summer 2018 Truckee Donner Land Trust

Summer Arrives in the High Sierra

Announcing a New 3,000 Acre Acquisition 4 Restoring Van Norden Meadow 8 Lower Carpenter Valley Update 10 trails update

A volunteer trail crew.

Lower Carpenter Valley in the foreground. and Basin Peak behind. Frog Lake Cliff is below and left of Castle Peak. Photo Credit: Tom Lippert Photography It's All About Volunteers maintain our previous holdings at a level that restores and protects the natural resources and creates access and Moving Dirt Dear Friends, for public recreation. Our capital campaigns rely on funds from private individuals like you, as well as State The Truckee Donner Land Trust prides itself and Federal Grants. connect the current terminus of the trail at Glacier Way in on being both opportunistic and risk averse in Summer time is trails time at the Land Trust, In addition to direct financial contributions, you have Tahoe Donner with Northwoods Boulevard. From there it acquiring and conserving important landscapes. An and this year is shaping up to be a busy one. In the opportunity to support conservation in the Sierra by will be possible to access Donner Summit from Downtown endless combination of events and conditions can addition to annually maintaining more than 35 backing Prop 68 on the June ballot. Prop 68 directs tens Truckee, all on trails! Volunteers will construct the trail. drive landowners to sell their property. Many of our of millions of dollars to conservation projects in the miles of trails with more than 250 wonderful Progress continues on the south side of the acquisitions have been in the hands of a single family, in Sierra, and is our procurement-funding pipeline for the Rim Trail as well, along Schallenberger Ridge up to Donner some cases for more than a century. In these instances, volunteers, big plans are in the works for the coming years. Pass. The proposed trail alignment will go through Federal land holdings are passed down from generation to Donner Lake Rim Trail, trails in Martis Valley 2018 will arguably be the most dynamic year in the and State permitting for the next two years. Construction will generation, creating an increasingly complicated estate and to improve trails at Black Wall, a popular history of Truckee Donner Land Trust. With a growing likely begin in 2019 or 2020. plan ultimately requiring divestiture. number of acquisitions, restoration and forestry work, crag for rock climbing. Giving credence to our work, there are several cases Trail Maintenance: The Land Trust maintains more than 35 and improving recreational access to projects at hand, where legacy landowners have declined more lucrative Martis Valley: The Land Trust and its partners, the Truckee miles of trails. All of these trails, despite being constructed we are confident that the need for our work is more offers keeping their property in conservation by Trails Foundation and Northstar , are putting the to the latest standards of sustainability, need annual critical than ever. Fortunately, we are up for the task working with the Land Trust. These landowners, like finishing touches on the Elizabethtown Meadows Trail. This maintenance. Even mild Sierra winters are tough on trails; and look forward to continuing our service to the the Smiths at Frog Lake, and the Johnsons at Webber Trail is nearly three miles long and connects Waddle Ranch blowdowns need to be removed and erosion must be mitigated. community and environment for years to come. Lake, deserve our deep appreciation. Preserve with the Northstar Drive signal on State Route While not as glamorous as constructing a new trail, volunteers

In announcing our latest project, Frog Lake and 267. The trail is scenic, especially early season with verdant Warm regards, complete important work and have a great time. meadows, and in the fall with golden aspens. 2,200 adjacent acres, we are poised to take our role as Black Wall offers some of Donner Summit’s best guardian of precious lands for the region to an entirely A map is available on the Land Trust website under Black Wall: new level. As such our need for support from you, our Plan Your Visit. climbing, and a distinct alpine feel. Improvements to two donors, volunteers and supporters has never been existing climber-built “billy goat” trails and a new connection Donner Lake Rim Trail: The construction permits are nearly more critical. For all of these financial needs, the Land Jeff Brown Perry Norris between the two trails will improve access for climbers and in place and the Tahoe Donner Association, the US Forest Trust relies on a combination of private and public President/Board of Directors Executive Director other users. For more information on Black Wall, please read Service and the Land Trust have joined together to complete funding. You, our donors, help us keep the lights on and the article on Page 30. the entire northern section of the Donner Lake Rim Trail! Please contact Kevin Starr at [email protected] This segment of trail – a long time in the making – will About the cover: Ice recedes from Frog Lake where there are really just two seasons, winter and summer. if you would like to volunteer on any trail projects. We are excited to announce Frog Lake as our newest campaign. 2 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 3 along with the historic lodge that could potentially be used for acquisition overnight visitors, summer and winter, make the recreational opportunities second to none. “At an elevation of 7,600 feet, Frog Lake feels more like 9,000 feet in Kings Canyon National Park,” said Dave Sutton of The Trust for Public Land. Like so many of the Land Trust’s strategic acquisitions, the ownership of Frog Lake dates back to the Checkerboard – where every-other square mile of property gifted to the trans-continental railroad ended up privately owned – the rest in US Forest Service hands. This particular checker square has been owned by the current owners – the Smith Family – since the 1930s, when their father, Felix Smith Sr., acquired Frog Lake from the railroad. Felix Smith, the family recounts, wandered up and down the Sierra looking for a family compound on a lake. In the subsequent summers, he built a rustic lodge on the lake’s eastern shore from hand-cut granite on the property. The Smiths are strong conservationists. Telling of their commitment, Frog Lake is remarkably pristine and reflects the light footprint the family has on the land. “Frog Lake seems timeless; it’s probably exactly today as it was 75 years ago,” Jeff Brown, Land Trust board president, said. This campaign will assuredly be a significant undertaking The Campaign over the next two years – but the prize of preserving these remarkable landscapes will be historic. “We’re really excited about the access opportunities these properties create – linking together such great places with new for Frog Lake and existing trails,” said John Svahn, Stewardship Director.

Conservation Values Beach front at 7,600 feet! Photo credit: Terence Hundemer The old-growth forests and the numerous species that depend on them, the critical watersheds protecting resources Building on decades of conservation work filling in the Sierra Nevada Checkerboard, like Carpenter Valley, and the connections to other open the Truckee Donner Land Trust is pleased to announce one of its most exciting space and potential wilderness areas make this acquisition a tremendous opportunity for meaningful conservation in the and ambitious campaigns to date – the acquisition of Frog Lake and adjacent lands, region. including Red Mountain and lands surrounding Lower Carpenter Valley.

ramed by glacier-carved granite cliffs on one side and American West for conservation,” said Perry Norris, Executive

a historic lodge built by D.L. Bliss on the other – Frog Director of the Land Trust. “The opportunity to conserve this (top right) Penstemon above the true blue water of Frog Lake. Lake has a rugged, alpine feel unlike anything else in stunning lake is once in a lifetime.” F (bottom right) A lazy summer day with Frog Lake Cliff behind. The Warren Lake the Northern Sierra. The opportunity is so fantastic that The Nature Conservancy trail parallels the ridgeline to the west. Photo credit: Terence Hundemer The Land Trust’s newest campaign combines Frog Lake and the Trust for Public Land will partner with the Land Trust, with four Sierra Pacific Industries parcels that surround working together as part of The Northern Sierra Partnership. Lower Carpenter Valley, adding up to 3,000 acres north of Old growth Jeffrey pine forests, the watersheds that feed Truckee and east of the Sierra Crest, providing remarkable the rare spring-fed fens of Carpenter Valley and remote, You Are Needed opportunities for conservation and recreation. The goal for pristine habitat are all significant resource values well worth Presevation of this landscape will not happen without your support. The acquisition of these 3,000 acres will a require the campaign, including purchase price and funds for future preserving. And the potential connections by trail to other significant community fundraising effort over the next two years. To find out how to contribute to this historic effort, go to management, is $15 million. Land Trust properties and destinations like Independence tdlandtrust.org and click “How to Help.” Or please call (530) 582-4711. Staff are always eager to discuss new projects. “There is no other opportunity like Frog Lake in the Lake, Carpenter Ridge, Castle Peak and the ,

4 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 5 Prosser Creek is by fed by snowmelt from Frog Lake and the New Backcountry peaks surrounding Carpenter and Euer Valleys, becoming one Huts for Truckee? of the major tributaries to the . Water captured from Sierra storms provides drinking water for 65 percent of the Californians. Protecting the headwaters of Sierra rivers, such as Beyond the conservation and recreation gains this 3,000- Prosser Creek and the Truckee River, is a key part of ensuring acre acquisition affords, the lodge at Frog Lake could California and Nevada have sufficient water supplies. According become the centerpiece in a grand vision for the Truckee to The Nature Conservancy, preserving open space and pre- Donner Land Trust and Sierra Nevada Partnership – a venting further residential development on forest properties on backcountry hut system east of the Sierra Crest. the upper reaches of watershed is one of the most economical Dotting other mountain ranges – from the Swiss Alps methods of protecting water quality and quantity. to Oregon’s Wallowas – networks of huts open up Because of the remote terrain and care of the land by the wintertime access to wild landscapes by providing safe, Smith Family, the riparian areas, pocket meadows and mature comfortable accommodations for skiers, snowboarders forests provide excellent habitat for Sierra flora and fauna. and other winter adventurers. Dense forests of red fir cover sheltered areas that retain snow for much of the year, and thickets of mountain mahogany, Linking together a series of huts that could open up currants and gooseberry thrive in the exposed areas. In multi-day expeditions or overnight out-and-back trips between, mature mixed-conifer forests abound. Black Bear, would create an entirely new recreational opportunity mountain lions and bobcats are all present, as is the Loyalton- in the Northern Sierra – potentially adding to the Sierra Truckee deer herd, which utilizes Euer and Carpenter Valleys Club’s already popular four huts in the region. for foraging and fawning. “It will take significant funding and the stars will have “The biggest Jeffrey pines I’ve ever seen are at Frog Lake,” Svahn said. The current acquisition is in light orange and the earlier Lower Carpenter Valley and Crabtree Canyon in dark orange. All together the Land Trust and its partners to align just right, but this is a really exciting prospect,” have protected more than 20,000 acres north of I-80. Perry Norris said. “When it comes to huts in the Sierra, The acquisition provides an opportunity for restoration of we have a very limited offering compared to the Rockies the headwater forests. While Frog Lake does not need forestry or Canada.” work with its late-seral forests, other parts of the acquisition were used for industrial timber production and are in need Currently, local huts are booked solid, of restoration. The Land Trust and its partners anticipate months in advance, showing strong demand for huts. removing old eroding skid trails as a way to further decrease New huts would open up skiable terrain not easily runoff and protect water quality in these key watersheds that accessible by day trips. feed the Truckee River.

