Before venturing out, you need to know the latest news about road
conditions, campground closures and fire restrictions. Here is a round-up of the current headlines pulled from US Forest Service press releases, the Bureau of Land Management, California Department of Fish and Game, California Department of Forestry, National Park Service and other sources.

TRAILS CLOSED IN SANTA BARBARA RANGER DISTRICT - May 21
In cooperation with Santa Barbara County Parks Department and Santa Barbara City Parks and Recreation, Los Padres National Forest is closing the National Forest segments of the Jesusita Trail (27W17), the Tunnel Trail (27W14) and the Tunnel Connector Trail (27W15) in the Santa Barbara Front Country. The result of the multi-jurisdiction decision is that the three trails are closed for their entire length until further notice. The trail closures will aid in public safety on the fire damaged trails and support the collaborative effort by the County of Santa Barbara and the City of Santa Barbara to assist the disaster relief currently under way in urban interface areas of the Jesusita Fire. More information is available by calling the Los Padres National Forest headquarters at (805) 968-6640 or the Los Prietos Ranger Station at (805) 967-3481.

FIRE DANGER LEVEL BEING RAISED ON THE ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST - May 17
The Fire Danger Level on the Angeles National Forest is being raised from "Moderate" to "High," effective May 17, 2009, as warm temperatures continue to dry out vegetation and the forest prepares for an increase in visitation. Despite the change, there are no new campfire restrictions. Open wood and charcoal fires will still be permitted in developed campgrounds and picnic areas only. Gas and propane powered stoves and grills are permitted in non-developed areas with a valid California Campfire Permit. Spark arrestors (required year-round) should be checked to make sure they are in good working order on all off-road vehicles, chain saws and other equipment with internal combustion engines. Travelers driving through the Forest should remain on designated roads and never park on dry brush or grass. The "High" fire danger level is the third in a six-level, graduated fire danger rating system. A variety of factors determine the level, including the moisture in vegetation, weather conditions and firefighting equipment needs due to regional and national fire activity. [US Forest Service press release]

BLM IMPLEMENTS STAGE I FIRE RESTRICTIONS FOR THE CALIFORNIA DESERT DISTRICT - May 15
As a result of rising seasonal temperatures combined with dry vegetation, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) today implemented Stage I fire restrictions for the California Desert District. "Reducing the wildfire threat to private property and the fragile desert ecosystem is of utmost importance," states Steven Borchard, BLM California Desert District manager. The Stage I restriction applies to all BLM-managed public lands within the California Desert District (CDD). Stage I restrictions require that all campfires and barbecues be allowed with a permit that can be obtained at all BLM field offices, fire/ranger stations and patrol personnel. Stage I general area of influence includes BLM lands north and east of the Angeles, San Bernardino and Cleveland National Forests. All BLM-managed lands within Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego counties, designated as “State Responsibility Areas” (SRA) shall be in Stage II Fire Restriction. These areas are the more urbanized regions south and west of the National Forests. Stage II level prohibits campfire and barbecues outside developed recreation sites. Controlled flame devices such as portable stoves are allowed by permit. Any person convicted of knowingly/willfully violating a Fire Prevention Order can be fined up to $1,000, receive up to 12 months in jail, or both. That person is also liable for the cost of damages and suppression of the wildfire. For more information or to obtain a permit contact the BLM’s California Desert District Office at (951) 697-5220 or local field offices in Barstow (760) 252-6000, El Centro (760) 337-4400, Needles (760) 326-7000, Palm Springs-South Coast (760) 833-7100 or Ridgecrest (760) 384-5400. [Bureau of Land Management (BLM) press release]

DFG ANNOUNCES CHANGES TO LIST OF WATER BODIES TO BE STOCKED - May 14
The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) today announced revisions to the list of water bodies that will and will not be stocked. After receiving further data on a number of state water bodies, DFG is adding 21 water bodies to the list of stocked waters and 44 water bodies to the list of waters that will not be stocked. The creation of these lists and the cessation of stocking in some areas is the result of a November 2008 court order.
In southern California, additions to the list of stocked waters:
Fulmor Lake (Riverside County)
Additions to the list of waters that will not be stocked:
Cucamonga Creek (San Bernardino County)
Lion Canyon Creek (Santa Barbara County)
Rose Valley Lake (Ventura County)
When DFG created the original list in November, it was noted that the list would fluctuate based on new information or data received. In October 2006, Pacific Rivers Council and Center for Biological Diversity sued DFG over fish stocking programs it has engaged in for more than 100 years, because no Environmental Impact Report (EIR) had been completed for the programs. The result of the case was a court order requiring DFG to complete an EIR. DFG is engaged in the multi-year and multimillion dollar EIR process, now scheduled to be completed in January 2010. Due to delays in the EIR process, which involves combining the EIR with a federal Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), DFG and the petitioners agreed on terms for how and where DFG may continue stocking fish during the time it is preparing the EIR/EIS.

MANY SIERRA TROUT WATERS OPEN APRIL 25 - April 17
One of California’s biggest trout fishing openers is coming up on April 25. Numerous waters opening April 25 are already planted with 8-12 inch-long catchable size trout. The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) will plant roughly nine million rainbow trout state-wide in 2009 providing outstanding angling opportunities. Many families plan annual camping and fishing trips around the spring opener and the excellent family recreation it provides. “The April opener is a fun fishing opportunity that traditionally draws anglers to California’s many lakes, streams and rivers,” said DFG Director Donald Koch. “We encourage Californians to take advantage of this and other outdoor opportunities.” While numerous lakes and reservoirs are open year-round, hundreds of other lakes, streams and rivers open on April 25. The 2009-10 California Freshwater Sports Fishing Regulation booklet describes which waters open on April 25. Please contact a DFG regional office for a copy of the booklet. To find out if your favorite water is scheduled for fish stocking, anglers can check the Fish Stocking Schedule site at www.dfg.ca.gov/fish/Hatcheries/FishPlanting. “Last year DFG planted several million fingerling trout which have now grown to catchable size,” said Neil Manji, DFG Fisheries Branch Chief. “This year DFG is planting millions of catchable size trout statewide. Thousands are planted prior to the opener as water conditions permit. In waters that we are not planting due to a court order there are still fish from last year’s plants that anglers can fish for.” A resident fishing license costs $41.20 for residents 16 years of age and older. One- and two-day resident licenses are also available. Reduced fee and free licenses are available to qualifying individuals. Licensing information is available at www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing. Some waters normally stocked by DFG may not be planted this year due to a court order limiting where the DFG can stock hatchery- reared trout. The court order resulted from a lawsuit filed by the Center for Biological Diversity and Pacific Rivers Council against DFG. The court ordered DFG to complete an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) that examines the impacts of the stocking program. Due to delays in the EIR process, an interim order was issued, restricting where DFG can stock fish based on a list of 25 amphibian and fish species presented by the plaintiffs. DFG is on schedule to complete the EIR by January 2010. The EIR progress can be tracked at www.dfg.ca.gov/news/pubnotice/hatchery. New planting regulations will be established after the completion of the EIR. A complete list of water bodies that will and will not be stocked this year is available at www.dfg.ca.gov/news/stocking. DFG also encourages anglers to help prevent the spread of Quagga and Zebra mussels in anticipation of the upcoming trout opener by asking boaters to clean, drain and dry vessels to avoid being turned away from lakes and reservoirs. Boaters and anglers can move Quagga and Zebra mussels, a non-native invasive species that can ruin boats and fisheries, unintentionally from one water to another. Many local water managers have vessel inspections programs designed to prevent the mussels from infesting their waters. Anglers and boaters should always clean, drain and dry watercraft and equipment. A public toll-free number hotline has been established for boaters and anyone involved with activities on lakes and rivers seeking information on the invasive and destructive Quagga mussels at 1-866-440-9530. For more information on the Quagga/Zebra mussel response, please visit the DFG Web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/invasives/quaggamussel. [DFG News Release]

PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT OPENS AT JOSHUA TREE VISITOR CENTER - April 11
Joshua Tree National Park, in partnership with the Joshua Tree National Park Association, announces the opening today of the Miles of Wonder photography exhibit at the Joshua Tree Visitor Center, 6554 Park Boulevard, in the community of Joshua Tree, California. Over 190 stunning color photographs by local nature photographer, David Jesse McChesney, depict the scenery, plant life, and wildlife of Joshua Tree National Park. The exhibit, curated by Mr. McChesney, will be on display until June 8, 2009 and is free to the public. The story of America’s national parks has long been told through the sensitive eyes of such photographic masters as William Henry Jackson, Ansel Adams, Joseph and David Muench, and many others. Now, David McChesney uses his camera’s lens to reveal the intricate, yet subtle interplay of the park’s Mojave and Colorado Desert landscapes with their supremely adapted desert life forms. Where earlier photographers created their masterpieces using film and chemical processes, McChesney works in the digital domain of pixels to show views of Joshua Tree National Park that most park visitors seldom experience. In 2007, the Joshua Tree Visitor Center hosted the America’s Best Idea exhibit, a collection of panoramic photos, one each, of all 58 of the nation’s national parks. The Miles of Wonder exhibit is a remarkably detailed look at a single national park– Joshua Tree, and its images show rare views of weather, wildlife behavior, and other natural phenomena that reveal the desert’s inner beauty. The Joshua Tree Visitor Center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Apart from the exhibit, park rangers and Association staff are on hand to assist the public and answer questions about visiting Joshua Tree National Park. Visitors can pick up federal recreation passes, books, and information about ranger programs and visitor services available at the park. [Joshua Tree National Park press release]

NEW BREATHTAKING VIEWS, TRAILS AND VISITOR CENTER NEAR LOS ANGELES - April 10
California State Parks is about to open to the public the last large swath of open space in one of the most densely populated regions of California. “We wanted to provide a tranquil respite from big city life,” said State Parks Director Ruth Colman. “Now, people living in this highly congested area can to get out and experience nature close to home.” The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, in western Los Angeles County, will open this month. Visitors will be able to hike trails through restored native habitat, enjoy a state-of-the-art visitor center and take in 360-degree panoramic views, 500 feet above the Los Angeles basin. Visitors are invited “Back to Nature in the City” for a grand opening celebration on April 18. The event includes dignitaries, music, guided tours, bird watching, native plant restoration, eco crafts, refreshments and healthy food for the whole family. A press event is scheduled from 10 am to 12 pm with fun and festivities for the public offered from noon to sunset. From the overlook, visitors can see panoramic views with the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica and Century City to the west; Marina del Rey to the south; dramatic views of the downtown Los Angeles skyline to the east; to the north-east Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Hills, and Hollywood Sign. Also visible are the Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains and the entirety of the Ballona Creek watershed. The visitor center complex will take advantage of these dramatic vistas to tell the cultural history of Los Angeles ranging from the Native American period to the arrival of Europeans and the growth that followed. The story of urban Los Angeles will be traced through the development of the movie, oil and transportation industries, all of which dramatically influenced the transformation of the landscape. The opening of the overlook solidifies the California State Parks’ commitment to bringing open space and recreational opportunities to traditionally underserved, ethnically diverse communities in urban Los Angeles. More than three million residents live within a fivemile radius. The majority of these residents are low-income, minority families with limited access to open space. The ratio of open space per resident in this area is less than one acre per thousand people, far below the recommended state and national standards. The opening of the overlook is the culmination of State Parks bond funded Urban Parks Initiative which invested over $150 million dollars in new urban park projects in Los Angeles’ most park-poor neighborhoods. The land, formerly known as Vista Pacifica, was first acquired in 2000 with partial funding from the ‘Safe Neighborhood Parks, Clean Water, Clean Air, and Coastal Protection Bond act of 2000’ (Proposition 12). Approximately $32 million dollars from Prop 12 was used along with funding from other sources to acquire 68 acres for a total of $41.1 million dollars. With additional construction funds in the amount of $6.9 million dollars provided through Proposition 40, the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook represents a $50 million dollar investment in the community that ardently supported and advocated the establishment of this land as a State Park and public resource for their neighborhood. Visitors will enjoy a showcase for native plants and animals including California’s unique coastal sage scrub habitat. A partnership with Los Angeles Audubon will provide interpretive programming and fill a need for park visitors and local schools that do not have natural resource and educational programs readily available. State Parks received a generous donation of multimedia equipment from Sony Pictures Entertainment for use in the visitor center theater, in conjunction with the State Parks’ PORTS (Parks Online Resource for Teachers and Students) program. The program and equipment will enhance the visitor experience and make the center a portal to the best of State Parks’ natural and cultural resources. [California Department of Parks and Recreation]

REVISED PARK REGULATIONS ISSUED - March 26
Joshua Tree National Park has issued revised park regulations contained in the Superintendent’s Compendium. The Compendium is a list of park-specific regulations National Park Service Superintendents are authorized to issue under the Code of Federal Regulations (36CFR, sec.1.5). The Compendium codifies park regulations “necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, aid to scientific research, implementation of management responsibilities, equitable allocation and use of facilities, or the avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities.” Changes to the Joshua Tree National Park Superintendent’s Compendium are as follows:
* UTM coordinates have been added to more precisely describe day-use areas within the park.
* Six climbing/bouldering routes have been closed to protect sensitive cultural resources.
* Acquiring water for domestic purposes from non-pay park faucets is prohibited.
* Light Art Performances require a special-use permit.
* The viewing or projection of movies, etc. in campsites using detachable screens requires a permit.
* Vehicles, including combinations of vehicles, exceeding 25 feet are prohibited in Hidden Valley Campground.
These revisions to the Compendium are adopted with the issuance of this press release. Questions about the Superintendent’s Compendium and the current revisions should be directed to Joshua Tree District Ranger Jeff Ohlfs at 760-367-5548. [Joshua Tree National Park press release]

