CONDOR CALL - Los Padres Chapter Sierra Club

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Outings . . . (continued from page 4) Happy Hour, a St. Patty’s Day potluck feast and campfire. On Sunday, a quick visit to the infamous Riley town site before heading home. Group size strictly limited. Send $8 per person (Sierra Club), 2 sase, H&W phones, email, rideshare info to Ldr: Lygeia Gerard, P.O. Box 294726, Phelan, CA 92329; (760) 868-2179. CNRCC Desert Committee. March 13-17 DEATH VALLEY PHOTO TRIP: Join retired photographer & teacher Graham Stafford on a car camp trip to Death Valley, a photographer’s wonderland. Visit Eureka Dunes, dunes at Stove Pipe Wells, dunes at Saratoga Springs, the Racetrack, and Artist Drive. All levels of photography experience accepted—-beginners encouraged. Lessons with class handouts will cover all aspects of your digital camera and general photography. See Graham’s work at www.grahamstafford. com. Leader: Graham Stafford (775) 686-8478 graham@grahamstafford.com Great Basin Group-Toiyabe Chapter March 14 PINE MOUNTAIN LODGE–Pine Mountain Lodge. Strenuous 12 mrt, 3000' elev. gain/loss hike to campsite located in a cool mountain pine forest. Trail starts at Lions camp along a creek to Twin Forks, then a steep climb to Pine Mountain Lodge. Wear hiking shoes/boots, jacket (top may be cold/windy), bring lots of water, snack, lunch. Meet at Ventura carpool lot at 8:30am (Seaward and Harbor between Chase Bank and Carrows). Jim 447-1876/644-6934 (SB) March 14-20 GLEN CANYON NRA, ESCALANTE RIVER CAN - YON–SERVICE TRIP / BACKPACK: Assist the National Park Service in eradicating Russian Olive from the Escalante River. Working under the direction of Park Ranger Bill Wolverton, we will gather up slash from previous service trips and burn it. Since 2000, over half of the river has been cleared. Meet in Escalante, Utah Sunday morning, March 14, caravan out to the trailhead and hike in. Work four days, dayhike one day and hike out Saturday morning March 20. Expect knee to thigh deep river crossings, overnight lows near freezing and mild temperatures during the day. Participants will be responsible for their own leather work gloves (highly recommended), food and gear on the trail. Contact Leader Paul Plathe: 209-476-1498. Delta- Sierra Group (Mother Lode Chapter) March 15 MONDAY MORNING WALK: Meet 8:30am. Bus to Santa Barbara, 9:04am. $1.25 Thompson and Oak. Walk to Warner Sea Center to explore. Pat 643-0270 (VEN) March 20 LITTLE PINE MOUNTAIN: A challenging hike to a 4,000 foot peak in the back country. Strenuous 12.5 mrt. Bring lunch and plenty of water. Prepare for an all-day adventure. Optional destination to Little Pine Spring instead of the peak, adding another 2 miles. Bring lunch and at least two liters of water. This hike is not suitable for beginners or people with health issues. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. DIANE 455-6818 (SB) March 21 CANINE HIKE JESUSITA TRAIL TO INSPIRATION POINT: Hike through woods and meadows to a scenic view point. Moderately strenuous 7 mrt. Well behaved dogs welcomed and encouraged; must be leashed. Bring lunch and water for you and your canine companion. Hikers without dogs welcome too. Meet at B of A parking lot at 9am. Hike limited to ten dogs–please call to reserve your dog’s place. SALLY 689-7820 (SB) March 22 MONDAY MORNING WALK: Meet 8:30am at Mission Plaza to carpool to Loon Point at 9am for low tide walk, Summerland Beach. Pat 643- 0270 (VEN) March 27 PLAYGROUND: Explore the labyrinth of boulders forming a natural playground off West Camino Cielo. Some rock scrambling and agility required. Always a new route! Bring lunch and plenty of water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. ROBERT 685-1283 (SB) March 28 WEST FORK COLD SPRING TO LOOKOUT: Start on Cold Spring Trail, cross stream and hike west up to Lookout. Moderate, but sometimes steep 4 mrt. Bring lunch and water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. MONIKA 805-886-9868 (SB) SUNSET/MOONRISE HIKE AND POTLUCK AT Roads closed The Los Padres Forest Service has closed 68 roads within the Los Padres for the winter season, and more could be shut down depending on weather conditions. “The closures are needed to