Regional in Nature January - February 2011 Regional Park District Activity Guide www.ebparks.org

“Park District Naturalists in Bay Nature Magazine” Page 3 inside. Photo: Joan Hamilton Joan Photo:

Inside: Introduction to Golf • page 4

Fun for the Kids at Ardenwood • page 5

A Free Monarchs at Ardenwood • page 6 Program! See See Black Diamond in Ansel Adams’ Footsteps • page 7 Inside

Make a Indian Basket • page 8

Kids’ Programs at Crab Cove and TNA • page 9 Contents General Manager Pat O’Brien Announces Retirement Pat O’Brien, the East Bay Regional parkland development in the East Bay; Recreation ...... 4 Park District’s General Manager since • Expansion of the agency from Boating & Fishing ...... 4 1988, will retire from his post at the 66,000 acres in 1988 to over 104,000 end of 2010. acres today–an achievement that Ardenwood ...... 5-6 “With regret our board has distinguishes the Park District as Black Diamond ...... 7 received notice of the impending the largest local park and recreation Botanic Garden ...... 8 retirement of our longtime General agency in the United States; Manager, Pat O’Brien,” said Doug • Dramatically increased public Coyote Hills ...... 7-8 Siden, President of the Park District’s access to parklands by expanding from Crab Cove ...... 8-9 Board of Directors. “Under his 48 to 65 parks, adding over 100 miles Sunol ...... 8-9 outstanding leadership over 22 years, of regional trails, and increasing the O’Brien has made EBRPD the nation’s scope and range of recreational and Tilden Nature Area ...... 9 premier park agency.” educational programs and services; Other Regional Parks ...... 9-12 “Pat’s leadership and hands- • Developed many partnerships Volunteer Programs ...... 10-11, 14 on involvement with the Board of and collaborations with non-profi ts, Directors has resulted in signifi cant universities and community colleges, Park District Awarded Green Transportation Grant ...... 13 benefi ts for the residents of the and other public agencies, which for me as I am so committed to the East Bay area and beyond,” said has resulting in the development of Regional Park District, its mission, Hiking Adventures With Siden. “Adding 38,000 acres of large-scale capital projects such as the Board, and the incredible staff “4WheelBob” ...... 14 parklands for the public to access and Camp Arroyo, the youth camp and who work to accomplish what other Regional Parks Police Earn enjoy, for example, is one of many environmental education center near agencies cannot even contemplate.” CALEA Accreditation ...... 14 accomplishments that make governing Livermore, and the Tidewater Aquatic Prior to joining the Park District in Registration & Fees ...... 15 this agency so rewarding,” said Siden. Center at Martin Luther King, Jr., 1988, O’Brien was general manager Visitor Centers/ “Pat surely will be missed.” Regional Shoreline in Oakland and of Southgate Recreation and Park Swim Areas ...... 15 In a statement, the outgoing the Delta Science Center at Big Break District in Sacramento, California. He general manager said, “I am very Regional Shoreline in Oakley – both served as Southgate’s superintendent appreciative of the Board of Direc- slated to open next year; of recreation from 1974-1980. He got tors, our staff, and the citizens of the • Incorporated the greater his start in parks and recreation as a East Bay, and the various organizations Livermore Area into the Park District, lifeguard. that have partnered with us over expanding it to fully encompass He holds a master’s degree in time to accomplish acquisitions, and Contra Costa counties. linguistic philosophy and a bachelor’s development, restorations and O’Brien’s has been honored degree in philosophy with a minor in incredible public programs.” with numerous awards and other recreation administration from San O’Brien’s retirement on recognition nationally, including being Francisco State University. December 31 comes after years of honored in 2009 as a “Legend in the O’Brien is an avid water sports unprecedented accomplishments Field” by the American Academy for enthusiast. He is looking forward to during his 22-year tenure, including: Park and Recreation Administration. staying actively involved in state and • Passage of Measure WW, a $500 O’Brien, 70, will leave behind a federal legislative issues and plans million bond–the largest park bond lasting legacy of preservation for to travel with his wife Diana and ever ratifi ed in the nation to fund the generations. “As you might imagine,” spend more time enjoying his three next generation of open space and he says, “this is not an easy decision grandchildren. General Information / Free Brochure ...... 1-888-EBPARKS Camping & Picnic Reservations ...... 1-888-EBPARKS The 2011 Trails Challenge Kick Off Naturalist & Recreation The East Bay Regional Park District will begin taking a continued partnership with Kaiser Permanente, this Programs ...... 1-888-EBPARKS registrations for its 2011 Trails Challenge on January 18. year’s Trails Challenge is free and includes an online TDD ...... 510-633-0460 This is the 18th year for this self-guided hiking program hiking booklet and T-shirt. All registration must be done Website ...... www.ebparks.org which encourages people to get outside and explore online at www.ebparks.org. Look for the Trails Challenge the many parks and trails in the East Bay. Last year, over logo. Details are also on the back of this activity guide. 5,000 hikers, walkers, and cyclists signed up. Thanks to Happy trails!

EBRPD Board of Directors Whitney Dotson...... Ward 1 John Sutter ...... Ward 2 Carol Severin ...... Ward 3 Douglas Siden ...... Ward 4 Ayn Wieskamp ...... Ward 5 Beverly Lane ...... Ward 6 A Free Ted Radke ...... Ward 7 Program Robert E. Doyle ...... General Manager

Visit www.ebparks.org for map downloads, activity and event information, and much more! Photo: Hillary Van Austen Look Out for Newts Health By Jessica Sheppard, Resource Analyst The late fall rains do more than green up our parks, they also awaken Matters one of our more famous salamanders: The California newt. Looking like a small brown lizard, newts are actually amphibians–they don’t have scales! East Bay They rest all summer in preparation for the slow and steady journey to the Regional Park District breeding ponds or streams every winter. AND The California newt, essentially the mascot of Tilden Nature Area in Tilden Regional Park, enjoys some personal protection for its annual migration. Based on staff research in partnership with UC Berkeley, the Park District ARE PROUD PARTNERS IN 2011 WITH THE MUTUAL GOAL closes South Park Drive in Tilden Regional Park during the rainy season. OF PROMOTING HEALTH AND FITNESS. The Stewardship department supports this closure and recognizes the importance of wildlife corridors to maintain healthy populations. Aware Find Your Fitness of worldwide decline of amphibian populations, the Park District has been Are you bored with your current conducting long-term amphibian studies within our parks. Amphibian exercise program? It may be and wildlife reports are available on our website at www.ebparks.org/ because you haven’t found the stewardship/wildlife. right exercise for you. Figuring out Many hikers enjoy the closed road and may be rewarded with a glimpse what motivates you and fi nding the of a newt determinedly hiking in damp weather. The newts are protected right exercise to match is the key! from being eaten by the poison in their skin and can afford to be slow. Take a moment to fi gure out Unfortunately the toxins don’t help them against vehicles. Before the annual which activities suit you, then road closures, hundreds of newts were killed daily. go for it! Weight Management If you want to learn more about the California newt and what happens – aerobic activities like walking, when they all get together in those full ponds, join a naturalist-led newt jogging, swimming, biking, and aerobic classes burn the most

Photo: llana Peterson program this winter (see pages 9 and 10). You’ll be amazed at how romantic life can be for a newt living in the safety of our parks. calories. Weightlifting is good too. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn. In Tune with Your Body – try yoga, swimming, dance, and martial Spring and Summer arts as they use the whole body. A Park District naturalist Improving or Maintaining Health leads a program exploring – Exercise regularly, aim for 30 to Jobs in the Parks the Bay at Crab Cove. 60 minutes a day. Relieve Stress – The East Bay Regionalegional Try relaxing activities like tai chi Park District offersffers a or yoga. Repetitive exercises such variety of seasonalonal ffull-ull- as running, lap swimming, rowing, time and part-timeime jjobs,obs, or skating work, too. Being including lifeguardsards and Social – Start or join a walking or recreation leaders.ers. jogging club or commit to a series These positionss are

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working outdoors.ors. J J : J o: J o: o t try something completely new, The District alsoo ooffersffers o hot h two training programsograms forfor Hamilton Joan Photo: Phot Pho like fencing or windsurfi ng. Or try student aides too work year-year- something you never thought you round at the visitorsitor centers ParkPark District Naturalists could do, like running a marathon, or at Public Safety.ety. ForFor in BayBay Nature Magazine mountain climbing, or distance more information,on, swimming. contact the Human In its January-MarchJanua 2011 issue, Bay Nature Now that you’ve picked an Resources mmagazineagazine will showcase the remarkable work exercise that matches your Division, ooff East BayB Regional Park District staff motivation, the next step is 2950 Peralta naturalnaturalists,i who help thousands of kids and to get out there and get moving! adults connect with nature every year. Oaks Court, KAISER PERMANENTE IS A MAJOR BaBayy NNature’s tenth anniversary issue will Oakland, CA SPONSOR OF THE PARK DISTRICT’S also featuref the winners of its “People 94605, phone 2011 TRAILS CHALLENGE. TO LEARN (510)544-2154, in NNature” photo contest and a series MORE ABOUT GETTING IN SHAPE AND or go to www. ooff eessays from prominent local writers. HEALTHY LIFESTYLES, VISIT WWW.KP.ORG ebparks.org. ChCheck it all out at baynature.org. (YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE A MEMBER OF KAISER TO RECEIVE INFORMATION). Register online: www.ebparksonline.org or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 BOATING / KAYAKING