RIVERSIDE MAN DIES IN CLIMBING ACCIDENT - March 16
A Riverside, California resident died on March 15, in a rock climbing accident at Joshua Tree National Park. Curtis Woodrow Stark II, 67, suffered fatal injuries during a fall while climbing a rock formation called the Great Burrito. A second climber, Alfred Kuok, 44, of Claremont, California also sustained injuries during the accident. At approximately 4 p.m. on Sunday, Curtis Stark and Alfred Kuok were climbing in an area near the Hidden Valley Nature Trail. Mr. Stark was the lead climber on the Great Burrito rock formation and was being followed by Alfred Kuok. Experiencing difficulty with his climb, Stark began to descend. During the descent he lost his grip and fell. As he fell, Stark struck Alfred Kuok causing him to fall as well. Mr. Kuok’s protection held arresting his fall, but Curtis Stark continued to fall suffering fatal head injuries when he struck the ground. It is estimated Stark fell about 100 feet. Two nearby rock climbers responded to the scene and lowered Kuok from the cliff face. National Park Service rangers received word of the accident at approximately 4:40 p.m. Park rangers and members of the Joshua Tree Search & Rescue responded to the incident. Mr. Kuok was treated by emergency personnel for back pain, rib injuries, and other possible internal injuries. A San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office helicopter was called in and airlifted Kuok to Desert Regional Hospital in Palm Springs. Personnel from the Riverside County Coroner’s Office also responded to the accident scene. Park visitors are reminded that rock climbing poses inherent dangers. Extreme caution, safe climbing techniques, and properly functioning equipment should be used at all times while climbing the park's rock formations. [National Park Service press release]

ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST CONTRIBUTES TO ECONOMIC RECOVERY — March 10
U.S. Forest Service Chief Abigail Kimbell announced the Agency's plan to participate in the nation’s economic recovery program. The Forest Service has received $1.15 billion from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The first group of Forest Service projects nationwide created by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, totaling $98 million, have been selected. These initial projects will create 1,500 jobs, giving the Agency the early opportunity to put people to work. The remaining projects, totaling $1.052 billion, will be announced shortly and will create an additional 23,500 jobs nationwide. First round projects on lands managed by the Forest Service in California will include maintenance and construction of facilities, roads and trails totaling 70 jobs and $7.75 million. The jobs are estimated to last from four months up to a year. These projects will benefit 11 counties. "I'm excited that the Angeles National Forest can play an important role in creating jobs for the citizens of California," said Marty Dumpis, Deputy Forest Supervisor. "Over 2.5 million dollars has been allocated to the Forest for facilities, road, and trail maintenance projects which will benefit Los Angeles County and its adjacent communities." added Dumpis. Under the language of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Forest Service will create as many jobs as possible to support communities and to get money flowing through the economy again. "The Angeles National Forest will be using private contractors, temporary employees and partnership agreements to get the work done," stated Dumpis. "The Forest Service anticipates playing a key role in our nation's economic recovery," said Chief Kimbell. "We are grateful for the confidence Congress has shown us and look forward to demonstrating how the Forest Service can create good jobs during difficult times," Kimbell added. Information on the overall U.S. Forest Service role in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act can be found at: http://fs.usda.gov/recovery. Information on the total federal effort can be found at http://www.recovery.gov. [US Forest Service press release]

BLM ANNOUNCES EASTERN SIERRA WILDFLOWER OUTINGS FOR SPRING 2009 - March 10
The Bureau of Land Management’s Bishop Field Office will hold tours this spring to view wildflowers in the Eastern Sierras. Tours will be: Friday Field Trips to the Alabama Hills - April 3 and 17. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the intersection of Whitney Portal and Movie Flat Roads. These field outings are designed to watch the spring blooms emerge and change throughout the month of April, which is an optimal month to see a range of favorite local species such as scarlet locoweed, golden gilia and sand blossoms. Friday Field Trip to the Bodie Hills - June 19. Meet at 10 a.m. at the Toyaibe National Forest Office parking lot just south of Bridgeport on U.S. Highway 395. High-clearance vehicles recommended. This trip will explore a transect across the Bodie Hills, a Great Basin landscape containing diverse plant communities and rare plant species unique to this region. We will start the trip by going up the Aurora Canyon Road and descending over Geiger Grade, which ends at Bodie State Park (an approximately 14 mile one-way trip at elevations ranging between 5,000-9,500 ft.). Field trips will last until 12:30 p.m. – bring a lunch and standard field trip items listed below. Contact Anne Halford at 760-872-5022 or email at ahalford@ca.blm.gov for more information. All trips are easy to moderate and are a combination of driving and walking, usually not more than a mile or so. For all field trips, be sure to bring plenty of water, good walking shoes or boots, and appropriate clothing for hot sun and/or inclement weather. Also useful would be a hand lens, binoculars, camera and floras and plant lists. Trips will leave at the time announced, so please arrive at the meeting sites a few minutes early. Unless indicated, the average car should do fine. Car pooling is encouraged. [Bureau of Land Management (BLM)]

CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST REQUESTS INPUT ON OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLE GRANTS - March 3
The Cleveland National Forest is in the process of developing its State of California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Matching Funds Grant application and is requesting that interested members of the public review this year’s draft application and provide written comments by April 6, 2009. The Cleveland NF will submit the application to the California Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Division for 2008-2009. The grant would provide for the operation, maintenance, signing, resource protection, and law enforcement for trails and facilities associated with the Cleveland NF motorized recreation program. These activities occur primarily at the Wildomar OHV area on the Trabuco Ranger District in Riverside County and at the Corral Canyon/Bear Valley OHV area on the Descanso Ranger District in San Diego County. The public can view the Forest’s draft application at California State Parks OHV website http://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1164 starting March 3, 2009 or written copies will be available at Forest Service Offices: Cleveland National Forest Supervisor’s Office, 10845 Rancho Bernardo Rd. #200, San Diego, CA 92127, (858) 673-6180
Trabuco Ranger District, 1147 East 6th Street, Corona, CA 92879, (951) 736-1811
Palomar Ranger District, 1634 Black Canyon Road, Ramona, CA 92065, (760) 788-0250
Descanso Ranger District, 3348 Alpine Blvd., Alpine, CA 91901, (619) 445-6235
Contact Tim Cardzoa, OHV Grant Director (619) 445-6235 X 3418 with questions. Please submit written comments electronically to tcardoza@fs.fed.us with OHV Grant in the subject line or attn: Tim Cardoza at the Descanso Ranger District at the above address. [Cleveland National Forest press release]