prevent damage to unpaved road surfaces and minimize public safety hazards,” according to the Service. Before heading out, visitors should call the ranger station nearest their destination for conditions (see page 4 for phone numbers) and ensure you leave your itinerary with a friend or family member. Also, the Service has a new Los Padres Forest website address: http://fs.usda.gov/lpnf HARRIS GRADE: We’ll hike in as the full moon rises, then stop to eat atop a hill and watch the sun set. (4 miles round trip-mild with a short strenuous hill at the end). Bring a daypack with food to share; as well as a plate, utensils, and water for yourself. Meet carpool groups near the Orcutt CVS Drugs or the Lompoc Pizza Hut at 5:30pm. More info: Jim 937-6766 (AR) March 29 MONDAY MORNING WALK: Meet 9am under freeway at San Jon Road, walk north on bicycle trail to Main Street and return. Pat 643-0270 (VEN) April 3 HOT SPRINGS LOOP: A short moderate 3mrt hike covering portions of the Hot Springs, Vincent (Saddle Rock), Girard and McMenemy trails. We’ll start at the Hot Springs trailhead, head up the Saddle Rock, connect with the Catway and stop for a light lunch at the Girard trail overlook. Return by way of the McMenemy trail. Great views of the South Coast. Bring sun protection as most of this route is unshaded. Bring lunch and water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. GERRY 964-5411 (SB) April 4 ARROYO HONDO PRESERVE: A docent led hike through a scenic canyon. Enjoy the views and learn the area’s history. Moderate 3-4 miles. Bring lunch & water, & be prepared to carpool to the Preserve, approx 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. CHRISTINE 963-2347 (SB) April 5 MONDAY MORNING WALK: Meet 8:30am at Mission Plaza to carpool to Carpenteria Beach for low tide 10:34am walk. Pat 643-0270 (VEN) April 5-10 WILDFLOWERS AND FENCE REMOVAL-Carrizo Plain National Monument: This outing will include three and a half days of service to the monument, removing and modifying fences to allow resident pronghorn to travel more widely. This is the spring wildflower season, and our schedule allows at least a day for exploring, either hiking or driving backcountry roads. With longer daylight hours there may also be time to visit sights in the monument after work. Because we are privileged to be staying at one of the old ranch houses, our trip is limited to 14 participants. $30 covers five dinners. Contact leader: Craig Deutsche, (310- 477-6670), craig.deutsche@gmail.com. CNRCC Desert Committee April 8 Spruce Falls Los Padres National Forest: Meet 8:30am, Rotary Club parking lot, Ojai and carpool to Rose Valley 6 mrt. Pat 643-0270 (VEN) April 10 INSECT HIKE IN ALISO CANYON: Learn about the most abundant form of life on the planet – insects–on this interpretive hike. A leisurely loop from Sage Hill campground on a marked trail alongside a stream. Easy/Moderate 3.5 mrt. Bring lunch and water. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. KENNY 692-2227 April 11 PARMA PARK: Pleasant stroll for an hour or so through one of Santa Barbara’s largest and least known parks. Slow paced loop hike of about 3 miles, bring water. Children welcome. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. DAVE 563-4850 (SB) April 12 MONDAY MORNING WALK: Meet 8:30am at Mission Plaza to carpool to Shelf Road at 9am and do circle by Grand Avenue. Pat 643-0270 (VEN) April 16-18 MOJAVE NATIONAL PRESERVE SERVICE TRIP: Come help restore an historic water feature to provide water for wildlife. The work involves protecting several springs by earthwork, stabilization work, putting up a fence and some infrastructure in and around a qanat. Our effort will be directed by staff from the Mojave National Preserve. A hike is planned for Friday February-March 2010 • Condor Call 5 There’s no time like snow time and we’ve already had a sprinkling on the Santa Ynez Mountain Range, but the closest real deal is Frazier Mountain, Pine Mountain Club and around Mt. Pinos in Ventura County at the Kern County boundary. See if it’s snowing there anytime via a web cam: www.frazmtn.com/pmcwebcam WILDERNESS BASICS Open air adventures await students By Alisse Fisher John Muir’s advice to “climb the mountains and get their good tidings,” has