonly corrected our mislabeled photo, he also sent in a picture he took of a real ensatina. Both are pictured below. funding and implementing the Tarplant Management Plan. This alternative would provide the same trails as proposed by the project, but none of the trails would be paved. This alternative would provide public access for pedestrians and some bicyclists but would not comply with ADA requirements. Like the proposed project, this alternative would provide north-south and east-west trail connections. Due to unpaved surfaces and gradients, however, these trail connections would not be accessible to wheelchair users Richard Stover and some types of bicycles. Greg Meyer Arboreal salamander Ensatina

Please Recycle This Paper Again The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 9 New law requires batteries and e-waste to be recycled N EWS C LIPS

t’s the law. Batteries can no longer be Most residents will need to take bat- thrown in the trash. A new state law teries and other old electronics to their Club election less Duncan Canyon, a remote part of Irequires the recycling of household community’s hazardous waste facility. By now you should have received the Tahoe National Forest after Judge batteries, those ubiquitous power sup- Waste Management of Santa Cruz your ballot for the Sierra Club National Morrison England, Jr. invalidated the plies for toys, watches, hearing aids, cell County, serving Scotts Valley, Capitola Board of Directors. The Board sets Club sale in 2004 on the grounds the logging phones, cameras, iPods and more. If it and the unincorporated county, will policy and budgets at the national level. would create a serious fire hazard. The seems as if everything is battery powered pick batteries up at the curb when they You may return your mailed ballot or judge, a Bush appointee, based his ruling now-a-days, that’s not far from the truth. are placed in a sealed clear plastic bag in vote via internet. Voting ends at 9:00 on the facts, not the politics. The lawsuit Californians use more than 500 mil- the blue recycling cart. Watsonville, a.m. on April 24. Don’t miss out. Vote was filed by the Sierra Club, the John lion batteries a year. Currently less than Santa Cruz, and Monterey city residents today. Muir Project and other environmental one percent of these are properly dis- must take them to a recycling center. organizations. posed of according to the Integrated Check with your local waste disposal Beachcombers need- Waste Management Board. The danger center for details and hours. The Forest Service had claimed the lies in the heavy metals they contain. Spread the word among your friends ed logging would reduce the potential for Batteries can contain carbon zinc, lithi- and family. Most people are not So you want to be a biol- severe fire despite the fact that after log- um, mercury and other substances harm- aware that batteries can no longer be ogist but never got the ging more than twice the amount of fuel ful to humans. When they corrode, they thrown in the trash. Set up a degree? Become a would be on the forest floor. Senator can leak toxic metals into our soil and recycling container at your BeachCOMBER. Boxer has proposed permanent protec- groundwater. office for batteries, florescent Moss Landing Marine tion for Duncan Canyon because of its The new law also applies to TVs, bulbs and other e-waste. Help Labs is looking for extraordinary wilderness characteristics. microwave ovens, printers and comput- keep these poisons out of our volunteers to survey ers, florescent light bulbs, mercury ther- creeks, groundwater and the local beaches. The four- Ocean protection mometers, old thermostats and other Monterey Bay. Saturday training classes last Senators Boxer and Feinstein and electronics. If you are in doubt about Environmentalists are currently from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and begin on Representative Capps have introduced what is covered, contact your local waste working on establishing redemption April 29 in Moss Landing. If you are able companion bills in the Senate and House disposal agency. fees, much like the deposit on beverage to walk 2-3 miles on a beach once a of Representatives called the California bottles, to assist in strengthening the e- month, can commit to serve for one Ocean and Coastal Protection Act. waste recycling system. year, and want to learn more about These bills seek permanent protection of ocean mammals, marine birds and sea our ocean and coastal resources and Researchers turtles, this may be just the opportunity would make permanent the moratorium you’ve been looking for. To learn more on new oil and gas leasing off the learn more than forestry visit www.mbnms-simon.org/sections/ California Coast. The bills would also beachCombers/ or call Hannah Nevins, repeal the proposed inventory. You can short article in the prestigious mental protections in order to log quick- 771-4422. follow these bills (S2294 and HR4782) journal Science in January 2006 ly after a forest fire. To learn more about and more by visiting www.sierra Ahas set off a firestorm among sal- this bill, HR 4200 visit www.nrdc.org/ Cool! club.org/legislativetracker. vage logging proponents. Six researchers action/. Representative Walden’s great- Do you ever wonder how much from Oregon State University investigat- est campaign contributors, by the way, greenhouse gas you generate? The Loma Park dis-Service ed whether or not logging after a wild- are forest products industries. Prieta Chapter is collaborating on a Quietly and without much press cov- fire diminished or increased the risk of Shortly after the article’s publication, “Cool It” campaign which offers ways to erage, the Bush Administration has another fire and whether or not salvage the researchers who wrote it learned a reduce the impact of your activities. rewritten National Park policies: They logging helped or harmed forest regener- lot about politics. The third and final Visit www.cool-it.us to discover your have deleted the provision stating that ation. year of their $300,000 grant was yanked personal CO2 emissions and how they conservation of park resources was the Their conclusion: “Postfire logging, by the BLM. After Democratic politi- stack up with the California average. dominant goal for park management. by removing naturally seeded conifers cians intervened, the funding was rein- Best part: they do the calculations. Learn Additionally, the Administration has and increasing surface fuel loads, can be stated. But Representative Walden’s how to reduce your emissions and decide eliminated a number of protective stan- counterproductive to goals of forest committee on Forests and Forest Health if you want to purchase renewable ener- dards designed to preserve air quality, regeneration and fuel reduction.” That held a public hearing in Medford where gy certificates. Cool. scenic views, natural quiet, and biotic was not what the Bush Administration the lead author of the article, Daniel resources. To learn more see wanted to hear, particularly as a bill Donato was grilled, chastised, and casti- Tahoe victory www.wilderness.org/NewsRoom/Relea sponsored by Representative Walden (R- gated. According to the Washington Post, The U.S. Forest Service has with- se/20051027.cfm. OR) is calling for the waiver of environ- Donato politely stuck by the science. drawn its proposed timber sale in road-