HIKER RESCUED AFTER OVERNIGHT ORDEAL - February 17
On Monday, February 16, 2009 at 9:30 AM, 5 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 2 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief James Gaffney, responded to a Cliff Rescue at 3635 N. Vanalden Av. in Tarzana. Firefighters responded to a reported hiker down in the canyon at approximately 9:30 a.m.. When Firefighters arrived on scene, they found 3 young hikers who indicated they heard someone calling out for help down in the canyon and may have been there over night with possible injuries. A request for aerial assistance by helicopter with hoist capabilities was canceled due to weather. Firefighters utilized the Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) Team to assist in the rescue. It took Firefighters 20 minutes on foot to locate the hiker. Utilizing an assortment of tools, the hiker was freed from the vegetation. After being assessed by Paramedics for injuries, the hiker was secured in a litter basket and walked out utilizing a low angle, hoist operation. The medical concern of Firefighters was the possibility of hypothermia, from exposure to low overnight temperatures. The hiker was finally at street side by 11:05 a.m. The hiker, a male 33, stated he had been hiking the previous day, when he slipped and fell down into the canyon. Unable to climb out, he spent the night partially entrapped in brush calling for help. The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department would like to stress trail safety. Wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Hike with a partner or let someone know where you will be hiking. Take sufficient water and a fully charged cell phone. Remember that cell phone coverage in the mountains can be spotty. But most importantly - BE SAFE [d'Lisa Davies, Los Angeles Fire Department]

AFTER 31 YEARS, HIGHWAY 39 TO CONNECT TO HIGHWAY 2 AGAIN - February 16
Thirty-one years ago, Rick Lujan and his friends would traverse Highway 39 near Highway 2 in Angeles National Forest and go camping. Lujan of West Covina, who is now 49, was there three decades ago to witness one of the massive rock slides that eventually led to the road's closure. "It started out as a bunch of sparks in the canyon, then we heard a huge rumble ... it was like an earthquake," Lujan said. "We went to hide behind a rock, but ran up the road instead." It turned out to be a good choice. "That rock then got replaced by a bigger rock," Lujan said. Caltrans is embarking on the beginning stages of a construction effort that would reopen four miles of road connecting to Highway 2. The project will repair the road, but also put in measures that would prevent future rock slides, mudslides and other problems, said Caltrans Environmental Planner Eduardo Aguilar. "Drivers will not have to dodge rocks," Aguilar said. "It will decrease response time (for emergency crews) making the area safer. Every second counts when a life is on the line." Caltrans is in the environmental stage of the process. It plans to weigh the effects of the estimated $43 million project on the environment and discuss it with stakeholders. The rest of this article is located on the www.whittierdailynews.com newspaper webserver. Click HERE to read the full article. [Daniel Tedford, Staff Writer, Whittier Daily News]

CAUTION URGED AS WINTER WEATHER RETURNS THIS WEEKEND - February 13
Recent storm systems have left snow pack in excess of forty inches in the higher elevations of the San Gabriel Mountains. Even around some forest communities and along roads at lower elevations, well over a foot blankets the slopes. More snow is in the forecast for this weekend. "Visitors need to be extra cautious," advises Forest Supervisor Jody Noiron. "Thousands of winter visitors to the Forest have safe and pleasant outings," said Noiron. "But we all need to remember that recreation in the mountains this time of year means going prepared and constantly monitoring the conditions." Skiing, sledding, and snow play are available for all to enjoy. However, visitors are urged to come prepared for the potential hazards that come with winter conditions. Additional heavy snowfall in the Angeles National Forest this weekend may even mean limited access to some areas due to the threat of avalanches. For avalanche awareness information, visit the U.S. Forest Service National Avalanche Center at www.fsavalanche.org. "Know before you go" by calling to check on the latest road and weather conditions for your destination. Take along a few essential winter safety items such as tire chains, which may be required for passage, extra food and water, a flashlight, a first aid kit and a shovel. Cold weather brings icy roads, possible flash floods, fog, poor visibility, and exposure to hypothermia. Layer your clothing for warmth and bring gloves and shoes or boots suited to rugged terrain. Planning your trip in advance and taking along these recommended items could prove critical in the event of a change in the weather, a car breakdown, or other unexpected situation. Also, keep in mind cell phone coverage is very limited in the San Gabriel Mountains. Snow areas usually mean heavy, slow-moving traffic and slippery driving conditions. Be patient and do not attempt to pass cars except in passing lanes. Remember that while daytime sunshine may melt icy roads, late afternoon shadows will quickly cause the roads to ice over again. Be particularly alert to "black ice," pavement that looks clear but is actually glazed over with ice. Similar conditions can exist on trails, causing hikers instant loss of footing. The California Department of Transportation posts current road condition information for the Angeles Crest Highway (State Route 2) and other state highways at 1-800-427-7623. Closures on the Angeles Forest Hwy and other roads throughout the Angeles are posted on the Los Angeles County website at www.ladpw.org/mpm/roadclosure. [US Forest Service press release]

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT TO "HOLD THE MUSTARD" - February 9
Late winter and early spring is typically the time when the desert starts to show off its colorful wildflower blooms. In recent years the profusion of yellow blossoms along park roads has often included outbreaks of exotic Sahara mustard, a plant that is aggressively spreading across the desert. Sahara mustard is a non-native plant that is capable of crowding out native Mojave Desert annuals. This invasive plant has the potential to do irreversible damage to the native desert ecosystem of Joshua Tree National Park and surrounding communities. The Morongo Basin Conservation Association is working with the park to find volunteers to help eradicate this weed. Please join one or more Hold the Mustard weed pulls that are scheduled on the following Saturdays: February 21, February 28, and March 7, to pick and bag this invader. Efforts will be concentrated in the Pinto Basin area of the park. Participants will meet at the Oasis Visitor Center in Twentynine Palms at 8 a.m. The event will last until noon. Volunteers should bring water, gloves, hats, sunscreen, pruners/clippers, and snacks Desert residents are encouraged to learn to identify Sahara mustard and to pull it from their yards before it begins to send up its flowering parts. You can learn more about the Hold the Mustard project at the Morongo Basin Conservation Association website: www.mbconservation.org/mustard.html. [National Park Service press release]

CAMPGROUND FEES GO UP ON CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST - February 9, 2009
The Cleveland National Forest has increased the fees charged at campgrounds. Fees charged at regular campgrounds will go up between $3 and $10 per night and group campgrounds will go up $10 to $20 per night starting in 2009. Campground fees had not changed since 1999, even though the cost to keep areas open and clean has. Four campground sites on the Trabuco Ranger District will be affected: Blue Jay, Falcon Group, Upper San Juan, and Wildomar. Five campground sites on the Palomar Ranger District will be affected: Dripping Springs, Fry Creek, Indian Flat, Oak Grove, and Observatory. Fees on two campground sites on the Descanso Ranger District will increase, Boulder Oaks and Cibbetts Flat Campground, while the Wooded Hill Campground will go down in cost (see table). 'Most areas of the forest are open year round offering campers endless recreational activities,' said Will Metz, forest supervisor. 'These fees will provide money to help cover the current cost of operating these sites. Visitors will see an improvement of the campgrounds in the coming year.' For more information please visit the Cleveland NF website at www.fs.fed.us/r5/cleveland. [US Forest Service press release]