been followed by Sierra Club members since the Club’s founding. Taking his advice, the local Los Padres Wilderness Basics Course started Feb. 2, but there may be room left to join this unique experience. The course includes eight weeks of exciting lectures on backpacking and outdoor lore, featuring experts on such topics as gear, safety, navigation and how to for those arriving in the morning, if the rains are good this year, there may be plenty of wildflowers. We will work all day Saturday and until noon on Sunday. There will be a ranger talk about the Preserve on Saturday evening. Camping will be rustic. Email or call leader for reservation information. Leader: Rich Juricich, rich.sac@pacbell.net, 916-492-2181. CNRCC Desert Committee April 17 El CAPITAN CANYON: Start at El Capitan Canyon Camp, walk into the canyon, cross the creek and climb up various ridges for great view of the coast. Moderate 7 or 8 mrt. on ranch roads and some trails. Elevation gain is about 600ft. Meet behind B of A on upper State Street at Hope Ave. at 9am. CHRISTINE 963-2347 (SB) April 18 URBAN HIKE TO FRANCHESCI PARK: Start near the Mission, walk through the Riviera, then up the “1000 steps” to a great view of the city and harbor. Return via Las Tunas Rd. Some steep Calling all outdoor lovers, get all the hikes in our region in Condor Call. (Photo by Robert Bernstein) The Condor Calls for Thee Join the Club! “leave only footprints.” Outside the classroom, WBC participants will enjoy a day hike in the Newbury Park area, a camping trip in the Santa Ynez River area north of Santa Barbara, and two backpacks in the Los Padres National Forest. This is a course for persons of all levels from beginners to seasoned hikers who desire to get out and see our beautiful local forest. Last year’s participants learned a lot and enjoyed the class immensely. Some have gone on to sections. Moderate 4 mrt. Bring water and a snack. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. KEITH 965-9953 OUTINGS NEEDED: Get your Jun-Sep outings to your Group outings chair soon. Be sure to include the first week of October in your schedule. April 19 MONDAY MORNING WALK: Meet 8:30am at Mission Plaza to carpool to carpool to Foster Park to walk south on bicycle trail. Pat 643- 0270 (VEN) April 24 ROCKY PINE RIDGE–SHORT ROUTE: From Camino Cielo, hike into this wonderful pine tree/rock region and skirt along the ridge line. Short, moderate morning hike, 4-5 mrt. Bring water and a snack. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. ROBERT 685-1283 (SB) April 24-25 OWENS VALLEY WORK PROJECT: Project will Outings >6 become hike leaders, done volunteer trail work, and traveled to the annual Day Zero Pacific Crest Trail Kick-off near San Diego. They are out there hiking, getting fit, and having a blast. Several are even part of our volunteer staff this year. Classes will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 2-Mar. 23, in the Carpenters’ Room at Community Presbyterian Church in Ventura, 1555 Poli St. For information email lospadres wbc@gmail.com or call 524-7170. EAVESDROPS “The genius of the Squibbs [founders of Midland School in Los Olivos] was in making our relationships with our resources transparent. Working to heat shower water with wood fires, exploring the outdoors and placing oneself on a topographic map . . . tending a garden or installing solar panels puts people in the cycle of life and materials.” —Lise Goddard, director of the Midland’s programs, which was the only school to win a 2009 Governor’s award for environmental leadership. 1000
6 Condor Call • February-March 2010 SPECIES REBOUND On the road to recovery By Chuck Graham The Little Foxes That Could— Surviving at the top of the food chain is just as tough as struggling at the bottom. There’s always someone or something that wants to knock you down. That was the case for the pint-size island fox in the Channel Islands National Park. About the size of a small house cat, the rusty, cinnamon-colored canine was nearly picked clean by golden eagles on Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa and San Miguel Islands by 1999. It’s been listed on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Endangered Species List since 2004. Originally