RECREATION PRACTICE HIKE WITH POLES FITNESS FOR THE TRAIL Black Diamond Jayah Faye Paley AND FOR LIFE 1-4pm, Sat, Feb 19 #25904 Kennedy Grove Jayah Faye Paley If you’ve taken any poles for hiking class, 9:45am-12:15pm, Sat, Feb 12 #25900 you know the benefi ts and basics. This is If you want to achieve or maintain endur- your chance to practice and refi ne your ance, balance and strength, this fun class skills on the trail. We’ll enjoy beautiful will show you ways to gently work fi tness scenery and work on techniques to more into your life. Having a sustainable founda- completely enjoy your outdoor adven- tion can make a huge difference in your tures. Top quality poles provided. 18+yrs. quality of life and your ability to enjoy the Registration is required. outdoors. 18+yrs. Fee: $20 (non-res. $22) Registration is required. Fee: $20 (non-res. $22) PET FIRST AID/CPR Lake Chabot Peter Pay POLES FOR MOBILITY, 9am-1pm, Sat, Feb 26 #25806 Lake Chabot Marina. Photo by John Krzesinski. BALANCE & WALKING Learn how to save a pet’s life during an Kennedy Grove Jayah Faye Paley emergency, minimize a pet’s trauma after KAYAKING resident and migratory birds, as well 1-4:15pm, Sat, Feb 12 #25901 injury and safely transport an injured pet FOR FOLKS 50+ as exploration of the unique surround- Learn how to use poles to achieve, to the veterinary clinic. This program Lake Chabot Current Adventures ings and paddling opportunities for this maintain, and even regain mobility. Feel concentrates on basic fi rst aid, includ- Noon-3pm, Sat, Jan 15 #25825 uncrowded jewel for paddlers. Parent Taller! Learn vital skills for walking. Im- ing wounds, fractures, chocking, cardiac Learn kayaking skills with your peers participation is required for kids age prove gait, posture, endurance, function, emergency and snake bites. Booklet and at a pace that is right for you. Learn 8-17. 8+yrs and strength. Easy-to-learn techniques certifi cate available for purchase during paddling techniques, equipment se- Registration is required. and gentle excercises help you navigate class.12+yrs. lection, and safety guidelines in calm Fee $65 (non-res. $73) Registration is required. everyday obstacles and continue to enjoy waters. Then practice what you have DISCOVER KAYAKING the outdoors. Top-quality poles provided. Fee: $45 (non-res. $51) learned touring the lake in a single Lake Chabot 18+yrs. kayak (double kayaks available upon Current Adventures Registration is required. request). 50+yrs. 11am-3:30pm, Sat, Feb 19 #25818 Fee: $35 (non-res. $39) Registration is required. Get in-depth instruction for paddling BEGINNING Fee: $60 50-61yrs/$55 62+yrs. USING POLES BICYCLE from certified instructors. Learn (non-res. $66/$61) equipment selection and basic paddling FOR HIKING AND WALKING MLK Shoreline Recreation Staff techniques while touring the lake in a Black Diamond Jayah Faye Paley 1-3PM, Sat, Jan 15 & Jan 22 KAYAKING – single kayak (double kayaks available 9:30am-12:30pm, Sat, Feb 19 #25903 Outdoor exercise for all ages! Join EXPLORING ARROWHEAD upon request). You’ll have lots of time POWER with poles! Using your whole Recreation staff on an easy (4.5 MARSH to practice as we explore the lake. body while hiking feels GOOD. Learn vital mile) bike ride along the Bay Trail MLK Shoreline Current Adventures 5+yrs. Parent participation is required skills to reduce knee stress, improve en- at MLK Regional Shoreline. Pedal Noon-3:30pm, Sat, Feb 5 #25832 for ages 5-13 years. durance, strength, posture, and balance. along for fantastic views of San A trip from the new EBRPD facility Registration is required. Learn which poles suit you best and how Leandro Bay and local wildlife, and into the nearby and Fee: $65 (non-res. $72) to use core muscles to help preserve your all with ocean breeze through your . Wildlife including joints. Top quality poles provided. 18+yrs. hair! Bring a snack, water bottle, Registration is required. and sense of adventure! Limited Fee: $35 (non-res. $39) supply of loaner bikes and helmets FISHING available. Dress accordingly. Meet at the Tidewater Boating Center INTRO TO FLY-FISHING – FISHING – GOLF– at Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline. Fish 1st! INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION Call 510-544-2559 for more infor- Lake Anza Fish First! Del Valle, Contra Loma mation. Rain cancels. Tilden Golf Course 10am-4pm: Sun, Jan 9 #25897 Outdoor Recreation Staff Amer.Golf Corp Sun, Feb 13 #25898 8-10am, Sat, Jan 22 #25781, Del This exciting and informative day is Valle; 8-10am, Sat, Feb 19 #25803, 10:30am-noon, Sat, Jan 29 #25857 geared toward the beginning angler. Contra Loma 1-2:30pm, Sun, Feb 27 #25859 Spend three hours at Lake Anza This class is perfect for anyone Learn pre-shot and full-swing fun- WILDERNESS TRIPS practicing casting with a certifi ed interested in getting started with damentals, and become familiar fl y-casting instructor. Then enjoy the sport of fi shing. Participants will with terminology/equipment. Golf Join Park Naturalist and Recreation two-1/2 hours of classroom instruc- learn the basics including knot tying balls and loaner clubs are provided. staff for fun & exciting wilderness tion where you will be introduced and rigging, gear and bait selection, Participants will receive a free $20 trips in your local Regional Parks. to knots, fl y selection, reading the and casting techniques. A California range card for use at the driving Learn about your natural environ- water, and more. State Fishing License is required for range and $20 off a future class at ment, and backpacking skills with Registration is required. participants 16yrs+. Gear provided. the golf course. 14+yrs. other likeminded people. Trips Fee: $60 (non-res. $66) Parent participation is required for Registration is required. are available for all levels of hikers, ages 5-15 years. 5+yrs Fee: $50 (non-res. $56) loaner gear available (while sup- Registration is required. plies last), and trips vary in theme Fee: $19 (non-res. $21) to meet a variety of interests. Participants are expected to be in good physical condition. For more information call (510) 544-2558. Watch future issues for Wilderness Trips opportunities.

4 Info–Ardenwood: (510) 544-2797; Black Diamond: (510) 544-2750; Botanic Garden: (510) 544-3169; Coyote Hills: (510) 544-3220; Crab Cove: (510) 544-3187; Sunol: (510) 544-3249; Tilden Nature Area: (510) 544-2233 ARDENWOOD Register online: www.ebparksonline.org Ardenwood is open Tues. - Sun. from or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 10am-4pm. House tours are available by reservation only (call 510-791-4196). Food service, blacksmithing demonstra- tions and train rides will return in April. VALENTINE TUSSIE MUSSIES OLD-FASHIONED SOAP KIDS CHALLENGE Admission fees apply. For program and Ardenwood Sara Witt Ardenwood fee information, call (510) 544-2797, 12:30-2pm, Sun, Feb13 Melissa Fowlks & Sara Witt The 2011 Kids Challenge program is [email protected] or www.ebparks. Victorians assigned meanings to fl owers 1-3pm, Sat, Feb 19 based on the California Children’s org. and sent messages via “tussie-mussies.” Join us as we mix up a batch of old fash- Outdoor Bill of Rights, which Select a few signifi cant blooms and create ioned soap. Don’t buy your next bar at the recommends a fundamental list of BALMS & SALVES your own “nosegay with a message” for store! Take a recipe and make your own. Ardenwood Trent Pearce your Valentine. experiences that every child would COWBOY COFFEE benefi t from before entering high 2-3pm, Sun, Feb 6 FABULOUS FUNGI Ardenwood Trent Pearce school. This program is self-paced With cold weather comes cracked hands Ardenwood Trent Pearce 11am-noon, Sun, Feb 20 and challenges youth to complete 5 and chapped lips. Learn how to make 2-3pm, Sun, Feb 13 There’s one sure-fi re way to start a chilly of the 10 activities listed in the Bill your own lip balm and hand salve using all Mushrooms are mysterious and majestic! morning: a hot cup of coffee. Learn how of Rights. Some activities require natural ingredients, and take home your Learn to identify the wild mushrooms of coffee was made on the farm before the parent participation and/or addi- fi n i s h e d p r o d u c t . the nearest grocery store, then take a drip machine, and sample the results. tional fees. Register to receive the COUNTING SHEEP short stroll to see if any are sprouting guide booklet and a special prize to Ardenwood Christina Garcia on the farm. help you get started (1 per child, 1:30-3pm, Sat, Feb 12, 26 while supplies last). A commemora- We’ll start with a yarn about wool before tive patch and EBRPD Frisbee will visiting our fl eeciest friends. Along the be sent after completing the chal- way we’ll learn about these wooly won- FOR THE KIDS AT THE FARM lenge (1 per child, while supplies ders and prepare a special snack for the last). Registration is required: call farm’s fl ock. Meet at the Granary. 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757) option 2, 3 during business hours. STORIES BY THE STOVE Course code: 25907 Ardenwood Interpretive Staff 11am-noon, Sun, Feb 13 Cozy up to the old wood-burning stove while we read some favorite farm stories and even meet a character or two! Meet at the Granary.

A program of EBRPD in partnership with . . .