THURMAN FLATS PICNIC AREA CLOSURE - February 3
San Bernardino National Forest’s Thurman Flats Picnic Area will be undergoing major renovation and will be closed beginning February 3, 2009. Thurman Flats is located on Highway 38 and is a popular picnic destination for the surrounding communities of Yucaipa, Mentone, Highland and Redlands. Renovation plans include updated restrooms, an improved parking lot and a cabana with additional picnic tables and bar-b-cue facilities. Construction on the picnic area will begin on February 3, 2009 and the target date for re-opening for public use will be on May 22, 2009. For more information please contact Alfredo Zarate, Assistant Recreation Officer at (909) 382-2900. [US Forest Service press release]

BLM PALM SPRINGS/SOUTH COAST FIELD OFFICE MOVES TO NEW LOCATION - February 2
The Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Palm Springs-South Coast Field Office has moved from its North Palm Springs location to a new location located at 1201 Bird Center Drive in Palm Springs. The BLM officially closed the office located on W. Garnet at 4:30 p.m., Friday, January 30 and is scheduled to reopened at the new office on Monday February 9, 2009. Directions to the new BLM office: From I-10, take Gene Autry Trail exit and go south approximately three miles. Turn left on Tachevah and then left onto Bird Center Dr. The new address is: Bureau of Land Management, Palm Springs-South Coast Field Office, 1201 Bird Center Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262. For further information contact: Doris Ray, BLM Palm Springs-South Coast Field Office at their new number: (760) 833-7100. [Bureau of Land Management (BLM) pess release]

VOLUNTEERS WANTED FOR BIGHORN SHEEP SURVEY - January 30
Volunteers are needed on February 28 and March 1, 2009 (Saturday evening and all day Sunday) to assist in the annual survey of bighorn sheep in the San Gabriel Mountains. The California Department of Fish and Game, US Forest Service, and the Society for Conservation of Bighorn Sheep have conducted annual surveys for bighorn sheep in the San Gabriel range since 1979. The mountain range once held an estimated 740 bighorn sheep, which made the San Gabriel population the largest population of desert bighorn sheep in California. The population declined over 80% through the 1980’s but appears to be on the increase; with recent estimates yielding approximately 300 bighorn sheep. Volunteers will hike to designated observation sites in the San Gabriel Mountains on Sunday and count and record bighorn sheep observed. Each volunteer group will be led by a representative from the Society for the Conservation of Bighorn Sheep or the Forest Service. Survey participants must be at least 16 years old and capable of hiking one mile on rugged terrain, though most routes will be longer. Most of the hikes are not on trails, and may involve scrambling over boulders, climbing steep slopes, or bush-whacking through chaparral. No survey experience is necessary however; volunteers must attend a mandatory orientation at 6:00 PM on Saturday, February 28, at Day Creek Intermediate School, in Rancho Cucamonga. Complimentary campsites are available to volunteers on a first-come basis at the Applewhite Campground in Lytle Creek. Participants will need to hit the trail early Sunday. Volunteers should bring binoculars or spotting scopes as well as FRS/GMRS radios in addition to hiking gear. Mountain weather can be unpredictable and volunteers should be prepared to spend several hours hiking and additional time making observations in cold and windy weather. Please call the Lytle Creek Ranger Station at (909) 382-2870 no later than February 15, to sign up and receive a volunteer packet. [US Forest Service press release]

BLM APPROVES THE SUNRISE POWERLINK PROJECT - January 21
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) today signed a record of decision (ROD) approving the southern route alternative for the Sunrise Powerlink transmission project proposed by San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) designed to help met state renewable energy goals. BLM California State Director Mike Pool signed the decision to offer a right-of-way grant and temporary use permit to SDG&E with extensive mitigating terms and conditions, including those in the biological opinion issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in compliance with the Endangered Species Act. Once SDG&E agrees to the conditions, the BLM will then issue the grant and permit for the power line. "Approval of this critical transmission line is a significant step forward for California and the nation in upgrading our ability to more efficiently transport power and bring future renewable energy sources on line. California is at the forefront of this effort, and where appropriate, public lands will play a vital role toward energy independence," Pool said. Pool also approved an amendment to the agency’s Eastern San Diego County Resource Management Plan regarding the power line. His actions are consistent with a separate decision issued December 18, 2008, by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approving the project, available at http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/environment/info/aspen/sunrise/D08-12-058.pdf. In its decision, the commission states, "We are convinced that approval of Sunrise will help to unlock the potential of one of the richest renewable energy regions in California." Both BLM's and the CPUC's decisions note the extensive environmental and public review that have been conducted since SDG&E's application was filed in 2005. Both decisions avoid impacts to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, one of the original proposal's more controversial aspects. BLM's decision authorizes issuance of right-of-way grant to SDG&E for the final environmentally superior southern route alternative as analyzed in the final EIS/EIR, issued in October 2008. The approved route crosses 48.9 miles of BLM land, 19.2 miles of U.S. Forest Service land, 2.0 miles of Department of Defense land, and 0.4 miles of state land. The approved route is described in detail and shown on maps in the final EIS/EIR, available at CPUC’s website http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/environment/info/aspen/sunrise/sunrise.htm. The ROD is available on BLM’s website at http://www.blm.gov/pgdata/etc/medialib/blm/ca/pdf/elcentro/nepa/2007/eis.Par.9361.File.dat/ROD-SunrisePowerlinkJan2009.pdf A notice of availability of the ROD will be published in the Federal Register, shortly. A 30-day appeal period will begin upon publication in the Federal Register. Details on appealing BLM's decision to the Interior Board of Land Appeals are provided in the ROD. For further information, contact BLM's El Centro Field Office, phone (760) 337-4400. [U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM)]