lured to the volcanic chain by a massive feral pig population on Santa Cruz, golden eagles soon realized that island foxes were an easier catch, not only on the largest of the Channel Islands, but also on neighboring Santa Rosa and San Miguel. Fast forward to November 2009, and the fragile island ecosystem is reaching some ecological stability. The 5,000 feral pigs were officially eradicated in the spring of 2008, 43 golden eagles were trapped, attached with GPS units and relocated back to northeastern California. None of those raptors have returned. Bald eagles were returned to the islands between 2002 and 2006 to reestablish historic nesting habitat, while keeping potential golden eagles at bay. The results have been astounding for island fox populations across the unique archipelago. “We’ve removed the predation pressure on the foxes,” said Tim Coonan, terrestrial biologist for the Channel Islands National Park. “Now the foxes know what to do.” What they’ve done is proliferate since the last captive island fox was released on Santa Rosa in November 2008. Historically, Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa had 1,000 foxes on each island. On San Miguel there were 400 foxes. By 1999 island fox numbers on San Miguel and Santa Rosa dropped to 15 foxes on each island, and less than 50 on Santa Cruz. Because island foxes on each of those islands are physically and genetically different, it was possible a subspecies could be lost forever. After a decade of captive breeding and no aerial predators around, island fox numbers have skyrocketed in the wild to 1,000 on Santa Cruz, 400 on Santa Rosa and 320 on San Miguel. It’s believed to be one of the swiftest recoveries of an endangered species in the history of the Endangered Species Act. To keep tabs on their continued recovery, 50 island foxes have been radio collared on each island. “That gives us a good look at how they survive,” continued Coonan. “It’s a safeguard against potential dangers.” Free Flying—Once teetering on the brink of extinction, California brown pelicans are now flourishing along the Golden State. They’re commonly seen along our scenic coastline and especially the offshore Channel Islands, majestically gliding above the ocean, or roosting on guano-covered rocks. As of November 11, 2009, they were delisted from the Endangered Species List. Pelicans are a great indicator of how healthy ocean environments are. They are one of the most recognizable creatures on mainland beaches with their long sword-like beaks as they dive headfirst into the ocean to fill their pouches full of anchovies. The Endangered Species Act passed in 1970, but the brown peli- Brown pelicans are back, delighting us with their Vformation flying and diving. (Photo by Chuck Graham) can was listed three years before that. Nearly wiped out by DDT pesticides and habitat loss, the ungainly birds—noted for their triangular flight formations—were affected nationwide and along the coasts of the Caribbean, Central and South America. Brown pelicans along the Gulf and Atlantic coastlines were delisted back in 1985. “The legal protections provided by the Endangered Species Act, coupled with the banning of DDT in 1972, provided the means for the Service and its partners to accelerate the pelican’s recovery,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director H. Dale Hall. “State wildlife agencies, universities, private ornithological groups and individuals participated in reintroduction efforts and helped protect nest sites during breeding season.” The Channel Islands National Park, and especially Anacapa and Santa Barbara Islands, are the primary rookeries of California brown pelicans on the west coast, due to The island fox was at the top of the food chain until golden eagles came along, but that threat was resolved. (Photo by Kurt Preissler) their dry, secure and quiet roosting and nesting places. In 1970, only one chick out of 550 nests survived. However, over the past decade their populations have rebounded to historic levels. Above the sheer 300-foot-high cliffs on West Anacapa Island the annual average has been 4,600 nesting pairs. In 2004, the Anacapa breeding population peaked at nearly 8,000 nesting pairs. To the south on tiny