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Vol. 21, No. 2 of 6 Aprol - May 2021
Journal of Los Padres Chapter Sierra Club
Serving Ventura & Santa Barbara Counties
©Photo by Kaila Rayne
Future Power … Past Oil … Crucial Donors … Earth Days … New Trails
Pg 1 Pgs 2, 3 Pgs 1, 3 Pg 5 Pgs 6, 7
JOIN THE CLUB - ONLY $15 - FREE BAG - SIERRACLUB.ORG
Our home is now a
Virtual Power Plant
By Katie Davis another polluting fossil-fuel plant
This week my family signed on the Oxnard beach. The Oxnard
a “SoCal Edison Virtual Power community and social justice
Plant Enrollment Form,” officially organizations like CAUSE rose in
making our house with its solar opposition, sick of the industrial Journal of Los Padres Chapter Sierra Club
and battery system part of a Virtual pollution and health impacts. Sierra Serving Ventura & Santa Barbara Counties April - May 2021
Power Plant. Club formally intervened with
Definition: A Virtual Power state regulators, noting that sea
Plant (VPP) is a network of small level rise made the beach a poor HINES CHRONICLES
to medium-sized energy resources, choice for new infrastructure and
like solar and energy storage, that
can be centrally controlled by the
that renewable energy alternatives
should be considered instead. A gentle walk in Biden land
grid operator in support of, or in I attended some of those Editor’s note: We continue with Feb 27: Wildlife Team update to
place of, a large central power plant. hearings and the turnout was the Jim Hines Chronicles by popular Sierra Club California on protecting
Benefits: Adding a battery to amazing. And it worked. The demand, which takes the emails mountain lions and gray wolves.
my solar system saves me money Oxnard power plant was scrapped, sent to our Executive Committee by
by letting me shift energy use to and 195 MW of battery storage were March 2: Bears Ears National
our premier lobbyist who phones Monument status seems the number
less expensive times and provides contracted instead. and zooms to the nation’s Capital,
energy backup if there is an outage. one question I get. Well, Bears Ears
See photo of hearing on page 2 state Capital, politicians, other
Enrolling in the VPP got me a $1000 and Grand Staircase-Escalante
The Future: Most of this will chapters, eco-groups and more. National Monuments will be back,
off the battery in exchange for letting
come from large banks of batteries This issue starts with his February on Jan. 26, President Biden issued an
SCE draw energy from my battery
being deployed everywhere from 2021 emails and ends on our March executive order to start the process
when the grid needs extra juice.
Oxnard to Goleta. A particularly 2021deadline. Jim is our chapter’s of re-establishing the original
Even better, I’m helping keep our
energy grid reliable and our beaches innovative part of this regional vice-chair and Ventura Conservation boundaries of both.
and air clean. solution is that some of it will come Director among other wildlife New Interior Secretary Deb Haaland
from residential customers like you advocacy tasks. March 5: I need help … help was strongly supported by the Sierra
The History: It all started with
and me. Swell Energy is actively for what? Shoveling all the sunshine Club.
the proposed Puente gas plant, yet By Jim Hines
recruiting approximately 6,000 out of my driveway ... it has been a
homes and small businesses in the Feb 3: It’s like a gentle walk in rough Winter here in SoCal. I had a
EAVESDROPS project area to create over 14 MW the forest as I navigate Biden Land. busy week of Zoom meetings and
“The fastest growing U.S. of capacity and demand response They are so easy to speak with, they continued on page 2
occupation in the next decade is listen and are truly committed. Far
Electric Future on web
capabilities for a 10-year period.
solar panel installer, the second is “Solving today’s energy needs cry from my meetings in DC over the
wind turbine service technicians.” in Santa Barbara and Ventura past four years. If you missed the webinar in followed by a panel of guest experts:
~ Craig Welch in a National counties with Swell’s virtual Feb 12: Plenty of positive March about the benefits of phasing Dr. Christine James, CEC Energy
Geographic article about driving power plant showcases the value out natural gas in buildings in favor of Director Michael Chiacos and
actions being taken to protect our
cross-county in an electric of strategically deploying these electric it, don’t worry, you can enjoy architect Alex Pujo.