TRABUCO RANGER DISTRICT ANNUAL VOLUNTEER TRAINING - January 21
The Trabuco Ranger District, Cleveland National Forest will be hosting their annual Volunteer Training Workshop on Saturday, January 31, 2009 for district volunteers and interested public who want to become a new volunteer. All Trabuco Ranger District volunteers are required to attend. It is important that you bring your Volunteer Handbook with you! Registration and networking begin at 8:00 a.m., and the training session begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. Please bring your lunch or a potluck dish to share. Lunch break will be short in order to finish by 3:30 p.m. Training will include an overview of volunteer opportunities and accomplishments, as well as updates on the district and forest conditions. We will have a review of volunteer protocols, rules and regulations, resource reporting and mapping, training opportunities and volunteer scheduling. Safety and hazard analysis process will be thoroughly reviewed and we will spend some time doing scenarios. Donna Krucki, County of Orange Park Ranger and mountain lion specialist, will give a brief talk on the local mountain lion population. All volunteers will receive a special surprise at the end of the training event. The training will be held at Santiago Canyon College at 8045 E. Chapman Avenue, Orange, 92869, near Jamboree and Chapman. The meeting room is in Building "E" Room 203. Enter the campus from Chapman, and turn left. The first parking lot (#3) is the closest to the meeting room. Be certain to park in student parking (not handicapped or staff). There is no parking fee. For more information, please contact Debra Clarke at 951-736-1811.[US Foresst Service press release]

DFG OFFERS TWO-DAY WILDERNESS SURVIVAL CLINIC IN FEBRUARY - January 18
The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is conducting a wilderness survival clinic Feb. 21-22. The clinic is part of the Advanced Hunter Education Program. The two-day clinic begins at 9 a.m. on Feb. 21 and runs until 3 p.m. on Feb. 22 at the Tejon Ranch, south of Bakersfield in southern Kern County. The cost is $60 and space is limited. The wilderness survival clinic covers the different survival kits for various terrains, wilderness first aid, techniques for collecting water, fire starting, signaling, water crossing, shelter building and the essentials for any trip in the wilderness. The Advanced Hunter Education Program will provide all necessary class equipment and a survival kit. Meals are not included. Registration forms are available online at www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered/advanced. After registering, each participant will receive an e-mail with a map to the facility, a list of items to bring and a workshop agenda. Camping accommodations are available at Tejon Ranch. The ranch is located along Interstate 5, approximately 30 miles south of Bakersfield and 60 miles north of Los Angeles. Tejon Ranch is the largest span of land under single ownership in California, encompassing more than 270,000 acres. [Lieutenant Dan Lehman, Advanced Hunter Education, (916) 358-4356]

BLM NAMES NEW NEEDLES FIELD OFFICE MANAGER - January 16
Raymond Conner Lee will become the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)’s Needles Field Office Manager Feb.1. Lee has been the assistant manager of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. "I am looking forward to returning to the desert of my childhood, and the region that first captivated my imagination," says Lee. "The joy of working with the BLM is involvement with our many stakeholders," relays Lee. "By working together, we can best find the path to our future. Part of that future lies in developing California’s renewable energy resources, and the Needles Field Office will be a key player in that development. Another part will be protecting California’s Mojave Desert for future generations. With the largest wilderness program within the Mojave, the Needles office has a role in that future." Lee also points to the importance of the corridors that pass through the Needles region. "The growing populations of Las Vegas, Southern California, and the Mojave Valley depend upon the area for recreation and respite and look forward to working with our stakeholders to find the best path forward for all." At Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Lee managed its resource programs. "I am exceptionally proud of the partnership we developed with the county to address economic development and education within the region," says Lee. "The monument is now seen as a valuable member of the local communities, and a full participant in the future of this remote rural part of Utah." BLM’s Needles Field Office manages 3.3 million acres of public land extending from north of Interstate 15 and the Nevada border to just east of Barstow to the Blythe area. [Bureau of Land Management (BLM)]

BALD EAGLES SEEN IN LOCAL MOUNTAINS - January 14
On Saturday January 10th, the first bald eagle count of the winter was conducted by local Federal and State biologists and volunteers around lakes in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains. Despite extremely windy conditions, large numbers of volunteers turned out for a chance to see one of our magnificent national birds. High wind gusts made standing challenging and kept knocking over some of the spotting scopes. Nonetheless, the effort was successful in tallying the bald eagles spending their winter vacations at local mountain lakes. A grand total of twelve eagles (8 adults, 4 juveniles) were observed in the four lake areas during the 1- hour count. Six eagles (4 adults, 2 juveniles) were observed in the Big Bear/Baldwin Lake area; 2 eagles (1 adult, 1 juvenile) at Lake Arrowhead; 3 eagles (2 adults, 1 juvenile) at Silverwood Lake; and, 1 adult eagle at Lake Hemet. Juvenile eagles are distinguished by a brown head and tail; adults are recognized by the famous white head and tail - it takes 4-5 years to acquire full adult coloration. Juvenile eagles are the same size as the adults. The count for Big Bear was a little lower than average; probably due in part to the fact that a large portion of the lake has been frozen over for several weeks. When the lake is frozen, ducks do not stay in the area. Ducks are the main prey for bald eagles; so when there are low numbers of ducks, there are low numbers of bald eagles. Approximately 140 volunteers participated in the 1-hour eagle census at four lakes (50 at Big Bear area; 15 at Lake Arrowhead; a record 50 at Lake Hemet; and, 25 at Silverwood Lake). The Forest Service and State Recreation Area biologists would like to thank those volunteers! The U.S. Forest Service and State Recreation Area biologists have coordinated counts of this federally-protected species since 1978. Data from our local count will be added to the nation-wide Mid-Winter Bald Eagle census to assess recovery status of the species. We rely on volunteers to gather information during the monthly winter eagle counts. Counts are conducted for a 1-hour period from 9-10 a.m. Forest Service volunteers stationed around lakes in Big Bear, Arrowhead, and Idyllwild record all observations of bald eagles. Volunteers at Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area conduct simultaneous counts. Bald eagles are similar to many southern Californians in that they visit the lakes of our San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains for their winter vacations between November and April. Instead of vacationing here for dynamite skiing, eagles come for the plentiful food supplies. As lakes and rivers up north freeze each winter, fish become unavailable under a thick layer of ice and ducks leave the frozen waters. The eagles' "grocery stores" have essentially closed for the winter. So eagles fly south looking for open water stocked with food. The lakes of the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains fit the bill perfectly--they are part of the Pacific Migratory Flyway, a migration freeway for millions of ducks. Eagles like to spend their winters here because of the abundant and tasty ducks and fish. Our bald eagles normally migrate out of the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains in late March, heading back to summer homes in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, and Alberta, Canada. In recent years, a pair of bald eagles has remained at Lake Hemet and successfully produced several eaglets. Catching a glimpse of our breath-taking national bird is relatively easy during the winter months. There are also some fantastic opportunities for excellent close-up photography. Just look in the tallest trees around the lakeshore. Or, if the lake is partially frozen, look for eagles perched on the ice near small groups of ducks using open water pockets. Remember that human presence may distract or disturb the eagles--so, try to limit your movements and don't make loud noises when nearby. If possible, remain in your car while observing eagles--the car acts as a blind. Don’t forget to mark your calendars now for the remaining Eagle Counts: February 14, and March 14. Volunteers need not have experience--just bring binoculars and a watch (and dress warmly!). [US Forest Service press release]

