Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 www.ventana.sierraclub.org

FEB, MAR, APR OUTINGS

Courtship display of Great Blue Herons at Point Lobos. More photos on page 8. Michael Mitchell Michael

Explore, enjoy, and protect the planet hile it is the intent of The Ventana to print articles that reflect the position of o o k e v i e w the Ventana Chapter, ideas expressed B R Win The Ventana are those of the authors and do the more than 350 species found in this re- ferent from their former homes in England not necessarily reflect the position of the Sierra markably floriferous parkland. and Louisiana, respectively. Their mastery Club. Articles, graphics, and photographs are copyrighted by the authors and artists and may Now Michael Mitchell and Rod Yeager of color photography enabled them to be reprinted only with their permission. MD have come up with a book of elegant capture not only the brilliant hues of the DEADLINES FOR SUBMISSIONS color photographs and succinct descrip- flowers but also, their distinctive diagnos- tions plus a graceful and informative text tic characteristics. The authors note that an All materials for publication must be received by the deadlines listed below. No exceptions. that includes a brief introduction to the additional purpose of the book is to serve park, a clear explanation of the structure of users “as a reminder of the beauty that they SUBMISSIONS FORMAT the plants, a logical rationale for their ar- experienced when visiting the park.” Please limit articles to 800 words; letters to 300. rangement in the book, an illustrative glos- As this issue of The Ventana goes to press, All submissions may be edited for clarity and sary, notes on use of plants by the indig- the books are expected to be available at length. Email to [email protected]. Mail hard Wildflowers of Garland Ranch copy to editor, address below. A Field Guide enous people, and a helpful index. the park and elsewhere by early March. Surprisingly, the authors are a retired For further information, please email mi- PHOTOS by Michael Mitchell and Rod Yeager MD, lawyer and a retired physician who became [email protected] or visit Dr. Yeager’s Photos submitted to The Ventana must meet the 8.5” x 5.5” spiral bound captivated by the flowers of this area, so dif- wildflower website, www.rodyeager.com. following requirements: No laser copies or inkjet outputs. Electronic photos should be no smaller reviewed by Corky Matthews than 1200 x 1100 pixels or 300 dpi. Cover photos must be 3000 x 2000 pixels. Film photos, slides, t long last a colorful handbook is Library searching for old Ventanas or negatives are fine. Please call the editor if you available that does justice to the he California State Library in Sacra- important old issues of The Ventana. have any questions. myriad wildflowers found at Gar- mento has a collection of old Venta- The Ventana Chapter of the Sierra Club WHERE TO SEND SUBMISSIONS Aland Ranch Park, the flagship of the Mon- nas. However the Library is missing was born in Ansel Adams’ living room in Send submissions to Debbie Bulger, Editor, terey Peninsula Regional Park District. someT old issues. Recently your editor was March, 1963. The newsletter began in 1603 King Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, Drawing hikers, horseback riders, bicy- able to fill in some of the gaps with issues April of that year. The second issue of the [email protected]. clists, and natural history buffs from a wide generously donated by long time member newsletter was called The Ventana Cone. CHANGE OF ADDRESS area, this Carmel Valley park has never had and former Ventana editor, Corky Mat- The first issue may not have had a formal Do not call editor! Send address changes to: a compact plant reference work usable by thews. The Library is still missing issues name. By its third issue, the newsletter was [email protected] or use the mail-in both beginners and more advanced plant prior to September 1968. called by its present name, The Ventana. coupon in each issue. enthusiasts—until now. Are these issues hiding in one of your file If you have any of the first issues of The POSTAL NOTICE Over the years dozens of field trips by cabinets or in your closet? Ventana from 1968 or older, send them The Ventana (015057) is published 6 times a members of the Monterey Bay Chapter of Please take a moment to check your files to the editor, Debbie Bulger, 1603 King year, (Feb., Apr., Jun., Aug., Oct., Dec.) paid by the California Native Plant Society and the or your parents’ files for these historically Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. subscription included in membership fee, by The Sierra Club have resulted in a lengthy Gar- Ventana Chapter of the Sierra Club, 511 River land Park plant list primarily authored by Street, Santa Cruz, 95060. Periodical postage the late Dr. Jim Griffin, director of UC’s paid Santa Cruz, CA and at additional mailing Hastings Reservation in upper Carmel Val- offices. r o m t h e d i t o r Postmaster: Send address changes to Sierra Club, ley, and Lee Dittman, an early Park District F E The Ventana, P.O. Box 604, Santa Cruz, CA employee and CNPS volunteer. But there 95061-0604. has never been a book devoted to helping Let’s work together Editor: the typical flower-loving visitor identify t is certainly welcome news that Coun- grades. A long discussed bike and pedes- Debbie Bulger, [email protected], ty ownership of the Santa Cruz Branch trian trail alongside the tracks can create an Production: Wilderness First Aid offered Rail Line has finally chugged its way easy, safe route to 14 schools nearby. Other Debbie Bulger, Vivian Larkins, Dale Nutley Iinto the heart of Santa Cruz. And to think communities have these trails, why not us? Writers: two-day Wilderness First Aid class Debbie Bulger, Sarah Rabkin, it took only 20 years. Back in 1990 when Parts of such a trail could become sec- Kevin Collins, Corky Matthews will be held March 5-6 sponsored State and County voters approved the Prop tions of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Sce- Photographers: by the Monterey Peninsula Regional 116 funds needed for the rail right of way nic Trail, a long-planned coastal bike and Michael Mitchell, Vivienne Orgel, APark District. The Sierra Club has offered purchase, who would have predicted the pedestrian way ringing the Bay and provid- Myrna Hampton, Joan Jones Holtz, to pay the course fee for Club hike leaders. process would take so long and end with ing access to unparalleled bird watching, Debbie Bulger, Steve Shimek, Ventana staff Wilderness medicine, sound judgment, Proofreaders: hold-your-breath theatrics at the last pos- inspiring views, as well as a travel connec- Jeff Alford, Robin Drury decision making and leadership skills will sible minute for the deal to be approved? tion to Monterey. Charles Koester, be taught in a series of interactive lessons But it’s done. The Santa Cruz Regional Many people of various political persua- Distribution: and scenarios. Topics include patient as- Transportation Commission is completing sions came together to achieve this victory. Keith Wood, Esperanza Hernandez, sessment, trauma, medical and environ- the purchase of the most important trans- Supporters of the acquisition included Beth Lilienthal, Debbie Bulger mental emergencies. Participants will earn Advertising Sales: portation and recreation corridor in the Representative Sam Farr, State Senator Joe Debbie Bulger Heartsaver CPR and Wilderness First-Aid County remaining in private hands. The Simitian, Assemblymember Bill Monning, Carpentry & Software: certificates. Instructor: Backcountry Medi- possibilities are mindboggling. the Chamber of Commerce and the Sierra Anonymous cal Guides. The rail line runs for 32 miles from Dav- Club, the Community Traffic Safety Coali- Chapter website: Classes are on March 5 and 6 from 8:00 http://ventana.sierraclub.org enport to the county line south of Watson- tion and City Councils, Friends of the Rail a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day at the Garland ville. While recreational uses such as the Trail and cycling organizations, and many Ranch Regional Park Museum, Carmel planned dinner train will attract tourists other groups and individuals. Valley. Costs are $125 for district residents and locals in the short run, the longer term Each saw something they wanted. Bet- 2011 and $138 for non residents. Participants possibilities are nothing short of revolu- ter transportation choices, safe routes to Ventana Publication Schedule must be 16 years old or older. To register tionary. school, improved public health, business Issue Deadline Mailing Date visit www.mprpd.org or call 372-3196 x 3. In the future we could see a light rail opportunities, and tourist revenues. And #2 Apr 4 Apr 20 shuttle between Santa Cruz and Watson- they successfully worked together to get it. #3 Jun 6 Jun 22 ville, a train link to the Pajaro Station in With the purchase of the rail right of #4 Jul 25 Aug 10 To change address by email: #5 Sept 26 Oct 12 Monterey County with connections to Gil- way, we now have the opportunity to work #6 Nov 28 Dec 14 [email protected] roy, San Jose, and San Francisco. Or pos- together to get a bikeway built on a route Membership inquiries: sibly PRT (Personal Rapid Transit) above we can all agree on. Articles received after deadline [email protected] and a bike/pedestrian trail below. Let’s do it. may not be published. Best of all, the rail corridor is basically —Debbie Bulger level with trestles that eliminate steep 2 The ierraS Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 Printed on recycled paper l e t t e r s Proposed Carmel development to ax 104 large trees Th eVentana welcomes letters Send to: uppose that one day you woke up LETTERS TO THE EDITOR to fi nd a sleepy little business on the Th e Ventana, 1603 King Street, edge of your quiet residential neigh- Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Sborhood could be turned into 46 towering email: [email protected] condominiums! Please include a phone number An upstate New York developer called with your letter. Anonymous letters are not Widewaters proposes just that for the his- accepted. Letters may be edited for length. toric former Carmel Convalescent Hos- pital, a 3.68 acre site on Valley Way and Curious about coydogs scenic Hwy. 1 in northeastern Carmel. Are there any coydogs in Santa Cruz? Th is is a friendly, single-family residential If so, is their behavior any diff erent than neighborhood with picturesque, winding, regular coyotes? Please contact me at tree-lined streets, currently zoned for two [email protected]. houses per acre. —David Rosen Th e Chapter opposes this massive devel- Santa Cruz opment which would require intensifying Peace and environment related the zoning to a high density of 12.5 units Recently, American geologists returned per acre— a density not now in the Carmel from Afghanistan to announce that under- Area Land Use Plan. Th e developer aims to neath all the fi ghting lay huge deposits of build 46 two- and three-story condos called iron, copper, cobalt, gold and lithium. Wars have been fought over natural re- Villas de Carmelo. Th e plans include clear sources for centuries, and the clean up after- cutting 104 of the largest 125 trees (mostly ward is sketchy with unexploded ordnance Monterey pines) on the site and a variance Hampton Myrna to build on greater than 30% slopes. Fur- a prime culprit around the world. Battles Th e spacious grounds of the former convalescent hospital were designed as part of the historical have been waged to control salt markets. ther damage to the environment includes setting. After development of 46 two- and three-story condo units, the historic hospital would Governments toppled for bananas. Con- removal of most of the vegetation along the be obscured from view. fl icts started over opium. Lithium today is scenic Hwy. 1 corridor to be replaced by one of the most sought after elements in an a 120-foot-long wall of white stucco two- Wisely, the Monterey County Planning Th e concerned Northeastern Carmel increasingly electronic economy. Military story buildings. Th e proposed development Subdivision Committee, on January 13, neighborhood has hired Molly Erickson of confl icts leave the natural world poisoned, would set a dangerous precedent. magnify the warrior mentality, and send recognized it needed more time both to the Law Offi ces of Michael Stamp to fi ght the world’s poor on the long march across consider the impacts of this project and to the proposed condos. continents for safety, security, and the basic Repurposing read the fi nal environmental impact report, If you wish updates or want to help the necessities of life. which had not yet been released as we go to Chapter and the neighborhood oppose this Today, we are confronted with what ap- lectrician John Howerton took up press. Th e Committee continued the hear- development, please contact: SOCNC- pears to be perpetual warfare and global cli- the challenge in the last issue of Th e ing until February 24. Th e Planning Com- [email protected], call Myrna Hampton mate change. As global climate change per- Ventana and describes below how he mission, the Board of Supervisors, and the @ 624-6707, or write to Save Our Car- sists, one result will be expanded migration reusedE and repurposed discarded light fi x- California Coastal Commission also would mel Neighborhoods Coalition, P.O. Box of the rural poor. And, we are saddled with tures. have to approve the development. 