Bring your toddler to Ardenwood to meet and feed sheep, goats, rabbits, and other cute, furry, kid-friendly TRAILS CHALLENGE creatures. The historic farm in Fremont offers many activities especially for kids, including Farm Chrores and Fixin’ Feed (see below), Monarchs for Kids (see description on page 6), and springtime programs in March and April such as Farmyard Storytime and others. Photo by Amy Kwok. Thousands of people like you have participated in this program, last ANIMAL FEEDING MEET THE BUNNIES year over 10,000 people! The Ardenwood Interpretive Staff Ardenwood Interpretive Staff program challenges participants to 3pm, Thursdays through Sundays, 11:30am-noon, Sat, Feb 19 complete 5 of the featured trails in Jan-Feb Come meet the farm rabbits. Learn the guide booklet by December 1. Slop the hogs, check for eggs, and why they have big ears, their favorite The booklet features trails for all bring hay to the livestock. Learn all food and how they communicate. levels of fi tness and all types of trail the animals’ favorite foods as we help See if you can fi nd the softest part of a users as well as a variety of tips for tuck them in for the evening. Meet at bunny. Meet in the Farmyard. new trail users. We are encouraging the Chicken Coop. participants to go “green” by using HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FARM CHORES FOR KIDS the downloadable version of the MR. LINCOLN! TODDLER TIME– Ardenwood Christina Garcia booklet and printing only what you Ardenwood Sara Witt WINTER EDITION 11am-noon, Sat, Feb 26 need; hard copies are available for 12:30-1:30pm, Sat, Feb 12 Ardenwood Ira Bletz There’s lots of work to do on the farm. $5. With registration you will re- Come out to help us celebrate 11-11:30am, Tue, Jan 11, 18, 25, Feb Help grind corn, gather eggs, and feed ceive instructions on how to access Honest Abe on his 202nd birthday! 1, 8, 15 the farm critters as we do our daily and download the guide booklet as Learn about Mr. Lincoln. Make your Put on your rain boots and bring the farm chores. Meet at the Granary. well as other program materials, own stovepipe hat and enjoy our tiny tots out for an exciting, and maybe 16th president’s favorite dessert: wet, morning at the farm. Each day FIXIN’ FEED and a FREE organic T-shirt (while Ardenwood Interpretive Staff supplies last). A commemorative apple pie. we’ll meet and learn all about a new animal friend through stories, chores 1-2pm, Sun, Feb 27 pin will be sent once you complete Learn all about the many types of corn the challenge, pins will be mailed in and fun. Meet at the Granary. Jan. 11: Goats. Jan. 18: Chickens. Jan. 25: as you work with old equipment in the Fall (while supplies last). Kaiser the barn. Even the little ones can lend Permanente is a major sponsor of Sheep. Feb. 1: Rabbits. Feb. 8: Goats. Feb. 15: Sheep. a hand cracking corn for the animals. this program. Registration begins Meet at the Granary. January 18. Registration is required: visit www.ebparks.org & click on the “Features” section to get started. No phone registrations. 5 = Register at www.ebparksonline.org = Disabled accessible program = Parking fee may be charged = Kids Challenge program TEAS YOU’VE NEVER TASTED nest box designs for different birds, then Register online: www.ebparksonline.org assemble some for the birds here on the or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 Ardenwood Melissa Fowlks Noon-1pm, Sun, Feb 20 farm. So you’ve had tea, or have you? Come SONGS OF THE out and try some old-fashioned refresh- FARM & FIELD ments that you may not have had before. Ardenwood Trent Pearce Discover more about the world’s 2nd 11am-noon, Sun, Feb 27 most-popular drink! Gather round the wood stove and help BUILD A BIRD BOX sing traditional songs of work and play. Ardenwood Trent Pearce Bring an instrument if you’d like to play 2-3pm, Sun Feb 20 along–we’ll provide a songbook. Give a bird a new home for International Nest Box Week! We’ll discuss different

MONARCHS AT ARDENWOOD

FAN LANGUAGE Ardenwood Melissa Fowlks 12:30-1:30pm, Sun, Feb 6 ELECTRIC POTATOES Fans can speak! It wasn’t always Ardenwood Trent Pearce proper for Victorians to make 2-3pm, Sun, Feb 27 their intentions known. Proper For this “shocking” experiment, ladies used a fan to send messages we’ll attempt to squeeze electric- of interest and attraction. Learn ity out of a common potato. Then the ladylike art of fan language and we’ll try to get a charge from other create your own paper fan. farmyard fruits and veggies. Photo by William LaCrosse

NEW YEAR’S DAY butterfly during a 20-minute slide BUTTERFLY WALKS show. Learn about the incredible Ardenwood Christina Garcia journey these tiny animals make each 11:30am and 1:30pm, Sat, Jan 1 year and the increasing threats to their Start the year off right with an inspir- survival. Afterwards, take a short hike ing visit to a monarch butterfl y over- to look for overwintering monarchs in wintering site. Discover the amazing Ardenwood’s eucalyptus forest. Meet migration of these tiny creatures and at the Granary. how they survive the long cold season MONARCHS FOR KIDS in our eucalyptus trees. We’ll use spot- Ardenwood Interpretive Staff ting scopes to see these magnifi cent 11am-12:30pm, Sat, Jan 8, 22, and Sun, creatures up close and personal. Meet Jan 16 & 30 at the Granary. Young children will enjoy an interactive MONARCH puppet show all about monarch eggs, BUTTERFLY WALKS caterpillars, chrysalides, and butter- Ardenwood Interpretive Staff fl ies. Then they’ll take a short hike to 1:30pm, Every Sat and Sun in January see these amazing insects in action. Tour Ardenwood’s monarch over- Meet at the Granary. (3-6 yrs.) wintering site on an easy stroll of less FAREWELL TO MONARCHS than one mile. Search for clusters of DAY butterfl ies hanging from eucalyptus Ardenwood Christina Garcia branches and learn about the mysteri- 11am-3pm, Sat, Feb 5 ous migration of these majestic insects. A view across the fi elds of Ardenwood Historic Farm. Photo by Kameshwar Eranki. Learn about the migration and life Meet at the Granary. WALK ON THE WILD SIDE cycle of our winter resident butterfl ies Ardenwood Trent Pearce & Christina Garcia MEET THE MONARCHS through slide and puppet shows for all 10:30-11:30am, Sun, Feb 6 Ardenwood ages. Then make a fl uttery monarch 11am-noon, Sat, Feb 12 Christina Garcia & Trent Pearce wand and fl y it out to the monarch Beyond the fi elds, fences, and corrals live the wilder residents of the farm. Come 11am-noon, Sat, Jan 15, 29, and Sun, grove to say goodbye to the butterfl ies on an exploratory walk as we search for untamed creatures that also call the Jan 2, 9, 23 until next year. Meet in the Farmyard. park home. Discover the life cycle of the monarch

6 Info–Ardenwood: (510) 544-2797; Black Diamond: (510) 544-2750; Botanic Garden: (510) 544-3169; Coyote Hills: (510) 544-3220; Crab Cove: (510) 544-3187; Sunol: (510) 544-3249; Tilden Nature Area: (510) 544-2233 COYOTE HILLS FAMILY NATURE HOUR Register online: www.ebparksonline.org Coyote Hills Kristina Parkison The Coyote Hills Visitor Center is open or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The 2-3pm, Sat, Jan 8, 29, Feb 5, 26 and 10- Possum’s Pocket Nature Store has books, 11am, Sat, Feb 19 Get to know the natural world around American Indian items, nature games, tips and tricks needed to turn stalks of scraps into rich soil with the help of a few T-shirts and many other items for sale. you! Stories, games, and activities suitable for all ages communicate fun facts. Drop wheat into perfect holiday gifts. Enjoy friendly worms and interesting insects. For additional information call (510) tea and treats while creating handmade Your garden will thank you! 10+yrs 544-3220, or email [email protected]. in and check us out. Parent participation is required. Jan. 8: Claws, Paws, and gifts for loved ones. Parent participation Registration is required. NEW YEAR’S DAY HIKE Camoufl age. Jan. 29: Muskrat Ramble. is required. 10+yrs Registration is required. AMAZING ANIMALS Coyote Hills Kristina Parkison Feb. 5: Birds. Feb. 19: Animal Tracking. Coyote Hills Jamie Lease 12-3pm, Sat, Jan 1 #25766 Feb. 26: Reptiles and Amphibians. Fee: $15 (non-res. $17); Seniors: $15 (non-res Seniors $17) 2-3pm, Sat, Feb 12 New Year’s Day is for renewal–hike with What are antlers made of? How can look- us to explore the park, see birds and WELSH SWEETHEARTS Coyote Hills COMPOSTING: GETTING DOWN ing at teeth help you fi gure out what an wildlife and rejoice in the beauty nature AND DIRTY animal eats? Find out these answers and has to offer! Plus, it never hurts to get a Kristina Parkison/Jan Southworth Coyote Hills Jamie Lease more. Visit our Discovery Table! little exercise–probably on your list of 12:30-3:30pm, Sat, Jan 22 #25706 11am-noon, Sat, Feb 12 #25813 resolutions! 10+yrs Rediscover the joys of this ancient Learn the ins and outs of turning food Registration is required. craft–turning wheat into love tokens–a wonderful Valentine’s gift! Learn the

BLACK DIAMOND

All Black Diamond programs (unless otherwise noted) meet at the parking lot at the south end of Somersville Road in Antioch. For information call (510) 544- 2750, or email [email protected]. RESOLUTION HIKE IT’S A BLAST! Black Diamond Eddie Willis Black Diamond Kevin Damstra 9:30am-noon, Sun, Jan 9 10am-12:30pm, Sat, Feb 12 Begin a fresh new year with a challeng- Dug with dynamite, hollowed out by ing three mile hike through chaparral, hand; join us for a short explorative oaks, and mist-laden hilltops. We’ll hike and hands on activities to dis- also peek into the preserve’s past and cover how miners over the last 100 discuss its potential future. 8+yrs years excavated these hills. 5+yrs HAZEL-ATLAS SHOOTING THE LIGHT HISTORY HIKE Black Diamond Kevin Damstra Black Diamond Eddie Willis 8:30am-12:30pm. Sat, Feb 19 #25780 9:30am-noon, Sun, Jan 23 Few photographers epitomize land- From seaside to hillside to tabletop, scape photography like Ansel Adams. this area’s rocks have been on a jour- Join us as we celebrate his birthday Coyote Hills marshland. Photo by Jerry Ting. ney. Discover the region’s ancient and (one day early) by following in his SUN RISING ACROSS THE FOUND BEAUTY: modern roots as we journey two miles footsteps through Rose Hill Cemetery MARSH A PHOTO EXHIBITION and beyond, discovering the wonders above and peer into the hills. 8+yrs Coyote Hills Beverly Ortiz & Friends Coyote Hills he shot in 1957. 6+yrs 6:30-9am, Sun, Jan 2 Beverly Ortiz/Chris Cochems Registration is required. Take great photographs of Coyote 10:30-noon, Sun, Feb 20 Hills wildlife, while learning about the Take a journey of found beauty to adaptations that make each one suited every branch and hideaway in Coyote to marshland life. We’ll caravan and Hills. This exhibition and slide show walk to some very beautiful places. features extraordinary photographs 10+yrs by Chris Cochems with naturalist nar- rative. Refreshments served. 10+yrs SENSATIONAL SUNSET PHOTOGRAPHY FINDING BEAUTY: Coyote Hills A PHOTO WORKSHOP Kristina Parkison/Don Jedlovec Coyote Hills Bevery Ortiz 4:30-6:30pm, Sat, Jan 29 #25701 1-3pm, Sun, Feb 20 Hike to photograph the sunset with Learn to “capture” on camera the amazing views of the marsh and Bay beauty of our nectar garden as we and learn of these special habitats! identify nectar-loving species and the This landscape photography workshop plants they rely upon. Photographer features photographer Don Jedlovec. Chris Cochems shares his eye for Please bring a camera and tripod. detail. 10+yrs 12+yrs Registration is required.