FEDERAL WILDERNESS PROTECTION FOR CALIFORNIA LAND MOVES FORWARD - January 12
The Senate clears the way for passage of legislation that would expand wilderness protection to more than 2 million acres of public land nationwide, mostly in California and the West. Large swaths of California wild lands would gain federal wilderness protection under legislation that took a step toward approval in the U.S. Senate during a rare Sunday session. The measure, which would expand the protection to more than 2 million acres of public land nationwide, may be the most significant conservation legislation in a decade, said Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.), chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the bill's manager. It would designate as wilderness -- the government's highest protection -- about 190,000 acres in Riverside County, including parts of Joshua Tree National Park; about 450,000 acres in the Eastern Sierra and San Gabriel Mountains north of Los Angeles; and about 90,000 acres in Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks, including John Krebs Wilderness. The measure also would authorize $88 million in funding to launch an ambitious effort to restore the San Joaquin River, which has been drained for decades to supply Central Valley farms. More water would be left in the river, and populations of spring-run chinook salmon would be returned under terms of a legal settlement in a long-running environmental battle over the river. The proposal is expected to win final Senate approval by the end of the week and then go to the House, where it is also expected to be approved. The rest of this article is located on the LATimes.com newspaper webserver. Click HERE to read the full article. [Richard Simon, Los Angeles Times]

THIS WEEKS SCHEDULED DFG TROUT PLANTS - January 6
The following lakes and streams, listed by county, will be re-stocked this week by the California Department of Fish and Game. All plants are subject to change depending on road, water and weather conditions. More specific dates are not given so that fishing activity will not be focused right after the time of the plant. Occasionally, operational problems may cause alteration of the schedule.
VENTURA: Casitas Lake, Rancho Simi Community Park lake.
LOS ANGELES: Castaic Lake, El Dorado lakes, Hansen Lake, Legg Lake, Puddingstone Reservoir, Santa Fe Flood Control Basin.
ORANGE: Yorba Regional Park lake.
RIVERSIDE: Lake Evans, Rancho Jurupa Park lake.
SAN BERNARDINO: Cucamonga-Guasti, El Prado, Mojave Narrows, Seccombe Park lake.
SAN DEIGO: Cuyamaca Reservoir, San Diego Lower Otay Lake, Morena Reservoir, San Diego Murray Reservoir.
IMPERIAL: Sunbeam Lake, Wiest Lake.
[California Department of Fish and Game (DFG)]

BODY OF MISSING HUNTER IS RECOVERED - January 4
With the sun setting New Year's Day, firefighters in coldwater rescue gear searched frantically for a hunter last seen alive in an frigid pond in rural Anza. But it took two more days for sheriff's divers to find and recover the man's body, authorities said today. Leland Gerald Coulston, 32, of Pinyon Pines, had been hunting geese Thursday when he went into the pond to try to retrieve a bird he'd killed, according to Cal Fire and sheriff's officials. The water was frigid but no ice was present in the pond, about 25 miles east of Temecula, officials said. Coulston's body was recovered Saturday morning, and an autopsy is scheduled today, a deputy coroner said. Coulston had gone into the pond to retrieve the dead bird, but he had difficulty in the water and yelled for his wife to get help, according to according to sheriff's Sgt. Mathieu Burden. His wife knocked on a nearby resident's door and the resident called the fire department, according to Burden. Cal Fire received word of the possible drowning at 5:22 p.m. Thursday and requested the dive team at 5:31 p.m., Hutchinson said. Firefighters at the scene used a boat to search for Coulston as they waited for the dive team to arrive, Hutchinson said. The rest of this article is located on the Desert Sun newspaper webserver. Click HERE to read the full article. [The Desert Sun]

JOSHUA TREE BIRD COUNT SCHEDULED FOR JANUARY 3 - December 26
Joshua Tree National Park will hold its annual Christmas Bird Count on Saturday, January 3, 2009. Joshua Tree’s Christmas Bird Count is held each winter as part of the international Christmas Bird Count sponsored by the National Audubon Society. Birdwatchers will canvas a 15-mile diameter circle from dawn to dusk in an effort to record each species and individual bird. The resulting count data is used to assess the status of winter bird populations. Begun in 1967, the Joshua Tree Christmas Bird Count is now in its 42nd year, making it the park’s longest ongoing wildlife survey. Last year, 59 species were recorded. Birdwatchers who would like to participate in the Joshua Tree count should plan to meet at 7:30 a.m. at either the Indian Cove Ranger Station or the West Entrance Station. Count participants will need to provide their own transportaion and should bring warm clothing, binoculars, food, and water. The count will conclude at 5:00 p.m. Count participants should plan on spending the entire day in the field. Some routes may involve considerable walking or hiking. Prior bird watching experience is desirable, but not required. The Audubon Society requires a $5 fee from all participants, payable to the count compiler, for administration of the count (see http://www.audubon.org/Bird/cbc/). The Christmas Bird Count was started in December, 1900 when Frank Chapman implored readers of the journal Bird-Lore to count birds during the holidays, rather than shoot them, as had been the tradition. Twenty-seven people turned out for Chapman’s first count. Over 100 years later, more than 50,000 participants take part each year in over 2,000 counts held in North America and elsewhere around the world. The Christmas Bird Count is now the largest bird survey ever conducted and the ultimate source of data about winter bird populations. For more information on the Joshua Tree Christmas Bird Count, contact Joe Zarki at 760-367-5520, or Cindy VonHalle at 760-367-5521. [National Park Service press release]

TWO TEENAGE HIKERS RESCUED NEAR PALM DESERT - December 20
Two teenagers trapped on a jagged rock outcropping off a Palm Desert hiking trail were rescued by firefighters and a helicopter, authorities said today. Rescuers started searching in the cold and dark for the pair about 5:30 p.m. Friday. A helicopter was called out to extract one of the teenagers, who had broken an ankle after falling. The injured teenager was transported to a local hospital, and the second was not hurt, Riverside County Fire Department officials said. The pair had wandered off the Bump-n-Grind Trail and had apparently become lost but were able to contact authorities using a cellphone. Overnight temperatures dipped below freezing. The rest of this article is located on the LATimes.com newspaper webserver. Click HERE to read the full article. [The Los Angeles Times]