221001, Carmel, CA 93922-1001. some U.S. politicians who continue to be “Last year I replaced some light fi xtures supportive of projecting American military at a client’s house and off ered to bring might across the planet, oppose humane them home to off er on Craigslist or Santa c o n t a c t y o u r r ePresentatives immigration policies, and are resistant to Cruz Freecycle. As I was hosting a party in recognizing and acting to reverse global cli- President Barack Obama U.S. Representative Anna Eshoo mate change. a couple of weeks and Th e White House 698 Emerson Street Environmentalists, peace and justice ac- still hadn’t listed the 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Palo Alto, CA 94301 fi xtures, it occurred Washington, D.C. 20500 408-245-2339; FAX: 650-323-3498 tivists, and immigration policy reformers Comment Line: 202-456-1111 go to website to email must unite in a common struggle to build a to me to remove the movement for long-term social and politi- sockets and install Vice President Joe Biden State Senator Sam Blakeslee cal change. To learn more visit www.peace- candles. Th ey made 202-456-1414 1104 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 central.org. wonderful walk lights Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr 805-549-3381 —Gary Karnes and were a big hit.” State Capitol Building, Suite 1173 go to website to email Pacifi c Grove John has off ered to Sacramento, CA 95814 916-445-2841 State Senator Joe Simitian Build a bike/pedestrian bridge donate a Howerton FAX: 916-538-3160 State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 95814 I live close to Soquel Drive and 41st Av- Electric T-shirt to the best idea submitted http://gov.ca.gov 916-651-4011; FAX: 916-323-4529 enue, ride my bike lots, and can see a defi - to the next issue of Th e Ventana. Please [email protected] nite benefi t to having a pedestrian bridge Senator Dianne Feinstein email your photos and explanations to the 331 Hart Offi ce Building State Senator Anthony Cannella spanning the freeway, perhaps connecting editor, [email protected]. Washington, D.C. 20510 369 Main Street, #208 Chanticleer Avenue. Th is would be used by 202-224-3841; 415-393-0707 Salinas, CA 93901 walkers, runners, bicyclists, mothers with 1 Post Street, Suite 2450 831-769-8040 strollers, and skateboarders as a shortcut San Francisco, CA 94104 [email protected] widened, before embarking on such a proj- go to website to email to the beach and/or to a diff erent neigh- ect. Th is, of course, could be many years. Assembly Rep. Luis Alejo borhood. Th is location would encourage Presuming the freeway will be widened, a Senator Barbara Boxer State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 94249-0028 people to use their vehicles less, people pedestrian bridge could easily be built now 112 Hart Offi ce Building 916-319-2028; FAX: 916-319-2128 that might need to go to or from Sutter, to accommodate a wider roadway. Washington, D.C. 20510 100 West Alisal St., Suite 134 Grey Bears, the Flea Market, Emerald Bay 202-224-3553; 415-403-0100 (voice) Salinas, CA 93901 Finally, using a car-free bridge would 1700 Montgomery Street Phone: 831-759-8676; FAX: 831-759-2961 apartments, Dominican Hospital, the Live increase the safety of pedestrians and bicy- San Francisco, CA 94111 http://asmdc.org/members/a28 Oak Business Park, and the numerous busi- clists as both 41st Avenue and the Soquel go to website to email nesses along Soquel Drive, Mission Drive, Drive overpass/exit complexes are danger- Assembly Representative Bill Monning Chanticleer and the frontage road, known U. S. Representative Sam Farr 701 Ocean Street, Room 318-B ous and full of toxic fumes. And it would 100 W. Alisal Street, Salinas, CA 93901 Santa Cruz, CA 95060; 831-425-1503 as Soquel Avenue. be much more pleasant than the two adja- 831-429-1976 (Santa Cruz) 99 Pacifi c Street, Suite 555D According to my supervisor, John Leo- cent traffi c-chocked interchanges. 831-424-2229 (Salinas) Monterey, CA 93940 pold, the Regional Transportation Com- —Gary Harrold 202-225-6791 (FAX, Washington, DC) 831-649-2832; FAX: 831-649-2935 mission wants to wait until the highway is Soquel [email protected] [email protected] Please recycle this paper again Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 3 What your local Sierra Club has been doing esides leading over 200 hikes a year, the Club’s most visible of the railroad right of way can make pos- local activity, and publishing an award winning newslet- Santa Cruz County sible the Club goal of a bicycle and pe- ter, your local Chapter and Group of the Sierra Club destrian trail along much of the corridor. Bhave been busy preserving clean water, protecting our forests, Additionally, the Sierra Club opposed the advocating for sustainable transportation choices, fighting for widening of Highway 1 and supported the sensible land use, and more. Our volunteers write letters, read Water Campaign for Sensible Transportation’s Environmental Impact Reports, and testify before public bod- Resources lawsuit against Caltrans’ incremental wid- ies such as Planning Commissions and Boards of Supervisors. ening of the highway. Many thanks are due to the numerous volunteers that make he Club worked very hard to de- all this happen. If you want to get more involved in these activities crease the heavy sediment load car- Forest contact committee chairs or Executive Committee members listed ried by the San Lorenzo River, both aT local source of drinking water and wildlife in the directory on p. 15. Policy and habitat. Currently we are preparing com- Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties ments for the San Lorenzo River sediment Endangered water pollution control plan. Due to the ef- forts of the late Al Haynes, the San Loren- Species to assume a more natural course, then zo has been listed as “impaired” under the ocal forestry activists in the Santa Pajaro River many benefits to the downstream river may Clean Water Act for years. Cruz Mountains are faced with a Watershed accrue including reduced flood flow, addi- Mike Guth and others prepared exten- continuous stream of new Tim- berL Harvest Plans which they review and tional water supply, increased habitat and sive comments on the Santa Cruz County he Pajaro River Watershed Com- recreational use, enhanced parks, biking Storm Water Management Plan to reduce comment on. Many of these plans pro- mittee has been working to restore and walking trails, and a more natural and pollution discharges from developed lands pose logging on steep, unstable terrain, and protect this valuable natural scenic river corridor. The technical exper- in the County. The Plan, however, is only include driving logging trucks over failing resourceT for almost a decade. Lois Robin’s tise of committee members Kenn Reiller the first step and the Club continues its ef- roads which cause sediment to collapse 2006 video, Stuck in the Mud: The Pajaro and Jim Van Houten have been indispen- forts to get the County to implement mea- into creeks, and drive through rather than River in Peril, described the sediment prob- sible in the process. sures which carry out the promises of the bridge creeks. Forestry consultant Jodi Fre- lems of the Pajaro River, which earned a Committee members attend meetings plan. diani and other Sierra Club members have place on America’s Most Endangered Rivers of the 24 agencies that have a say in the Aldo Giacchino look the lead in sub- attended an astonishing number of pre- list. In a victory for the environment, this management of the River, write letters to mitting both written and oral comments harvest inspections and supported efforts year Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties those in authority, conduct outreach edu- on behalf of the Club to the Santa Cruz by the CA Department of Fish and Game will excavate sediment from the benches in cation, and work with other organizations City Council and other government bodies and Santa Cruz County to limit damage to three places along the lower River, allowing such as Action Pajaro Valley and the Pajaro regarding the City’s water supply and ex- wildlife, especially to salmon habitat. it to regain its floodplain in places and me- River Watershed Council. The Committee tension of water services to the UCSC up- In a victory to preserve old growth, Jodi ander once again. Hydrologists funded by obtained grant funding to hire experts to per campus. The need to use water wisely Frediani spearheaded collaboration to stop the Club recommended this work. produce a Community Engagement Plan and link development to water supply so the logging of the Lagomarsino redwoods The Club is still urging the Army Corps for the River which was presented to the there will be enough for both humans and in San Mateo County, working with the of Engineers to develop an evaluation of the City of Watsonville and eventually includ- wildlife is one of the biggest challenges our Center for Biological Diversity, Commit- way the upstream flows of the River affect ed in the City’s recent update of their trails region faces. We continue to monitor the tee for Green Foothills, and Midpeninsula downstream flows. If various upstream ar- master plan. City of Santa Cruz/Soquel Creek Water Open Space District backing the effort of eas can be restored and the River is allowed District joint plans to build a sea water the California Department of Fish and desalination plant. This plant would be a Game. This story had a happy ending with major energy user and could undermine the purchase of the property by Sempervi- local attempts to reduce greenhouse gas rens Fund. Yes, old-growth redwood forest OWN ORKS emissions. On the other hand, access to is still commercially logged, contrary to in- D W dustry-generated confusion over this issue. lightweight camping specialists desalinated sea water could reduce water since 1974 ß demands on local rivers and streams and Kevin Collins and others wrote exten- Custom down sleeping bags benefit salmon and steelhead. sive comments on behalf of the Club on the Coho Salmon Recovery Plan from the 1 S 1 National Marine Fisheries Service. Unfor- Osprey Packs The North Face Transportation tunately the federal government has waited 1 Western Mountaineering 1 Mountain Hardwear he Sierra Club wrote letters and 1 1 too long to finally discuss coho recovery Montbell Big Agnes tents testified in support of the Regional under the Endangered Species Act, and it Transportation Commission’s pur- may be too late for these amazing fish. 1 1 chaseT of the Union Pacific Rail Line—a 222 River Street, Santa Cruz 423-9078 downworks.com In collaboration with the California Na- Tuesday–Saturday 10–5 goal that was finally achieved a few weeks tive Plant Society and the Center for Bio- ago. Besides enabling train travel, purchase