Help a child learn bike safety Early election endorsements Below are the Sierra Club endorsements for the June primary which are available as Day of the Child/Earth Day we go to press. Additional endorsements will be listed in our next issue which will April 23, 12-4 p.m be mailed on May 31. The comprehensive endorsement process includes question- Ramsay Park, Main Street, Watsonville naires and interviews. Neither Arnold Schwarzenegger nor Green candidate Peter Camejo returned the Club questionnaire. Volunteers needed (bilingual preferred) to help pass out liter- Governor Phil Angelides and Steve Westly ature and teach bicycle and pedestrian safety with the Health Lieutenant Governor Liz Figueroa, John Garamendi, and Jackie Speier Education staff of the Santa Cruz County Health Services Attorney General Jerry Brown Agency. Two-hour shifts. Contact Dena Loijos, 454-5018. Controller John Chiang and Joe Dunn Secretary of State Debra Bowen Treasurer Bill Lockyer XXXXXXXXXX Super. Public Instruct. Jack O’Connell

10 The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 Printed on Recycled Paper O UTINGS

the ranch is limited and our permit allows R ATINGS In the interests of facilitating the logistics of some outings, it is customary that participants make carpooling arrangements. The Sierra Club does not have only three cars, you must call by May 19 to insurance for carpooling arrangements and assumes no liability for them. reserve a spot. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565. GENERAL INFORMATION: Carpooling, ride sharing or anything similar is strictly a private arrangement Saturday, April 15 All outings begin and end at the trailhead. among the participants. Participants assume the risks associated with this travel. Carpooling to and from the trailhead is strict- HIKE: PINNACLES WILDFLOWERS ly a private arrangement between the driver Meet at 9:30 a.m. in the main parking lot of We’ll have a slow-paced, 8-mile hike with and his/her guests. Carpool drivers are not A PRIL Garland Ranch (on Carmel Valley Road) to 1200' elevation gain to enjoy and identify the agents or employees of the Sierra Club. avoid crowding at the trailhead. Bring lunch wide variety of blooming plants in the park. GLS = Gay & Lesbian Sierrans. All are Saturday, April 8 and water. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565. Bring your flower book, field glasses and cam- welcome on GLS outings. WALK: PEBBLE BEACH & ASILOMAR era. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Tuesday, April 11 Government Center at 8:30 a.m. or at the EXPLANATION OF RATINGS: Come along on this 4-mile walk on streets and SENIOR HIKE: FORT ORD Chaparral parking lot at 10:30 a.m. (that’s the The outings described vary in difficulty walkways in Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, West side, off Hwy. 101). Bring lunch, water, then via a trail between fairways to the beach This is wildflower time, and we usually see a from leisurely walks to strenuous hikes. The great variety. 4-5 mile hike with some steep sun protection and comfortable hiking shoes. and out to Point Joe. We’ll return on board- Leader: George Jammal, 335-7748. following explanation are general guidelines. walks with ocean views, finishing at uphill on Fort Ord public lands. Meet before (For more information about the difficulty of Asilomar. Bring water and a snack. Done 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Deer Park a particular hike, call the leader): about noon. Meet across from the Fishwife Shopping Center in Aptos about 9:45 a.m. Saturday, April 15 Walk: Between 2-5 miles, leisurely pace. Restaurant on Sunset Dr. at Asilomar Blvd. in Park near gas station. To go direct, take Hwy. HIKE: HOLT ROAD TO SNIVELY RIDGE Easy: No more than 5 miles; slight eleva- Pacific Grove at 9:00 a.m. Leader: Martha 1 south and exit at Reservation Rd. Drive We’ll walk up from Mid Valley on Holt Road tion gain; easy pace. Saylor, 372-9215. almost to Hwy 68 and park near end of road through the forest to the “closed” south trail Moderate: 5-10 miles; up to 2,000' gain; by the locked gate about 10:45 a.m. Bring to Garland Ranch’s Snively Ridge and higher, boots; better than average fitness required. Saturday, April 8 water, lunch, $4 carpool. Leader: Joan if we want. We may return down to the park Strenuous: May involve off-trail hiking; HIKE: COOK SPRING CAMP Brohmer, 462-3803. or go back on the north trail to Mid Valley. 9 miles, 1,500' elevation gain. Expect some poi- demanding pace; for experienced hikers in We’ll start hiking from Memorial Park Camp Saturday, April 15 son oak, so wear long pants. Bring water and good condition only. along the Arroyo Seco to Forks Camp, past HIKE: KAHN RANCH lunch. Meet at Mid Valley shopping center in False Madrone Camp, to Madrone Camp, to Carmel Valley next to the bank on Berwick Cooks Camp and back. Beautiful river sites, We got rained out in March so we’ll try again! Steep canyons and trails climbing to ridges Street at 9:30 a.m. Heavy rain cancels. Call to redwoods, pines, madrones and spectacular confirm. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467. M EETING P LACES views of mountains. Strenuous 12 miles. We’ll with great views and good flowers make Kahn benefit from the maintenance work that the Ranch a fine addition to Garland Ranch. Sunday, April 16 DIRECTIONS: VWA has done on this wonderful trail. Early Expect steep climbs of about 600-800' at a start for long ride to trailhead. No shorts, slow pace. Not over 4 miles. Because access to HIKE: WEST PINNACLES wear long sleeves, dress in layers, bring sub- This is a great spring hiking area with lots of Park and Ride/Black Bear Diner: This stantial lunch, water, wear comfortable boots parking lot is on Rio Road in Carmel. and bring $ for carpool. For information Albertson’s/Bagel Bakery: Heading south about meeting place and time, call leader: on Hwy. 1, pass through Monterey. One mile Esperanza Hernandez, 678-1968. past the Ocean Ave. intersection, turn left on Carmel Valley Rd. Almost immediately, turn Saturday, April 8 right at the light toward the stores. HIKE: PURISIMA CREEK REDWOODS Albertson’s and Bagel Bakery are on the right. A 10-mile loop with 1500' elevation gain, Santa Cruz County Govt. Center: The along the Purisima Creek, Soda Gulch, upper Built by Sierra Club members in 1934, this rustic, hostel-style lodge stands large grey building at the corner of Ocean and Harkins Ridge, upper North Ridge and atop historic Donner Pass, just an hour and a half from Sacramento. Water in Santa Cruz. We meet at the corner of Whittemore Gulch Trails. This 2633-acre pre- Expect convenient access to all mountain activities, excellent family style the parking lot nearest to the gas station. serve has the northernmost major redwood meals, a friendly staff and a casual atmosphere. Felton Faire: From Santa Cruz take forest in the Santa Cruz Mtns. It also has Graham Hill Rd. toward Felton. Just after Douglas fir, madrone, oak and chaparral. FEATURED PROGRAMS Great views of the Pacific and the mountains. you pass Roaring Camp (on the left), make a Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government right into Felton Faire shopping center. We Center at 8:00 a.m. Bring water, lunch and $5 MAY 5–8 Wilderness Responder Recertification For more information go to meet at the edge of the Safeway parking lot for carpool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389. www.sierraclub.com/outings/training/brochures/wfr_recert.asp. nearest Graham Hill Rd. MAY 12–14 Clair Tappaan Spring Workparty Help spruce up the Lodge you 41st Avenue Sears: From Hwy. 1 in Sunday, April 9 love.Your hard work is rewarded with a complimentary stay at Clair Tappaan for Capitola, take the 41st Avenue exit and con- HIKE: VICENTE FLATS the weekend. tinue toward the ocean on 41st Avenue We’ll climb steadily, not steeply, by meadows toward the Mall. Pass the main Mall entrance and redwoods to an open spot under huge MAY 13 Full Moon Hike Lodge Staff will lead a hike through the forest and up to and turn right into the next entrance heading trees where we saw a gazillion groggy lady- the ridges behind the Lodge. Price: $5 (Lodge guests), $15 (dinner and hike only). toward Sears. We meet behind the bank locat- bugs last year. About 2000' elevation gain and MAY 26–29 Nature Knowledge Workshop Participate in guided hikes ed at 41st and Capitola Road. Senior Saunter 11 scenic miles. Meet at Albertson’s at 8:30 accompanied by geologists, biologists, and local historians. Price per day: $50 meets in Sears parking lot close to 41st Ave. a.m. Bring lunch, water, and $ for carpool; member, $55 non-member, $30 child (includes hikes/lodging/meals). MPC Parking Lot: Monterey Peninsula wear sturdy shoes. Leader: Suzanne Arnold, College Parking Lot. From Hwy. 1 take the 626-4042, suzannecarml @aol.com. JUNE 16–18 Finding Your Way Navigational Workshop Learn or polish Fisherman’s Wharf exit, go straight one block, navigational skills using such tools as a map, compass, GPS receivers and turn left and left again into the first parking Sunday, April 9 altimeters. Price: $145 members, $170 non-members (includes lodging, meals and lot, parking lot A. This is the site of the HIKE: GARZAS CREEK workshop). Thursday Farmers Market. Plenty of parking What’s up in the wildflower world? We’ll check out the blooms along the Terrace Trail without a fee on weekends. For more information about these programs or to receive a full then drop down to Garzas Canyon to return schedule and description of Clair Tappaan programs please visit along the creek. 5 miles, elevation gain slight. our website at www.ctl.sierraclub.org or call (800) 679-6775. The flowers should make it all worthwhile.