environment both on land and
car, “revealing how alternative projects to reduce the region’s it via a YouTube link in English or The video comes as the City
ocean waters here in the Central
reliance on power from fossil fuels,”
energy sources could help power Coast region, notably Central Coast Spanish here: of Santa Barbara is finalizing an all-
said Suleman Khan, CEO of Swell https://tinyurl.com/AllElectric electric new building code for this
us into a sustainable future.” Heritage Protection Act, San Gabriel
Energy. https://tinyurl.com/AllElectricES spring. Ojai passed a new building
Read the article here: Sierra Club has partnered with Mountains and Rivers Protection Act
https://tinyurl.com/ and a bill to ban longline commercial More than 65 people attended electric code last fall, and activists
Swell Energy to spread the word. the webinar hosted by Sierra Club’s in several Ventura and Santa Barbara
ElectricUSride You can learn more here: fishing nets in federal waters.
Santa Barbara Group and Community municipalities hope to continue in
www.swellenergy.com/sierraclub Feb 16: Spoke to San Environmental Council (CEC) to their footsteps.
Fernando Valley Group. We work educate Central Coast residents. More than 40 California cities
on several cross-county border The one-hour video walks have passed codes for electric new
issues together, like Santa Monica viewers through the health, cost and buildings, while pro-gas legislators
Mountains, Rim of the Valley climate benefits of replacing gas with in other states have introduced bills
Corridor Protection Act. electricity and how you can make to ban cities from doing the same.
changes in your own home and enact If you would like to help in
Feb 24: I have become the
new building all-electric codes in your city, we’ll get you plugged in,
Rotary Clubs’ speaker of choice
your city. It featured the Sierra Club’s contact:
about the work of the Sierra Club.
state representative, Matt Gough, jonathan.ullman@sierraclub.org
I have spoken to the clubs of
Camarillo, Santa Maria, San Luis
Obispo and Los Olivos, and more Meet Outings leader
requests are coming in. Maureen Hernandez was no leader. I became a hike leader in
chosen as the Los Padres Chapter’s 2018, took over the hike, and have
COVER PHOTO new Outings Chair, taking over from been organizing and leading hikes
Bentley loves to take a dip on long-time Chair Stephen Bryne, who every Monday since.”
has stepped down but still stepping Maureen intends to do more
Goleta City Council approved the purchase of the County’s first EV ARC™. The ARC mellow weekdays along Cold
on the trails. than the administrative work of
is a transportable, 100% off-grid solar-powered EV charger that can also serve as a Springs Trail before we made our “I have lived in Camarillo, on compiling and organizing our free
mobile emergency preparedness and energy resiliency asset. It has a battery pack trek to Montecito Peak. (Photo by
storing up the sun’s energy. More info on Goleta’s climate plans are here: and off, since 1962. Hiking became outings which, hopefully, will resume
https://tinyurl.com/GoletaClimatePlans Kaila Perry) an interest, and I began hiking with this year. “I hope to work with the
the Monday Sierra Club about 2010,” rest of the Outings team to increase
What’s March Appeal all about? she said.
“When Phil and Lora Clarke
membership and get as many people
as I can outside. A leadership role is
The Sierra Club Los Padres crucial work will not be done. Protection Act into law, sponsored moved to Santa Barbara, the long- something I do, and I hope I can live
Chapter’s annual March Appeal is On the protection side, Exxon by our local Rep. Salud Carbajal, and standing Monday hiking group had up to your expectations.”
underway, and all members should and other oil and gas companies protecting nearly 245,000 acres of
be getting the request in the mail, if continue the assault on our local wilderness, creating two scenic areas
you haven’t already. environment. Our staff and encompassing about 35,000 acres,
Please don’t toss it … the volunteers are working tirelessly to and safeguarding 159 miles of wild
March fundraiser is critical for our prevent Exxon from restarting oil and scenic rivers right here in our
chapter because all the funds raised production on the Central Coast. own backyard.
go toward defending wild lands, We are defending oil drilling safety Your donation supports this
protecting clean air and water, and buffers and, notably in Ventura, work.
advancing climate solutions right calling for environmental review Thanks to your generosity, our
here in Santa Barbara and Ventura of old permits, which will also help chapter has a plan and is ready to
counties. Without your support, this advance statewide standards. fight back and make things better.