The "main house" at Frog Lake built in the 1930s. Photo credit: Terence Part of the acquisition, a healthy and mature red fir forest on Carpenter Ridge Hundemer above Independence Lake.

Protection of this landscape maintains the connectivity of Recreation and Access large areas of undeveloped habitat along the northern segment Building on existing trails like the Warren Lake Trail and of the Sierra Front. Acquisition of the ridges surrounding the Pacific Crest Trail, the Land Trust envisions connections to Frog Lake, Carpenter and Euer Valleys ensures habitat and Frog Lake, Red Mountain, Lower Carpenter Valley and north all open space connectivity between the Castle Peak Roadless the way to Independence Lake. From Independence Lake, trails Area, the Sagehen Basin, Independence Lake and Henness linking to Mt. Lola and the Pacific Crest Trail are on the horizon. Pass. Protecting areas of contiguous habitat allows for both All those connections add up to nearly endless recreation horizontal and vertical migration of species – important in opportunities, opening up seldom-seen wild areas and mitigating the Sierra’s changing climate. mountain vistas to the public for the first time. The Land Trust's own Kevin Starr in corn heaven, May skiing above a frozen Frog Lake. Photo credit: Bill Stevenson 6 summer summer 20182018 truckee donner land trust 7 restoration planned giving Restoring Van Norden Meadow by rachel hutchinson South Citizens League, River Scientist

The headwater reaches of the Sierra Nevada are some of our most Keeping It prized places. They’re also some of the most sensitive to human impacts and a changing climate, making their protection critical. Forever Wild Researchers who study rivers and streams place a lot of importance on promoting what is referred to as Larkspur. Photo credit: Rich Reid Sierra Tiger Lily. Photo credit: David Edelson “headwater resiliency,” which basically means protecting, evaluating and restoring our headwater watersheds so Truckee Donner Land Trust donors – that’s you, our newsletter readers – are an they can function to the best of their inspiring and diverse group of people with deep ties to the Truckee Donner area. ability as we move into an uncertain Members of the Land Trust’s “Forever Wild Society,” forward thinking donors who water and climate future. Will we see less snow? Will we see A map showing natural and altered water courses in Van Norden Meadow. Map courtesy: USFS include the Land Trust in their estate planning, ensure the Land Trust will be around more drastic annual changes – drought for the long haul and can care for the tens of thousands of acres it has protected for one year, record-breaking snow the next? surface water and groundwater, evidence connectivity of the floodplain with the generations to come. We’re here for the long haul, and, as they say, perpetuity is a very The sensitive ecosystems at the very of soil compaction and vegetation stream channel, improve water quality, top of our watersheds need to be ready loss or conversion due to heavy use, restore habitat for birds, fish and toads, long time. for changes – the species that depend intrusion by invasive species and and increase carbon sequestration. on them for their survival have nowhere encroaching conifers. Van Norden Meadow is made up of a Meet Judy Mayorga: Judy’s love for the The Mayorgas’ love for the Truckee Donner else to go. They’ve already evolved to A badly degraded meadow can still diverse array of habitats, including stream Sierra blossomed as a child while spending area led to their decision to make a gift to the live at the top. be beautiful. Van Norden Meadow, at and riparian habitats, sedge beds, drier time at her parents’ summer cabin at the south Land Trust in their will. Judy feels strongly Meadows are often at the top of our the headwaters of the South Yuba River, upland areas formed by glacial deposits end of . She and her late husband, that she, personally, wants to be the decision watersheds. The impacts that meadows is a beautiful meadow, but it is losing and low-lying wetlands. These habitats Bill, pursued their professional careers in maker about her legacy. A firm believer in have sustained over the last 150-200 its ability to function. If we leave this support a diverse array of species. the East Bay, but moved to Truckee in their giving local, Judy desires that her legacy gifts years are largely human-caused. People ecosystem alone, we will allow it to SYRCL is working with researchers from retirement, building their home with stunning help protect and preserve the community and love meadows – they were widely used continue the cycle of degradation. A UC Davis, University of Nevada, Reno, views of Frog Lake Cliff. land she has loved so much for decades. by Native Americans, acted as a rest lowered stream channel, lowered water Mont Claire University, Point Blue and The Mayorgas have been long-time The Land Trust is planning a late summer stop for early European settlers and table, reduced vegetative cover, invasive elsewhere to understand the current supporters and volunteers for the Land get-together of Forever Wild Society members. have sustained our growth in modern- species and encroaching forest – all status of Van Norden Meadow and how Trust, and Judy served on the Land Trust If you have made a bequest to the Land Trust, day California with ranching, timber eventually result in a wholesale change restoration will impact water quality, Board 1996-2002. They were particularly thank you! Please contact Development harvesting, gold mining and reservoir to the ecosystem. wildlife and carbon sequestration. instrumental in early phases of the Donner Director Kathy Englar at kathy@tdlandtrust. building. Restoring Van Norden Meadow is If you want to stay informed about Lake Rim Trail construction, organizing org to make sure we include you in this It is estimated that 60 percent of expected to benefit many different the restoration project, please visit volunteer groups and hosting barbecues for special event. California’s meadows are considered aspects of the local ecosystem. By filling www.yubariver.org or email rachel@ hungry volunteer trail workers. A dedicated Judy joined Land Trust staff for a tour of Carpenter Valley’s wildflower degraded – meaning one or more of eroded stream channels and gullies, yubariver.org to be placed on the Van hiker, Judy has been an active member of the display, June 2016. Photo credit: Janet the following: deeply incised stream and removing invasive species, we Norden Stakeholder List for updates, Tahoe Trail Trekkers local chapter. Zipser Zipkin channels due to years of erosion, altered will reduce flood flows, improve the public meetings and field tours.

8 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 9 recreation new, improved and kid friendly hikes Announcing Another Season of Super Cool Land Trust Outings!

Caring for Lower Carpenter Valley

The North Fork of Prosser Creek runs through Carpenter Valley. Photo credit: Elizabeth Carmel, The Carmel Gallery

The Truckee Donner Land Trust the North Fork of Prosser Creek will acquired Lower Carpenter Valley, hailed access a future picnic area and provide as the “secret garden of the Sierra,” in future connectivity with the network 2017. This year, we’re working to open of trails on adjacent US Forest Service Join us for a fun hike this summer. Scientist Brian Hastings explains meadow hydrology in Carpenter Valley. this incredible property to the public in a land. At the western end of the property, way that protects its sensitive ecology. a proposed elevated platform would “Recreation must be compatible with provide views of the Sierra Crest and The Truckee Donner Land Trust’s docent-led hike program Our 45 docents team up in groups of four to lead outings the Valley’s delicate resources,” said lower valley. is expanding, offering more than 50 hikes, trail runs and bike with groups of no more than 25, ensuring a great experience John Svahn, associate director of the Once all of this is in place, the rides on 11 of the Land Trust’s most spectacular properties. without a big crowd. Each brings his or her own unique Land Trust. property can be opened to the public These free outings are the perfect way to get to know the knowledge to the outing. While they’re dedicated, experienced Working with The Nature for unguided access – likely in 2020. stunning landscapes you helped to protect, meet other lovers and take their work seriously, they also have a lot of fun. Conservancy and Tahoe Donner Until then, the Land Trust provides of the outdoors, and gain an understanding of the geology, the The Land Trust is also introducing several child-focused Association, the Land Trust is multiple docent-led hikes each week in flora and the fauna of these places. outings, but all hikes are family friendly. This summer’s hikes developing plans for new trails, a the summer and fall for those interested Rein Orchid in Carpenter Valley. “Our docents are hardworking, knowledgeable and know will explore Carpenter Valley, Royal Gorge, Lacey Meadows, trailhead, interpretive signage, a bridge in visiting. Find out more about those the properties like the back of their hand,” said Linda Slattery, , Donner Summit Canyon, Elizabethtown Meadows, across the North Fork of Prosser Creek, hikes and how to sign up on page 11. administrator at the Land Trust. “Their unique expertise Perazzo Meadows, Truckee River Canyon, Castle Valley and benches and picnic tables. Construction The Land Trust is also planning to and passions reveal layers to each property that you might the Donner Rim Trail. should begin in 2019, lasting into 2020. construct a yurt in the valley for winter otherwise miss – whether it’s tiny flowers or towering sugar To see a complete calendar and to sign up for a hike, go to The trails will include numerous travelers to use. Located roughly three pines.” tdlandtrust.org/2018-summer-hiking-series. elevated puncheon sections designed miles from the nearest trailhead on a to allow visitors to enjoy the meadow snow-covered road, the yurt will be the without impacting water flow and perfect distance for a family overnight meadow function, and without trip to enjoy the serenity of Lower Our partners at The Nature Conservancy have muddying their boots. The bridge across Carpenter Valley in the winter. a number of game cameras in Lower Carpenter Valley producing stunning images. 10 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 11 hikes & trail building schedule royal gorge Pay It Forward