Hike Black Diamond with Naturalist Eddie Willis. See “Resolution Hike,” above. Photo by Eddie Willis.

7 = Register at www.ebparksonline.org = Disabled accessible program = Parking fee may be charged = Kids Challenge program CRAB COVE ness during a horseback ride. 6+yrs Register online: www.ebparksonline.org Registration is required. or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 Crab Cove Visitor Center hours are Wed.- Fee: $25 (non-res. $29) Fri. noon-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Center’s gift shop has books, t-shirts,

and other nature-related items for sale. BOTANIC GARDEN For information about naturalist programs or other activities, call (510) 544-3187, or email [email protected]. The Visitor Center will be closed Friday-Saturday, Dec. 24-25, and Friday-Saturday, Dec. 31-Jan. 1. FISH FEEDING TIME Crab Cove Interpretive Staff 3-3:30pm, all Sundays in Jan and Feb “Dive” into the Bay and learn about its wildlife! Get close to crabs, fl ounder, perch, and pipefi sh–just to name a few of our amazing animals–while they eat.

Winding path at Regional Parks Botanic Garden. Photo by Ted Hamiter. SUNOL CATCH OF THE DAY Crab Cove Interpretive Staff DOCENT-GUIDED THURSDAY MORNING All programs meet at the Sunol Visitor Center unless otherwise noted. For Visitor 2-3pm, Saturdays & Sundays, Jan & GARDEN TOURS PLANT SALE Center hours and information, call (510) Feb Botanic Garden Please note that there are no Thursday 544-3249, or email [email protected]. Drop by for fun activities to 2pm Saturdays, morning plant sale events from Janu- help you learn about the Bay, its 11am and 2pm Sundays ary through mid-April. Volunteers are VALLEY NATURE RIDE wildlife, and local history. The Learn about California native plants gearing up for the annual plant sale Sunol Interpretive Staff aquariums, beach, and pond await on free, docent-guided tours at on Saturday, April 16, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 10-10:45am, Sun, Jan 2 #25768, Feb 20 you, with a new topic each week. the beautiful, naturalistic, 10-acre Please mark your calendars. Info: www. #25769 Note: Visitor Center closed Sat- Regional Parks Botanic Garden in nativeplants.org Enjoy an introduction to the cultural and urday, Jan. 1. Tilden Regional Park. The garden is or (510) 544-3169. natural history of Sunol Regional Wilder- located on Wildcat Canyon Road at For more information on classes and South Park Drive in Tilden Regional activities offered through the Regional Park (South Park Drive is closed No- Parks Botanic Garden, see www. vember through March). Info: www. nativeplants.org. nativeplants.org or (510) 544-3169. BASKETRY

WILLOW BASKETRY Quarry Lakes Beverly Ortiz 12:30-4pm, Sun, Jan 30 #25704 OHLONE VILLAGE Learn to twine a basket with gray willow OHLONE VILLAGE shoots while you enjoy the tranquility SITE WALK and calm of wintertime Quarry Lakes. Coyote Hills Beverly Ortiz You’ll fi nd out how to prune willow so 10am-noon, Sun, Jan 2 next year’s growth is healthier, stronger, Journey through more than 2,000 MEWUK-STYLE and more fl exible than if you left the years of human history on this walk to plants alone. 18+yrs COILED BASKETRY Registration is required. an ancient Tuibun Ohlone village site. Coyote Hills Beverly Ortiz We’ll discuss Ohlone cultures past to Fee: $15 adult, $13 Senior 10am-4pm, Sun, Jan 9, 16, 23 #25702 (non-res. $17/$15) present. 7+yrs Experience the intricacy and ingenuity VILLAGE SITE of Central California Indian basketry. BASKETRY BASICS!! OPEN HOUSE Gain an understanding of a thousands- Tilden Nature Area of-years-old relationship between Coyote Hills Kristina Parkison Gail Broesder people and place as you learn to harvest 10am-noon, 1-3pm, Sat, Jan 15 10am-4pm, Sun, Feb 6 #25862 willow and sedge growing along an oak- Stroll through the vibrant marsh out to Experience the variety of California Indi- studded, streamside woodland. You’ll a 2,400-year-old Tuibun Ohlone village an basketry styles, then get “hands-on.” be guided through the process of cur- site. Tour the structures, learn some Learn to make your own small storage ing, sizing and trimming those materials, games, and discover Ohlone culture, basket from whole-shoot willow–using along with redbud, before using these past and present! no tools but your hands. 15+yrs plants to create a small, coiled basket Registration is required. VILLAGE SITE CARETAKING with Sierra Mewuk techniques. 18+yrs Fee: $15 (non-res. $17) Coyote Hills Beverly Ortiz Registration is required. 10am-noon, & 1-3pm, Sun, Feb 13 Fee: $120 adult, $100 seniors TWINED WILLOW BASKET WORKSHOP After winter’s onslaught, join us at the Coyote Hills volunteers perform a variety of tasks (non-res. $132/$112) to make tule boats and to repair and maintain the Sunol Anthony Fisher entrance booth at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. to OHLONE BASKETRY BASICS caretake a more than 2,000-year-old Ohlone village. Photo by Dino Labiste. 9am-2pm, Sun, Feb 27 #25812 Tuibun Ohlone village site. We’ll repair While many California Indian baskets the structures and remove debris. 2,000-year-old Tuibun Ohlone vil- Coyote Hills are highly detailed and exquisitely Refreshments provided. 12+yrs lage site where you’ll be introduced Beverly Ortiz/Carol Bachmann made, some carrying and trap baskets to Ohlone cultures past to present. 10-11:30am, Sun, Jan 30 are quickly and expediently twined OHLONE VILLAGE SITE Cultural demonstrations will be We’ll share the plants, techniques, from whole shoot willow and maintain OPEN HOUSE shared. Disabled accessible by prior functions and cultural context of the a rustic elegance. Twine a small basket Coyote Hills Beverly Ortiz arrangement: (510) 544-3220. recently-restored art of Ohlone bas- to take home. 12+years 10am-noon; 1-4pm, Sun, Feb 27 ketry. Find out about the challenges Registration is required. Walk 1/2-mile to a more than involved in keeping this ancestral skill Fee: $10 (non-res. $12) alive. 10+yrs 8 Info–Ardenwood: (510) 544-2797; Black Diamond: (510) 544-2750; Botanic Garden: (510) 544-3169; Coyote Hills: (510) 544-3220; Crab Cove: (510) 544-3187; Sunol: (510) 544-3249; Tilden Nature Area: (510) 544-2233 FEBRUARY HOLIDAYS HIKE KIDS GARDEN WORK PARTY Sunol Katie Colbert Tilden Nature Area Courtney Glettner Register online: www.ebparksonline.org 10am-1:30pm, Sat Feb 12 1:30-3pm, Sat, Jan 22 or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 Did the groundhog see his Valentine? Take advantage of our mild winters in Did Lincoln cast a log shadow? Find out Berkeley by gardening. Come help plant on a three-mile, up-and-down-hill hike in seeds, harvest greens, and tend to our WONDERFUL WORLD OTHER PARKS search of newts and other things named productive and nutritious winter garden. OF COMPOST after politicians. Dress to get dirty! Tilden Nature Area Courtney Glettner CANINE CAPERS–DOG WALK AMAZING ADAPTATIONS! 2-3pm, Sat, Feb 19 Various Parks Kristina Parkison Do you know where the warmest place in TILDEN NATURE AREA Tilden Nature Area Gail Broesder 9am-noon, Sat, Jan 8 (Sunol) #25841 the garden is? Let’s marvel at the compost The Environmental Education Center 10-11:30am, Sun, Jan 23 9-11am, Sat, Feb 26 (Quarry Lakes) bin and learn about the creatures that help is open Tue-Sun 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The What are the survival strategies of re- #25842 nourish the garden. Little Farm is open daily. For info call (510) gional fl ora and fauna? Make observations Make new friends and enjoy a nature walk by exploring some of the fi nest open 544-2233, or email [email protected]. and conclusions about why living things HAPPY NEWT YEAR look and behave as they do. space with your best four-legged friend! NATIVE AMERICAN Tilden Nature Area Gail Broesder Homemade snacks provided for good LIFESTYLES DR. SEUSS KNOWS BEST 10am-12:30pm, Sun, Feb 20 (and spirited) dogs! Rain cancels. Trails It’s that time again, when winter rains turn Tilden Nature Area Gail Broesder Tilden Nature Area can be steep. At Sunol, meet at Visitor young newts’ thoughts toward romance. 10am-noon, Sun, Jan 9 Elaine Chang & Sasha Clark Center. At Quarry Lakes, meet at the We’ll hike in search of these wanderers. The Ohlone Indians lived along lower Wild- 3-4 pm, Sun, Jan 30 Isherwood Staging area. 8+yrs Bring water & sack lunch, plan for mud. cat Creek for thousands of years before Come join us for story hour with the Registration is required it became a park. Discover some of their bountiful tales of the wonderful Dr. Seuss. LIVE WITH LESTER ways on this easy walk through the Nature Help us spread his message by planting THE LITTER BUG Area. No organized groups please. 7+yrs some seeds and taking some home. Tilden Nature Area KIDS’ PROGRAMS AT RETURN OF THE FABULOUS FUNGUS Courtney Glettner & Morgan Evans NATURE THEATER Tilden Nature Area Morgan Evans 2-3 pm, Sun, Feb 27 TILDEN NATURE AREA Join us for a puppet show and learn the Tilden Nature Area 2-3:30 pm, Sun, Feb 13 tale of this rascally character. Discover TILDEN TOTS! Morgan Evans & Sasha Clark Come discover the fabulous world of some ways that you can help protect the Tilden Nature Area 2:30-3:30 pm, Sun, Jan 16 fungi! We’ll learn distinguishing traits of environment. Bethany Facendini “Wintertime at Little Farm”–an indoor the major groups and discover what types 10-11:30am, Thu, Jan 6 #25741; Feb puppet show that’s fun for the whole fam- grow right here among us in Tilden. 17 # 25742 ily. Hear a story about life on our farm, Join an outdoor, nature adventure and all the jobs of a farmer. program for 3-4 year olds, each OUTDOOR accompanied by an adult (grand- parents welcome!). No younger CRAB COVE DISCOVERIES siblings please. Jan. 6: “Animal WEEKDAY FUN Homes;” Feb. 17: “Life Under Logs.” Join us for programs designed for you Registration is required. and your children. We’ll play games, Fee: $6 (non-res. $8) explore nature, sing songs, and do a craft related to the theme of the day! TILDEN EXPLORERS! Tilden Nature Area James Wilson SEA SQUIRTS Crab Cove Sara Fetterly 3:15-4:45pm, Tue, Jan 18 #25746; 10:15-11:30 Tues Jan 4 #25814, 18 Feb 15 #25747 #25816, Feb 1#25817, 15 #25815 Join an after-school nature adven- Share a morning of shoreline fun ture for 5-7 year olds, who may be with your pre-school age child. Ages accompanied by an adult. Jan. 18: 3-5 years. Jan. 4: Whale’s Tales. we’ll investigate animal homes. Feb. Jan. 18: Creatures of the Mud. Feb. 15: we’ll search for amphibians. No Above: newt. Photo by Kevin Fox. younger siblings please. 1: Slime. Feb. 15: Things that Fly. Sunol Katie Colbert Below: Bird’s nest fungus in Sunol. Photo by Katie Colbert. Fee: $5 (non-res. $7) Registration is required. 10-11:30am, Thu, Jan 6 #25797, Fee: $6 (non-res. $8) Registration is required. Jan 20 #25798, Feb 17 #25800 ESTUARY 10am-noon, Feb 3 #25799 TILDEN MINI-RANGERS Children 3-5 years and a parent are EXPLORERS Tilden Nature Area James Wilson Crab Cove Sara Fetterly invited to make wild discoveries. 3:30-5:30pm, Wed, Jan 19 #25744; 3:45-5pm, Tue, Jan 4 #25828, 18 Jan. 6: Rain, Rain, Come Today So Feb 16 #25745 #25827, Feb 1 #25829, 15 #25830 We Can All Go Out To Play! Make Do you like hiking, conservation, School-age kids like exploring na- a rain catcher, too, and see what’s and nature-based activities? This ture, playing outdoors, and learning sprouting in the wilderness. Jan. after-school program is for you! more independently - no parents 20: Newts Have Boots, or at least It’s designed for kids 8-13 years old, required. Join us for this afternoon waterproof toes. We’ll learn about unaccompanied by parents. Dress to program! Ages: 6-8 years. Jan. 4: amphibians today. Feb. 3: Vernal ramble and get dirty; bring a snack. Whale’s Tales. Jan. 18: Creatures Pool Lunch Hike: We’ll look for Registration is required. of the Mud. Feb. 1: Slime. Feb. 15: teeny tiny creatures in this special Fee: $6 (non-res. $8) Things that Fly. pond. Note special time. Feb. 17: Registration is required. Where Is Fun Gus? In the mush Fee: $5 (non-res. $7) room of course! We’ll look for toad stools and other slimy furniture and learn how fungi help us out! Registration is required. Fee: $6 (non-res. $8)