Santa Barbara Island, there has been an annual average of about 1,500 nesting pairs, with an estimated high of 4,000 nests in 2006. Pelicans on that island nest in different spots. A couple of years ago they took up nesting at Landing Cove, the only place for visitors to get on the island. The tiniest island off California was shut down until breeding and nesting season was over. They rule the roost. “The recovery of the brown pelican is a tremendous milestone for conservation in our country,” said Channel Islands National Park Superintendent Russell Galipeau. “This species has been safeguarded by the Endangered Species Act, as well as being sheltered in the national park, on remote rock outcroppings and islands that provide undisturbed nesting and roosting habitat.” Toxins like DDT caused pelicans to lay thin-shelled eggs that were crushed during the incubation proc ess. Other birds of note affected this way include raptors like peregrine falcons and bald eagles. Bald eagles were removed from the Endangered Species List a year ago, but the majestic raptors are still trying to recolonize the rugged archipelago after a 50-year absence. Bald eagles are at the top of the food chain and are still experiencing the affects of DDT. “But there’s still 30 bald eagles on the islands,” said Tim Coonan, terrestrial biologist for the NPS. The delisting of brown pelicans means federal agencies no longer need to consider effects on approving development like roads, because brown pelicans have rebounded so well after being listed for 40 years. However, with DDT still in the ecosystem, scientists will continue to monitor population levels. • Chuck Graham is a local adventure writer and editor of DEEP magazine. A version of this article first appeared in the Carpinteria Coastal View. His wide-ranging photos may be viewed at: www.ChuckGrahamPhoto.com Stream-clean a creek Santa Barbara Channelkeeper has created an Adopt-a-Stream program for volunteers to choose their own waterway area to help keep our beaches and waterways free of garbage. Its first event was on Jan. 30, when teams picked up garbage in each of 23 monitoring sites in Goleta, before it washes into the Goleta Slough and the ocean. Channelkeeper has similar events planned in Ventura County, along with creating a network of people who monitor the waterways and report pollution. If you would like to become a regular caretaker of one of these sites or an additional one near your home, or support in other ways, call 563-3377, or send an email or Great memories await those who sign on to the Sierra Club’s island hopping series, right here on our own, er, front yard. Just ask these folks who visited San Miguel Island. (Photo by Joan Jones Holtz) Club is offering four chances for island adventure cruises There are four opportunities to go island hopping with the Sierra Club this year: May 7-9, July 16-19, August 6-9 and September 10-12. The Channel Islands are often referred to as the Galápagos of America and are home to many endangered and unique species. These three- and four-day liveaboard cruises benefit Sierra Club’s political program in California. They depart from Santa Barbara aboard the 68-foot boat Truth where you’ll have a bunk along with all meals, snacks and beverages for only $590 for the May and September cruises and $785 for July and August. The club has retained the services of a ranger-naturalist who will travel with us to lead hikes on each island and point out interesting features. You will marvel at the sight of whales, seals, sea lions, rare birds and blazing wildflowers. Opportunities abound to hike the wild, windswept trails, kayak the rugged coastline and snorkel in pristine waters. Discover remnants of the Chumash people who lived on these islands for thousands of years, or just relax at sea. To make a reservation, mail a $100 check payable to Sierra Club to leaders Joan Jones Holtz and Don LPFA wants you The Ojai Chapter of the Los Padres Forest Association is searching for people interested in being officers and leaders on its board. The chapter primarily manages and presents outdoor programs for all ages at the Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center on Highway 33 behind Ojai, and trails in the district. If