Maintaining the network of trails across Docent Hikes & Trail Days 2018 Schedule the Land Trust’s numerous properties (left) Constructing a log-stringer bridge on the Walter and Esther Hewlett Rim Trail. (right) Voila, the finished product. is a time-consuming undertaking, and trail work days it’s not just for nordic skiing anymore we need your help. If you’re out hiking, June 23 running, biking or on horseback and July 28 August 18 Get Out and Enjoy Royal Gorge … see a downed tree or trail damage that September 8 needs to be addressed, please contact October 6 Care and management of Donner “After climbing through a mixed- Memorial State Park to Cisco Grove. The Stewardship Coordinator Kevin Starr at Summit’s Royal Gorge, acquired by the conifer forest interspersed with pocket new trail segment will replace a fire road docent hike locations Truckee Donner Land Trust in 2012, meadows, the trail travels across the portion of the Royal Gorge Rim Trail [email protected]. We appreciate Carpenter Valley continues to be a high priority. The Land nose of a ridge, offering views of the with scenic single track. your passion for these wonderful places. Royal Gorge Rim Trail Point Mariah Trust, with assistance from scores of entire upper North Fork of the American Sugar Bowl and the Land Trust Lacey Meadows volunteers, is wrapping up what we’re River from Mt. Lincoln to , continue their partnership, managing Mt. Lola proud to say is a network of fun and awe- from Snow Mountain to Royal Gorge. lands and promoting recreation Donner Summit Canyon inspiring trails. You can spend an hour The view is spectacular,” said Kevin on Donner Summit with new trail Elizabethtown Meadow or days exploring Royal Gorge. Starr, stewardship coordinator and the connections and events. The trails on Perazzo Meadows The Walter and Esther Hewlett Royal architect of the new trail. the Royal Gorge property now connect Truckee River Canyon Gorge Rim Trail, completed last year, is In 2018, kiosk maps will be updated with Sugar Bowl’s trail system, offering Castle Valley a 13-mile meandering-loop trail taking and two dozen new directional signs routes to the Pacific Crest Trail and Glacier Way to Drifter Hut in some of Royal Gorge’s best views and will be installed on trails. Placer County Donner Lake. Royal Gorge Rim Trail deepest fir forests. Maps are available on plans to construct a portion of the Three running races, Ragnar, the the Land Trust’s website. Memorial Overland Emigrant Trail Tahoe Sierra 100 and the Sierra Crest For a complete schedule, hike The section proceeding north from across Soda Springs Ridge. The trail, Ultra Run, as well as a mountain bike description and to register for any of the Point Mariah is a local favorite. when complete, will stretch from Donner skills clinic, will take place on the Royal Gorge trail network in 2018. 40+ hikes this summer, go to tdlandtrust. In addition, Sugar Bowl and the Land org/2018-summer-hiking-series Trust are also hosting REI’s Climbfest. This event – expected to attract 200 participants – will feature climbing on Donner Summit, instructional clinics, films and catered dinners with local brews. Beyond trail work, the Land Trust will also continue its longstanding commitment to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire and to improve wildlife habitat. Forestry work will be focused in Serena Creek Canyon to the south of the Serene Lakes Subdivision, and will likely begin in the early fall. The Land Trust has spent nearly $1 million "Sierra mist" on the Donner Lake Rim trail. Volunteers moving a dirt bag on the Walter and Esther Hewlett Rim Trail, Royal Gorge. on forestry work at Royal Gorge to date. Equestrians enjoying Royal Gorge. Nearly all Land Trust trails are multi-use. Photo credit: Geoff Griffin 12 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 13 Wayne Crow Randy and Jenny Martin Thomas Winn donors Diane and Will Davis Dan Martin Sue Woodward Seth Dee Dirk Mellema The Zaitlin-Nienberg Family Fund Carol Dienger Paul Minault Charles Zipkin and Janet Zipser Zipkin Susan Groshong and Bob Dillard Mary Montella and Jeff Newman Mark and Mary Lou Zoback Thank You to Our Donors Perry Norris and Seana Doherty Richard and Catherine Nicoll Ruth Donohugh Dudley and Philippa Nigg $500 to $999 $100,000 and over Chevron The David and Lucile Packard Foundation Kathy Englar Paul and Pat O'Hara Chris and Sue Adams Wildlife Conservation Board Geoff and Patty Chin Robert and Mary Hery Dean and Daria Eppley Karen and Al Pace John Hetz and Noelle Allen California Natural Resources Agency John Davis Intel Gerald and Linda Feeney Stanley and Georgene Pasarell Balance Hydrolics, Inc. National Fish & Wildlife Foundation Vivian and Bruce Euzent Rod and Jonnie Jacobs Robert Felton Toni and Dick Paterson James and Susan Bartlett Merle and Michael Fajans Howard and Julia Laney Doug and Jane Ferguson Danny and Alison Peltz Ron Barzel $50,000 to $99,999 Dan Flynn Gary and Carolyn Lawson Peter Van Der Naillen and Bill and Molly Person Steve and Ina Bauman Anonymous Jeri Ann Smith and Tony Francis Jim and Jennifer Lemke Bridget Flanagan Brad and Trish Piatt Bill and Judie Beaty Community Foundation of Western Nevada Diane and David Gandara Mary and Arnie Levine Sharon and Kin Fong Gordon Steindorf and Carole Raisbeck Ted and Julia Behar Jim and Denny Hoelter Bill and Sara Jo Goerke Phil and Carolyn McIntyre Brian Foster Amy and James Ramsey John and Susan Bollinger Lanie and Charlie Linker Rob and Clair Hamner Steve Miller Patty Coe and Barry Freifeld Sheila Raumer Gale Rankin and V.J. Bonnard Jim Loughlin Connie and Jon Hartung Hope Page Robert and Kimi Fukotume Daniel and Mary Reeves Mary and Chip Brown Susan McClatchy William Haskell Ann Reisenauer and Dick Simpson Yoav and Robin Gal T. Gary and Kathleen Rogers Supporting David and Judith Burke Christney and William McGlashan Robert Herr Jean Snuggs Lisa Querimit and Frank Galli Family Foundation Jeff Cotsifas and Kiersten Burke Sheri and Jack Overall Foundation Sandy and Geoff James Steve Paterson and Nicky Stenton Linda and Bill Giannini Aileene and Robert Roth Richard L. Caplin, M.D. Sky View Foundation Mike and Usha Kreaden Steve Vallarino and Raini Sugg Google The Richard and Barbara Rovit Gail Paulin and Jim Carlson Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation Cheryl and Grady Kromer Buck Taylor III and RT Taylor Clara Gerdes and Ken Greenberg Memorial Foundation JoAnn Peca and Jim Casper J. Holley Taylor and Debra Duffer Mary ES Loomis Ken and Lynn Weakley Charles and Gail Greene Allen and Cindy Ruby Louise and Frank Champion Thomas and Cathy Van Berkem Mary Burchill and Mark Maxson Bob and Christine Wendin Geoff and Barbara Griffin Scott Ryan Donna Chipps Kenneth and Megan Wright Judy Mayorga William Wendin Sally and George Grigoriev Art and Sherie Schmauder Kenneth Cooper Jennifer Martin and Daryl Odnert Buzz and Jan Wiesenfeld Margaret Lewicki and Ernie Grossman Bill and Ginny Schultz John and Barbara Crary $10,000 to $49,999 Cindy and Ron Olander Charles and Marcia Cohn Growdon Art and Sue Scotland Laura Lindgren and Allan Crawford Anonymous Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP $1,000 to $2,499 Lynn and Ken Hall John and Sidney Scott Kevin and Katie Crosby Apple Resort Francoise Beaufays and Luca de Alfaro Denisia Halligan Gretchen and Thomas Selfridge Elizabeth Bremner and Karen Crow Trudy and William Ausfahl Karen Seaward George Somero and Amy Anderson David and Gale Harding Brian and Sue Service Jeffrey Schloss and Emily Desfor Sharon and John Brauman Serene Lakes Property Owners Association Mark and Jaime Andrews Jon and Katherine Harvey Sandra and Bill Shepherd Frederick Dill Helen Pelster and Javier Castellar Ian Simmons Anonymous (2) Janice Nelson and Robert Herhusky Steven and Wendy Shray Al and Lynne Dover Tony and Barbara Grasseschi Crabb Harry Tarbell III Donner Lake Property Owners Association David and Lisa Homrig Mark and Mary Sliwkowski Judy Dowdy Julie Thornton and Craig Falk Grace and Steven Voorhis Donner Lake Woods Homeowners Wei Hong Paul and Chris Snowberg Denis and Barbara Drew Nick and Sue Hellman Bill and Diane Zuendt Association Sandra Hughes Lauren Reager and Margaret Sohagi Frank Smith and Dian Duryea Harriet Johnson Thomas Ausfahl Fred and Barbara Ilfeld Jeff Lang and Cathy Sorisio Chrissy and Denton Earnhardt Hank and Eileen Lewis $2,500 to $4,999 Cindy and Gregg Bashford Intuit Jill and Jack Svahn Orlo and Marilyn Elfes Mellam Family Foundation Adobe Nancy C. Bean Bob and Suzanne Jessell Brita Tryggvi and Art Takaki Shirley Ely Shanna O'Hare Donna Poggi and Jay Anderson Barbara Bianchini Charlie and Mary Jones David Tansey Joe and Jackie Floyd Tom and JoAnn Prescott Law Offices of Tom Archer Jeff and Laura Brown John Krogsrud James Teddy Diana and Michael Fredrich REI Ned and Jimi Barnholt Linda Brown Kevin and Judith Kveton Bill and Mary Alice Thauvette Eleanor Hewlett Gimon Michael and Carol Sabarese Joachim and Nancy Bechtle Anne Chadwick Richard Lacampagne Carolyn Johnson and Rick Theis Rosemarie and Ernest Gnos John Kosich and Sherry Scott Gina and John Biondi Ernest Chan Eric and Stacia Law Gretchen and Garfield Thomas Noah Goldberg Daniel and Charlene Simmons John and Julie Buckley Douglas and Susan Chance Suzanne Legallet Guy and Niki Thomsen Michael and Laurel Gothelf Cole and Grace Wilbur Tom and Louise Burns Jim and Ann Christol Chris Fichtel and Nancy Light Barbara and Don Tornberg Sarah and Parke Hafner Wendy Shray Designs Mary Ellen Clifford Ed Matthews and Jody Lindell Mr. Reid Towery Paul and Larissa Hail $5,000 to $9,999 Mark Linton and Susan Ellis James and Marie Colbert Charles Rosenblum and Titi Liu Ursack Inc Martha Harley Robert and Marcia Barnett Katherine and Randall Erickson Sherry and Bob Conrads Bob Bell and Patty Lomanto Frits and Letty Vanderlinden Padget M. Kaiser and Robert Hauck Martin and Holly Bern Pam and Dennis Fisco Helen Conway Judith Lomax Jack and Judy Warner Fran Haulman Herbst Susan Burchill The Flora Family Foundation Gina Costa Russel Martin Angela White High Country Construction