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4 The ierraS Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 Printed on recycled paper logical Diversity, the Club worked to pro- the successful court case that stopped an- strong opposition to a new policy which terey County land as fi re prone and called tect the endangered Santa Cruz sunfl ower/ nexation by the City of lands essential to will permit cultivation of steep slopes, a for signifi cant vegetation clearing in tarplant and rare coastal prairie habitat in the safety of the Watsonville Airport. Th e change that will result in serious impacts unique, valuable, and sensitive habitats. Arana Gulch. organizations involved in the case were the to wildlife habitat, water supply, and water Plan proponents also advocated wholesale Santa Cruz Sierra Club activists are Watsonville Pilots Association, Friends of quality. Th e Club continued its opposition abandonment or circumvention of most among the few private citizens from the Buena Vista, and Sierra Club, along with to the Plan’s Agriculture Winery Corri- environmental laws and regulations. Work- entire state who regularly attend Board of the CA Division of Aeronautics and CA dor, which will allow winery development ing with other conservation organizations Forestry hearings and committee meetings. Pilots Association. Th e Club was especially without adequate environmental review; we provided solid scientifi c comments and Jodi Frediani testifi ed before the Califor- concerned about preservation of the rare we raised serious concerns about the ad- recommendations to improve the plan. nia Air Resources Board along with a state- plants and open space in the area. equacy of water supply to support the level Th e Chapter hired attorney Tom Lippe to wide coalition of groups including Sierra of growth authorized by the new General provide California Environmental Qual- Club CA and Center for Biological Diversi- Plan; and we pointed out the folly of the ity Act guidance and forest ecologist Scott ty in an attempt to stop new carbon seques- Monterey County General Plan’s location of new develop- Stephens and forestry consultant Jodi Fre- tration rules which included clear cutting as ment in fl ood plains. diani to describe best forest fi re reduction eligible for carbon credits. Unfortunately, After the 2010 General Plan was adopted practices. Th rough our combined eff orts, this preposterous insult to the earth was just The Habitat by the Monterey County Board of Super- the MCCWPP signed in December by the approved. visors last October, three environmental Supervisors was greatly improved. A revision of Fight Back! Forest Defenders Conservation organizations with which the Chapter has Handbook, originally prepared for the Santa collaborated fi led CEQA lawsuits against Regional Water Cruz Group, was completed and posted Fund in Marina the plan. Th e Chapter supports these law- online. Th e updated handbook describes in his fund, the result of a settlement suits. Project detail how the public can participate in tim- from the 1980s, now has $280,000. ulie Engell attended workshops and ber harvest review. Th e Club also assisted Over the last two years, Steve Zmak Monterey Co hearings, including the Public Utility neighbors throughout Santa Cruz County asT Marina Conservation Chair met with Commission hearings, on the Regional who were concerned by timber harvest pro- other nonprofi ts to arrange grants for green Community J Water Project, a desalination project posals that threatened their access roads or projects helping coastal habitat. In all, we Wildfire which is supposed to replace water current- watersheds resulting in the ultimate preser- earmarked about $130,000 of this fund for ly being illegally pumped from the Carmel vation of one property that was slated to be coastal restoration projects. Th is perpetual Protection River watershed. logged. fund raises money every day from a hotel Sierra Club will continue monitoring Much hard work on the part of the local tax in Marina’s Coastal Zone, so it contin- Plan this process to see that it provides addition- Group culminated in the County’s fi nally ues to grow. ulie Engell and Rita Dalessio repre- al water in the most environmentally safe moderating its policy of removing large sented the Chapter during the develop- methods possible. wood from streams. Such wood provides Endangered ment of the MCCWPP. Th e draft plan critical habitat for steelhead and salmon. J designated more than half of Mon- Th e new policy now allows removal of large Species Act wood only if a threat to homes is immanent. lawsuit LAND USE or years, Sierra Club lawyer Larry Sil- ver, Rita Dalessio, and a local hydrol- evin Collins and Aldo Giacchino ogist have been pressuring the State represented the Club in successfully WaterF Resources Control Board to enforce stopping an attempt by the County a cease-and-desist order issued in 1995 KPlanning Department to weaken basic zon- known as SB9510 to reduce overdraft- “Peace begins ing standards in rural areas of the County. ing of the Carmel River. Th e courts have Working with the Rural Bonny Doon As- now upheld this decision and the mora- Well Within” sociation and the San Lorenzo Valley Wa- torium on new hook-ups is in place. We ter District, the Sierra Club convinced the are monitoring this carefully and working County Board of Supervisors not to ap- with other groups to help restore steelhead prove weaker zoning site standards outside populations and protect habitat for other the Urban Services Line. Th is issue, how- ESA species such as California Red-Legged ever, is not settled and will require continu- Frog. ing eff orts. P RIVATE SPAS & S AUNASOVERLOOKING Th e Club is also working to strengthen General Plan 5 enforcement of County environmental A J APANESEGARDEN codes to protect endangered species which ulie Engell, Dale Agron, and other are severely harmed by development and Chapter members continued to provide tree and vegetation removal near streams. input on the 2010 Monterey County J General Plan. Th e Chapter expressed In Watsonville, Sierra Club supported u Massage Therapy u Skin & Body Care Reduce your landscaping water bill to zero! 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Please recycle this paper again Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 5 c a l e n d a r Sierra Club Events