Please Recycle This Paper Again The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 11 O UTINGS wildflowers. 10 miles with 1000' elevation Wednesday, April 19 Park by Ross near levee. Bring water, lunch, Creek. We’ll hike up the creek and enjoy cas- gain that will take us through the high peaks HIKE: SARATOGA GAP $1 carpool. Leader: Pat Herzog, 458-9841. cading waters and crystal clear pools, then with the possibility of viewing a condor. High in the Santa Cruz Mtns., Hickory Oak down the Old Coast Road to the Ventana Bring lunch and lots of water, wear sturdy Ridge is scenic country with gently rolling Wednesday, April 26 Inn. The Old Coast Road has great views. shoes. Meet at MPC parking lot A at 8:30 a.m. meadows, cool canyons, and panoramic views HIKE: TORO COUNTY PARK We’ve seen condors several times here. 11 or at the West Pinnacles parking lot at 10:00 of forests, meadowlands, and the ocean. At The best time of year to hike across the hill- miles with 2300' elevation gain. Short car a.m. Heavy rain cancels. Call leader before this time of year, it is usually decorated with sides of this former ranch for views from shuttle. Bring lunch, boots and water. Meet at the hike. Leader: Steve Legnard, 402-1422. a nice array of wildflowers. 8 miles with a Salinas Valley to Monterey Bay. We’ll start Albertson’s at 9:00 a.m. Leader: Steve descent of 810' to Peter’s Creek and a climb on the Cougar Ridge Trail climbing 1600' and Legnard, 402-1422. Tuesday, April 18 back to the ridge. The hike goes through the return on the Ollason Trail through the SENIOR HIKE: TORO PARK Saratoga Open Space Preserve and the Long canyon. 8 miles over wooded hillsides, grassy Sunday, April 30 Let’s hike the Ollason Trail to see some beau- Ridge Open Space Preserve. Bring lunch and meadows, open and chaparral-covered ridges. HIKE: BLOMQUIST RANCH tiful wildflowers. 3 miles with one uphill sec- water. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. to Bring lunch and water. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at This is a drop-dead beautiful spring hike of 4- tion. If everyone is anxious to burn a few carpool. To meet us at the trailhead at 10:10 Sears 41st Ave. or at Rio Del Mar behind the 5 miles. We have special permission from the more calories after all this rain, we can make a.m., park in the lot on the SE corner of the gas station at 9:15 a.m. Or at Toro Park at Regional Park District to visit this spectacu- this a 5-mile hike. Slow pace. Meet before 9:30 intersection of Hwys. 9 and 35 (Skyline 10:00 a.m. just inside the gate to the right in lar Carmel Valley ranch. It’s an easy spring a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Toro Park at the Blvd.). Leader: Diane Cornell, 423-5925. the field. Leader: Diane Cornell, 423-5925. saunter on old ranch roads. No trail burners, next to last parking lot near the bathroom please! Enjoy gorgeous vistas of mature valley about 10:40 a.m. Bring lunch, water, sit upon. Friday, April 21 Saturday, April 29 oaks and rolling fields of lupine. Bring lunch, Toro Park is off east Hwy. 68 between HIKE: EWOLDSEN TRAIL HIKE: LOWER PEBBLE BEACH water and wind breaker. Space is limited, so Monterey & Salinas. $4 carpool. Leader: From Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park we’ll Enjoy spectacular ocean views and Del Monte reservations are required. Phone easy-hiking Beverly Meschi, 475-4185. hike a 5-mile loop up fern-lined McWay Forest on this 9-mile hike, starting near leader: Joyce Stevens, 624-3149. Canyon, passing redwood groves to a view- Asilomar, then south along Spanish Bay to point high above the ocean. Last time we saw Bird Rock. We then proceed east adjacent to M AY California Condors. The trail is steep, but Spyglass Hill and Poppy Hills Golf Course we’ll take it at a leisurely pace. Afterwards down through S.F.B. Morse Reserve and out Tuesday, May 2 we’ll take a short stroll along the scenic water- along 17 Mile Drive. Bring water, lunch, and SENIOR SAUNTER: BEAN HOLLOW fall trail. Bring lunch and water. Meet behind wear hiking shoes. Meet in front of the BEACH Brinton’s at 9:30 a.m. to carpool an hour Fishwife Restaurant on Sunset Drive and down the coast. State Parks now charge an $8 A blooming paradise in this flat (though rut- Asilomar Avenue in Pacific Grove at 9:30 ted in places) 2-mile trail just south of parking fee, so please bring $ for your share. a.m. Leader: Stacy Smith, 625-5256. Leaders: Cath Farrant and Mary Dainton, Pescadero. Over 25 species of coastal wild- 372-7427, [email protected]. flowers and a few non-natives on this low Saturday, April 29 coastal bluff. Playful seals may add to the HIKE: BUTANO STATE PARK A year-round resort with cozy log show. Additional options include a visit to Sunday, April 23 This will be an effort to see wild rhododen- cottages; a cafe serving hearty Pigeon Point Light or a short hike up to a tel- BIKE RIDE: FORT ORD drons and other wildflowers. 11 miles with escope. Restrooms available. Meet before 9:30 gourmet cuisine and fine California Join us on a 3-hour mountain bike ride 1800' of elevation gain. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at 9:50 a.m. at wines. A High Sierra hideaway through Fort Ord’s East Garrison. We’ll visit the Santa Cruz County Government Center Shen’s Gallery. Bring water, lunch, $4 car- offering many choices...fishing, a cemetery from the 1800s and then explore to carpool. Call Nick for additional informa- pool. Leader: Janet Schwind, 425-3845. courses in fly-tying, fly-rod building, the back country via dirt and paved roads. tion. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101. & fly-casting, hiking, cross-country Meet at the East Garrison gate entrance (3 Friday, May 5 skiing, historic walks & hot springs. miles east of Marina on Reservation Road) at Sunday, April 30 HIKE: TANBARK TRAIL TO TIN HOUSE 9:00 a.m. Helmets mandatory. Pack water and HIKE: OLD COAST ROAD a snack. Contact leader for more information. The Tanbark Trail packs a lot of scenery in a Its backdrop...the grandeur of Leader: Henry Leinen, 655-1948 or Hike 11 easy miles at a leisurely pace. See fairly short length. From its start off Hwy. 1 Hope Valley, with its wide-open meadows, [email protected]. beautiful valleys, gigantic redwoods and spec- south of Big Sur, the trail winds up the side of towering rugged peaks, and clear, tacular views of the Pacific Ocean down Partington Canyon, past a rushing creek and Hwy.1. The hike will start at the foot of West through a redwood grove, up through forests rushing streams teeming with trout. Tuesday, April 25 Molera, requiring a car shuttle and ending of tanbark oak, until it reaches the site of the SENIOR SAUNTER: LEVEE TO HARBOR with an unforgettable, and mesmerizing view ruined “Tin House.” Here we’ll have lunch For innkeepers Patty and John Casual walk along River levee to museum on of the majestic and historic Bixby Bridge and enjoy the ocean views, before returning Bissenden, hospitality and first-class East Cliff for short stopover. We’ll walk to against a massive and colorful ocean back- via a dirt road. Short car shuttle. 6 miles, service are trademarks. yacht harbor and cross bridge to Crow’s Nest ground. Bring lunch, water, and $ for car- 2000' elevation gain. Leisurely pace. Meet Come and be pampered at Sorensen’s. side. Those wishing to may bring lunch or pool. For information, call leader: Esperanza behind Brinton’s at 9.30 a.m. to carpool. buy lunch at the restaurants there. About 4.5 Hernandez, 678-1968. Sunday, April, 30 Leaders: Cath Farrant and Mary Dainton, miles. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. Hike: Terrace Creek Hike up the Pine Ridge 372-7427. marydainton@ juno.com. Call or write for a free brochure. or Gateway Plaza on River St. at 9:50 a.m. trail from Big Sur Station to beautiful Terrace Saturday, May 6 HIKE: UVAS CANYON COUNTY PARK This 1200-acre park is tucked into a beautiful canyon west of Morgan Hill. The first 1-3/4 miles of this 9-mile hike will ascend 1800' to Nibbs Knob by way of the Nibbs Knob Trail and then return. This will be followed by a 3- 1/2 mile loop up Swanson Creek to view Black Rock Falls, Basin Falls and Upper Falls. The last section of the hike will be 2-miles in- and-out up Alec Canyon Trail to Manzanita Point, Triple Falls and an old logging camp. Deep and shady second-growth redwoods Hope Valley, CA 96120 along the creek sections and many open vistas 1-800-423-9949 of Loma Prieta, the Santa Clara Valley and www.sorensensresort.com the Diablo Range in the higher, open sections