9 = Register at www.ebparksonline.org = Disabled accessible program = Parking fee may be charged = Kids Challenge program Register online: www.ebparksonline.org LAKESIDE MEANDER VOLUNTEER or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 Quarry Lakes Beverly Ortiz 1-3pm, Sun, Feb 6 GARDEN VOLUNTEERS Encounter the nature and history of Various parks Pellarin/Mueller Quarry Lakes on this pleasant walk along Dates and times vary SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST? BIG BREAK IS OPEN lakeside trails. We’ll share “fun facts” about Quarry Lakes: This program in Fremont Various Parks Bethany Facendini Big Break Mike Moran local plants, animals, and historic events. needs volunteers to help with planting 2:30-4:30pm, Sat, Jan 8, 22 10am-noon, Sat, Jan 22 #25810 Dogs on leash welcome. Meet at the and garden maintenance. Featured plant- No, it’s the survival of compassion. Come Join us for an exciting winter exploration of Ensenada picnic area parking lot. 9+yrs. ings include California native plants and learn about some of the endangered and beautiful Delta wetlands and a stroll around For Information call (510) 544-3220. plantings in a rose garden and rare fruit threatened species of the Bay Area, and the brand new Delta Discovery Experi- grove. Help weed and prune in the plant how we can help them thrive again. Heavy ence, an outdoor interpretive and recre- AMPHIBIOUS AMBLE beds, assist the gardeners in planting, and rain cancels. Topics and locations: Jan. 8: ation facility anchored by a 1,200-square- Briones Eddie Willis help with general garden care. Dates and Burrowing owls and California Sea-blite at foot scale model of the Delta. 10am-noon, Sun, Feb 13 times vary–please call for more informa- Eastshore State Park, Berkeley Meadow. Registration is required. Walk as the newts do through mucky grass- tion: (510) 795-4895. Garin/Dry Creek: Jan. 22: Salt marsh harvest mice and lands to some of their favorite breeding Help weed and prune in the plant beds, California clapper rails at Richmond Bay TAKING THE NEW TRAIL grounds. We’ll look for all types (and stages) assist the gardners in planting, and help Trail’s “Landfi ll Loop.” TO BIG BREAK of amphibians during this 1.5-mile trek. Meet with general garden care. Information: Big Break Mike Moran at the Briones Road staging off Alhambra (510) 582-2206. NATURAL TALENT– 10am-1pm, Sat, Jan 29 #25831 Valley Road in Martinez. For information, PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT A still new year on a new trail to a brand call (510) 544-2750, option 0. 6+yrs PARK/TRAIL GUIDES new shoreline experience? Let’s go! Along Various Parks Lori Gray Contra Costa County Historical Society NIFTY NEWTS Reception: 1-4pm, Jan 16 rich Delta wetlands we stroll to the Delta Guides are needed to assist the visually Garin/Dry Creek Kristina Parkison Exhibit: 9am-4 pm, Jan 16-Apr 30 Discovery Experience (a scale replica impaired in hiking on Regional Parks trails. 1:30-3pm, Sat, Feb 19 #25853 Meet the winners and fi nalists of the 2010 of our California Delta) and back again. On-going training provided by Bay Area What’s poisonous, slimy, but cute as can East Bay Regional Park District Photo Three fl at, paved miles round trip. Outreach Recreation Program (B.O.R.P.). be and often confused for a reptile when Contest, and see their photographs. For Registration is required. For upcoming dates, contact (510) 849- it’s not? It’s the California newt headed an online preview, see www.ebparks.org/ 4663 or www.borp.org. toward a pond near you! Join us for a photocontest2010. The gallery is located SEARCHIN’ FOR SHROOMS chance to fi nd this animal jewel. at 610 Main Street, Martinez, California Briones Eddie Willis YOUTH PROGRAM Registration is required. 94553. Gallery hours are Tuesdays-Thurs- 10am-noon, Sun, Jan 30 VOLUNTEERS Grow an appreciation for the slimy, moldy, days, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and third Saturdays, DIABLO FOOTHILLS Crab Cove Sara Fetterly 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. rotten world of mushrooms as we hike 3:30-5:30pm Tue, Jan 11 hillside and creekside looking for the DISCOVERY Calling all Middle and High School students! fungus all among us. No collecting or Diablo Foothills Kevin Damstra Looking for a fun way to earn those com- identifying edible species. Meet at the 8am-noon, Sat. Feb 26 #25848 munity service hours? Help teach kids about Staging Area off Reliez Lace up the boots and cinch up the gaitors nature! Crab Cove naturalists are looking Valley Road in Martinez. For information, for this tromp up, down, and around the for motivated volunteers to help with their call (510) 544-2750, option 0. 8+yrs foothills of Mount Diablo. This seven-mile Estuary Explorers afterschool program. hike will bring us through the mud to dis- Interested volunteers must be able to work WINTER DISCOVERY cover winter’s wonders in these hidden one Tuesday per month from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Contra Loma Kevin Damstra hills. 10+yrs and attend a Jan. 11 training. For information 10am-12:30pm, Sat, Feb 5 #25843 Registration is required. or to register, call (510)544-3182. Discover the natural wonders of this winter season as we stroll the gravel path around Contra Loma Reservoir. 5+yrs FOR SENIORS Registration is required. PINE CREEK CROSSINGS Diablo Foothills Eddie Willis 9:30am-noon, Sun, Feb 6 The best way to appreciate the wet season is to get into it! We’ll stroll over one mile along (and in) the creek looking WILDLIFE VOLUNTEERS– for fi sh, fl owers, frogs, and other soggy QUAIL RANGERS delights. Meet at the Castle Rock staging Contra Loma Doc Quack area. For information call (510) 544-2750, 9:30am-noon, Sat, Feb 19 #25819 option 0. Join in some family fun as we im- prove the Contra Loma’s habitat TENDING NATURE for the State bird. Each participant Quarry Lakes Beverly Ortiz will receive a Covey Conservation” 10-noon, Sun Feb 6 patch for planting and creating a safe Find out about methods used by local place for quail to eat, rest, and nest. Ohlones to tend nature, then apply those Parent participation is required. methods and help us increase the health, Registration is required: (510) size and habitat potential of a lakeside A view of and Mt. Tamalpais, from Point Pinole Regional Shoreline’s Marsh Trail adjacent to 544-2319 willow patch. Meet at the Ensenada picnic Whittell Marsh. Tilden Nature Area Supervising Naturalist Dave Zuckermann will lead an Over-The-Hills-Gang area parking lot. 12+yrs. For Information hike at Point Pinole on Feb. 5. Participants will see historical artifacts such as the black powder press located off the Marsh Trail. call(510) 544-3220. THE OVER-THE-HILLS-GANG! Various parks Dave Zuckermann 10am-12:30pm, Tue, Jan 25, Feb 15 Hikers 55 years and older interested in nature study, history, fi tness, and fun are invited to join this series of monthly excursions exploring the Regional Parks. Jan. 25: we’ll visit Briones to see breeding newts (meet at the end of Briones Road). Feb. 15: we’ll explore dynamite history at Point Pinole. For information call (510) 544-2233. 55+yrs