On the clean side, the Chapter When you invest in the Sierra Club,
Españole is part of the bold Sierra Club 30x30 you are helping us use all the tools
¡Vaya, sucedió! (Wow, it campaign to protect 30% of our of democracy to protect our own
happened!) El sitio web de nuestro valuable wildlands and waters by irreplaceable planet.
capitulo ahora tiene una versión en 2030. In addition, we are advocating Special thanks to all our past
español. (Our chapter website now for building electrification in Santa donors! We know we can count
has a Spanish version.). Páselo ... Barbara and other local cities. on you to continue supporting the
aquí: (Pass it on … here): Your donation supports chapter. You are part of a growing
www.sierraclub.org/los-padres-es community education and outreach, network of grassroots changemakers.
Not only that, translator as well as civic advocacy to help You can donate today using the
Nayra Adriana Pacheco Guzman advance all-electric buildings and form you received in the mail or via
was introduced to the Executive transport, setting a precedent for the the web:
Committee. She will translate in rest of the country to follow. www.sierraclub.org/donate/1000 Four Ventura Sierra Club hike leaders, making the most of Covid restrictions by continuing to
Spanish for our Chapter events and As for wild lands, the chapter It’s just that easy. Questions? hike and explore to be ready when the club can again conduct free public outings. Here, they are
she also works on club projects. staff and volunteers are helping Contact Emily Engel: exploring Santa Cruz Island. They are, from left: Maureen Hernandez (our new Outings Chair),
Gracias y bienvenido. steward the Central Coast Heritage emilyaengel@gmail.com Judith Laurentowski, Susanne Tanaka, and Anna Simkowiak Chung. (Photo by Lisa Sachs)
April/May 2021 • Condor Call 2
Hines Chronicles... March 19: A note about
wildlife crossings under the 101
continued from page 1 freeway in the Gaviota area came
calls with Biden staffers, western from Doug Campbell, Coastal
states legislators, Senate staffers and Ranches Conservancy, which said
the chief of staff to Gov. Newson. Coastal Commission staff is likely
Also gave talks to six groups to recommend that Caltrans take the
and organizations via Zoom. necessary steps to create a wildlife
March 9: Working closely with crossing under the four lanes of
our Borderlands and Wildlife teams Highway 101, when they build the
by submitting a list of sections of the replacement culvert at Gaviota. A
Trump border wall to be removed hearing is expected April 16.
to provide safe passage for natural March 23: Bills are moving
wildlife movement. through Congress to protect wildlife
March 17: Got about 6 minutes corridors, national forests, parks and
on the phone with Secretary of the monuments. Working closely with
Interior Deb Haaland, her second day CA Assembly member Rob Bonta
on the job. She asked me to provide (D-Oakland) we have introduced
her staff with more info on issues we AB 534, the Whale Entanglement
discussed. Prevention Act to stop this deadly
practice off California waters.
Others are to ban nylon longline
EAVESDROPS The ground was breaking for Virtual Power Plants (see page 1 success story) in grassroots activism, such as
fishing and crab trap nets, which at this 2017 hearing opposing the Puente gas power plant in favor of electricity sources, like solar panels
“Their sins of emission,
entangle marine mammals. and battery storage. In foreground, Oxnard Sierra Club activists Mike Stubblefield and Liz Lamar, and
like so many other firms and CAUSE activists gather at the hearing. (Photo by CAUSE)
individuals, are bad. But their March 23: So many people
Our bold local legislators
sins of omission are truly are not aware of the Sierra Club
inexcusable.” 30x30 Conservation Plan, but when
~ Bill McKibben of 350.org, I send them the link and discuss it,
commenting on ExxonMobil’s
deliberate lies about global
warming from 1988 to the
they just love it. I’m working to
implement the 30x30 plan in our
region and will speak to Ventura
take on the oil industry
present, covering up their Supervisors in April. Here’s the By Katie Davis State Senator Monique Limón, SB 467 also tasks California
own analysis that fossil fuel link: When it comes to meeting our introduced SB 467, a bill that takes Geologic Energy Management
was responsible for much of https://tinyurl.com/30X30plan climate goals, California’s Achilles aim at the unusually dirty and risky Division (CalGEM) with identifying
climate change. heel has long been the power of the oil extraction practices that threaten oil industry workers who have lost
March 24: It was all about oil industry. our region. This bill would improve their jobs and providing incentives to
wildlife across the U.S. this morning They spend millions of dollars public health and environmental companies involved with remediating
as I spoke to Martha Williams, on lobbyists, campaign contributions quality by banning all forms of abandoned oil and gas well sites to
the new Deputy Director of the and front groups to create the illusion enhanced oil recovery, such as hire these workers.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. of public support. Their goal is hydraulic fracking and cyclic steam A complimentary bill by Limón
She understands the importance of to pressure legislators, keep the injection, and require the state to -- AB47 Remediating Deserted Wells
wildlife protection and I discussed oil flowing and stop all efforts at develop health-protective 2,500-foot -- allows CalGEM to spend up to
measures to stop pesticide use on meaningful reform. But this year a setback between oil-gas extraction $10 million a year on plugging and
wildlife refuges and expanding bold group of California legislators operations and homes and schools. abandoning deserted oil wells. That
funding for endangered species. stepped forward to take on the oil This is particularly meaningful will help create these jobs and address
industry. in our region. In Ventura County, a a huge health and safety issue.