Th ursday, March 17 Water Board Meeting Support Clean Water Come to this meeting of the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board and support clean water. Read the article on p. 9 for more information. Th e meeting is during the day. Spring, Summer, and Fall Channel Islands National Park California’s Channel Islands are Galapagos USA. Marvel at the sight of whales, seals, sea lions, rare birds, and blankets of wildfl owers. Hike the wild, windswept trails. Kayak the rugged coastline. Snorkel in pristine waters. Discover remnants of the Chumash people who lived on these islands for thousands of years. Or just relax at sea. Joan Jones Holtz Jones Joan Th ese fundraising trips depart from Santa Barbara and benefi t the Sierra Club political Th ese young elephant seals, photographed on San Miguel Island, are called “weaners” because they have been weaned—only they don’t know it yet. Th ey are waiting for their mothers to come back to feed them. But the programs in California. mothers are not coming. Sometimes it takes awhile for the weaners to fi gure this out. May 8-10, July 16-19, August 6-9, September 11-13, October 16-18 $590 for three-day trips; $785 for four days. Non–Sierra Club Events of Interest Cost includes an assigned bunk, all meals, Th e following activities are not sponsored or administered by the Sierra Club. Th e Club makes no rep- snacks & beverages, plus the services of a resentations or warranties about the safety, supervision, or management of such activities. Th ey are pub- ranger/naturalist who will travel with us to lead lished only as a reader service. hikes on each island. water & gloves. Tools provided. 10:00 a.m. to Saturday, February 19 To make a reservation mail a $100 check 1:00 p.m. We work rain or shine, but if things payable to Sierra Club to leaders Joan Jones Tree planting get particularly unpleasant, we call it a day. Holtz & Don Holtz, 11826 Th e Wye St., El Join Santa Cruz Tree Trust to plant native trees Contact Linda Brodman, 462-4041, redwdrn@ Monte, CA 91732. For more info contact at Harvey West Park. Contact Greg Cotten, pac bell.net. Website: www.cruzcnps.org. leaders at [email protected] or s626-443-0706. [email protected] for more info. February 19, Quail Hollow Ranch County Park Friday & Saturday, February 25 & 26 March 5, Younger Lagoon Banff Mountain Film Monterey CNPS Festival Habitat restoration Explore the world’s last great wild places. Volunteer to restore native habitat in State Parks Tickets $12 to $15. Purchase online at www. in Monterey Co. Wear layered work clothes. ucscrecreation.com or in person at UCSC Bring water & snacks. Tools & gloves provided. Recreation or at Pacifi c Edge. Benefi ts the Carpools meet at Rio Rd. Park and Ride. Rain UCSC Wilderness Orientation Scholarship or shine. Contact Jan Shriner, 236-0905, Fund. 7:00 p.m. at the Rio Th eatre, Santa Cruz. [email protected]. Website: Santa Cruz CNPS www.montereybaycnps.org. Habitat restoration Watsonville Fourth Saturday Volunteer to restore native habitat in parks in Habitat restoration - Santa Cruz Co. Wear layered work clothes. Bring Watsonville Sponsored by Watsonville Wetlands Watch. Local Events—Peace, Justice & Environmental Activists Unite 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Meet at the Fitz Wetlands Educ. Resource Center at Pajaro Valley HS. Gloves, tools, and snack provided. ◆ Join other peace, justice & environmental activists at a Peace Rally on Call Jonathan Pilch, 728-4106, for more info. Saturday, March 19th. No experience necessary. Protest the U.S. war budget and the extension of American ◆ Saturdays war-making power on April 15th. ◆ Join with others in supporting progressive and humane immigration Garland Ranch Hikes reform legislation on May 1st in Monterey County. Th e Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District docents lead hikes at Garland Ranch every Contact Gary Karnes at the Peace Resource Center, at www.peacecentral. Saturday. An updated list of all hikes may be org, 1364 Fremont Blvd. Seaside 93955 for event locations, a list of ongoing found on their website: www.mprpd.org. activities and to receive the weekly Peace Calendar. 899-7322.

6 Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 Printed on recycled paper Car sharing’s a by Debbie Bulger no car payments, no shopping for tires orip! oncerned about the high cost of trying to fi nd a mechanic you trust. Zipcar keeping and maintaining his car, takes care of all that and more. Shawn Padilla uses z his smart phone to Here’s how it works. After joining on- Santa Cruzan Shawn Padilla won- resrve a Zipcar. Cdered if he could get along without a car. line, members receive a card which gives Th en he discovered the Zipcar program. them access to Zipcars located in down- Zipcar is a car sharing program that town Santa Cruz, on the UCSC campus, gives you wheels when you want them or in other cities or universities throughout without having to deal with the expense the US, the UK and Canada. Cars can be and exasperation of owning a reserved online by the hour and by the day car. No waiting for oil at any time of day or night. Th e hourly or daily rate includes gas, insurance, mainte- changes, Bulger Debbie nance and 180 miles/day. When Padilla needs a car, he reserves one using his smart phone, walks to where of money—$300–$500/month. “Do the mitted. “Grocery shopping requires ad- the car is parked, swipes his mem- math,” urges Padilla, who knows about vanced planning, and I remember to bring bership card and drives such things as the Chief Operating Offi - my bags.” Studies show that Zipcar mem- away. cer of the Santa Cruz Community Credit bers drive about 40% fewer miles than In Santa Cruz the Union. “I was making a car payment, buy- when they owned a car. Zipcar fl eet consists of ing a parking permit, spending money on Padilla loves the effi ciency of sharing sedans, hatchbacks and maintenance, gas, insurance, registration. I Zipcars. He likes it so much, he encour- hybrids. Th ere are cur- did a detailed analysis.” Padilla sold his car aged the Credit Union to purchase a busi- rently 15 vehicles in the after joining the program. ness membership. program, 9 on campus Since he works in downtown Santa Cruz, Locally, Zipcar is partnering with the and 6 located in the Zipcar locations are within a short walk. City and County of Santa Cruz, UCSC, downtown area. Late charges for not returning a car on time and Ecology Action to increase aware- For Padilla who lives greatly reduce the probability a car will not ness and use of the program. Th e recent a mile and a half from be there as promised. expansion of the program in Santa Cruz Debbie Bulger Debbie work, joining Zipcar An unexpected benefi t of joining the is partially funded by a grant from the meant biking to work program according to Padilla is that it pre- Monterey Bay Unifi ed Air Pollution Con- instead of driving. It cipitated a change in his habits. “I’m more trol District. For more information visit also meant saving lots mindful of the environment,” Padilla ad- www.zipcar.com/santacruz.