14 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 15 Nancy and Mark Himelstein David Rowney Chuck and Kristi Corley George and Barbara Krusi Verizon Foundation Kenneth and Janet Blaedel Kevin and Beth Hirsh James and Sandra Rowney Bill and Evelyn Covington Patricia and James Laing Jeffrey and Karen Vesely Steven Blair Lisa and Jan Holan Kate and Doug Rundle Tim and Laura Crandall William Larue Garrett Walker Gregory and Dana Blair James P and Billie M Holmes Jennifer and Steve Ryder Edmund and Barbara Czerwinski Tony and Jan Lashbrook Bobbi and Jim Westphal Linda and Steven Blake Joseph Hovell Edna and Paul Schumacher Steve and Jade Dahl Celeste Leon Suzanne and James White Jennifer Jennings and Michael Bledsoe Joseph Howard Richard Anderson and Carole Sesko Kevin Roop and Ann Darby Richard and Robin Lewis Jim and Rosemary Winterberger Tahoe Dave's Skis and Boards Sarah and Sam Hoyle David George and Amy Shaw James and Janine DeMartini Gina Lin David and Sheila Woods Toni and Monika Bock Charles Hutchings Janet and Mike Shinn Kelley Carroll and Paige Derdowski Paco and Carol Lindsay Jacqueline and Ping Wu Doug and Rita Boehner Ibis Cycles Conrad Snover, Lisa Toutant and Ernie Malamud and Olivia Diaz Bob and Judy Marshak Mark and Danusia Zaroda Edward Bouwhuis Matthew and Connie Ives Cruz Snover Mitchell and Sydney Dion Mary and Larry Marshall Linda Zarzana Carol and Tom Bowa Johnson & Johnson Sonja Sorbo Steven and Marilyn Disbrow Ron and Annika Medak Ron and Gisela Zech Diane K. Boyer Bob Julian Cindy and David Stanley Hans Wain and Roxanne Duffield Peter and Joan Melrose Jennifer Bailey and John Zeisler Joyce and Kenneth Brady Richard A. Kannisto Philip and Grace Starr Sally and Rodger Engebrethson Terry and Kevin Miller Elaine Leitner and Steve Zieff Rick and Hope Brandsma Juli Kauffman Gail and Rick Stephens Vito Esposito Mimi and Burnett Miller Richard Leijonflycht and Linda Zimmerer Leealyn and George Brandt Robert Green and Kathleen Kearley Shaun and Suzanne Sullivan Ward Fansler Brenda and George Milum William Brinckerhoff John and Jennifer Kelly Cathy and Drew Sutter Elizabeth and Charles Farnsworth Lynda Moehling $100 to $249 Dick and Connie Brooding Helen Bradley and Steven Kleiman Sharon and John Tiner Amy Hecht and Michael Fine Michael, Jennifer and Paul Moran Alisa and Luca Adriani Marvin Brooks David Kahn and Barbara Kramer-Kahn Tahoe Trampers Patsy and George Fish Linda and Peter Morris Bruce and Ann Ajari Bob Brown Barbara and Ed Larson Laurel Turner Kathryn and Paul Fitzgerald Cameron and Marcia Murray Logan Allen Tanya Brown Sue and Peter LaTourrette UBS Kathleen and Paul Fitzpatrick Willis Newton Charlie and Mary Almestad Stuart and Suzanne Bryan Ruth Daniel and Kendrick Lee Michael Ueltzen Bill and Martha Folk Sheila and John Nichols Alpenglow Sports Jerry Buchanan Jonathan Lee Joe and Katie Veni Leslie and Stephen Francis Open Impact LLC Cindy Frei and Don Ambler Joe and Tanya Buxton Joan Ludlam and Dan Leighton Nancy and John Wagner Peter and Susan Loff Fry Elinor Lolly and Thomas Osborne Osvaldo and Eddy Ancinas David and Andrea Campos Ann and George Limbach David and Anne-Marie Walker Juniper Network Foundation Fund Hal Parker Jerry and Wendy Anderson Lurana Cancilla Mike and Ann Linnett Dan and Ellie Wendin Kim and Bob Garcia Peg Van Camp and Carol Patterson Jim and Barbara Andras Bettye and Steve Carmichael Sherman Little George Wertheim William Gardner and Judy Brown Gardner Rodney and Cathleen Peck Anonymous (5) Betsy and Alan Carpenter Heidi Bosselman and Tom Logue Deborah Wettstein Constantin and Maude Genigeorgis Susan Peick Claudia and Dennis Argyres Carmen Carr Todd and Debi Lopez Louise and Dick Wiesner Thomas Armstrong and Matthew and Erin Perry Athena and Nick Arvanitidis Richard and Myrna Cartano Kerri and Mark Lubin Margret Geselbracht PG&E Corporation Foundation Steve Ascher Mary Corley and Pete Castro Thomas Kulczycki and Carolyn Magin $250 to $499 Sherry Keith and Robert Girling Peter and Jacqueline Poulsen Steve Ashcraft Greg Catani Bill and Norma Markley Alpine Home Design & Construction Keith Goebel Steve Mott and Lee Ann Ragusa-Mott Michelle Au Julie Cater Robert and Marty Martin Carsten and Gail Andersen Jonathan and Tina Gray Aparna Reddy Sherry Auerbach Robert Cattolica Daniel and Maya McBride Carl and Margo Anderson Debbie and Jeffrey Gualco Sarah and Ken Reid Howard and Anita Backer Joel, Janice and Steven Chaffin John and Kathy McCorduck ARCC Programs Arne and Lee Hamala William Reller Ron Hunter and Kaitlin Backlund Leslie, Michael and Neil Chin Theresa and Andrew McCullough Lorelle Banzett Kyle and Anne Hoffman Tanya Reuvekamp Michael Baikie Ralph Hunt and Barbara Christy Patrick and Jennifer McNerney Lynden Beale Loren Hostek Wallace Ritchie Karen Bailey Richard Clark Scott and Suzanne Montgomery Tom Behlmer Tamara Sasaki and Zachary Hymanson Judy and Ben Roberts YourCause MUFG Union Bank Thomas Clifford Sheila and Jack Mullins Robert and Janet Bjekich Eric Raptosh and Peter Jackson Alexander and Britta Mackey Rogerson Bank of America Sharon Coan MWA, Inc. Mike Sokolsky and Sue Blockstein W. Blake Jamison Michael Roman Joyce Bartlett Dick and Ellen Cochran Lois and Frank Noonan Sally Brew Tom and Karen Johns Jane Miller and Peter Ronald George and Betsy Bechtel Alan and Jan Coe Laura Kodres and Daniel O'Brien Kara Brodie Diana Johns David and Christine Ryan Arlene Becker Joyce Colbath-Stewart Ted and Sara Owens Elizabeth R. Brown Roberta and David Johnson Page and Ferrell Sanders Cathy and Jim Bedillion Deborah and Frank Collin Michael J. Pease Carl and Nanon Buchell Chris Kantarjiev Nancy and Joseph Segreto Don and Lone Beeson Brent and Dianne Collinson Janet Peterson Laurie and Charles Burden Kirk Keil James Sherman Jim Bellows Linda Common Lynette and Graham Powell Cabonas Karen and David Keller Barry and Bobbi Silberman Charles and Madelaine Bennett Linda and John Compisi Kitty and Lee Price John Stubbs and Nan Carnal Loren Kimura Naomi Silvergleid Bob Bowles and Leslie Benson Miles and Patricia Congress Mike and Cathy Puckett Grace Chou William and Diane Kirkham Linda Slattery Steven and Mindy Benton Brian Connors Toni Rembe Kevin and Mary Clark Robert Kirkwood David and Judie Stepner John Loll and Jane Bielke-Loll Robert Cook Sorensen's Resort Eric and Maria Clothier Allyson and James Kreimer Greg and Jennifer Tirdel Arthur and Roslyn Bienenstock David Corbin Craig Ritchey John Cobourn Jill and Carsten Kristensen Frank Sarnquist and Loreli Trippel Michael and Geraldine Bigelow Lynn Cordner Robert and Patricia Ronald Thomas and Susan Collins Susana Krulevitch Marshall and Janet Tuttle David and Gloria Billharz Rosemary and David Cortopassi