March 25: Mountain Lions
These legislators, including setback ordinance and other sensible As will AB 896 -- Idle Gas and
Forever is a Sierra Club campaign
oil regulations are being aggressively Oil Well Remediation -- by Assembly
to protect them, and our local
challenged in court by oil companies, Member Bennett which authorizes
populations are on the agenda April EAVESDROPS
and a temporary moratorium to CalGEM to impose a claim or lien
14 for a six-month extension to the “Citizens United was 11 years
protect water resources in Oxnard on an idle well if the operator has
CA Fish and Game Commission. old Jan. 21. The damage it has from cyclic steam production has failed to pay idle well fees, if the well
Staff told me it will likely pass until done in that time to American expired. is unsafe, or if the state has incurred
public hearings are held perhaps democracy is incalculable, and In north Santa Barbara County costs for remediating the well. This
next year. the chances of reversing it dozens of organizations have been will provide an important tool to help
through a change in the court or fighting multiple cyclic steam motivate oil companies to obey the
a constitutional amendment are projects for years. These projects law and properly seal wells no longer
Condor Call
www.sierraclub.org/lospadres ~ All phone numbers 1-805 area code
low.”
~ LA Times writer Michael
would triple oil greenhouse gas
emissions, drill through the Santa
in use.
Kudos to State Senator Limón
Hiltzik, responding to the Maria drinking water aquifer, and Assembly Member Bennett for
EDITOR: ‘Condor’ John Hankins, 452-2885
260 Pacos St. Ventura CA 93001 • John@gnusman.com news that corporations are create dangerous fire risks, clear-cut introducing these oil bills. It’s a big
ADVERTISING: Contact Editor (above) suspending political donations oak forests, and degrade a richly lift to take on the oil industry and get
DEADLINES FOR ALL ISSUES:
due to the Jan. 6 insurrection, biodiverse area home to 99 sensitive needed reforms passed and signed,
Copy Deadline: 20th — Advertising Deadline: 22nd of month preceding publication.
warning us not to think it’s a “sea and endangered species. While the but it is necessary work to protect our
PUBLICATION SCHEDULE: immediate projects of concern have health, meet our climate goals, and
February/March, April/May, June/July, Aug/Sept, Oct/Nov, Dec/Jan change in big-money influence
been withdrawn, only state action address the hazard of abandoned and
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Free to members on our elections.” It isn’t.
Non-members, $15 per year. Contact Editor John Hankins can protect us long term. idle wells.
Photos, news, tips always welcome!