12 The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 Printed on Recycled Paper O UTINGS of the park. Meet at Sears 41st Ave. before flashlight, food, water, and wear hiking boots. Saturday - Sunday, May 20-21 Saturday, May 20 9:00 a.m. Bring water, lunch and $5 for car- For meeting place and time, call leader: WIND WOLVES SERVICE TRIP HIKE: GARLAND RANCH pool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389. Esperanza Hernandez, 678-1968. At the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley The Terrace Trail at Garland Ranch should the Wind Wolves Preserve was created by the have good flowers now. This trail involves a Sunday, May 7 Sunday, May 14 Wildlands Conservancy in order to restore a climb from the trailhead to a nicely-con- WALK: POINT LOBOS HIKE: UPPER PEBBLE BEACH part of California to the state which existed a toured walk above the creek. Then comes a 4 mile walk, starting from Hwy. 1 to Ixchenta Enjoy 8-mile hike though Del Monte Forest. century and a half ago. On Saturday we will steep drop down to the creek, nice walk Point, then back past Whaler’s Cove, to the From Carmel Beach we travel through plant trees, remove invasive plants, or downstream, and finally a steep climb back top of Whaler’s Knoll and back via Lace Pescadero Canyon past Huckleberry Hills. improve visitor facilities as needed. On out. Slow pace. Bring lunch, water, good foot- Lichen Trail. Wildflowers should be plentiful. Bring water, lunch, and wear hiking shoes. Sunday we have been promised a hike and gear, and a stick if you need steadying on Meet at Albertson’s at 9:00 a.m. for a short Meet at Carmel Beach at the west end of tour of this astonishingly beautiful landscape steep hills. Meet at the Garland Ranch park- carpool. Bring snack, water, and binoculars Ocean Avenue at 10:00 a.m. Leader: Stacy and habitat. Contact leader: Craig Deutsche, ing lot on Carmel Valley Road at 9:30 a.m. for close-ups of the animal life. Last year we Smith, 625-5256. [email protected], (310-477-6670). A Hike will start from Garzas Road trailhead at saw baby seals and sea otters. Leader: Martha Desert Committee Outing. 10:00 am. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565. Saylor, 372-9215. Sunday, May, 14 HIKE: PREWITT LOOP Saturday, May 20 Saturday, May 20 Sunday, May 7 Hike from Pacific Valley (about 60 miles HIKE: CASTLE ROCK HIKE: PINEY CREEK & ROCKY CREEK HIKE: SOBRANES CANYON/ROCKY south of Carmel Valley) up and around the A 10-mile, double-loop hike, with 800' eleva- Double hike in outer Carmel Valley and RIDGE Prewitt Loop. This 12-mile, 2300' elevation tion change, through this state park. From the Arroyo Seco. In the morning, we’ll do a loop 6-mile loop through the canyon and up to the gain hike has beautiful spring flowers at this main park entrance at 3200' we’ll hike past around the obscure Piney Creek, 36 miles out ridge. Very steep climb that leads to gorgeous time of year. Great cascades and waterfalls Castle Rock, 75' Castle Rock Falls and Russell Carmel Valley. 4 miles and 1000' elevation panoramic views and hopefully lots of wild- along the way. This strenuous hike is both Point along the Saratoga Gap and Loghry gain. After lunch we’ll drive 9 miles to the flowers. Bring hat, water, and lunch. Meet at challenging and beautiful. Bring boots, lunch Woods Trails, to the Skyline trail. We’ll entrance of Arroyo Seco where we will hike Albertson’s at 10:00 a.m. We’ll be back and water. Meet at Albertson’s at 8:00 a.m. return along the Service Road and Ridge up little-traveled Rocky Creek past the water- around 3:00 p.m. Leader: Andrea Phelps, Leader: Steve Legnard, 402-1422. trails, past Goat Rock and the Interpretive fall to the campsite. 5 miles and 600' elevation [email protected]. Shelter. We’ll see some marvelous panoramic gain. Two easy hikes in Los Padres National Sunday, May 14 vistas. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Forest. Meet at Mid Valley Safeway at 8:15 Sunday, May 7 HIKE: MITTELDORF PRESERVE Government Center at 8:30 a.m., or at Felton a.m. Leader: Larry Parris, 622-7455. HIKE: PINE VALLEY Faire at 9:00 a.m. Bring water, lunch and $5 In a loop that covers the western trails of the for carpool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389. Join us on this strenuous, steep 15-mile loop Mitteldorf, we’ll ascend Echo Ridge to the with about 2,000' elevation gain. The views of top of 2972'-high Palo Corona Peak. After the Ventana are so hypnotic they will stay lunch, we’ll descend through redwood-filled with you for a lifetime. We’ll start at China Williams Creek to the lodge and our cars. We Camp, down to Church Creek Divide, past can see the largest redwood tree in Monterey Divide Camp, to Pine Ridge Trail, to Pine County. 8 miles and 2,000' elevation gain. Valley, back up to China Camp. We’ll benefit Call for reservation & times. Leader: Larry from trail maintenance by the Ventana Parris, 622-7455. Wilderness Alliance. Bring food, water, wear long pants, long-sleeve shirt, bring $ for car- Tuesday, May 16 “Peace begins pool. Water filter provided. For information, SENIOR WALK: CARMEL CIRCLE call leader: Esperanza Hernandez, 678-1968. 3-mile loop in Carmel. We’ll start at the Well Within” Carmel Beach parking area, walk past Mission Tuesday, May 9 Ranch up Mission Trail Preserve through SENIOR HIKE: POGONIP/HARVEY WEST Carmel and back along the beach. Meet 4 miles with uphill climbs (some steep) from before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. To go Harvey West parking lot by baseball fields. direct, take Hwy. 1 south to Ocean exit. Turn We’ll walk by Sacred Tree and have lunch at right, go downhill to Carmello, left on ranger station. Portable toilets by clubhouse. Carmel about 1.5 mi. to beach parking area. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Free parking & restrooms. Meet at approx. P RIVATE SPAS & S AUNAS OVERLOOKING Harvey West parking lot at 9:50 a.m. Bring 10:30 a.m. Bring water, lunch, $5 carpool. At lunch, water, $2 carpool. Leader: Joan end of hike, those wishing can lunch in A J APANESE GARDEN Brohmer, 462-3803. Carmel. Leader: Brooke Ewoldsen, 649-1714.