you are interested or want more details, contact Mike Havstad at: mrhseh@earthlink.net visit the website: penny@sbck.org www.sbck.org EAVESDROPS “Ventura’s toxic sewage discharges pose frightening public health and environmental threats. Decades of paying the minimum penalty to pollute as a cost of conducting business— instead of implementing feasible solutions to safeguard public health and the Santa Clara River ecosystem—must stop now.” —Jason Weiner, Ventura Coastkeeper attorney Jason Weiner, in announcing an intent to sue the city of Ventura for “routinely violating the federal Clean Water Act.” Holtz, 11826 The Wye St, El Monte, CA 91732. Contact leaders for more information at (626) 443-0706 or email: jholtzhln@aol.com Outings . . . (continued from page 5) probably be bashing tamarisk along the Owens River, but could change. Work on Saturday and enjoy the extensive birding opportunities on Sunday. Camp at Diaz Lake just south of Lone Pine. Group potluck on Saturday night Bring all camping gear, or stay in a motel in nearby Lone Pine. For more information, contact leaders Cal and Letty French, lettyfrench@gmail.com Santa Lucia Chapter and CNRCC Desert Committee EXPLORING THE MOJAVE NATIONAL PRE- SERVE: We will meet Saturday morning 9:00 AM at the Teutonia Peak trailhead on Cima Road and hike to Teutonia Peak and out on Cima Dome. Primitive carcamp at Sunrise Rock. Sunday morning, visit the museum/visitor center at Kelso Depot and then on to hike Kelso Dunes. These dunes have various nicknames including the singing dunes and the moaning dunes due to the sounds that they often make, but whatever you call then, they are impressive. For those who want to spend another night, we can camp at the Granite Mountains. For reservations contact leader: Carol Wiley at desertlily1@verizon.net or (760) 245-8734. CNRCC Desert Committee ROCK ART IN EASTERN CALIFORNIA: Comfortable spring weather is an ideal time to go exploring. On Saturday, we visit three rock art sites in the southern Owens Valley area bordering the Coso Mountains. On Sunday we will be escorted to (the astonishing) Little Petroglyph Canyon on the China Lake Naval Weapons Station. As government restrictions apply here, all arrangements and confirmations must be completed by April 1 (no joking). High clearance 2WD sufficient, day hiking, Sat. evening potluck. Group limit, 14 participants, Contact leader Craig Deutsche (310-477-6670), craig.deutsche@ gmail.com. CNRCC Desert Committee April 25 SANTA PAULA PEAK LOOP–Very strenuous, fast-paced 14 mi. 4000’ elev. gain/loss shuttle trip starting from Thomas Aquinas College with lunch at Cienega campground, hike up to Santa Paula Peak, and return via Timber Canyon. Some primitive trail and lots of boulder and rock hopping and scrambling along creeks. Wear lug sole shoes and bring at least two quarts of water, lunch, sunscreen and hat. Meet at Ventura carpool lot at 7:15am(Seaward and Harbor between Chase Bank and Carrows) or junction of Hwy 126 and Timber Canyon Rd. at 8am for car shuttle. JIM 447-1876/644-6934 (SB) April 26 MONDAY MORNING WALK: Meet 9am at Canada Largo to walk (passing the last piece of the Mission Aquaduct). Pat 643-2070 (VEN) May 1 CANINE HIKE ROMERO CANYON LOOP: Hike up a trail with trees and a small stream to a lunch spot. Then down an abandoned road with a beautiful view. Moderate 6 mrt. Well behaved dogs welcomed and encouraged; must be leashed. Bring lunch and water for you and your canine companion. Hikers without dogs welcome too. Meet at B of A parking lot at 8am. NOTE EARLY START TIME. Hike limited to ten dogs–please call to reserve your dog’s place. SALLY 689-7820 (SB) May 2 GAVIOTA PEAK: Walk past the hot springs, then up to a 2,400 foot peak for lunch and a sweeping coastal view. Return on the Trespass Trail to complete the loop. Long drive. Moderately strenuous 7 mrt with approx. 2000 feet elevation gain. Bring lunch and two liters of water. This hike is not suitable for beginners or people with health issues. Meet behind B of A on upper State St. at Hope Ave. at 9am. DIANE 455-6818 (SB) Outings >8
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CONDOR CALL - Los Padres Chapter Sierra Club

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