Intact riparian corridors necessary $5000 appeal fee puts a chill on for healthy streams the public process by Kevin Collins he streams that feed the San Loren- and other large trees are especially protec- by Gillian Taylor peals in the public interest should receive zo River begin deep in the Santa tive. Nonetheless many property owners hen Monterey County offi cials this fee exemption. Th e Chapter takes this Cruz Mountains as headwater have removed the riparian trees and shrubs make decisions about new devel- diff erentiation seriously, especially in light creeks.T Salmon and other fi shes, frogs, and along their section of stream leaving only opment, zoning changes, water of the fact that non-profi ts organized as salamanders depend on these streams for bare dirt and shallow rooted grasses. Tree Wsupplies, and many other things that aff ect economic and political advocates often re- their existence. removal warms stream waters because of the environment or our communities, those ceive signifi cant sums of public money an- Th e quality of these streams as habitat increased exposure to direct sunlight. Heat decisions may be appealed only by paying nually. For example, the Monterey County depends on an intact riparian corridor, an kills salmon, and the loss of streamside trees a fee. Monterey County currently has one Vintners and Growers Association received area of native trees and understory vegeta- and deep water pools is one of the reasons of the highest appeal fees of any county more than $400,000 from federal sources tion. In addition to fi sh and amphibians, that Coho salmon populations are not re- in California—almost $5000 per appeal. in 2010 to promote the economic inter- birds and mammals also need intact ripar- covering. Our streams would be much When two levels of appeal are required, the ests of their industry. Such organizations, ian corridors to live in and move through a deeper, narrower and have more stable cost is doubled. whose budgets are augmented by taxpay- landscape humans have altered with cleared channels, if big riparian trees had not been Having such high appeal fees has a chill- ers, should not receive fee exemptions on fi elds, roads, and buildings. destroyed. ing eff ect on the public’s ability to partici- appeals to further their economic interests. Th ere are important sections of our Although Santa Cruz County has a Ri- pate fully in their local governance. Such Th e fee exemption should apply only to mountain creeks and river systems where parian Corridor ordinance, and the State high fees are a deterrent to correcting un- community groups whose sole interest is the riparian habitat is badly degraded. Th is Department of Fish and Game also has lawful or harmful policy decisions. Th e the public interest. deterioration has resulted in the local extir- regulations, many homeowners are not Ventana Chapter joins other community Because the appeal process is complex pation of many animals, especially salmon, aware of the regulations or their benefi ts to organizations to call for elimination of such and demanding, and because the pro- frogs, salamanders, and certain songbirds. the environment. Th e Sierra Club is em- fees for non-profi t, public-benefi t organiza- posed changes would only apply to appeals Land use practices from 100 years ago barking on a major new eff ort to protect tions. Th e Board of Supervisors has sched- brought by public interest organizations have led to many houses that are built too and restore riparian corridors in Santa Cruz uled a hearing on this issue for late March. regarding important matters, the proposed close to our creeks. Many homeowners County. We need your help with commu- Th e Ventana Chapter supports the dif- changes should not have any signifi cant fi s- do not understand that riparian trees and nity outreach and education and to lobby ferentiation between public interest non- cal impact on the county. Th anks to Super- shrubs hold riverbanks together and ar- County offi cials. Please contact Kevin Col- profi ts and non-profi ts which function as visor Jane Parker for taking the lead on this mor these banks during fl oods. Redwoods lins, [email protected] if you can help. political and economic advocates. Only ap- issue. Please recycle this paper again Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 7 Heron went a courting

hotographer and Chapter member Michael Mitchell was lucky enough to catch these Great Blue Herons mating at Point Lobos. A er the male heron has collected a stick to use in nest building and has presented it to the female, he may be lucky in love. When eggs are laid, both the male and female share incubation duties. Chicks are born nearly naked with their eyes tightly closed. Great Blue Herons are found on the Central Coast year round.

hotos by ichael itchell

8 Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 Printed on recycled paper Environmentalists continue fi ght to clean up Central Coast Water healthy areas. Ri- well water can sicken farmworkers living rules be adopted or will we take clean water parian areas off er in small rural communities. Babies that seriously? many environ- drink such water can develop “blue baby How to help: mental benefi ts syndrome,” and stop breathing. Research • Come to the March 17 meeting of which keep creeks shows that long-term exposure to elevated the Central Coast Regional Water Qual- and rivers clean. A nitrate levels in drinking water, even levels ity Control Board in the Watsonville City 50-foot vegetated that are not immediately toxic, can have a Council Chambers. Even if you don’t feel strip along a creek wide range of serious health consequences. you know enough to speak, your presence fi lters runoff and Although local governments have failed will be very important. Volunteers will be helps keep pesti- to account for or analyze the public and there to pass out identifying tags so the cides and nitrates private costs of contaminated water, some board knows you are there to support clean from polluting of the struggles endured by individual com- water. waterways. Addi- munities suggest the costs regionally may • Call one of the Sierra Club activ- tionally vegetated be huge. For example, for years the Mon- ists below for more information regarding buff ers provide terey County farm worker community of time of the meeting and other details. Th e habitat to wildlife San Jerardo suff ered with a contaminated meeting is during the day. At press time the including endan- water source. Th e community banded to- agenda had not yet been posted so the exact gered Red-Legged gether and obtained public grants total- time this issue will be considered is not yet frogs and Long- ing about $5 million to build a new water known. Toed salamanders. system. Ongoing operation of the new Santa Cruz County: Deirdre Des Jar- Th e absence of system costs each San Jerardo household dins, [email protected], 423-6857. vegetated buff ers about $113 per month. Th ese costs do not Monterey County: Julie Engell, on creeks and riv- include the costs for treatment of illnesses [email protected], 920-2734. ers has an impact and chronic disorders suff ered prior to the not only on these new water system. Nor do they include the Steve Shimek, Julie Engell, Deirdre Des Steve Shimek Steve waterways, but impacts of lost wages during that time. Jardins, and Debbie Bulger contributed to From the air one can clearly see areas along the Salinas River near Chular that have also on estuaries Can we aff ord to clean up our water or this article. been cleared of all vegetation. such as Elkhorn can we aff ord not to? Will watered down Slough and on public hearing on March 17 could the Monterey Bay. When agricultural pol- have a major impact on the qual- lutants fl ush down the waterways to the ity of water on the Central Coast. sloughs and the Bay, they can trigger toxic AYour attendance could make a diff erence in algae blooms that poison sea otters, sea li- cleaning up our rivers and streams. ons, and birds. In December, the California Water Re- sources Control Board released a study Stop water pollution at its source Th e February Recommendations require showing that Central Coast surface waters that property owners comply with water are the most toxic in the State. Local riv- quality standards where the water leaves ers, including the Pajaro River, the Salinas the farm. Th e November version shifts the River, and their tributaries are listed as “im- point of compliance from the farm to the paired” under the Clean Water Act due to “receiving waters.” Th e Sierra Club believes a variety of causes including agricultural that water quality should be monitored runoff . Because surface water also recharges both at the farm and at the receiving waters. groundwater aquifers, polluted streams and Knowing sources of pollution enables sev- rivers degrade the major source of drinking eral farms to partner with each other and water on the Central Coast. perhaps with the County on one pollution To help remedy the situation, the Cen- control project at lowered cost to each part- tral Coast Regional Water Quality Control ner. Joint projects would likely be easier to Board released Draft Recommendations monitor and regulate. in February of 2010. Th e February draft Th e weakened draft of the regulations was revised in November 2010. Th e newer continues much of the voluntary compli- version is considerably weakened. Sierra ance which has not worked in the past. Ad- 5th Annual Festival for Eco-Living! Club joins Monterey Coastkeeper, Sur- ditionally it delays addressing major sourc- frider Foundation, the Environmental Jus- Saturday, April 9, 2011 • Mount Madonna School es of nitrate and pesticide pollution such as tice Coalition for Water, Food and Water tile drains. Although the weakened draft Watch and other groups in supporting the Summit for the Planet Walk-a-thon • Renewable Energy • Wildlife regulations make some incremental chang- original February 2010 recommendations. Eco-Fashions • Organic Foods • Live Music • Eco-Carnival es for the better, they pale in contrast to the Vegetated buffers February 2010 draft which was vehemently Community Networking • Student Displays & Learning Expo Th e February Recommendations pro- attacked by the agricultural industry. tected all riparian areas adjacent to prop- Much more needs to be done. Th e ag- www.ecofest.us | 408.847.2717 erty where agricultural runoff occurs. Th e ricultural industry lobbied hard to weaken weakened November Recommendations the Recommendations citing the high cost address only riparian areas next to waters of keeping our water clean; a comparable listed as impaired under the Clean Wa- analysis was not conducted on the high ter Act. Th e revised recommendations do cost to individuals and the general public of nothing to prevent impairment of currently continuing to pollute our water. Nitrates in Please recycle this paper again Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 9

I POGONIP GEOLOGY rocks Weber noted that the karst landscape features few visible creeks or streams; most rainwater seeps through the permeable soil and accumulates underground in the vast complex of fractures and passages. When a several-hundred-foot-deep campus well was Dale and Kathy in August 1965. pump tested, withdrawing one million gal- lons of water over the course of one week, Katharine Barton Wright Wilson the testers saw negligible (if any) impact on the overall volume of water emerging from 1923 – 2010 the springs that lie at the base of campus. ong-time members who missed Weber said the amount of water stored un- the recent obituary in the Monterey der campus is about 3,000 acre-feet, or a County Herald will be sorry to learn billion gallons. In times of drought or other ofL the passing of Katharine “Kathy” Barton emergency need, this untapped under- Wright Wilson, 87, who with her husband ground reservoir might serve, he said, as an Dale and daughters Robin and Holly, was alternative water supply. very active in the early years of the Ventana Stopping at a bulge of moss-covered, Chapter. hole-pocked stone curving gracefully out- Kathy supported many chapter activities