10 Info–Ardenwood: (510) 544-2797; Black Diamond: (510) 544-2750; Botanic Garden: (510) 544-3169; Coyote Hills: (510) 544-3220; Crab Cove: (510) 544-3187; Sunol: (510) 544-3249; Tilden Nature Area: (510) 544-2233 FRENCH BROOM REMOVAL/ in Oakland) in Redwood Regional Park Register online: www.ebparksonline.org RESTORATION PROJECT for a French broom pull along the East Redwood Di Rosario Ridge Trail. Sunday, Feb. 13: Meet at or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 9am-1pm, Sat, Feb 5 9:30 a.m. in the Wayside overfl ow lot in 9:30am-1pm, Sun, Feb 13 Redwood Regional Park inside Redwood Volunteers are needed to help restore Gate at 7867 Redwood Road in Oakland beautiful Redwood Regional Park from for exotic plant removal and restora- MARTIN LUTHER KING JR French broom displacment of the native tion projects in the Redwood Canyon. plants. We provide the tools. Saturday, For information call 1-888-327-2757, op- “DAY OF SEVICE” Feb. 5: Meet at 9 a.m. at the Skyline Gate tion 3, ext. 4553. staging area (8500 Skyline Boulevard

PG&E volunteers clean up the shoreline at Martin Luther King, Jr., Regional Shoreline on Earth Day 2009. You can do your part by volunteering for the Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of Service cleanup at the shoreline park on January BIRDING 17. Photo by Richard Langs. TUESDAYS FOR THE BIRDS THURSDAY BIRDING MARTIN LUTHER KING JR “DAY OF SERVICE”– Various Parks Bethany Facendini RAPTOR BASELINE MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. SHORELINE 7:30-9:30am, Tue, Jan 4, 11, 18; Feb Big Break, Marsh Creek Mike Moran Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline Staff 1, 8, 15, 22 9-11:30am, Thu, Jan 27 #25821; Thu, 8:30am-noon, Mon, Jan 17 #25908 Share your enthusiasm for bird life on a Feb 24 #25826 The Park District will be celebrating its Third Annual “Day of Service” that con- tranquil walk through various Bay Area The morning (eastern) side of Mount tinues Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s vision to improve lives, bridge social barriers, parklands! All levels of birding experi- Diablo hosts a magnifi cent array of and move our nation closer together to the beloved community. Volunteers will ence welcome. Call (510) 544-2233 birds of prey: hawks, falcons, eagles. assist staff in restoration work and invasive plant removal in order to support for specifi c meeting locations. Bring Help us document their variety and and care for wildlife and their natural habitats. Wear comfortable, weather- water, sunscreen, and binoculars or numbers in this fun, social citizen appropriate clothes and closed-toed shoes. Please also bring your own water scopes. Rain cancels. Jan. 4: Hayward research project. No experience bottle. Heavy rain cancels. Regional Shoreline, Winton Ave. Jan. necessary–we’ll teach you how to Registration is required: you may register groups up to 25 people online or by 11: Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, identify these birds. We’ll meet at a calling 1-888-EBPARKS, (1-888-327-2757), option 2, 3. Alvarado. Jan. 18: Martin Luther King different park on the last Thursday Regional Shoreline, Shoreline Center. of each month. Join in for one or all. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR “DAY OF SERVICE”– Feb. 1: Eastshore State Park, Berkeley Jan. 27: Big Break. Feb. 24: Marsh RICHMOND SHORELINE Meadow. Feb. 8: Tilden Regional Park, Creek. 10+yrs Richmond Shoreline, Shimada Park Staff Vollmer Peak. Feb. 15: Lake Mer- Registration is required. 9am-noon, Mon, Jan 17 ritt, Rotary Nature Center. Feb. 22: Show your community YOU care–help clean up the Richmond Shoreline! Join the San Pablo Regional Shoreline, Pinole BIRD WALK East Bay Regional Park District, , and Richmond Shoreline Shores. Garin/Dry Creek Kristina Parkison Citizen Response in our efforts to beautify the Richmond Shoreline through trash 8-11am, Sat, Feb 5 pick-up, invasive plant removal, and more! Free refreshments will be served. Tools FLYWAY FORAY The Bay Area bursts with bird life! and gloves will be provided, but please bring your own if you have them, especially Miller/Knox Bethany Facendini New and experienced birders alike join loppers for removing fennel. Please wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. 2-4:30pm, Sat, Jan 15 us as we discover patterns of behavior, All children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information call (510) Witness miraculous winged-wonders migration, and habitat. Meet at the 544-3257. migrating along the Pacific Flyway. Visitor Center Barn. For information On this two-mile walk, discover why call (510) 544-3220. 8+yrs thousands of shorebirds and water- fowl overwinter on Bay. BIRDS OF BRUSHY PEAK Heavy rain cancels. For information Brushy Peak Anthony Fisher call (510) 544-2233. 8am-noon, Sun, Feb 20 A leisurely 4+ mile hike with hills. Soar- WINTER WATER BIRDING ing raptors and beautiful vistas are your Waterbird Regional Preserve reward. Can be very cold and windy! Eddie Willis For info: (510) 544-3244. 8:30-10am, Sun, Jan 16 #25802 The Bay Area is a great pit stop along MONDAY BIRDING the Pacific Flyway. Find out who’s Sunol Anthony Fisher swooping in for a visit as we gawk at a 9-11:30am, Mon, Feb 28 restored wetland and its fowl inhabit- Easy birding walk of approximately ants. Warm beverages provided. Bring two miles. Some hills, but mostly fl at your own binoculars. Meet in the terrain. Meet at the Green Barn. For parking lot. information, call (510) 544-3249. Registration is required.

11 = Register at www.ebparksonline.org = Disabled accessible program = Parking fee may be charged = Kids Challenge program Register online: www.ebparksonline.org or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3

WEDNESDAY Regional Parks naturalists offer up-close interpre- tations of various creatures on Vasco Caves WALKS Regional Preserve tours. The namesake blue-belly of this male western fence lizard is shown off Garin’s Jordan Pond lies along Dry Creek. when it does push-ups to attract females during Photo by Deane Little. mating season. The yellow markings on the ventral sides of the legs helps to identify these Various Locations lizards, which are a major cog in food webs, as Christina Garcia they are eaten by snakes, raptors, shrikes, etc. Walks begin at 9:30 am The lizard itself eats a variety of invertebrates Explore a new Regional Park with like ticks, fl ies, spiders, and even scorpions. our friendly walking group. Discover VASCO CAVES REGIONAL the natural and human history of PRESERVE TOUR our beautiful parklands and improve Vasco Caves Mike Moran your health on a fast-paced hike. 9am-2pm, Sat, Feb 26 #25849 Hikers of all ages and abilities are Behold Vasco’s spectacular rock welcome. Wear sturdy footwear, outcrops, vernal pools–seasonal bring water and dress for the home of endangered amphibians weather. Heavy rain cancels. and fairy shrimp. This is habitat Jan. 5–Tilden: Start the year off Dublin Hills Regional Preserve. Photo by Joel C. Schantz. for eagles and various nesting and right with your choice of distanc- es–up to 8 miles up and back the WOMEN ON COMMON GROUND migrating raptors hunting bountiful prey in robust restored grasslands. on paved Nimitz Way. Meet at Locations vary Katie Colbert Emerald Lunch Hike: Rainfall paints Archaeological sites contain Indian Inspiration Point. Jan. 12–Coyote 10:30am-2pm, Sat, Jan 29 #25822 the hills brilliant green in this gem of rock art, part of a complex reaching Hills: Circle the hills on the paved, 9am-2:30pm, Sat, Feb 26 # 25823 a new park. We’ll fi nd out why on a back nearly 10,000 years. This Pre- 3.5-mile trail. Meet at the Visitor This is a series of naturalist-led pro- four-mile ridgeline hike. Feb. 26: Las serve is accessible through guided Center. Jan. 26–Ardenwood: Ex- grams for women who love the out- Trampas–Early Morning Early Spring tours only, staging from Round plore the remnants of this estate doors but whose concern for personal Lunch Hike: Shake off the winter blues Valley Regional Preserve aboard on a leisurely 2.5-mile walk. Meet safety keeps them from enjoying their on a fi ve-mile hike full of early spring District-provided bus transporta- at the Train Station. Feb. 9–Martin own parks. For a complete schedule views! Lots of uphill. tion. 10+yrs Luther King Shoreline: An easy 4.5 contact (510) 544-3243, or kcolbert@ Registration is required. Registration is required. miles along the shore of San Leandro ebparks.org. Jan. 29: Dublin Hills– Fee: $30 (non-res. $34) Bay. Meet at the Observation Tower. Feb. 23–Lake Chabot: A moderate 4 miles to the dam and back. Meet at the Marina. Info: (510)544-3282 or email cgar- SUNDAY STROLLS [email protected]. Flyer with com- plete directions is available on the we will search for gorgeous canyon from rim to red- hiking page at www.ebparks.org. signs of the many woods and back. Moderate, three-mile animals that call this loop. Feb. 6: Martin Luther King Jr. park home. An easy, Shoreline (Arrowhead Marsh Staging three-mile walk. Area), Arrowhead Marsh/San Leandro Meet at the marina Creek Trail–See a winter wonderland store. Jan. 9: Oyster brimming with birds. If we are lucky Bay Regional Shore- we may catch sight of the elusive and line–Learn the his- endangered California clapper rail on tory of Oyster Bay this fl at and easy 2.3-mile walk. Dogs as we hike an easy must be leashed. Feb. 13: Sibley Sunday strollers with Naturalist Sara Fetterly (in dark green sweatshirt) at Sibley three miles along Volcanic Regional Preserve–Love is in Vocanic Regional Preserve. the scenic San Fran- the air (and in the ponds) at Sibley. On cisco Bay Trail. Jan. this hike we will search for amorous Various Parks Sara Fetterly 16: Anthony Chabot (Bort Meadow salamanders, weave our way through 10am-noon, Sundays in Jan. & Feb. Staging Area), Brandon/ Grass Valley mazes, and enjoy scenic views of Mt. Wake up and walk into nature. loop–We will follow the stream on this Diablo. Moderate 2.6-mile walk. Feb. Each week we will explore a differ- easy, three-mile walk through sunny 20: Leona Canyon (Canyon Oaks ent park and the natural wonders meadows and shady groves of alders. trailhead), Leona Trail–This moder- within. Hikes range from two Jan. 23: Roberts Regional Recreation ate hike brings us to Merritt College to fi ve miles. Great for families. Area (lower parking lot), Graham/ and back. Native American plant uses Dogs welcome on most hikes. See Dunn/West Ridge loop–Beautiful can- are highlighted along this scenic path. www.ebparks.org/parks for maps yon views await you on this moderate, Feb. 27: Redwood Regional Park (Big and directions. For information, 3.8-mile hike. Meet in the lower park- Bear Gate Staging Area), Stream/Star call: (510) 544-3187. Jan. 2: Lake ing lot. Jan. 30: Redwood Regional Flower/French/Mill Trail loop–Majes- Chabot–Wildlife abounds on this Park (Skyline Gate Staging Area), East tic redwoods and magnifi cent madro- beautiful lake. As we follow the Ridge/Prince/Stream Trail loop–Enjoy nes will delight us on this moderate, east shore to the bridge and back, the music of the creek as we walk this 4.25-mile trail.