Saturday, May 13 Wednesday, May 17 HIKE: EAST WADDELL GORGE HIKE: ROCKY RIDGE - SOBERANES CYN u Massage Therapy This is a new trail to me. The Gorge is a little- Rocky Ridge is a 1435' rounded grassy peak publicized part of Big Basin. We’ll also have a between Soberanes Canyon and Malpaso look at the scenic park waste treatment plant. Canyon in Garrapata State Park south of u Skin & Body Care 8 miles and 1200' elevation gain. Meet at 9:30 Carmel. Rocky Ridge is a dry, exposed hill- a.m. at the Santa Cruz County Government side with sweeping views of the ocean. The Center to carpool. Call Nick for additional hike is strenuous, but we will take it slow. u All Natural Skin Care info. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101. There are places to stop and return to the Products beginning of the hike to relax and sit on a Saturday, May 13 ledge to watch the waves and perhaps a sea MOONLIGHT HIKE: PINNACLES otter or two while waiting for the other hik- Hiking the Pinnacles by moonlight is a ers. Bring lunch and water for this 6-mile hike thrilling and unique experience. It’s like being which seems much longer. Meet at 9:00 a.m. on another planet with its boulder forma- at Sears 41st Ave. or at 9:15 a.m. in back of tions. It’s serene, calming, peaceful, quiet, soft the gas station at Rio Del Mar exit to carpool. and therapeutic for the soul. Camping We’ll be at the trailhead 6.8 miles south of 417 Cedar St., Santa Cruz 831-458-WELL. overnight is available but optional. Bring a Rio Road in Carmel at 10:10 a.m. Leader: Diane Cornell, 423-5925. Visit our web site at www.wellwithinspa.com