Ventana staff Ventana ward alongside the trail, Weber explained, behind the scenes, working on preparing “Th is is tufa—a limestone deposit created and mailing Th e Ventana in the days when Jerry Weber displays colorful maps depicting the geology of the Pogonip. by a spring, similar to formations found at the copy was typed on mimeograph stencils Mono Lake and other sites.” by Sarah Rabkin and run off in the offi ces of various volun- bay laurel, and redwood trees. He identi- Another piece of the puzzle fell in place teers. In addition she was a major branch “ eology,” according to Gerald “Jer- fi ed a deposit of mudstone here, a block of for the attentive hikers. on the Telephone Tree, which notifi ed a ry” Weber, a geological consultant marble there. pre-arranged group of volunteers when let- and retired UCSC earth sciences Scientists like Weber have gleaned in- ters or phone calls were needed for urgent Glecturer, “is a four-dimensional jig saw puz- valuable knowledge of the area’s geology— conservation issues. She was very support- zle with most of the pieces gone.” information that planners and builders VWA Trail Work Parties ive of Dale in his more visible jobs with On January 22, Weber led 47 Sierra Club ignore at their peril. Parts of the Pogonip the chapter, where he served on the Execu- hikers on a geologic ramble through the and UC Santa Cruz campus, for example, Th e following work parties are not sponsored tive Committee, as Education Chair, and Pogonip—the 640-acre Greenbelt, owned sit on a block of limestone, called a karst mastermind of the Chapter booth at the by the City of Santa Cruz, bordered by the landscape, in which the carbonate rock has by the Sierra Club. Th e Club makes no rep- resentations or warranties about their safety, County Fair. UCSC campus to the west and Hwy. 9 to been gradually eaten away by weak carbon- Th e family was also active in the outings the east. Th is sunny Saturday marked the ic acid formed when rainwater mixes with supervision, or management. Th ey are pub- lished as a reader service. program, leading and participating in a 110th Pogonip outing organized by club carbon dioxide. As a result, the dissolved number of family backpacking trips. A spe- members Peter and Celia Scott. and fractured ground is riddled with caves, Saturday, February 19 – Tuesday, February 22 cial project that went on for some years in Introducing the group’s guide, Peter tunnels, and sinkholes that turn the land trail Work: Black cone trail the 60s and 70s was Trail Days in the Santa Scott quoted UCSC colleague Al Smith: into a “giant sponge.” In addition the area We’ll hike out the Pine Ridge Trail from near China Cruz Mountains, where Dale, as an engi- “Jerry Weber knows more about the geol- is also crossed by a series of faults, which Camp and work on the Black Cone Trail. Strenu- neer for State Parks, organized and designed ogy of Santa Cruz County than anybody fortunately are not seismically active, ex- ous 8-mile hike; participants must come prepared for new trails and rehabilitated old ones in the else in the world.” Yet even Weber laments cept for possibly the Ben Lomond fault, a 4-day trip. Th e work is in the fi rst 3 miles of the Forest of Nisene Marks and other parks. the amount of guesswork involved in piec- along which Ben Lomond Mountain has Black Cone Trails. Contact Leader for more details. Kathy’s life was changed dramatically by Leader: Betsy MacGowan [email protected]. ing together the origins of local landforms been elevated. a reckless driver who crashed into her car that have been acted on by hundreds of Weber enchanted his audience with tales Saturday - Sunday March 5 – March 6 at the dangerous San Miguel Canyon in- millions of years of rock formation, earth of the dangers of overlooking the underly- tersection on Hwy. 101 before the overpass movement, and erosion, and covered with ing geology. Engineers hired by the Univer- trail Work: Upper carrizo trail Th e Carrizo Trail near Cone Peak is a historic trail was constructed. Although seriously in- dense vegetation. sity have sited building supports atop “void jured, she gradually regained the ability to Weber held up a series of colorful maps spaces” (sinkholes) where truckload upon which has become overgrown and needs brush re- moved in the top two miles. A one-night overnight, walk, but in recent years had been confi ned representing contradictory interpretations truckload of concrete simply disappeared to bed. She never seemed to complain or of the Pogonip’s faults and formations. No- with a 3-mile hike from the vehicles to the work site. into the underlying cave systems. Weber We have 1000' elevation gain on the hike in, which feel sorry for herself, even this last holiday body yet knows which, if any, is correct. also divulged that campus planners in the makes the return easy. We’ll camp at Cook Springs season sending a Christmas letter empha- Wielding a rock hammer, he chipped at early 70s selected well sites on the advice of Camp. Contact Leader for more details. Leader: sizing that it had been a wonderful year fol- outcrops along a route shaded by live oak, dowsers, only to drill deep into dry rock. Betsy MacGowan [email protected]. lowing the activities of her children, grand- children, and great grandchildren. Doors, Windows, & More Saturday - Sunday, March 12 – March 13 For over 20 years after leaving Carmel trail Work: Upper carrizo trail Valley, she lived in a charming house next Continuing work from the previous weekend. A Enhance energy and sound efficiencies door to her daughter Robin in Foresthill, one-night overnight, with a 3-mile hike from the ve- near Auburn, California, surrounded by The more includes plumbing, electrical hicles to the work site. We will camp at Cook Springs the art, music, and books that she had col- Camp. Contact Leader for more details. Leader: and other remodel/addition work Betsy MacGowan [email protected]. lected all her life, and which gave her great Years of experience comfort in her later years. Donations in her Contractors license Saturday - Sunday, April 2 – April 3 memory to environmental charities would do honor to a kind and selfl ess soul. Bruce Kishler trail Work: BiG pines tr. pat sprinGs We’ll hike from Bottcher’s Gap to Pat Springs, a Kathy’s Celebration Service will be Sun- 831-476-8044 408-472-4478 strenuous 7-miles, removing fallen trees and brush as day, March 20, 11:00 a.m. at Pioneer Cem- www.doorswindowsandmore.com • [email protected] we go. Contact leader for more details. Leader: Steve etery on Elm Street in Auburn, CA. Benoit 394-4234 or [email protected]. —Corky Matthews 10 Th e Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 Printed on recycled paper O u t i n g s serve and return by Veterans Trail. 5 miles, 700' ele- O u t i n g s R a t i n g s In the interest of facilitating the logistics of some outings, it is customary that participants vation gain. Bring water & lunch. Meet before 10:00 make carpooling arrangements. The Sierra Club does not have insurance for carpooling a.m. at Colton Hall, Pacific and Madison in Mon- arrangements and assumes no liability for them. Carpooling, ridesharing, or anything General information: terey. Unrestricted parking on Pacific Ave. above the similar is strictly a private arrangement among the participants. Participants assume the library or on Van Buren above the police depart- All outings begin and end at the trailhead. risks associated with this travel. ment. Call leader to reserve a spot. Leader: Gisela Carpooling to and from the trailhead is Nobinger, 333-1759 or [email protected]. strictly a private arrangement between the CST 2087766-40. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State driver and the riders. Carpool drivers are of California. Friday, March 4 not agents or employees of the Sierra Club. Participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. To read it before choosing to Walk: Mission Trail Carmel participate on an outing go to www.sierraclub.org/outings/chapter/forms. We’ll follow the Old Mission Trail thru shady red- Explanation of ratings: wood trees and oaks to its end near the historic The outings described vary in difficulty on Chalk Rd. to the Sunset Trail. 1500' elevation Flanders Mansion. We’ll visit the nearby Roundtree from leisurely walks to strenuous hikes. The F e b r u a r y gain. Then we descend past Golden, Cascade, Silver, Arboretum and return via the Mesa Trail to visit a following explanation is a general guideline. and Berry Creek Falls before returning to Waddell native plant garden at the Mission San Carlos Bor- (For more information about the difficulty Beach. Bring plenty of water, food, and wear hiking romero where Father Junipero Sera is buried. 2-3 flat Saturday, February 19 miles. This trail is a great place to see and photograph of a particular outing, call the leader). Hike: Toro Park boots. Meet at the Santa Cruz Co. Government Cen- ter at 7:45 a.m. Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253. spring woodland wildflowers. Meet at Rio Road Park Walk: Between 2-5 miles, leisurely pace. Explore Toro Park. We’ll hike to Valley View Peak via & Ride in Carmel at 10:00 a.m. Call for more infor- Easy: No more than 5 miles; slight eleva- East Ridge and East Toyon Trails for great views. 9 mation. Leader: Phyllis Hilton, 372-1714. miles, 1500' elevation gain. Bring water and lunch. tion gain; easy pace. a r c h Moderate: 5-10 miles; up to 2000' gain; Meet at Toro Park entrance at 9:00 a.m. Rain cancels. M Saturday, March 5 boots; better than average fitness required. Call for a space. Leader: Monique Farques, 384-3234. Walk: Mt. Hamilton Lick Observatory Strenuous: May involve off-trail hiking; March, date TBD Sunday, February 20 Work Party: Ventana Wilderness Combine a historic site visit with a 6-mile hike with demanding pace; for experienced hikers in Hike: Pinnacles / Mt Defiance good condition only. I need strong healthy people to help clear the beauti- 1000' elevation gain. It is not for those who don’t like For experienced hikers only, we’ll explore the fifth ful Carrizo Trail that could be erased from this earth, touring buildings. 1½-hour winding drive into the highest peak in Pinnacles NM, Mt Defiance, with if it is not worked on. Beautiful rock formations and mountains east of San Jose. Bring $6 for carpool and M e e t i n g P l a c e s a panoramic view including the seldom-seen “Little beautiful views of the Ventana. Call me for date and warm clothes. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Santa Cruz Pinnacles.” Mostly off-trail with some light bush- other info: Leader: Esperanza Hernandez, 678-1968. County Government Center. Call Nick for addition- whacking. Leaving Salinas at 9:00 a.m. 6 miles and al information. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101. Directions: 2000' elevation gain. Must call leader for further Tuesday, March 1 Rio Road Park & Ride: This parking lot info. Leader: Jack Glendening, 484-6929. Hike: Monterey Pks /Huckleberry Hill is on Rio Road in Carmel. Tuesday, February, 22 We’ll hike from Colton Hall through Via Paraiso, Save-Mart /Bagel Bakery: (formerly Alb- Quarry, and Veterans Park to Huckleberry Hill Pre- ertson’s) South of Monterey on Hwy. 1. One SENIOR HIKE: HARVEY WEST mile past Ocean Ave., turn L on Carmel Val- 4 miles with uphill (some steep) from Harvey West Ignite your passion ley Rd. Almost immediately, turn R at the parking lot by baseball fields. We’ll walk by Sacred Brought to you by UCSC Recreation for adventure! light. Save-Mart / Bagel Bakery on the R. Tree and lunch at ranger station. Meet before 9:30 The Banff Mountain Film a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or Harvey West parking lot at Festival World Tour Santa Cruz County Government Center: will exhilarate you with The large grey building at the corner of Ocean 9:50 a.m. Restrooms. Bring lunch, water, $2 carpool. amazing big-screen stories Leader: Joan Brohmer, 462-3803. when it comes to the Rio & Water in Santa Cruz. We meet at the corner Theatre of the parking lot nearest to the intersection. Wednesday, February 23 Journey to exotic locations, paddle the wild- Felton Faire: The shopping center at the Hike: Pogonip est waters and climb the junction of Graham Hill and Mt. Hermon 6½ miles, 600' elevation gain. Stop at old spring highest peaks. Get your Rds. in Felton. We meet at the edge of the tickets today and be taken boxes, lime kilns, sacred oak tree, and old clubhouse. away to the most Safeway parking lot nearest Graham Hill Rd. Hike through grassy meadows, redwoods, and a few captivating places on earth. 41st Avenue / Sears: From Hwy. 1 in creeks. Bring water and lunch. Meet before 9:30 a.m. Different films each nite Capitola take the 41st Ave. exit. Go to- at Sears 41st Ave. Leader: Tom Davey, 331-8430. Benefits the ward the ocean on 41st Ave. Pass the main UCSC Wilderness Thursday, February 24 Orientation Mall entrance and turn right into the next Scholarship Fund entrance near Sears. We meet behind the Hike: Garzas Creek bank located at 41st and Capitola Road. This is my favorite hike with its meadow & hillsides MPC parking lot: Monterey Peninsula of wildflowers, forests with woodrat nests, dark red- College Parking Lot. From Hwy. 1 take wood canyon and Garzas Creek with 6 crossings. the Fisherman’s Wharf exit, go straight one 4-mile loop with 800' elevation gain. Stops to enjoy block, turn L and L again into the first park- flora & fauna. Arrive early; we depart at 10:00 a.m. ing lot: A. Site of the Thurs. Farmers Mkt. sharp from Rio Road Park & Ride in Carmel. Bring water & lunch. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Plenty of parking with no fee on weekends. Bomberger, 375-7777. February 25 & 26 - 7 PM @ Rio Theatre, Santa Cruz Saturday, February 26 Tickets: $12 Student/$15 general (purchased in advance) HIKE: WILDER RANCH / OHLONE BLUFFS carpool news TickeTs available in Person @ UCSC Recreation (831)459-2806 Enjoy the beauty of cliffs, coves, and the ocean along • Pacific Edge (831)454-9254 • Bicycle Trip (831)427-2580 the Ohlone Bluff Trail in Wilder Ranch. 10 miles Meet 1 hour before formal meeting with minimal elevation gain. Meet at the Santa Cruz ONLINE AT WWW.UCSCRECREATION.COM time in order to save gas and protect County Government Ctr at 9:30 a.m. Bring water, Ryan Brandt M.D. & Family the environment when participating lunch, carpool $, and wear comfortable shoes. Heavy in out-of county outings. Informal rain cancels. Leader: Pamela Burnham, 428-2796. (no leader) carpool meeting spots: Sunday, February 27 Santa Cruz: County Gov’t Center Bay Tree Bookstore Monterey: REI Marina Hike: Big Basin Our 15-mile hike begins after a short car shuttle from Waddell Creek. We’ll climb Chalk Mtn and continue www.ucscrecreation.com Please recycle this paper again The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 11 O u t i n g s