12 Info–Ardenwood: (510) 544-2797; Black Diamond: (510) 544-2750; Botanic Garden: (510) 544-3169; Coyote Hills: (510) 544-3220; Crab Cove: (510) 544-3187; Sunol: (510) 544-3249; Tilden Nature Area: (510) 544-2233 Register online: www.ebparksonline.org Park District awarded Green Transportationor by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS Grant (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 East Bay Green Transportation Initiative The Department of Transportation awarded the East Bay Regional Park District a $10 The projected renovations should take about 10 to 15 years to complete and include million grant through the federal Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recov- seven projects described below. The Park District was one of only a handful of agencies ery program. The funds will be used to link various bike trails throughout the East Bay to in California to receive grant money. Brief project descriptions are listed here. For more create a network of over 200 miles of paved trail for commuting and recreation purposes. information see www.ebparks.org.

Project #1: Trail: Hercules Intermodal Center Project #5: East Bay Greenway: BART to 105th Connections. 2.5-mile gap closure and bridge construction project. This proj- Ave. Two-mile gap closure project. The project is located in an area where ect will complete two critical linkages in the to the east over 25 percent of the predomi- and west of the Hercules Intermodal Transit Center. Completion of this project nately low-income, minority resi- will extend the dents live in poverty, and have the benefi ts of tran- highest rates of asthma, diabetes sit-oriented de- and heart disease in the county. The velopment to project will result in a well-lighted, the surrounding landscaped bicycle and pedestrian communities. path connecting to the BART sta- Project #2: tion, AC Transit bus service and San Francis- local schools. The Coliseum/Oak- co Bay Trail: land Airport BART station is a key Martinez Intermodal Station to Crockett 2.7-mile gap closure commuting hub for approximately project. The Martinez Intermodal Station to Crockett segment of the San 8,000 employees (about one-third Francisco Bay Trail will provide direct access to , the in cargo-related, working-class jobs) commuter rail service and regional bus service for the residents of Port Costa who work at the airport. and Crockett, as well as providing improved connectivity to the intermodal Project #6: Iron Horse Trail–TriValley Transit Connector. 1.7-mile station for Martinez residents. Completion of this project will reduce the gap closure and interstate highway undercrossing project. Located primarily commute distance for bicyclists from Crockett to Martinez by seven miles, within an abandoned rail corridor, the Iron Horse Trail attracts over a million and provide a safe alternative to the existing narrow, high-speed roadways users per year along the 30 miles completed to connecting the two communities. date. The TriValley Transit connector project Project #3: San Francisco Bay Trail: Gilman to Buchanan. One-mile (6B) will extend the trail from the Dublin/ gap closure project. This segment of the EBGTI will close a critical gap in the Bay Pleasanton BART station through the adjacent Trail. The one-mile Gilman to Buchanan Hacienda Business Park and planned transit- Bay Trail project closes the only gap in the oriented development project. This project trail between Richmond and Emeryville, will complete the Iron Horse Trail between creating a continuous 10-mile bicycle and the communities of Dublin, Pleasanton and pedestrian corridor along the shoreline. Livermore. A companion project, the Alamo Project #4: San Francisco Bay Trail: Canal Trail Undercrossing at Interstate 580 (6A), will link Pleasanton’s Cen- Union City/Dumbarton Bridge Link. tennial Trail with Dublin’s Alamo Canal Trail, providing improved connectivity 4.3-mile gap closure project. Closing the to local libraries, sports fi elds and city services. three-mile gap in the Bay Trail between the Project #7: Mokelumne Trail: Highway 4 Bypass Overcrossing. Dumbarton Bridge and Union City will com- 0.5-mile highway overcrossing bridge. TIGER II funding will allow construction plete the twenty-mile corridor between of the Mokelumne Trail overcrossing of the the bridge and Oakland. The segment will Highway 4 Bypass to move forward, eliminating provide commuters and other users with the existing two-mile detour for bicyclists and connections to transit, including BART pedestrians and putting contractors and their and bus services, educational institutions employees back to work in this economically including Chabot College, and direct access disadvantaged community. to major employers in Hayward, Union City, San Leandro and Oakland. This segment will also serve as the primary access to the South Bay Salt Pond resto- ration project. and pedestrian facility, and will provide non- motorized access to the “new urban- ism” develop- ment planned for the Bay’s Treasure Is- land. The Iron Horse Trail/Treat Boulevard overcrossing in Walnut Creek, opened in June 2010, improved the trail as a commute alternative and improved access to the Walnut Creek BART station for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Many of the projects to be funded by the Green Transportation Initiative will expand access to BART stations and bring biking to BART closer to reality for many people.

13 = Register at www.ebparksonline.org = Disabled accessible program = Parking fee may be charged = Kids Challenge program Register online: www.ebparksonline.org or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757),Hiking Adventures option 2, then with3 Bob “4WheelBob” Coomber

Bob Coomber, a lifelong Bay Area resident currently living in Livermore, is a Coomber was inducted into the California Outdoors Hall of Fame in local hiking celebrity and motivational speaker who partners with the East Bay January 2007. He was one of only 27 Americans to receive the President’s Regional Park District to encourage hiking in the Regional Parks. Each month Council on Physical Fitness Community Leadership Award in 2008. Coomber writes about two of his favorite hikes in the Regional Parks, one On August 24, 2007, Coomber became the fi rst person in a wheelchair to hike geared toward entry-level hikers, or those looking for fl at, mostly paved summit White Mountain, California’s third-highest peak at 14,246 feet. He is trails, and the other focusing on a longer and more challenging hike. See www. also the fi rst person in a chair to summit three local favorites, Mt. Diablo and ebparks.org/bobcoomber for his hike descriptions. its companion, North Peak, as well as Mission Peak in Fremont. Coomber, known as 4WheelBob, acquired juvenile diabetes in his early 20s, Coomber plans to summit Africa’s highest peak, 19,340-foot Mt. and became disabled after long struggles with its complications. After multiple Kilimanjaro, and to be the fi rst unassisted wheelchair user to make the journey. leg, ankle, and knee fractures, Coomber fi nally took his doctor’s advice and The trip will also serve to distribute 200 wheelchairs in Arusha, Tanzania, in began life in a wheelchair. partnership with The Wheelchair Foundation of Danville. Wheelchairs may seem confi ning, but to Coomber the chair was simply An inspiring motivational speaker, Coomber is popular with everyone from another challenge. A lifelong hiker, Coomber soon began experimenting with schoolchildren to senior hikers. He loves to inspire others to reach for their easy outdoors excursions. Several broken chairs later, one thing led to another goals, no matter the obstacles. Coomber has been married to wife Gina for and he became a staple of local newspaper and local and national television 14 years. They spend way too much time fi nding new trails to explore all over shows as that guy in a wheelchair who doesn’t believe in limits. California and the West.