Please Recycle This Paper Again The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 13 O UTINGS

Sunday, May 21 potluck dish, $2 carpool and share of entrance Alan Funt of “Candid Camera” restored the Sunday, June 4 HIKE: FALL CREEK fee. Leader: Helena Cantin, 438-4253. old ranch’s buildings when he lived there. HIKE: PICO BLANCO Let’s explore this enchanted forest with red- Today, the board of directors is working to Hike from Botcher’s Gap down to the Boy woods, a lovely burbling stream full of cas- Wednesday, May 31 establish an environmental center to preserve Scout camp then up the north flank of Pico cades, a lime kiln, barrel mill, fish pond, and HIKE: SAM MCDONALD COUNTY PARK the area for future use by students and nature Blanco. From the north flank we can hike up dancing springs. 7 miles. Bring water and This 850-acre San Mateo Co. Park is on lovers. Call for a reservation, time, meeting the north ridge to the peak. This moderate lunch. Meet at Felton Faire at 10:00 a.m. to Pescadero Rd. between 2 natural environ- place, and more information. Leader: hike is 9 miles with 2000' elevation gain. We carpool. Leader: Sheila Dunniway, 336-2325. ments—lush redwoods and open ridge, grassy Anneliese Suter, 624-1467. should have great 360 degree views. Bring knolls. It was named after a descendent of boots, lunch and water. Meet at Albertson’s at Tuesday, May 23 slaves born in 1884, who was employed by Saturday, June 3 8:30 a.m. Leader: Steve Legnard, 402-1422. SENIOR HIKE: POINT LOBOS Stanford Univ. for 50 years: first as a teamster WALK: SAN JUAN BAUTISTA One of our favorite spots! We’ll park at who eventually became Superintendent of We’ll walk-about in this historic California Sunday, June 4 Whaler’s Cove and hike the North Shore Grounds and later a Santa Clara County town. We’ll visit and learn about the charm- WALK: ASILOMAR/PEBBLE BEACH Trail, Allen Cypress Grove, then Sand Hill Deputy Sheriff. Stanford Convalescent Home ing streets and houses, including the State A 4-mile walk, along streets and walkways in Trail to Piney Wood for lunch. Bring binocu- for children was his pet project. He left the Park Plaza. Walk a few miles and spend a few Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, then via a lars. 3 miles on good trails. Heavy poison land for a park. At the lower elevations of the hours in the past and in the sunshine (I hope). trail between fairways to the beach and out to oak!!! Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. park in moist ravines many fern varieties are Bring lunch, water and dress for weather. Point Joe and back with ocean views finishing or at Whaler’s Cove parking lot about 10:30 found with beautiful mosses and curious Meet at 10:00 a.m. in the Seaside Home Depot at Asilomar via boardwalks. Bring water and a.m. Bring lunch, water, $5 carpool and share mushroom shapes. Meet for this 8-mile hike parking lot (by the service station) on Canyon a snack; done about noon. Meet across from of entrance $. Leader: Pat Herzog, 458-9841. at 9:00 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or drive north Del Rey at Hwy. 1 ramps. For more informa- the Fishwife Restaurant on Sunset Drive at on Hwy. 1 to Pescadero Rd. and turn right tion, call leader: Joyce Stevens, 624-3149. Asilomar Blvd. in Pacific Grove at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 30 onto Alpine Rd. to the parking area near the Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215. Heritage Grove. Bring water and lunch. Saturday, June 3 SENIOR HIKE: HENRY COWELL Leader: Diane Cornell, 423-5925. Easy 3-mile loop along the river and through HIKE: SUNOL REGIONAL PARK Tuesday, June 6 the redwoods. Moderate uphill. After hike, We were rained out in March so I am resched- SENIOR HIKE: BIG BASIN/SLIPPERY RK we’ll have our annual potluck picnic. BRING J UNE uling. There will hopefully be Mariposas by A 5-mile moderate hike on the Sequoia Trail YOUR FAVORITE DISH. Meet before 9:30 this date. There is a 1-hour carpool to the to Sempervirens Falls to Slippery Rock to a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Felton Faire at Friday, June 2 park. 10 miles with 2000' elevation gain. Meet Skyline to Sea Trail. One steep uphill at 9:50 a.m. To go direct, use the main entrance EXPLORATION HIKE: BRAZIL RANCH at 9:30 a.m. at the Santa Cruz County Slippery Rock. Take at your own pace. We’ll on Hwy. 9, turn right past the pay station to Government Center to carpool. Call Nick for lunch at top of Slippery Rock. Those wishing For the first time, we are invited to explore additional information. Leader: Nick the first picnic area. Bring water, your this 1200-acre ranch south of Bixby Bridge. a shorter hike can turn back at the falls. Meet Wyckoff, 462-3101. before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave or at Felton Faire at 9:50 a.m. Bring lunch, water, $4 carpool and share of entrance $. Leader: Beverly Come hike with us! Meschi, 475-4185. Opening this Spring: Wednesday, June 7 HIKE: SIERRA AZUL We’ll traverse part of the Sierra Azul Preserve and Bay Area Ridge Trail, starting from Kennedy Rd. in Los Gatos. Breathtaking views. In March we hiked up to this trail on Join today and a clear day and could see San Francisco. Bring receive a FREE water and lunch for this 8-mile hike with Sierra Club some uphill. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Sears 41st for Women Ave. to carpool. We will start from the trail- Weekender Bag! head on Kennedy Rd. in Los Gatos at 10:00 My Name ______a new location a.m. Leader: Diane Cornell, 423-5925. Address ______at 1517 Pacific Ave. City ______featuring an expanded CLASSIFIEDS State ______Zip ______selection of email______q Please do not share my contact information women's activewear Rates: $4.00 per line for Sierra Club members. with other organizations. Payment must accompany all ads. Make checks q Check enclosed, made payable to Sierra Club payable to: Sierra Club. Approximately 35 char- Please charge my q Mastercard q Visa acters per line. Spaces and punctuation count as characters. Typewritten or computer gener- Exp. Date_____/______ated copy preferred. Cardholder Name______Does your WORKPLACE use good environ- Card Number ______mental practices? The editor wants to hear MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES INDIVIDUAL JOINT about it. Write [email protected]. INTRODUCTORY q $25 REGULAR q $39 q $47 VOLUNTEER NEEDED TO SELL Trail Guides from their home. Requires keeping Contributions, gifts and dues to the Sierra Club are stock at home, handling phone orders for not tax deductible; they support our effective, citi- zen-based advocacy and lobbying efforts. Your dues both individual sales and bulk orders for include $7.50 for a subscription to Sierra magazine about 10 main accounts at bookstores, then and $1.00 for your Chapter newsletter. filling orders. Must be dependable. For more information call Rita Dalessio, 659-7046. F94Q W 1500- 1 Enclose check and mail to: PHOTOCOPY MACHINE needed by Santa Sierra Club P.0. Box 52968 Cruz Group. Donate one for a tax deduction. Boulder, CO 80322-2968 1521 & 1517 Pacific Ave. Downtown Santa Cruz 429.6300 Call Aldo, 460-1538.