Saturday, March 5 Tuesday, March 8 Friday, March 11 before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at the Sunset Hike: Garland Ranch Exploration SENIOR HIKE: DE LAVEAGA Hike: Henry Coe State Park Beach kiosk parking lot at 9:50 a.m. Bring lunch, Come explore with me the length of Garland Ranch We’ll hike to the Top of the World and back among It’s a long drive to Henry Coe State Park, which is water, $2 carpool, and share of parking fee. Rain can- when temps are mild. We’ll start at the visitor center trillium and yellow violets. 3 miles, some uphill. in the hills east of Morgan Hill, but worth it for the cels. Leader: Denise Lucy, 234-9559. and end at Kahn Ranch. Strenuous 12 miles with Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at DeLa- green rolling hills, oak studded meadows, wildflow- 2500' elevation gain. Wonderful views. Car shuttle. veaga Park at Twisted Tree picnic area (off Branciforte ers, and interesting visitor center. We’ll hike a lei- Tuesday, March 15 Call me by Feb. 27 as shuttle arrangements and per- Drive (not Ave.) at 9:50 a.m. Bring lunch, water, $2 surely 8-mile loop on the Fish, Middle Ridge and Hike: Mesa Loop/Garland Ranch mit must be set up in advance. Meet at the Rio Road carpool. Leader: Janet Schwind, 425-3845. Flat Frog trails, with about 1000' of elevation gain. We’ll hike the Mesa Trail to La Mesa Pond and return Park & Ride to carpool. Bring water and lunch. Bring lunch, water, and wear sturdy shoes. Meet at along the Waterfall Trail. If we still feel ambitious, we Heavy rain cancels; rain date is March 12. Leader: Wednesday, March 9 8.30 a.m. at the REI parking lot (next to the wall) can add a loop through the meadow around Rancho Monique Fargues, 384-3234. Hike: Land of Medicine Buddha in Marina. Santa Cruz hikers may meet at Sears 41st Trail. 4 miles, 800' elevation gain, moderate pace. This 6-mile loop with 700' elevation gain includes a Ave. (no leader) at 8.30 a.m. and carpool to the Park. Meet before 10:00 a.m. at the Rio Road Park & Ride Sunday, March 6 lovely redwood forest, 2 albino redwoods, a beautiful (Take the East Dunne Ave. exit from Hwy. 101, and near the Bank of America in Carmel or at Garland’s Easy Hike: Moss Landing creek, and stops to enjoy flora & fauna. Bring water follow signs to the park’s main entrance.) We should main parking lot 20 minutes later. Bring water and Fish Fry anyone? Let’s hike to Phil’s and back again. & lunch. Arrive early; we depart at 8:00 a.m. sharp be at Henry Coe parking lot (fee) around 10:00 a.m. lunch. Please let me know if you are coming. Leader: We’ll walk from the lot at Potrero Rd. north along from the REI in Marina or from the back parking Leaders: Cath Farrant and Mary Dainton, 372-7427. Gisela Nobinger, 333-1759 or [email protected]. the beach to the island, and back by an inland route. lot of the Congregational Church of Soquel at 8:50 Level and slow on the beach. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at a.m. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, Saturday, March 12 Wednesday, March 16 the Marina REI. Wear layers, bring water, optional 375-7777. HIKE: NISENE MARKS Hike: Sierra Azul Mt. Umunhum Area binoculars, and $$ for gas and chow (or lunch to eat Beautiful hike in Nisene Marks starting at George’s We’ll be hiking right below the 3486' Mt. Umunhum on the beach.) If coming from the north, meet in lot Friday, March 11 picnic area and following the Historic Loop. 8 miles (considered a sacred mountain by the Ohlone) along at the end of Potrero Rd in Moss Landing by 10:30 Hike: Henry Cowell Redwoods with 1000' gain. Meet at Sears 41st Ave at 9:30 a.m. the Bay Area Ridge Trail which will eventually cir- a.m. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565. Henry Cowell has some very old redwoods and Bring water, lunch, carpool $, and wear hiking shoes. cle all of the Bay Area. The preserve has more than some rare, for this area, Ponderosa Pines. We’ll hike Rain cancels. Leader: Pamela Burnham, 428-2796. 17,000 acres of unspoiled rugged steep terrain. Wide through the sand hills and then down through the trail with scenic views of the South Bay. Since we are redwood forest to the San Lorenzo river, with a nice Saturday, March 12 on the top of the ridge, we’ll pass over deep ravines view of Santa Cruz along the way. 6 ½ miles, 800' Walk: Carmel River Beach and riparian corridors with seasonal or year-round elevation gain. Bring water and lunch. Trailhead is in How about an early morning walk from Carmel River water flow. We’ll hike out to Mt. El Sombroso and the parking area of Powder Mill Pipeline on Graham Beach toward Monastery Beach via the hill and back return on the same trail for a 10-mile hike from the Hill Rd. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. via the Bluff Trail. Enjoy wildflowers, birds, views of end of Hicks Road in Almaden. Meet at Sears 41st Leader: Tom Davey, 331-8430. Point Lobos, and the surf. 3 miles. Wear comfortable Ave. at 9:00 a.m. or at the trailhead at the top of shoes, and dress for the weather; windbreaker recom- Hicks Road at 10:00 a.m. Carpool $4. Leader: Diane mended. Bring water and a snack. Meet at the park- Cornell, 423-5925. ing lot at Carmel River Beach at the lagoon (south end of Carmelo in Carmel.) Call leader to reserve a Saturday, March 19 space. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215. Hike: Chalk Mountain Car shuttle from Whitehouse Canyon to Cascade Sunday, March 13 Ranch if a private landowner will allow us access. 8+ Hike: Silver Peak Wilderness miles with 1200' elevation gain. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at We’ll start our hike at the Cruickshank Trailhead the Santa Cruz County Government Center to car- just south of Gorda and complete the walk at the old pool. Call Nick for additional information. Leader: Salmon Creek Station. 8 miles with 1100' elevation Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101. gain in the first four miles. We’ll pass through the two Cruickshank camps and the beautiful Buckeye Saturday, March 19 Camp, finishing by descending to Salmon Creek sta- Hike: Pinnacles Harris Peak tion. Majestic ocean views. There is poison oak along For adventurous and experienced hikers only. We’ll Built by Sierra Club members in 1934, this rustic, hostel- the trail, so wear appropriate clothing. Meet at the explore the northern wilderness region of Pinnacles style lodge stands atop historic Donner Pass, just an Rio Road Park and Ride at 7:30 a.m. to carpool for National Monument and climb the park’s third high- the long drive. Bring lunch, water, and a snack. Rain est peak—Harris Peak. Strenuous. Partly off-trail hour and a half from Sacramento. cancels. Leader: Steve Benoit, 394-4234. with some light bushwhacking. 13 miles and 3500' elevation gain. All day, leaving Salinas at 7:00 a.m. Sunday, March 13 Must call leader for further information and a reser- The Lodge grooms its own cross country ski and Hike: Henry Coe State Park vation. Bring lunch and water. Heavy rain cancels. snowshoe trails, rents equipment for these activities Wake up an hour earlier as this hike marks the be- Leader: Jack Glendening, 484-6929. and offers cross country ski lessons. The unbeatable ginning of daylight savings time. Our 13-mile hike begins with a 1300' climb to Wasno Road before Saturday, March 19 location of the Lodge provides quick and easy access dropping to our lunch spot at Kelly Lake. Wildflow- Hike: Fort Ord to the legendary Donner Summit backcountry ski ers should be great as well as the view of the snow- Explore the northern end of Ford Ord Public Lands. terrain or any of its downhill or cross country ski capped Sierra. Meet at Sears 41st Ave. at 8:00 a.m. 8-mile loop partly on trails and roads. Bring water or Coyote Creek entrance at 9:00 a.m. Leader: John and lunch. Meet at the Creekside Trailhead parking resorts. Howerton, 476-4253. lot (corner of Reservation Road and Hwy. 68) at 9:00 a.m. Bring water and lunch. Heavy rain cancels. Call Guests enjoy excellent family style meals, a friendly Tuesday, March 15 for a space. A limited number of well-behaved dogs SENIOR WALK: SUNSET BEACH welcome only by pre-arrangement. Leader: Monique staff and a casual and communal atmosphere. We’ll walk both the bluffs and the beach. Moderate Fargues, 384-3234. 4 miles without steep hills. Dress for weather. Meet Sunday, March 20 See you on Donner Summit... HIKE: CELEBRATE OUR GREENBELT THE POGONIP Please For more information about our special programs Join the Sierra Club and Friends of the Pogonip to Patronize our advertisers welcome the Spring Equinox with a classic hike on or to receive a full schedule and description of Clair Tell them you saw their ad in the largest of our Greenbelt lands. We’ll explore the Tappaan programs please visit our website at Haunted Meadow, look for early blooming wildflow- www.ctl.sierraclub.org or call (800) 679-6775. The Ventana ers, pause at the historic lime kilns, visit the gold- fish pool beneath the Pogonip’s oldest redwood, and 12 The ierraS Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 Printed on recycled paper O u t i n g s pay our respects to the Sacred Oak. Meet at the top Thursday, March 24 Sunday, March 27 same way. 5-6 miles, 800' elevation gain, slow pace (north end) of Spring Street at 9:30 a.m., returning Hike: Trapper's Ridge Hike: Soberanes Creek/Rocky Ridge with lots of stops. Bring water & lunch. Meet be- there around noon. Call leaders Celia and Peter Scott This is a special opportunity to hike in the Santa Lu- A 5-mile loop with 1700' elevation gain and great fore 10:00 a.m. at the dirt parking area outside Toro at 423-0796 for information. cia Preserve of Rancho San Carlos in Carmel Valley terrain variety. We’ll follow the Soberanes Creek Trail Park. Please, let me know if you are coming. Leader: accompanied by naturalist, Julie Sigourney. Our hike into a sublime redwood grove, then climb steeply to Gisela Nobinger, 333-1759 or [email protected]. Sunday, March 20 will include a beautiful display of wildflowers and a grassy knolls for a spectacular view at lunch. The hills Hike: Point Lobos most gorgeous view of the valley and ocean shore- will likely be green and have flowers. The descent We’ll meet at the Entrance Gate near the restrooms line. 4 miles with 1100' elevation gain. Bring water is along Rocky Ridge with more views of the coast A p r i l at 11:00 a.m. to hike around the park. 4 miles with & lunch. Arrive early; we depart at 9:30 a.m. sharp and ocean. Boots highly recommended; hiking poles stops to view otters, tidepool creatures, sea lions, and from Rio Road Park & Ride in Carmel. Call for a helpful. Bring water and lunch. Meet at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 2 beautiful spring wildflowers. Bring a lunch, water, reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777. Call for location. Leader: DJ Goehring, 277-9908. Hike: Stevens Creek to and sunscreen. After the hike we’ll carpool to the Picchetti Ranch Jack London Grill on Dolores Street in Carmel for Saturday, March 26 Tuesday, March 29 Happy Hour and food. Leader: Phylllis Hilton, 372- WALK: CELEBRATE OUR GREENBELT SENIOR HIKE: ROARING CAMP / 5-6 miles with 800' elevation gain with a chance to 1714, cell 869-9811. ARANA GULCH HENRY COWELL find some early wildflowers. We’ll drive over Hwy. Join the Sierra Club and Friends of Arana Gulch for We’ll walk from railroad cars thru Roaring Camp and 17 to Stevens Creek County Park. Meet at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, March 20 a walk to learn and experience the natural history climb to top of Bear Mtn. where we’ll have lunch. at the Santa Cruz County Government Center to Hike: Danish Creek of the City’s smallest greenbelt, Arana Gulch. This Restrooms. Moderate uphill. Meet before 9:30 a.m. carpool. Call Nick for additional information. Lead- er: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101. We’ll begin our journey at Los Padres Dam in the is a unique coastal terrace prairie grassland bound- at Sears 41st Ave. To go direct, take Graham Hill Rd. northern portion of Los Padres National Forest. ed by creeks and their riparian habitats—integral drive past Roaring Camp entrance to Roaring Camp Hiking up the Carmel River Trail to the Big Pines components of the historic Woods Lagoon. Meet at Drive on your right to park. Bring water, lunch, $3 Trail then down to secluded Danish Creek Camp the Agnes St. entrance (Soquel Ave., then south on carpool. Leader: Helena Cantin, 438-4523. for lunch. 9 miles and 1400' elevation gain. Expect Mentel or Park Way where parking is available), at poison oak and possible ticks. Please call for meeting 10:30 a.m., returning before noon. Rain will cancel; Tuesday, March 29 place and time. Leader: Larry Parrish, 622-7455. the walk would then be rescheduled to April 16. Call Photo Hike: Toro Park leaders Celia and Peter Scott at 423-0796 for info. The goal will be photographing flowers. This is not a Sunday - Friday, March 20 - 25 workshop. I am not an expert, just an avid amateur. WORK PARTY: CARRIZO Plains Saturday, March 26 Hike along the Ollason Trail to the view under the This outing includes 3½ days of service removing and Hike: East Garland oak trees for lunch—if we get that far, returning the modifying fences to allow pronghorn to travel more Let’s see how many wildflowers are out. We’ll start widely. This is the early spring wildflower season, and from Garzas Creek and climb to Vasques Knob. Sev- our schedule allows at least a day for exploring. Be- eral of the trails are shady but the sunny meadows cause we are privileged to stay at one of the old ranch should be full of flowers. Beautiful views. 8 miles and houses, our trip is limited to 14 participants. $30 1800' elevation gain. Bring water and lunch. Heavy covers five dinners. Contact leader: Craig Deutsche, rain cancels. Meet at Mid Valley Safeway opposite 310-477-6670, [email protected]. the bank at 9:00 a.m. to carpool. Please call a day ahead. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467. Tuesday, March 22 SENIOR HIKE: UCSC RINCON Saturday - Monday, March 26 - 28 Easy to moderate 2½-mile hike. Gradual uphill on WORK PARTY: WHIPPLE MTS WILDERNESS Rincon Trail to Merrill College on UCSC campus. Join CA/NV Wilderness Committee and Mojave We’ll eat lunch at the college. Meet before 9:30 a.m. Group on their annual joint outing to help BLM’s at Sears 41st Ave. To go direct, take Hwy. 9 about 1½ Needles office enhance wilderness in this desert area. miles to Rincon parking area on the right before 9:50 The Whipples are our planned destination and the a.m. Bring lunch, water, $2 carpool. Leader: Brooke rumor is that there will be Saguaro cactus. Central Ewoldson, 475-6188. commissary. Contact Vicky Hoover, 415-977-5527 or [email protected]. Wednesday, March 23 Hike: Fall Creek Fir, oak, and madrone dominate the area. The park is known for its 15 varieties of ferns. We’ll cross the creek one or two times, a little rock-hopping in- To change address by email: volved. 7 miles, 1000' elevation gain. Bring water [email protected] and lunch. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. Membership inquiries: Leader: Tom Davey, 331-8430. [email protected]