16 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 17 William Courchesne Jenise and Brad Falk Nancy and Milt Hardyck David Galson and Diane Kile Janet Robinson and Rob McCray Cameron Peter James Coyle Nancy and Roger Ferch Judith and Robert Harms Robert Kingsley Jeffrey Holl and Joan McDermott Kathleen Peterson Karen Cozza Marian Finkelstein John Harrington Othmar and Christine Klay Carol McGraw Michael and Susan Phelan Betsy Crandell Tim and Diana Fitzpatrick David and Carole Harris Joan Klein Bill McGuire Bryan Pierce Marilyn Crang Howard and Barbara Fleming Matthew Hart Andrew and Katherine Klonecke Don and Lynn McKechnie Michael and Rosalind Plishner James and Jeane Crider Nathaniel Flick Kirke and Nancy Hasson David Ludvigson and Julie Knight Kevin and Janice McKennan Katherine and Earl Plummer John G. Downing and Christa Cullen Patrick Flora Karl and Billi Haug Walter Knoepfel Karen and EJ Melzer Glenn Polochko Diane Curtis Curtis Oldenburg and Joan Florsheim Ralph and Gillian Hayward George and Kate Korsh Sarah Mergy Tracey Pomeroy Renee and William Curtis Bob Fong Jan and Hilary Hedman Sandra Korth Edwin and Peggy Meyer Lauren O'Brien and Steve Poncelet Joseph Curtis Marilyn Foreman Barb and William Henderson Rebecca Koster Catherine and John Milbourn John Pope Nancy D'Amico Richard and Susan Fox Thomas and Patricia Hendrey Jason Kuntz Clara and Robert Miller Mark Poppoff Maya and Jim D'Anjou Tim and Linda Fraguglia Vicki Henry Barton Lane Gene and Joyce Miller Judith and David Porter Sarah and Joe d'Eon Laura Francis William and Alexandra Hersh Nils and Marie Lang-Ree Nick and Darcy Mironov Jim and Marianne Porter Daniel Goeschl and Anne Dain-Goeschl Martha Frantz Walter and Esther Hewlett Jean and Andrew Lange Kevin Mitchell Glen Poulsen Dave and Sandy Davini Robert and Donna Frassinello Bob and Carol Hicks Bryan Largay George and Georgene Mitsanas Jean-Charles Poussin Eric Davis Sarah Seitz and Paul Freitas Susan Hida Heather and Terry Larkin Peter and Katie Mondavi Karole Morgan-Prager and Ken Prager Pamela Raynak and Harold Dawson Don Fulda Constance Hillis Karen and John Latorra Michael and Elizabeth Mooney Dave and Caroline Pratt John and Susan Deakyne John and Julia Fuller John Hjelmstad Byron and Corrine Lee Susan Morris Stefan Precup Denise Kahwajy and Bill Deasy Eric and Yolanda Gage Carolyn and Kenneth Hodges Dorothy Lee Byron Beagles and Cynthia Morrow Judy Price Joan Dedo Jim Gaither Jr. Therese Iknoian and Michael Hodgson Joyce Lee Susan and Francis Morse George Prince William and Rosalee DeLacy Dick Gander Laura Holl James Lemoine Robert Morton Genentech Employee Giving Program James Delehanty Carol and Ed Geiger Ray and Kathy Holstead Carol Levy Marty and Don Mosman Beverly Raaka Charles DeLoney Lisa Jay Gelfand Marlene Mirassou and Stephen Houlihan Donald E. Lewis Phyllis Munsey Jeffrey and Lavan Rassuchine Leonor Dicdican Michael and Virginia Genovese Walter and Joan Huber Nona Liang Michael Murray Cathy Ravano Karen and Jim Dobberstein Jim and Jeannie Geselbracht Jake and Lauren Hudson Nancy and Bob Link Margaret Nance Steve Rebscher Diana Dohrmann Gregg and Judy Gibson Joseph and Sue Huettl Thomas and Juliane Link-Oberstar Marcus Nash Robert and Susie Reisfelt Marijo and Bruce Douglass Rolf Godon Maggie Fillmore and Mark Huffman Tom and Laurel Lippert Ruth Thor Nelson Joan Renne Debbie Douglass Leigh Golden David G. Huggins and Stephanie Adcock and Kaye Little Adrian Nelson Gordon Repp Michele Dressback Joan Girdler and Michael Good Sonya M. Retzlaff-Huggins Norman and Marion Livermore III Nancy Nelson Lynn Richardson Mark Slomoff and Dorothy Dube John and Louise Goodman James and Janice Hutton Debbie and Steve Long William and Fern Newlin Dana Nadeau and Joel Richnak Jeannette Duff Georgene and Bob Goodstein Eric Isenhart Larry and Linda Long Robin Nenninger and Robert Nugent Carol and Harold Rigg Jane Dunn David and Jan Marie Graber Jerry and Nancy Ives C. Scott Powers and Bridgett Low Constance Nutt Eric and Elaine Ring Harrison Dunning Ben Grasseschi Garth and Marcia Jacober Robert and Patricia Lufburrow John and Nancy O'Donnell Bob and Cheryl Riopel Deane and Patricia Dvoracek Thomas and Mary Gray Alfred and Bonnie Janssen Hilda and Nelson Luke Carole and Vincent O'Hare Jane and Jerry Risk Jim Duffy and Kathleen Eagan John and Deborah Greenspan Robert and Rae Meda Janzen David and Earline Lund Brian and Julie O'Melveny Keith Ristinen Mara Bresnick and Dan Eaton Michael and Gail Griesmer Ellen and Gilbert Jensen Craig and Carol Lundin Chris and Ed O'Neill Jerry and Mary Jane Rockwell Tom and Deb Echenique Terry Griffith Stephanie Johnson Doug and Betsy Lurie Bruce and Anita Ochieano Karen Ury and Carl Rogge Arlene and Mike Edminster Filip and Margaret Grover-Roos Sally Jones Amy and Rob Lynch Christina and Charles Oldenburg Helga Roghers Ross Edwards Jr. and Denise Edwards Robert and Betty Gudz Richard and Lydia Jones Lisa Cline and Jon Maienschein Bob and Gingi Olstad Erik and Deborah Rogind Donald Moe and Terry Ehret Nelson and Kathryn Van Gundy Hilary and Susan Jones Don and Pat Malberg Marcia and Rodney Omachi Richard and Judith Rohlf Marjory and John Eller Joella Gustafson Linda Joplin Janet and Greg Mann Corinne Ong Anita Rosen Jo and Larry Ellis Don Hagerty Michael and Susan Jordan Roxanne and Chris Maples Kay and Monte Osborn Alan and Gloria Rosenthal Matthew and Kristie Ellison Debra Hakansson Karen Jorgensen Sherrin and Donn Marinovich Paula and Daniel Osenni Paula Rothaug Robert and Margaret Elo Virginia Haliwell Micki Kelly and Mike Josselyn Dyan and James Mart Robert and Jane Owen Sylvia Roye Auerbach Engineering Daniel Hallford Robert Judson and Monica Vocos Judson Richard and Sharmisa Martin Dennis Pagones Peggy and Martin Rubenstein Hewlett Packard Enterprise Jon and Julie Halvorsen Kaiser Permanente Community Giving Patsy McGaughy and Jack Marx Nancy Woolf and Fred Paladino Sharon and Bob Ruffner Robert and Rebecca Epstein Rod Handeland Jack and Emilie Kashtan Renee and John McAmis Chris and Kay Parker Irene Slisky and Warren Russell Judy and Terry Erhardt David Hannah Michael Hogan and Debbie Kelly-Hogan John McCarron Captain David and Sarah Pate Barbara Russell Linus Eukel Alice Hannam Yvonne E. Kerby-Miller Nancy McCartney Elizabeth Schweinsberg and Lucas Pereira Susan and Bill Russell Robert and Dianne Evans Anita Hansen Jerry and Marcia Keyser Diane Young McCormack Pamela P. Lewis and Robert Perez Linda and Brook Russon David Falconer Shermain, Mike and Claire Hardesty Marion Keyworth Ernie and Kathy McCoy Mark and Karen Perlroth Mike and Laura Ryan