ANGELES FOREST FIRE DANGER LEVEL LOWERED TO MODERATE - December 17
Winter conditions have set in throughout the upper elevations of the San Gabriel Mountains, luring city dwellers to experience the snow firsthand. While some desert areas have received relatively little rainfall, the high country of the Angeles National Forest has received over 25 inches of snow since Sunday. As a result, the Fire Danger is able to be lowered 2 levels from "Very High" to "Moderate" effective Friday, Dec. 19, 2008. The "Moderate" fire danger level is the second in a six-level, graduated fire danger rating system. A variety of factors determine the level, including the moisture in vegetation, weather conditions and nationwide firefighting equipment and personnel needs. "Know before you go" to play in the snow, by calling a Forest Service office to check on the latest conditions for your destination. Following a few winter safety guidelines will help ensure a safe trip to the mountains. Maintain a longer following distance while driving on slick or snow-covered roads and carry tire chains, as they may be required. Also, dress warm and carry extra food and water in case you are stranded. Keep in mind, cell phone coverage is very limited in the San Gabriel Mountains. If you choose to sled or toboggan, be extremely cautious. Pick a safe location, well away from roads, large rocks and trees. Also, don’t sled or tube in unfamiliar terrain, as drifts can conceal steep cliffs and other drop-offs. Zip your car keys up in a pocket. If they’re dropped in the snow, you’re in for a long day. Developed snow play areas are available at resorts near Wrightwood and in the San Bernardino National Forest. Open campfires will still be permitted in developed campgrounds only. Gas, jellied or propane-type camp stoves are permitted in campgrounds and trail camps and in backcountry areas with a valid California Campfire Permit. Spark arrestors (required year-round) should be checked to make sure they are in good working order on all off-road vehicles, chain saws and other equipment with internal combustion engines. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) posts current road condition information for the Angeles Crest Highway (State Route 2) at 1-800-427-7623. Closures on the Angeles Forest Hwy are posted on the Los Angeles County website at www.ladpw.org/mpm/roadclosure. [US Forest Service press release]

CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST USE RESTRICTION LEVEL: HIGH - December 7
The recent rainfall in the region has helped lower the fire danger level on the Forest, reducing the Forest Use Restriction level from Very High to High. Forest use restrictions implemented during Very High will be lifted immediately. While the rainfall has reduced the changes of wildfire starts, fire season has not ended across the Forest. "Last week's rain wetted the Forest well, but without additional moisture, a forecasted Santa Ana event could quickly move us back into a higher level of Forest Use Restrictions," said Carlton Joseph, Fire Chief for the Cleveland National Forest. While the current low level marine layer that brings fog to the area helps raise relative humidity, rain is not currently forecasted through the end of the week. Under High Fire Use Restrictions, campgrounds are open to visitors and campfires are again allowed in developed campgrounds and developed picnic areas in designated fire rings. "We appreciate the public’s cooperation," adds Joseph, "As fire danger levels are subject to change with fire activity on the forest, visitors need to still use care and caution when visiting the Forest." In addition to checking the Fire Danger Level, forest visitors should check the "current conditions" page on the Cleveland National Forest web site to see if there are any other closures. Under "current conditions," road and campground closures as well as any other information is listed. Visitors are encouraged to check before they go. For a recorded message please call 619-593-2183 or for online information go to www.fs.fed.us/r5/cleveland. The Forest would like to remind visitors that there are some activities that are NEVER allowed on the Cleveland National Forest. The use of Fireworks and the discharging of firearms with steel core, armor piercing or tracer ammunition is strictly prohibited. Open fires are NEVER allowed outside of developed campgrounds and developed picnic areas in designated fire rings. Please check with the other southern California National Forests to determine what current fire restrictions are in place. [US Forest Service press release]

EIGHT SANTA BARBARA COUNTY RESIDENTS BANNED FROM NATIONAL FORESTS - December 5
Eight Santa Barbara County residents have been banned from all National Forests for a period of one year after pleading guilty in Federal Court to violating fire restrictions in Los Padres National Forest, the Forest Service announced today. The eight also received fines ranging from $200 to $300 during their November 21st court appearance in Santa Barbara. Five of the eight pled guilty to "building, maintaining or attending" a campfire. The offenses occurred at Upper Oso Campground and Cachuma Campground on the Santa Barbara Ranger District. Three pled guilty to illegal target shooting at the Arroyo Burro target shooting area on East Camino Cielo. Campfires, charcoal barbecues and target shooting have been prohibited in all areas of Los Padres National Forest since the Forest Service increased fire restrictions on July 18. "We have just experienced a catastrophic wildfire season and are very fortunate that none of these violations resulted in a wildfire," said Ron Pugh, Special Agent in Charge for the Pacific Southwest Region of the Forest Service. "We greatly appreciate the federal magistrate's decision in these cases and hope this sends a clear message that violating fire restrictions in the national forest is a serious matter and will not be tolerated." The three largest human-caused fires this year in Los Padres National Forest - the Indians, Gap and Chalk - together burned almost 103,000 acres and cost over $72 million to suppress. The damage these fires caused to natural resources is still being tallied. The Gap Fire above Goleta was determined to be arson-caused; the Indians Fire in Monterey County was the result of a campfire and is still under investigation; the Chalk Fire near the southern Big Sur Coast, while known to be human-caused, is still under investigation. The seasonal ban on target shooting, wood campfires and charcoal barbecues in Los Padres National Forest will be lifted on December 5, as the Forest Service transitions from "high fire season" to " low fire season." Forest Supervisor Peggy Hernandez issued a reminder that some fire restrictions will remain in effect over the winter and all forest visitors are encouraged to "know before you go." For more information about current conditions and fire restrictions, contact Forest Service offices in King City, Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, Goleta, Ojai or Frazier Park. Information is available on line at http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/lospadres. Los Padres National Forest encompasses over 1.76 million acres in Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Kern and Los Angeles counties. 9US Forest Service press release]

INFORMATION SOUGHT ON POSSIBLE MISSING HIKER - December 2
Sequoia National Park is asking for assistance from the public in obtaining information about an abandoned campsite near Twin Lakes. The site has a good deal of gear and food left in it, but there’s no sign of whoever set it up. On November 30th, two hikers reported that the campsite had not been occupied for more than 24 hours, following up on a similar previous report. An investigation is underway. The park is asking for assistance and additional information from any person who has been in the Twin Lakes area – including those hiking between Lodgepole and Silliman Pass – since October 31st. The park’s dispatch office can be reached any time at 1-559-565-3341 ext. 0. [Alexandra Picavet, Public Affairs Officer]

CASTAIC MAN DIES IN OFF-ROAD CRASH - December 1
A 32-year-old man was killed Sunday morning after being trapped in a vehicle that caught on fire in an off-roading accident near Pyramid Lake that left another man with serious injuries, authorities said. James M. McRae of Castaic died after riding in a Jeep that drove off a fire road east of Paradise Ranch Road, overturned and went up in flames, said Officer Jose Nunez, California Highway Patrol. The crash happened between 1 and 4 a.m. and left Nicholas M. Rowe, 24, of Castaic, badly injured. But Rowe managed to exit the vehicle, walk to Paradise Trailer Park and call authorities, Nunez said. Rowe remains in Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital in critical condition. Nunez said it is unclear who drove the Jeep. [Sue Doyle, Daily News staff writer]

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