Please recycle this paper again The Sierra Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 13 O u t i n g s

Saturday, April 2 and lunch. Meet before 9:00 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. water, $2 carpool. Leader: Pat Herzog, 458-9841. redwood groves to the Rocky Ridge Trail. We’ll end Hike: Toro Park Bring your share of park entrance fee. Leader: Tom near Soberanes Creek. A beautiful, rugged 6 miles Let’s do the “grand tour” of Toro Park and enjoy the Davey, 331-8430. Tuesday, April 12 with 1000' of elevation gain. Bring lunch, water, and early spring flowers and views along the way. We’ll go Hike: Point Lobos wear good boots. Call early for reservation, meeting up via Ollason Trail to Valley View Peak and come Friday, April 8 Point Lobos at peak wildflower season—wow!! Be- time and place. Leader: Larry Parrish, 622-7455. down via Toyon and East Ridge Trails. Great views. Senior Hike: Carmel River Beach sides numerous wildflowers, expect magnificent 8-10 miles. Bring water and lunch; heavy rain can- Join me for a scenic walk to Monastery Beach along views and a variety of wildlife. 5 miles with minimal Tuesday, April 19 cels. Meet at the dirt parking lot outside the main the coast. This is a great place to observe and photo- elevation gain. Bring water & lunch. Arrive early; SENIOR HIKE: TORO PARK entrance of Toro Park at 9:00 a.m. Call for a space. graph sea otters and possibly pups feeding and play- we depart at 9:30 a.m. sharp from Rio Road Park & We’ll hike the Oliason Trail and hopefully see great Leader: Monique Fargues, 384-3234. ing in the surf. Shorebirds are abundant. Meet at the Ride in Carmel. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn wildflowers. 3 miles with one uphill section. Meet Carmel River Beach parking lot at the end of Monte Bomberger, 375-7777. before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Toro Park at Sunday, April 3 Verde in Carmel at 10:30 a.m. We’ll have lunch on the next to last parking lot near bathrooms at 10:40 WALK: CELEBRATE OUR GREENBELT one of the lovely sandy beaches beside the trail. Bring Friday, April 15 a.m. Bring water, lunch, sit-upon, and $5 carpool. THE MOORE CREEK PRESERVE lunch and water, and optional binoculars. Call for Hike: Pacheco State Park Toro Park is off East. Hwy. 68 between Monterey & Join us to explore the 246-acre Moore Creek Preserve. more information. Leader: Phyllis Hilton, 372-1714. Near Pacheco Pass is a windswept area of rolling hills, Salinas. Leader: Bev Meschi, 475-4185. The Preserve, located within the most pristine water- secluded meadows, and in the spring fabulous wild- shed in the City of Santa Cruz on the western edge Saturday, April 9 flowers. We’ll walk a 6-mile loop with some steep Tuesday, April 19 of the City, was acquired in 1998 with funds from HIKE: BUTANO STATE PARK ups and downs. Bring lunch, water, sturdy shoes, Hike: Jacks Peak a voter-approved bond measure. We’ll hike up from Beautiful Butano loop hike beginning at the Año and optional camera. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at REI (next Jacks Peak offers quiet forested trails with great views Hwy. 1 and Shaffer Rd., taking in the scenic coastal Nuevo Trail to Trail Camp where we’ll stop for to wall) in Marina. Santa Cruz area hikers meet at of Monterey, the Bay, and Carmel Valley. 5-6 miles, prairie habitat, with fine views across Monterey Bay, lunch. Return via Canyon Trail and Jackson Flats 9:00 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. (no leader) and go direct. with 700' elevation gain at a moderate pace. Bring keeping an eye out for the special status species that Trail. 9 miles and 1300' elevation gain. Meet at the Take Hwy 152 east to Pacheco Pass, turn right on water & lunch. Meet before 10:00 a.m. at NW cor- inhabit this place. We’ll meet at 9:30 a.m. at Shaffer Santa Cruz County Government Center at 8:30 a.m. Dinosaur Point Rd, then right at park entrance. Be ner of Whole Foods lot in Monterey. Please, let me Road on the south side of Hwy. 1, where parking is Bring water, lunch, carpool $, and wear hiking shoes. at Pacheco State Park parking area ($) by 10.30 a.m. know if you are coming. Leader: Gisela Nobinger, available, returning before noon. Call leaders Celia Rain cancels. Leader: Pamela Burnham, 428-2796. Leaders: Cath Farrant and Mary Dainton, 372 7427. 333-1759 or [email protected]. and Peter Scott, 423-0796 for information. Sunday, April 10 Saturday, April 16 Saturday, April 23 Sunday, April 3 Hike: Pinnacles/North Wilderness Hike: Ft. Ord Public Lands WALK: GEOLOGY TOUR AT AÑO NUEVO Walk: Point Lobos My all-time favorite place to hike, the Pinnacles has it We’ll look for an early Mariposa Lily, C. unifloris, Another great walk with geologist Jerry Weber. We’ll Spring is sprung! Let’s go find some flowers along the all: wildflowers, unusual geology, warm weather, and among other flowers. 8 miles and 800' elevation gain. explore the geology of Point Año Nuevo and the San north shore out to Ixchenta Point and back around birds. Condors to Preying Mantis, I never fail to see Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Santa Cruz County Govern- Gregorio fault zone. The faults visible in the sea cliff Whalers Cove at Point Lobos. Bring a snack to sus- something special. We’ll hike up Juniper Canyon and ment Center to carpool. Call Nick for additional in- make it one of the best exposed major fault zones tain you as we return via Sea Lion Point and the Lace over the High Peaks to the North Wilderness Trail formation. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101. in North America. Jerry will doubtless have lots of Lichen Trail. Meet at Rio Rd. Park & Ride at 10:00 for a 13-mile hike with 1300' elevation gain. Bring stories to tell, in particular the fiasco of PG&E and a.m., bring binoculars and dress in layers; expect to lots of water and a big lunch. Meet at Sears 41st Ave. Saturday, April 16 the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant. We’ll meet return by 1:00 p.m. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565. at 7:45 a.m. Monterey hikers call for carpool infor- Hike: Garland Park at 9:00 a.m., and spend about 5 hours. Bring lunch mation. Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253. Hike up to the Mesa via foothill trails, Buckeye and and water. Limited to 25; call leaders Celia or Peter Wednesday, April 6 Waterfall, back via Fern, Mesa, and Lupine Loop Scott, 423-0796 to reserve a spot. Hike: Berry Creek Falls Sunday - Saturday, April 10 - 16 Trails. Nice valley views, wildflowers. +4 miles. Meet We’ll start this hike from the Big Basin headquarters. SERVICE TRIP/BACKPACK: ESCALANTE at Rio Road Park & Ride to carpool. Call leader to Saturday, April 23 This hike is an in and out that follows Kelly Creek We’ll work with Nat’l Park Ranger Bill Wolverton reserve space and for time. Bring food and water. Hike: Fort Ord Public Grasslands and West Waddell Creek to Berry Creek Falls. This to eradicate Russian olive using loppers, small hand- Rain cancels. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215. We’ll enjoy spring flowers starting at the entrance on trail goes through a very green and lush part of the saws, and herbicide. Meet in Escalante, UT Sunday Hwy. 68, going up via Guidotti and Skyline Roads park where almost all of the redwood trees are old morning, caravan to the trailhead and hike in about Saturday - Sunday, April 16 - 17 for a 10-mile hike. Bring water and lunch. Heavy growth. 7½ miles, 1300' elevation gain. Bring water 7 miles. Expect knee- to thigh-deep river crossings SERVICE TRIP: Carrizo Plains rain cancels. Meet at the trailhead at 8:30 a.m; call and some bushwhacking. Participants must follow On Sat., we’ll assist monument staff in removing for a space. A few well-behaved dogs welcome by pre- work-clothing requirements, provide their own food arrangement. Leader: Monique Fargues, 384.3234. Moving? fence wires to allow pronghorn antelope freer access and gear on the trail, and travel expenses. For more to the range. Sun. is reserved for sightseeing. The info contact leader, Paul Plathe, 209-476-1498. views from the Caliente Mountains are spectacular; Tuesday, April 26 Please fill out and mail the change of spring flowers may still be blooming; and the monu- SENIOR HIKE: WILDER address form on p.15 or email Tuesday, April 12 ment is known for its number and variety of raptors. We’ll begin at the parking area on right side of Hwy. [email protected] SENIOR HIKE: PARADISE PARK/RINCON Contact leader Craig Deutsche, 310-477-6670, or 1 just past Quilted Fish sign, about 2 miles past The post office charges us 70¢ each if Enjoy the many spring flowers. We’ll walk a fire road [email protected]. Wilder entrance. Steep uphill thru Enchanted For- they handle the address change. to Hwy. 9, cross over to Rincon Trail and then down- est Cyn, then back. 3+ miles. Meet before 9:30 a.m. Please help the Club by handling hill to the San Lorenzo River. Meet before 9:30 a.m. Sunday, April 17 at Sears 41st Ave. or at Shen’s Gallery, Mission & address changes in a timely fashion. at Sears 41st Ave. To go direct, take Hwy. 9 to Para- Hike: Mal Paso Wildflowers King at 9:50 a.m. Bring lunch, water, sit-upon, $3 dise Park entrance. Follow signs to Picnic Grounds. carpool. Leader: Brooke Ewoldson, 475-6188. Thanks! We’ll go up a road above Mal Paso Creek, crossing Lunch at picnic grounds. Restrooms. Bring lunch, the creek, then up a steep ridge, and finally thru some

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14 The ierraS Club 1 Ventana Chapter, Volume 50, Number 1, 2011 Printed on recycled paper Ventana Chapter Mailing Address—The Ventana Chapter, P.O. Box 5667, Carmel, CA, 93921 Email: [email protected]—Website: www.ventana.sierraclub.org

Chapter Executive Committee Chapter Chair Treasurer Joel Weinstein 140 Carmel Riviera Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 625-5586 Other Members Julie Engell 331 Dry Creek Road Monterey, CA 920-2734 Ed Thornton 402 Watson Street #4 Monterey, CA 93940 224-4178 Dale Agron 26122 Carmel Knolls Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 624-3038 David Kossack P.O. Box 268 Davenport, CA 95017 427-3733 Natalie Zayas 3070 Redwood Drive Marina, CA 93933 402-8039 Barbara Bass Evans 781 Terry Street Monterey, CA 93940 372-8323 Iris Peppard 1022 Scott Court Marina, CA 93933 384-6961 Tom Moore 3235 Isla del Sol Way Marina, CA 93933 384-3234 Secretary Mary Gale 25430 Telarana Way Carmel, CA 93923 626-3565 Coastal Chair Barbara Bass Evans 781 Terry Street Monterey, CA 93940 372-8323 Conservation Committee Julie Engell 331 Dry Creek Road Monterey, CA 920-2734 Steve Zmak 3200 Crescent Ave. Marina, CA 93933 883-4459 Gillian Taylor 52 La Rancheria Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-0298 Rita Dalessio 16 Via Las Encinas Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-7046 Dale Agron 26122 Carmel Knolls Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 624-3038 Local Wilderness Committee Chair Mike Splain P.O. Box 66882 Scotts Valley, CA 95067 359-2489 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 531-2909 David Kossack P.O. Box 268 Davenport, CA 95017 427-3733 Deirdre Des Jardins Santa Cruz, CA 95060 423-6857 Political Compliance Chair George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 531-2909 Sierra Club Council Delegate David Kossack P.O. Box 268 Davenport, CA 95017 427-3733 Alternate Rita Dalessio 16 Via Las Encinas Carmel Valley, CA 93924 659-7046 Transportation Committee Chair Neil Agron 26122 Carmel Knolls Dr. Carmel, CA 93923 624-3038 Outings Chair Anneliese Suter 9500 Center St. #53 Carmel, CA 93923 624-1467 Membership Chair Deirdre Des Jardins Santa Cruz, CA 95060 423-6857 Ventana Editor Debbie Bulger 1603 King Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060 457-1036 Pajaro River Committee Lois Robin [email protected] 861-464-1184 VEGAN SHOES Santa Cruz County Group of the Ventana Chapter Website: www.ventana.sierraclub.org Mailing Address: Sierra Club, Santa Cruz Group, P.O. Box 604, Santa Cruz, CA 95061-0604 email: [email protected]

Executive Committee Chair Kevin Collins P.O. Box 722 Felton, CA 95018 335-4196 Vice Chair Mike Guth 2-2905 East Cliff Drive Santa Cruz, CA 95062 462-8270 Secretary/Treas. Mark Sullivan 508 Oak Drive Capitola, CA 95010 747-4781 Other members Charles Paulden 415 Palisades Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 462-3423 Dennis Davie P.O. Box 651 Capitola, CA 95010 566-7447 Keresha Durham c/o 1231 Bay Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060 435-1227 David Casterson 1500 Valencia School Rd Aptos, CA 95003 588-2068 John Howerton 2672 Quartz Street Santa Cruz, CA 95062 476-4253 Conservation Chair Patricia Matejcek P.O. Box 2067 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 761-3263 Forestry Chair Dennis Davie P.O. Box 651 Capitola, CA 95010 566-7447 Outings Chair George Jammal 601 Manzanita Ave. Felton, CA 95018 531-2909 Transportation Chair Paul Elerick 1960 Jennifer Dr. Aptos, CA 95003 688-2304 Coastal Chair Patricia Matejcek P.O. Box 2067 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 761-3263 Water Chair Ken Reiller 990 Hecker Pass Rd. Watsonville, CA 95076 728-4046

M e e t i n g S c h e d u l e

Ventana Chapter (Monterey County) Santa Cruz Regional Group Information: 624-8032 Executive Committee: Executive Committee: Second Wednesday of the month; First Thursday of the month; Call 460-1538 for meeting place and time. Call for meeting place and time. Conservation Committee: Call 761-3263 for meeting dates and times. Forestry Task Force: Third Wednesday of the month, 7:30 p.m.; Call 566-7447 for meeting location.

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