18 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 19 Salesforce Foundation Liz and Mike Tebbutt Glenn and Leota Woods Diane Brunner Bruce Ferris Dylan Dallas and Kristen Howes Mike and Emily Salmon Tahoe Tech Gabbart & Woods Patricia Burden Audrey and David Fielding Heather Hudson Thomas and Jill Sampson Eliot and Christine Terborgh William and Marilyn Wright Sue and Rod Bushnell Jeffrey Fisher Laura and Peter Hueber Gail and John Sande Richard and Marcy Terry John and Madalyn Wyatt Neil Byres Rich Fisher Erin Hughes Ted Beedy and Susan Sanders Leanna Jacuzzi and Brad Thomas Harry and Karen Wyeth Joanne and Dennis Campbell Alma, Mark and Austri Fletcher Kerri and Andrew Hunter Teebie and Jamie Saunders Steve Thompson Julie and Craig Wyreman James W. Carlin Ginny and Keith Fogg Ellie and Don Hyatt Sasha Gennet and Nathan Sayre Robert Thompson Jim Kelly and Karen Yokoo Scott and Sue Carter Leigh Fong Rudy and Mary Jacuzzi Jo Ann and Bill Schmidt Maryon Tilley Karen Sessler, Sam and Fred Zabell Steve Casagrande Leland and Eleanor Ford Jan and Jana Janku Mary and Mike Schrupp Nancy Timothy Jan and Louise Zabriskie Clara Castellar Chris Fox Allen Jefferis Julie Faisst and Mark Schwartz Eszter Tompos Ken Zahora Steve and Robin Cavagnolo William Franklin Monique Jensen Pamela Schwarz Sheila Toner Vivlan and Tony Zaloom Eleanor Chang Marianne and James Franks Yvonne Jerome Lydia and Jim Seely Tributary Whitewater Tours Michael Zatto Jim Herzman and Beth Christman Cynthia and Ron Franks Laura Johnson Robert and Jean Segale Gavin Towey Matthew and Lauri Zealear Art Clark Karen Freested Patrick Johnson Heidi Senglaub Colombe and Blake Tresan John and Johanna Zee Sierra Club Andre and Solange Gabany Pat Gibbons-Johnson and William Johnson Kim and Gabe Shacter Marilynn and Bob Trounson Dennis E. Zirbel, Architect Lorraine Comanor Bill and Jackie Gage Anthony Jones Whitney and Clasina Shane Jean and Fred Tuemmler Linda Conklin Suzanne Gale Casey and Jim Kaneko Lorraine and Rick Shea Kathy Craig and Russ Turnbull Up to $99 Marion and Richard Cooper Michele Garside Samantha Keh Steve Catton and Maureen Sheehy Tim and Judy Tweedie Stephen Adams Mary Lou Cooper Jeffrey Gilbreth Leigh and Janet Keicher Earl and Delores Shirley Bill and Christina Tweedie David Allen Richard and Sarah Cording Sarah and Test Gill Joseph Kellerhuis Cecilia Martinez and Tom Shragg Mrs. Katie Tyler Dick Angus Nancy and Fred Cotton Jennifer Glenesk Patty Kelley Michael and Cathleen Simmons Glenn and Jean Urban Anonymous (3) Kathy and Chuck Cruse Doris and Tom Gorin Andrew Kelly Beverly Singer Nick, Kit and Steve Urbani Stephanie Archuleta W. Bruce Culbertson Kent Graham Janette Kelly Duard Slattery Paul Vais JoEllen Arnold Ralph and Lisa Cutter William Graves Blanche Kerrigan Marcy Helm and Mark Smallen Town of Portola Valley Paul and Alice Arthur Colleen Dalton Kristi Gray Isabelle Sorrell Kos Amazon Smile Kelly Vaughn Jennifer and Martin Ash Nancy and Niel Davidson Windsor Green Lisa and Mike Krueger Larry and Barbara Smilie Georgia Gay Veeh Lou and Johnny Ashcraft Steve Day and Joanne Woods-Day John Greene Cheryl and Peter Kummli Benjamin and Kathleen Smith Michael Vollmer Marc Axelbaum Jerome Deck Jerry Greif Wayne and Patty Kurlak Winifred Clegg Smith Ward Wake Terry and Lynne Baker Megan and Jason Deherrera Jim and Nancy Gribble Tim and Debra Kustic Wayne and Nancy Snyder Judith and Erik Walberg Peter and Judi Bank Nancy and Chris Delumyea Paul Grunland Jonathan Laine Marian and Abe Sofaer Laurence Walker Joanne and George Barnes Frank and Jennie Desmond Thomas and Sandra Guldman Joshua and Laura Latimer John and Sue Sorensen Carolyn and Dick Warmington Laura Baxter Donald and Noel Dickey Victoria Gustafson Jennifer Leidigh Tom and Bobbi Specht Patricia and Robert Warren Joan Beahm Jeffrey Dodge Pam and Mike Hafer Susan Marcus and Ross Libenson Mike and Carol Spiering Nancy and Steven Wasserman Jack M. Beggs Alix Doherty Mike Haire Adriane von Lichtenberg Michael Spiess Joan Wauters and James Webb Mary Ellen Benier Sandy and John Donatoni Judy and Bruce Halverson Wendy Seppi Light Squaw Valley Property Owners Association John Weir Alison Bermant Sue Ann Donegan Reed Hamilton Marion and Steven Linden Stephen Srott William and Patricia Wells Ray Butler and Kristin Berry William and Nancy Dosch Dick and Mary Ann Hamilton Caroline and Dale Lindley Bob and Susan Stabler Peter and Knute Werbel John Henry and Sue Beyer Bill and Diane Durston Larena and Joseph Hannon Bruce and Michele Lucia Gregory Stach Jay and Jeannette Wertheim Anne Biagini Louise and Andrew Dyken Jean Hansen Jean Ann and Charles Luckhardt Jim and Lydia Stang Carole and Robert White John Biebl Patricia Eagle Richard and Cheryl Harper Timothy Lundgren Kristin Starmer John and Carol Whitelaw Lory Billeter Kathy and John Echols Emily Harris Sheree and Richard Luttrell Martha and Brian Staskawicz Alonzo Wickers Elaine Binger John and Jane Edginton Babette Haueisen Robinie Lyhne Matthew Stein Colleen and Paul Wilford Donald and Renate Bixby Janet Elmore Donna Hays Julie and David Lynch Laura Stern Walter and Patrice Willig Spencer and Judy Bloch Elizabeth and Matt Evans Georgia Bianchi Heald Joan and Steve Lynch Walter and Betty Stern Patrick O'Brien and Susan Willman Bruce and Charlotte Bolinger Peggy Ewing Patty Heck Kathleen L. Horan, M.D. Terry and Zoe Sternberg Gail Wilson Jon and Helen Bond Jeff and Maria Fahrner Thomas and Kristine Heimsoth Jane and Robert Maccione Marie Strassburger Mary Jess Wilson Christina Borsum The Stephen Franks Family Susan Hellyer Douglas P. and Hazel Manfra Susan Sundell Nina and Alexis Winans Juliet W. Bradley Doreen and Robert Fan David and Alison Hennig John Manning Lynn Suter Jim and Ellie Van Winkle Philip and Laurie Brazier Patricia and Paul Feldstein Fern and Gary Herrmann Robert Maples Ralph and Brenda Suter Mike and Lisa Wise Karen Brems Anne and Eric Fellows Vickie Christiansen Hiebert Steve Marshman John and Heather Svahn Jane Witter Nancy Briemle Fernanda Franco-Ferrara Vic and Kathy Hopner Susan and Jim Martin Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal Co. Helen Wolfe Jean Brooks and Paul Ferrara Patti Howard Beverly and Leslie Martin