Regional Parks Police Department RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION

PUBLIC SAFETY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES CALEA Accreditation Ceremony, 2010, Las Vegas, . From left: CALEA Executive Director These on-going volunteer programs assist District staff in the delivery of essential Sylvester Daughtry Jr.; Professional Standards Sergeant Lance Brede; Administrative Analyst services, which include: educating trail users about trail safety; assisting the helicop- Nancy Morehead; General Manager Pat O’Brien; Accreditation Manager Lieutenant Wayne ter unit with rescues; supplementing police in patrol activities and incident response. Morimoto; Police Chief Tim Anderson; CALEA Chair Louis Dekmar. Certifi cations and/or training are required for some programs. For more informa- tion, contact the following: Trail Safety Patrol Groups including Bicycle Patrol, Com- The internationally recognized Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforce- panion Dog Patrol, Hiking Patrol, and Mounted Patrol–contact Heather Marlais at ment Agencies (CALEA) awarded the East Bay Regional Park District Police (510) 690-6580. Flight Paramedics (ALS)–contact Offi cer Jackley at (510) 544- Department with an offi cial accreditation, which makes the department one 3014. of only 12 CALEA-accredited agencies in California. The CALEA accredita- tion programs involve a comprehensive review of a law enforcement agency’s organization, management, operations, and administration. Participation in the CALEA accreditation program is voluntary, but completion provides a Shop for T-shirts and more on the law enforcement agency with a nationally recognized award of excellence Park District’s Online Store and professional achievement. To receive accreditation, the East Bay Regional Park District Police Department participated in an intense three-year process, www.CafePress.com/ebrpd complying with over 400 primary and nearly 1,200 overall standards set forth by All of the Park District’s proceeds go to the the commission. These standards touched on every facet of the department from Regional Parks Foundation administrative to operational services. to fund Camperships for low-income kids to go to camp.

14 Info–Ardenwood: (510) 544-2797; Black Diamond: (510) 544-2750; Botanic Garden: (510) 544-3169; Coyote Hills: (510) 544-3220; Crab Cove: (510) 544-3187; Sunol: (510) 544-3249; Tilden Nature Area: (510) 544-2233 SWIM FACILITIES REGISTRATION INFORMATIONRegister online: www.ebparksonline.org LAKE ANZA or by phone: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 2, then 3 Tilden Regional Park NO Registration is required.–Many programs do not require registra- FEES: Fees must be paid in full at the time of registration. They may be paid Berkeley, CA 94708 (510) 843-2137 tion. Simply join the instructor at the location indicated in the program by pre-printed check, money order, VISA, Mastercard or in cash for walk-in registration. Non-resident fees apply to anyone living outside of Alameda CASTLE ROCK description. Call the phone number listed in the program descriptions if 1700 Castle Rock Road you need further information. or Contra Costa counties. Parking or park entrance fees may be charged Walnut Creek, CA 94598 IN-PARK REGISTRATION–For programs requiring registration at depending on program time and location. Ardenwood entrance fees vary 1-888-327-2757, option 3, park sites, call the number indicated in the description. Information will be depending on the event or activity. Confi rm all fees when registering for a ext. 4518 provided when you call. program. Many programs have fee assistance funds available for low-income CONTRA LOMA CENTRAL REGISTRATION–The course codes for programs that individuals and families. For information call the registration phone num- 1200 Frederickson Lane require central registration are printed next to course dates throughout bers listed at the bottom of the previous column. Antioch, CA 94509 this directory. Please refer to the instructions below for registration proce- CHECK ACCEPTANCE: Pre-printed checks are accepted for mail-in 1-888-327-2757, option 3, registration in the Central Reservations Offi ce until two weeks before the ext. 4518 dures for online, mail-in, walk-in, or phone registration. ON-LINE: go to www.ebparksonline.org for Centrally regis- program takes place. Make checks payable to EBRPD. Programs registered CULL CANYON in the parks will accept checks up until the day of the program. Returned 18627 Cull Canyon Road tered programs. Castro Valley, CA 94552 MAIL-IN: Complete the registration form below and mail checks will be charged an additional $15 Returned Check charge. 1-888-327-2757, option 3, with your payment (pre-printed check with the mail-in form) CREDIT CARDS: ext. 4523 to: East Bay Regional Park District, Reservations Dept., P.O. VISA and Mastercard are accepted for all fee programs except those that DEL VALLE Box 5381, Oakland, CA 94605-0381. are registered at a park. Call the phone number in program description for 7000 Del Valle Road WALK-IN: Come to the District Headquarters between info. Livermore, CA 94550 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. We are located 1-888-327-2757, option 3, at 2950 Peralta Oaks Court in Oakland, next door to the CANCELLATION POLICY: ext. 4524 and south of the off I-580. REFUNDS/TRANSFERS: Refunds or transfers will be processed for pro- DON CASTRO See map below. grams canceled because registration is below the minimum enrollment at 22400 Woodroe Ave. Hayward, CA 94541 BY PHONE: Phone registration requires a VISA or the cutoff date, or if a program is canceled due to inclement weather or in- 1-888-327-2757, option 3, Mastercard. The Reservations Offi ce is open between 8:30 structor illness. Please allow up to three weeks for receipt of refund. If you ext. 4527 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 8:30 a.m. would prefer to transfer into another program or class and there is space QUARRY LAKES and 4 p.m. on Fridays (closed weekends and holidays). Call available, your refund may be applied to the fee for that program or class. 2100 Isherwood Way 1-888-EBPARKS (327-2757) and select option 2, then 3. IF YOU MUST CANCEL: For a full refund or credit toward another Fremont, CA 94535 TDD: (510) 633-0460. program, you must call in your cancellation at least seven days prior 1-888-327-2757, option 3, to the class or program. Failure to notify the Reservations Offi ce at least ext. 4552 seven days in advance of the program date will result in forfeiture of ROBERTS POOL program fees. 10570 Skyline Blvd. Oakland, CA 94619 (510) 482-6028 SHADOW CLIFFS 2500 Stanley Blvd. Pleasanton, CA 94566 1-888-327-2757, option 3, January-February 2011 Mail-in Registration Register Online: www.ebparks.org/webreg ext. 4557 To reach the East Bay Regional Park District 6502 Broadway Terrace Central Registrations offi ce: Attention: Reservations Oakland, CA 94610 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, 1-888-327-2757, option 3, From south or east of Oakland on I-580 P.O. Box 5381 Make checks payable to: EBRPD ext. 4561 West, take the MacArthur/Foothill exit in Oakland, CA 94605-0381 VISITOR CENTERS San Leandro. Bear right onto Foothill; turn ARDENWOOD right on 106th Ave. and right again onto Name (parent or guardian if under 18) 34600 Ardenwood Blvd. Peralta Oaks Drive. Follow it to the end.

Fremont, CA 94555-3645 From Oakland or north or west of Oakland Clip and Mail Address (510) 544-2797 on I-580 East, take the 106th Ave. exit in BLACK DIAMOND MINES Oakland. Take the fi rst three left turns; this City Zip 5175 Somersville Road will put you on 106th Ave. From 106th, turn Antioch, CA 94509 right onto Peralta Oaks Drive and follow it ( ) ( ) (510) 544-2750 to the end. Day phone Night phone BOTANIC GARDEN Tilden Regional Park Berkeley, CA 94708 email address (510) 544-3169 COYOTE HILLS Participant’s Name Birthdate Class Title Code Date Fee 8000 Patterson Ranch Rd. Month/Day/Yr First Choice Fremont, CA 94555-3502 (510) 544-3220 Second Choice

CRAB COVE First Choice VISITOR CENTER 1252 McKay Avenue Second Choice Alameda, CA 94501-7805 (510) 544-3187 Day Camp Scholarship Fund—provides subsidized day camp experiences for inner-city youth. Optional) $1 DEL VALLE Subscribe to this publication (Regional in Nature) (Optional) $5 7000 Del Valle Road Submit additional registrations on an attached sheet Livermore, CA 94550 Total $ (510) 544-3249 GARIN Signature required ______Date ______1320 Garin Avenue Parent or guardian if under 18 Hayward, CA 94544-6822 (510) 544-3220 Please check here if you are disabled and in need of special accomodations SUNOL-OHLONE P.O. Box 82 (on Geary Road) How did you hear about our programs? TV Newspaper Visitor Center Radio Other Sunol, CA 94586 (510) 544-3249 TILDEN NATURE AREA Environmental Education Center (EEC) at Tilden Regional Park Berkeley, CA 94708 (510) 544-2233 11 = Register at www.ebparksonline.org = Disabled accessible program = Parking fee may be charged = Kids Challenge program East Bay Regional Park District 2950 Peralta Oaks Court Oakland, CA 94605-0381 www.ebparks.org

Sign-up for this popular self-guided hiking A Free program and enjoy your Regional Parks at the Program same time! This self-paced program is a great way to stay active and keep up with your fi tness goals. Best of all – it is on your schedule, when it is convenient for you. Thanks to a partnership with Kaiser Permanente, Trails Challenge is FREE again this year to both new and returning participants. Beginning mid-January, register online at www.ebparks.org under the TRAILS CHALLENGE logo or visit the Regional Parks Foundation’s website directly at www.RegionalParksFoundation.org and follow the link. Once registered, you can download from your home computer the complete 2011 Guidebook, and sign-up for your free, 100% organic cotton T-shirt while supplies last. (T-shirts are limited to two per household). Each Guidebook includes detailed descriptions of this year’s 20 featured trails that comprise some of the East Bay’s most popular hiking, biking, and equestrian destinations.

Membership Make the most of your Trails Challenge experience and become a Member of the East Bay Regional Park District. The Membership Program is a wonderful way to frequent East Bay your favorite Regional Parks and save money on parking and dog fees while participating in the Trails Challenge. Explore Regional Park District the benefi ts of Membership and fi nd out how you can save time and money throughout the year. To learn more, visit Don’t miss our Wedding Fairs our website at www.RegionalParksFoundation.org. at the Brazilian Room Tuesdays : February 15 and 22 4 to 8 p.m.: Meet our caterers and vendors

Rental facilities for weddings, reunions, retreats, and business meetings in four beautiful park locations: • Brazilian Room, Tilden Regional Park • Lake Temescal Beach House, Temescal Regional Recreation Area • Shoreline Center, Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline • Fern Cottage, Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area

For more information: 510-544-3164 or www.brazilianroom.org