14 The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 Printed on Recycled Paper D IRECTORY OF C LUB L EADERS Ventana Chapter FREE BREAKFAST Mailing Address – The Ventana Chapter, P.O. Box 5667, Carmel, CA, 93921, Buy One Breakfast Receive Second One of Equal or Lesser Value FREE Phone: 624-8032 (Santa Cruz Group Phone: 426-4453) Website:www.ventana.sierraclub.org •• Greek Greek Scramble Scramble Chapter Executive Committee •• ThaiThai Scramble Scramble Chapter Chair Rita Dalessio 16 Via Las Encinas Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-7046 •• Tofu Tofu Rancheros Rancheros Vice Chair D’Anne Albers P.O. Box 2532 Carmel, CA 93921 375-1389 •• PestoBombay Scramble Breakfast •• NewPesto & Scramble Improved Tofu Scramble Treasurer Joel Weinstein 140 Carmel Riviera Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 625-5586 • New & Improved Tofu Scramble Other Members David Epel 25847 Carmel Knolls Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 625-3137 •• OatmealOatmeal Julie Engell 15040 Charter Oak Blvd. Prunedale, CA 93907 633-8709 •• PancakesPancakes w/Pure w/Pure Maple Maple Syrup Syrup George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 335-7748 Kimberly Marion 310A High St. Monterey, CA 93940 648-1417 (8am-12pm) 7 7 DAYS DAYS Denyse Frischmuth 283 Grove Acre Ave. Pacific Grove, CA 93950 643-0707 *with*with coupon.coupon. NotNot goodgood withwith otherotherother offers.offers.offers. $6.00 limit. next to DMV, one block from 41st Ave. Up to $6.00 limit. Admin Chair/Sec Mary Gale 25430 Telarana Way Carmel, CA 93923 626-3565 Up to $6.00 limit Coastal Chair D’Anne Albers P.O. Box 2532 Carmel, CA 93921 375-1389 Conservation Committee Co-Chairs Gudrun Beck 23765 Spectacular Bid Monterey, CA 93940 655-8586 Gillian Taylor 52 La Rancheria Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-0298 Local Wilderness Committee Chair Steve Chambers 319 Caledonia St. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 425-1787 Computer Database Stephanie Kearns 740 30th Ave. #67. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 475-1308 NC/NRCC Reps. George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 335-7748 Patricia Matejcek P.O. Box 2067 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 423-8567 Outings Chair Anneliese Suter 9500 Center St. #53 Carmel, CA 93923 624-1467 Population Committee Chair Harriet Mitteldorf 942 Coral Dr. Pebble Beach, CA 93953 373-3694 Political Chair Terry Hallock P.O. Box 22993 Carmel, CA 93922 915-0266 Bulk & Packaged • Organic & Natural Foods Pot Luck Committee Outrageous Malt Sweetened Chocolate Treats! Chair Marion Chilson 6060 Brookdale Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 624-3510 Sierra Club Council Unique and Irresistible Snack and Trail Mixes! Delegate David Epel 25847 Carmel Knolls Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 625-3137 Vivid Grains! Alternate Rita Dalessio 16 Via Las Encinas Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-7046 Distinctively Different and Delicious Pastas! Transportation Committee Chair Neil Agron 26122 Carmel Knolls Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 624-3038 Delectable Cereals Made With Organic Grains, Nuts and Fruits! Outings Chair Anneliese Suter 9500 Center St. #53 Carmel, CA 93923 624-1467 Membership Chair Heather Allen 3037 Vaughn Ave. Marina, 93933 224-0134 Available at your favorite store! Ventana Editor Debbie Bulger 1603 King Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060 457-1036 Pajaro River Committee Distributed By Falcon Trading Company Co-Chairs Lois Robin 4701 Nova Dr. Santa Cruz, 95062 464-1184 JoAnn Baumgartner P.O. Box 1766. Watsonville, CA 95077 722-5556 1055 17th Avenue • Santa Cruz, CA 95062 • (831) 462-1280 • FAX (831) 462-9431 Forestry Chair Jodi Frediani 1015 Smith Grade Santa Cruz, CA 95060 426-1697 Santa Cruz County Group of the Ventana Chapter Group Office: 1001 Center St., Santa Cruz, near Actors’ Theatre Website:www.ventana.sierraclub.org Mailing Address: Sierra Club, Santa Cruz Group, P.O. Box 604, Santa Cruz, CA 95061-0604 Phone: 831-426-HIKE (426-4453), Fax: (831) 426-LEAD (426-5323), e-mail: [email protected] Executive Committee Chair Aldo Giacchino 1005 Pelton Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95060 460-1538 An alternative general store Vice Chair Kevin Collins P.O. Box 722 Felton, CA 95018 335-4196 Other members Richard Shull 110 Amber Lane Santa Cruz, CA 95062 425-5153 featuring hemp and Kristen Raugust 454 Swanton Road Davenport, CA 95017 423-8566 Shandra D. Handley 147 S. River St., Ste 221 Santa Cruz, CA 95060 477-1981 Charles Paulden 415 Palisades Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 462-3423 organic cotton clothing Bojana Fazarinc 25401 Spanish Rnch Rd. Los Gatos 95033 408-353-5536 Dennis Davie P.O. Box 651 Capitola, CA 95010 427-2626 Treasurer Aldo Giacchino 1005 Pelton Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95060 460-1538 Stop in today Conservation Committee Chair Patricia Matejcek P.O. Box 2067 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 423-8567 Forestry Task Force Chair Jodi Frediani 1015 Smith Grade Santa Cruz, CA 95060 426-1697 Membership Committee Vacant Outings Chair George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 335-7748 Transportation Committee Chair Jim Danaher 340 Soquel Ave. #205 Santa Cruz, CA 95062 427-2727 Water Resources Committee vacant Political Committee 1130 Pacific Ave. vacant Santa Cruz 429-5758