20 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 21 Terry Martin Michael Plapp Larry and Dorothea Soderman Alison Schwedner and Alan Martin Janice Polochko Gail Sollid Neal and Virginia Martin Janice and Mark Poole Kathy Spagnolo Special Tim Matheson April Powers Steven Spickard M. Kay Matthews Peggy and Thomas Prescott Rudy and Beverly Staedler Philip Matthews Bruce and Trudy Presser Peter Standish-Lee Tribute Gifts Michael May Roberta Preu Mary Stanley Alan Mazursky Steve and Leta Rabenstine Kevin Starr In honor of Ken & Kathleen Ritchie Lowell David Hill Sara and Andrew McCadden Roger and Gertraud Radloff Lucy K. Stein Amy Alfano Gretchen Selfridge Suzy Himelstein Betty and Tom McClaskey Michael and Marie Ranta Johanna Stek Dean Andrighetto Sean and Michelle Shimada Tim Holl Rick and Phyllis McConn Marc Rayacich Kathleen H. and Doug Stephens Claire Benton Grace Starr Burr Hopkins Doug and Ricki McGlashan David Reneau Pieter Stroeve Stephen Bess Matt Cunha-Rigby & Casey Strong Russell David Hays, Jr. Darla and Joseph McKenna Susan and Rick Reynolds Eben Stromquist John Cain Heather Svahn Judge John Kennelly Julie and Dave McKown Barbara and Bob Richardson Barbara E. Sullivan Coldstream Hot Tub Debacle Jill Svahn Irving H. Krulevitch Lynn McLellan Linda Rintala Marilyn Sullivan Barbara Czerwinski Julie Thornton Henry M. Levy Pat and Kathie Mead Kathrin Moore and William Robberson Jun Sunseri Frances Davis Don Tornberg Bob Martin Henry Little and Lydia Mendoza Andrew and Elane Roberts David Sutherland Harold Duffield Frits Vanderlinden Harry S. Maykranz Carol and Michael Menefee Michael and Julie Roberts Gerlinde Trombino and Jerry Swearingen Christina Earnhardt Virginia & Venice Bill Mayorga Paul Metzker Ripley and Joyce Elaine Robinett Sally Sweatfield Kimmy Fasani Anita VonderEmbse Algerna Virginia Ketcham McAmis Cathy Anderson-Meyers and Owen Meyers Judy and Richard Robinson Laurie Sweeney Drs. Adam Luxenberg and Lily Friedman Jay Wertheim Donald C. McCormack Sara Michie Vivian and Bill Roller Mark Tavill Tyler Greene Wilhelmina White Frederick D. Minnes Brian and Carol Miller Carolina Roller Tim Taylor Geoff Griffin Susan Woodward Nick Moll Natalie Miller Linda Rose Patrick and Mary Taylor Martha and Mark Growdon Jill Zwagerman & Scott Growdon Sean Noonan Moylan Alice and Paul Minor Diane Rowe Stephen Taylor Rosie Hansen and Mike Hamilton Mark Nadell Janis and Jared Miyamoto-Mills Richard and Michelle Ruff Keith and Pauline Taylor Scott & Jenna Helmus In memory of Brion Osenni Judy Molland William Ruppert Mary and Terry Thorndyke Jim Hoelter Louise Anderson Steve Rademacher Kathy Moorse Margaret Rutt Frank and Monika Tobin Lucas Horan Chris Banovich Ellen Rawlings Adrian and Elizabeth Mopas Kathy Ryan Annalee Torrey Renee Jackson Emo Biagini Nancy Repp Sue Barton and Don Morrill Rob Rynski Sarah Trebilcock Jennifer Kelly Dave Brew Kathleen Roman John and Susan Munsey Pat and Gail Sanguinetti Tom and Jill Treuhaft Harriet Koch Dorothy Burden J. Victor Rowney Richard and Mary Lou Murphy Karen and James Sarrail Daniel and Janis Tuerk John Paul Koster Elda Croce Cavagnolo Larry Sage Rick and Nancy Murphy Richard and Cookie Sasaki Amanda Williamsen and Bradley Urban Nancy and Bob Link Amy Chamberlain Janis Sarnquist Nancee Murray Catherine Schnurrenberger Judith A. de Vito Tenly Liu Mildred Huan Chin Bonnie and Milt Seymour Violet Nakayama and Al Muth Martha Schultz Steve Ferguson and Anita VonderEmbse David and Marsh Lose Glenda Cissney Michael D. Sheldon NASTC Mary Meursinge Seidler Richard G. Wade Peter and Marlene Lyhne Jennifer Shaw Crosby Shadow and Shirley Michael and Colette Needham Michael and Carolyn Selig Margaret and Carl Walter Jack Mullins Loraine Wilbur Dicke Doug Sundby Robin De Negri Barbara and Ken Serwin Bob and Deanna Wargowski Jamie Nelson W. Eugene Stern Betty J Taylor Andrew Newman Christopher Severino Katrine Watson Jane Norris and Donald R Dickey Lyn Treon Dann Newton Clive and Kimberly Sharrocks Amanda Wells Shanna O'Hare Howard Dienger Jose Valdez Norm Nicholls Craig and Gretchen Shawver Michael and Jessica Werner Tom Osborne Irene B. Duffield Max Voshall Carol Nimick Barry Shilman Kay Whipp Jake and Torrey Palmer Donald R. Foreman Verne Walton Carl and Thea Norum Judy Silar Catherine and Robert White Kay Parker A. & E. Frederiksen Eleanor Claire Cramer Weir Sylvia Nunez Gloria and Michael Silvestri Frances White Lois Parsons Monroe Gross Maral Wingo Jane O'Riordan Faith Simon Ellen and Steve Wilbur Ralph Eschenbach and Carol Provan Wendi Haskell Chris Woodward Paul and Mindy Oesterman Heather Simon Kristi Williams Katie Pruski Mary Lou (Porter) Herhusky Katy Zirbel Carl and Mary Oldenburg Bill and Leslie Sims Howard Williams Robert Reynolds Roland Herzig William Zschaler Carl and Helen Ondry Karen Patria Slusser Glee Willis Patricia Padden Melissa Smith Noel and John Wilson Tracey and James Parker Lisa Smith Norman Kahn and Diana Winyard Ann Penfield Dwight and Elizabeth Smith Todd and Jennifer Zaayer Mike DeClement and Jennifer Perga Lawrence C. Smith Aaron Zanto Megan and Tom Pillsbury Darrel and Elaine Snyder Mary Conroy and Gary Zouzoulas 22 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 23 Special trails Acknowledgements Seeking a Permanent Fix Partners, Foundations, Nonprofits Morgan Family Foundation The Access Fund Alpenglow Sports Mountain Area Preservation Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association at Donner Summit Canyon Amazon Smile Mountainside Partners Tahoe Donner Association American Alpine Club Natuaional Fish & Wildlife Foundation Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Resort American Hiking Society Nevada County Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Bear Yuba Land Trust North Fork Association Tahoe Donner Hiking Club Bicyclists of Nevada County North Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce Tahoe Donner Trails Club Bretthauer Management Inc. Northern Sierra Partnership Tahoe Institute for Natural Science California Council of Land Trusts Northstar California Tahoe Pyramid Bikeways California Department of Fish & Wildlife Pacific Crest Trail Association Tahoe Rim Trail Association California Natural Resource Agency Patagonia Tahoe Trail Trekkers California State Parks Placer County Tahoe Trampers California Wildlife Conservation Board Placer Land Trust Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation Communicty Foundation Point Blue The Access Fund of Western Nevada REI The David and Lucile Packard Foundation (left) Erosion is a constant Climbing Resource Advocates for Resources Law Group The Flora Family Foundation battle for trails. Greater Sacramento Sagehen Creek Field Station The Nature Conservancy (below) The view from Donner Lake Property Owners Association Save Van Norden Meadow The Trust for Public Land the Kathy Polucha Donner Lake Woods Serene Lakes Property Owners Association The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation Kessler Memorial Picnic Homeowners Association Sierra Business Council Town of Truckee Area. Photo credit: Anne Chadwick Donner Summit Area Association Sierra Cascade Land Trust Council Trails & Vistas Emigrant Trails Greenway Trust Sierra College Trout Unlimited The Truckee Donner Land Trust acquired Donner Summit Land Trust Sierra County Truckee Chamber of Commerce Canyon in 2011, preserving an incredible landscape at Gateway Mountain Center Sierra County Historical Society Truckee River Watershed Council Truckee’s doorstep, filled with history, charm and supporting Gold Country Trails Council Sierra Nevada Concervancy Truckee Rotary the biggest tributary to Donner Lake. GoodDirtyFun.org Sierra Tinker Belles Garden Club Truckee Tahoe Airport District Hikers and cyclists enjoy this historic and popular route that Google Grants Sierra Watch Truckee Trails Foundation follows the Dutch Flat/Donner Lake Wagon Road, passing Headwaters Science Institute South Yuba River Citizens League Truckee-Donner Historical Society under dramatic granite cliffs, accessing a scenic picnic area IBIS Bicycles Sugar Bowl/Royal Gorge Ski Resort and exploring Native American petroglyphs. Lahontan Community Foundation Sunrise Rotary “Every time I visit Summit Canyon I feel like I am in Yosemite. It’s pretty magical,” said long-time Land Trust supporter and Donner Summit resident, Tom Applebaum. InKind Gifts John Peltier REI Erosion from the big winter run-off of 2016-17 significantly Auerbach Engineering Dan Goddard Construction Tahoe Mountain Sports damaged the trail, making sections of the trail difficult. Walter Auerbach Jeff and Laura Brown Hartley Appraisal Services Partnering with Donner Memorial State Park, the Land Trust Mountain Hardware & Sports Olof and Elizabeth Carmel John and Sidney Scott has plans to re-route a part of the trail and add a bridge over like granite cliffs of Donner Peak and of Schallenberger Ridge Law Offices of Tom Archer Tahoe Tech The North Face the annually eroding section. The repairs will cost more than above Donner Lake. Sam Okamoto Linda Slattery Sugar Bowl $50,000. The trailhead is located along side Old Highway 40 west Kim and Bob Garcia John and Heather Svahn Viole Skis and Snowboards Most of the trail remains intact. A 1.5-mile hike to the Kathy of Donner Lake, about one third of a mile from South Shore Earthworks Incorporated Alpenglow General Engineering, Inc. Paul Hastings LLP Polucha Kessler Memorial Picnic Area is worth the trip alone. Drive. The roughly six-mile round trip gains 1,000 feet in Sky View Foundation Bill Stevenson The hike offers terrific views of Donner Lake, the Yosemite- elevation and is open to non-motorized users.

24 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 25 new faces meet our partners Welcome Aboard …

From left to right: Eric Isenhart, Ward Fansler (and puppy Tahoe), Linda Slattery and Greyson Howard. Donner Summit resident Jean Snuggs joins the Alpine buttercups in Lacey Meadows with Lacey Peak in the background. The seemingly omnipresent larkspur. Ward returns to the Land Trust as Chief Financial Officer, Eric takes on the role of Special Projects Coordi- Truckee Donner Dan,Land Dana Trust andBoard Campbell of Directors. Goddard nator, Linda as the Land Trust's new Administrator and Greyson joins as the new Communications Director. Photo courtesy of Dan Goddard A Shout-out to Our State Partners

The Truckee Donner Land Trust’s and Wildlife is charged with managing of the people of California by helping Remembering KV Van Lom state partners – the California California's diverse fish, wildlife, and to preserve the state's extraordinary Natural Resources Agency, California plant resources, and the habitats upon biological diversity, protecting its most Keaven “KV” Van Lom passed of receiving national accreditation Department of Fish and Wildlife and which they depend, for their ecological valued natural and cultural resources, away this spring in her beloved with the Land Trust Alliance for the its Wildlife Conservation Board, Sierra values and for their use and enjoyment and creating opportunities for high- Sierra, where she spent much of her first time. Nevada Conservancy, and California by the public, and its Wildlife quality outdoor recreation. This life. While KV lived in many places, KV’s proudest achievement at Department of Parks and Recreation Conservation Board prioritizes habitat includes acquiring and managing lands including Europe and a time in the Land Trust was her work on the (California State Parks) – are key for threatened and endangered species to support the mission. Nashville writing country music, the Webber Lake Hotel. Her passion partners in cornerstone acquisitions like the willow flycatcher, yellow-legged The Land Trust also works very Sierra was always home. for the protection of the Sierra’s like Carpenter Valley, Webber Lake, frog and Lahontan cutthroat trout on closely with State Department of Water Most people knew KV’s work with human history led her to research the Land Trust as the happy voice Royal Gorge, Waddle Ranch and the Land Trust properties. Resources, the Division of Safety of the fascinating story of Webber answering the phones and greeting Donner Memorial State Park Expansion. The mission of the California Dams, and Cal Fire, as well as Nevada, Lake. She met many Webber Lakes visitors at the office. KV performed Tasked with preserving, restoring and Natural Resources Agency’s mission Placer and Sierra Counties, and the campers and often developed huge lifts behind the scenes protecting California’s great natural is to restore, protect and manage the Town of Truckee. a friendship with them as they as the Land Trust’s Marketing resources, these agencies saw the value state’s natural, historical and cultural These agencies and their dedicated recounted stories of years past. and Communications Director, in these Land Trust projects and stepped resources for current and future staff are critical to protecting the Sierra The Historic Structures Report she developing the annual newsletter, up as major funders in their conservation. generations. and, closer to home, the Truckee- developed will assist the Land Trust writing and coordinating press From the rare fens of Carpenter Valley Sierra Nevada Conservancy’s land Donner Summit region. in completing future restorations on releases, managing the website to the deer habitat of Waddle Ranch, protection and restoration work across Thank you, and we look forward to the hotel. and social media and otherwise the alpine headwaters of Royal Gorge to the Sierra and its watersheds, forests, fruitful and collaborative partnerships making sure the Land Trust’s day- We will dearly miss her Lacey Meadows at Webber Lake – these habitat and iconic landscapes aligns in the future. Any success the Land to-day operations ran well. In 2014 compassion, sense of humor, smile properties protect numerous unique and perfectly with the work of the Land Trust. Trust enjoys is owed in part to our she successfully helped shepherd and deep love for the Sierra and its important resources. And California State Parks provides partnership with these like-minded the Land Trust through the process wildlife. The California Department of Fish for the health, inspiration and education public agencies.

26 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 27 familiar with the campground, lake and adjoining Lacey across the Sierra. The Hotel long ago ceased operating, but in webber lake Meadows, it was once a mainstay on the overland route to the lobby, open to the public, there are interesting historical California during the Gold Rush. The last hotel along the photographs of the Lake and generations of guests. historic Henness Pass wagon train route still stands on the Joan and Ken Bretthauer, caretakers of the campground for property, one of the oldest standing buildings in Northern two decades, will continue to manage the campground. Their California, dating back to 1860. in-depth knowledge of the area developed over many years Dr. Gould Webber first stalked Webber Lake with fish in has been instrumental in the Land Trust’s ability to open the 1860, arguably the start of sport property and campground to the fishing in the Sierra Nevada. Since public. then it has become a premier Webber Lake augments a strong destination for locals and visiting How to Make conservation effort by the Land Trust anglers. a Reservation in the Little Truckee headwaters There is a lot to do besides fishing. area, building on Perazzo Creek Kayaking and paddle boarding 2018 will be the first full camping season and Meadows, Independence Lake, are popular. The lake warms by open to the public, and reservations are Henness Pass/SPI conservation Webber Lake Open mid-summer to a comfortable recommended. Go to tdlandtrust.org/ easement and Lower Carpenter temperature for swimming from webber-lakelacey-meadows to make Valley – totaling nearly 17,000 acres sandy beaches. Opportunities for reservations or to learn more. in the heart of the Sierra Nevada hiking, road and mountain biking Checkerboard. for First Full Season are plentiful. A trail around the lake How to This acquisition was made possible will be completed this year. The six- through the generous support of mile ride from the Lacey Meadows Get There our donors and funding from state trailhead to Upper Lacey Meadow is From Truckee: Proceed north on agencies including the Wildlife this Summer an easy beginners ride. Highway 89 North for 14 miles to Little Conservation Board, the Sierra Webber Lake is also home to one Truckee Summit. Make a left on the Nevada Conservancy and the Natural the oldest standing buildings in paved road to Jackson Meadows Reser- Resources Agency. The Nature

Lacey Meadow at Webber Lake alway has a splendid display of colors. Photo credit: John Peltier Northern California, the Webber Lake voir. In eight miles turn left and follow Conservancy and The Trust for Hotel. The hotel is the last remaining signs to Webber Lake. A map is available Public Land and the Northern Sierra Less than an hour north of the hustle and bustle of Lake and endangered species, bird migration corridors and a lake hotel on the once popular Henness at tdlandtrust.org. Partnership also partnered with the Tahoe, the serene Webber Lake Campground opened to the stocked with fish, the property has been visited only by a Pass Road, an important thoroughfare Land Trust on this acquisition. public for the first time in many years in 2017. select few as a private campground for generations. Calls from The lucky few who visited and camped last year were among sandhill crane, coyote and other animals echo over the lake the first to experience the 3,000-acre property’s beautiful at dusk as sunset paints the surrounding peaks orange and meadows and forests, paddle, swim and fish Webber Lake, purple, and at dawn as mist rises from the lake’s crystal-clear and enjoy the peaceful campgrounds since the Land Trust water. purchased the property in 2012. The Land Trust has And with 10 worked hard to get the additional campsites property into tip-top shape, nestled into the renovating the previously forest on the lake’s private campground western shore, a new and implementing a fire water system and new mitigation and forestry improved sanitary program to make for a facilities in the works, healthier, more fire-resistant the camping experience ecosystem. promises to be even While few today are better for summer 2018. The Land Trust's mission at Reservations can be Webber Lake is to keep it a great made at tdlandtrust.org. place for families and friends to Home to threatened gather. Photo credit: Samantha Prather Photography The day use area at Webber Lake, complete with docks and a boat ramp. Photo credit: John Peltier

28 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 29 donner summit Doing the Right and Only van norden dam Black Wall Trail Plans Thing with Van Norden Dam

More and more dams constructed across the country in the astronomically expensive and wouldn’t address the water for Climbers and Hikers first half of the twentieth century are in disrepair to the peril rights issue. of downstream communities. Moreover, mounting scientific The benefits of notching the dam go beyond safety and evidence increasingly supports the removal of many of the legal compliance, according to every conservation group in nation’s dams. The Truckee Donner Land Trust is owner of the Northern Sierra – including Mountain Area Preservation, one of those obsolete dead-beat dams on Donner Summit, Sierra Club, Sierra Watch, Truckee River Watershed Council, constructed in the late 1800s. South Yuba River Citizen’s League, American Rivers, Point The Truckee Donner Land Trust took ownership of the Van Blue Conservation Science and the Nature Conservancy. Norden Dam as part of the 3,000-acre Royal Gorge acquisition Those benefits include restoration of Van Norden Meadow, in 2012. While the purchase is a tremendous conservation win as well as improved water quality and habitat downstream in for Donner Summit and the region – extinguishing a potential the Yuba River. 950-unit resort development – it came with a hazardous and “The Van Norden Dam impounds the South Yuba River illegal dam. and is altering the timing of flows. The water heats up in the

Dams degrade water quality, block the movement of nutrients and sediment, destroy fish and wildlife habitats, damage coastal estuaries and in some cases rob surrounding forests of nitrogen. Reservoirs can also be significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Put simply, many dams have high environmental costs that outweigh their value. Removing them is the only sensible answer. And taking them down can often make economic sense as well. The River Alliance of Wisconsin estimates that removing dams in that state is three to five times less expensive than repairing them. Hansi Standteiner still getting after it on Donner Summit. Photo credit: Josh Horniak ~ Yvon Chouinard Founder, Patagonia Black Wall, acquired by the Truckee Donner Land Trust in climbing areas on public and private lands have been closed in environmentalist and mountaineer 2015, is the largest rock formation on Donner Summit. recent years due to impacts of climbers and other user groups. The large east-facing wall is the first rock formation you “Local climbers, the Land Trust, and the US Forest Service The dam has been a hazard for downstream folks along the shallow lake that forms and warmed outflow degrades habitat encounter on the right as you drive up Old Highway 40 from are trying to stay ahead of the curve,” explains Allen. “With South Yuba River for nearly five decades. An inspection in 1971 for sensitive species that rely on cold, natural flows. The small Donner Lake. The climbing is mostly “old school,” requiring more climbers can come more trash, trampled vegetation, noted leakage and deteriorated conditions of the dam core and amount of man-made, open-water habitat that the reservoir climbers to set their own protection and anchors. It also is unsustainable trails, parking problems and other impacts.” embankments. A visible leak was also detected in 2011 – and once provided is duplicative of other nearby habitat. Notching home to the longest climbs in the area, many established 1970s Climbers have taken the initiative at Donner Summit to a dam break analysis rated it as a dam of significant hazard. the dam and restoring the meadow would provide significant by local climbers – some grayer and rounder – who continue to make trails sustainable and lessen their footprint on the land. Ultimately, the State Division of Safety of Dams rated Van public benefit in terms of increased natural meadow habitat, climb on the Summit. The Access Fund’s Conservation Team plans three weeks of Norden Dam as out of compliance with safety regulations. improved water quality, improved safety and reduced Over the last decade, climbing has surged in popularity. work in 2018, building new trails that will not only be user and Beyond issues of safety, the California Department of Water management costs,” according to American Rivers. “When I first started climbing on Donner Summit in the environmentally friendly, but will be enticing for non-climbers Resources stated the dam was illegally impounding water in The Land Trust needs your support for its Van Norden Dam 1970s, you had the place to yourself. Now lines queue up at the as well. Adding a trail to the summit of Black Wall and 2014 – as previous rights holder, Pacific Gas & Electric, took a Spillway Modification Project through community engagement bottom of more popular climbs,” said Gary Allen, a pioneer of connecting other established routes will vastly improve access. portion of those rights to another reservoir, and abandoned the and/or letters of support. Public comment will close sometime many first ascents on Donner Summit. The new trails will still be rugged and retain an alpine rest to be used by other downstream users. around the end of June 2018. You can email letters of support to For land managers, including the Land Trust, owner of Black feel. Both the new trail and the improvements to the existing In considering all options to rectify these issues – the clear Nevada County: [email protected]. Wall and other climbing and bouldering sites, this boom in trails will incorporate sustainable design and construction and only path forward is modifying the dam’s spillway to no Let’s finish what we’ve started with the important popularity creates new challenges. While climbers have a standards. These trails will not only access climbing, but longer impound water, fixing both safety and water rights preservation of Royal Gorge by making Van Norden safe for legacy of embracing conservation – John Muir and David incredible views of surrounding rock formations and Donner issues. Other alternatives – such as rebuilding or repairing downstream users, improving the water quality in the South Brower were climbers – the sheer number of climbers has Lake below. the dam at the existing or at an intermediate height – are Yuba River and restoring habitat in both the meadow and river. unavoidable impacts. The Access Fund reports that scores of Find out more at tdlandtrust.org. 30 summer 2018 truckee donner land trust 31 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Permit #1 Kings Beach, CA

P.O. Box 8816 Truckee, CA 96162

Paddling up Lacey Creek from Webber Lake. Photo credit: Keith Zenker