To change address by email: [email protected] Membership inquiries: M EETING S CHEDULE [email protected] Ventana Chapter (Monterey Co.) Santa Cruz Regional Group

Information: 624-8032 Please use this coupon. Attach current mailing label Information: 426-HIKE (426-4453) MOVING? here and write in new address below. Executive Committee: Meeting place: Sierra Club Office (Please allow 4-6 weeks processing time) Last Thursday of the month; Call for 1001 Center St, Santa Cruz, Suite 11. meeting place & time. Executive Committee: Name Conservation Committee: Wednesday, Apr. 12, at 7:00 p.m. Alternate 3rd Saturdays, 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, May. 10, at 7:00 p.m. Address Beck’s house: 23765 Spectacular Bid, Conservation Committee: City State Zip Monterey. Take Hwy 68 to York Rd. to Call Conservation chair for meeting Spectacular Bid. times and dates: 423-8567 Mail to: Sierra Club - P.O. Box 52968 - Boulder, CO 80322-2968 May 20, at 2:00 p.m.

Please Recycle This Paper Again The Sierra Club / Ventana Chapter Volume 45 Number 2, 2006 15 These 3treesbyAranaGulchmaybecutdowntheCityofSantaCruztomakeroomfortwomorecars. Help savethesetrees Volume 45, Number 1, 2006 www.ventana.sierraclub.org

MAGAZINE OF THEVENTANACHAPTER OF THESIERRACLUB

FEATURES APRIL, MAY, Chapter chair 2 JUNE From the editor 2 OUTINGS Letters 3 Calendar 7 Newsclips 10 Outings 11 Chapter directory 15

ARTICLES enjoy theplanet andprotect Explore, Mercury threatens women 3 Saving Monterey pines 4 Clean money bill 5 Club awards scholarship 5 Bike Week schedule 6 Will Santa Cruz destroy ESHA in Arana Gulch Greenbelt? 8 Sempervirens to buy Lompico Linda Smith headwaters 9 Richard Stover Uncommon blue; precious few Recycle old batteries 10

Election picks 10 M p. 4 GZN FTHE OF AGAZINE them [email protected]. Transportation Commissionandsavethesetrees.Email extra lengthisnotneeded. the rightturnarrowwillbegreenmostoftime, length oftheproposedrightturnlanebytwocars.Because unamimously tosavethetreesandshortenstacking Gulch Greenbelt. Capitola Road?ThetreesareatthenorthendofArana W See page8formoreonAranaGulch. Ask CityCouncilmemberstofollowtheadviceoftheir In MarchtheCityTransportationCommissionvoted tree ontheright)alongSoquelAvenuenear three nativecoastliveoaks(includingtheheritage ill theCityofSantaCruzdecidetocutdownthese

Explore, enjoy and protect the planet S IERRA

Sierra Club Periodical V P.O. Box 604 Postage ENTANA Santa Cruz, CA 95061-0604 Paid at Santa Cruz C LUB and at Additional

Post Offices C ATRO THE OF HAPTER EARLY ELECTION PICKS P. 2