Sierra Club Decommissioning an oil site
SierraClub.org/Los-Padres
• LOS PADRES CHAPTER •
Post Office Box 31241, Santa Barbara, Ca 93130-1241
https://www.sierraclub.org/lospadres
Santa Barbara 617-3106 • Ventura 988-0339
Change of Address: address.changes@sierraclub.org or (415) 977-5653
NATIONAL OFFICE & MEMBER SERVICES: (415) 977-5500
2101 Webster St. Suite 1300, Oakland CA 94612
WASHINGTON LEGISLATIVE OFFICE: (202) 547-1141
50 F Street, NWW, 8th Floor Washington, D.C., 20001
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Jonathan.Ullman@SierraClub.org
• EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE •
Katie Davis (Chair): 451-4574, kdavis2468@gmail.com
Jim Hines (Vice- Chair): 340-9266, jhcasitas@gmail.com
Gerry Ching (Secretary): 964-5411, gching@cox.net
Richard Hunt (Treasurer), 966-4157, richardhunt@cox.net
Alex Pujo (at large): 962-3578, alex@pujo.net
David Gold (at-large): 642-7748 x6, davidgold4@aol.com
Elisabeth Lamar (at large): 667-7617, elisabethlamar@hotmail.com
Rebecca August (Arguello Group Rep): 350-0629, rebeccaaugust@mac.com
Hugh Warren (Conejo Group Rep): 341-6295, mail@hkwarren.net
Martha Sadler (Santa Barbara Group Rep): 636-9194, marthasadler@yahoo.com
• GROUP CHAIRS •
Arguello: Rebecca August 350-0629, rebeccaaugust@mac.com
Conejo: Hugh Warren, 341-6295, mail@hkwarren.net
Santa Barbara: Katie Davis, 451-4574, kdavis2468@gmail.com
Ventura Network: Elisabeth Lamar, 667-7617, elisabethlamar@hotmail.com
• CLUB SERVICES •
Forest issues: Jim Hines, 340-9266, jhcasitas@gmail.com
Wilderness Basics Course: Teresa Norris, 524-7170, lospadreswbc@gmail.com
Air Quality: Michael Stubblefield, 216-2630, motodata@roadrunner.com
Conservation SB: Kate Mullin, mullin@shelter-vet.com
Conservation Vta: Jim Hines, 340-9266, jhcasitas@gmail.com
Legal: David Gold, 642-7748 x6, davidgold4@aol.com
Outings: Maureen Hernandez, moenandez@gmail.com
Political SB: Alex Pujo, 962-3578, alex@pujo.net
Political Vta: David Gold, 642-7748 x6, davidgold4@aol.com It may take up to three years to accomplish the decommissioning of the Carpinteria offshore oil and gas plant and will constitute the first oil platforms
Transportation: Kent Bullard, 218-6945, KentBullard@yahoo.com to be taken away off California’s coast. The 55-acre onshore property is part of the effort. It was sold to Venoco by Chevron, but Chevron is obligated
Typography and production by Dan Fuller to decommission the on- and off- shore properties. The status of the land and the oil pier after decommissioning is yet unknown.
April/May 2021 • Condor Call 3
A 50-state fight
on climate plans
By Jon Ullman us the ball, and we need to run
Our Central California coast with it.
municipalities are lucky. We have But while we have the ball,
been given a full slate of tools to Florida and more than a dozen
protect health and fight climate other states with GOP-majority
change, and we should use every legislatures this year have
one of them. introduced “pre-emption” laws,
As someone who worked for which strip the rights of cities and
20 years for the Sierra Club in counties to pass laws to reduce
Florida, I know how hard it is to carbon. The Florida Chapter is
make progress on climate when trying every trick up its sleeves
the state doesn’t have your back. to keep these bills from a final
Our biggest statewide climate vote in the next six weeks before
champion was then-Republican the legislative session ends.
Gov. Charlie Crist, who served Florida, with the third most-
from 2007 to 2011, and is now a populous state, would be the most
Democrat. He modeled his strong populous state to ban local carbon
climate policy after Gov. Arnold restrictions.
Schwarzenegger. Those days are Last year, the gas industry
long gone.
Today, I’m working with
activists in the city of Santa
passed a “test” preemption law in
Arizona just before the pandemic
hit. It was a success. Laws
Join our roof top revolution
The Sierra Club’s “Rooftop by installing a Tesla Powerwall to available that may cover up to 100% of
Barbara to phase out harmful were also passed in Oklahoma, Revolution” campaign to add more provide backup power and participate the system’s cost.
natural gas in buildings. Last fall, Tennessee and Louisiana in solar power is continuing with an offer in the distributed clean energy grid Get a free quote from Swell Energy
Ojai passed the first all-electric 2020. This year, the industry of a free solar evaluation for your home of the future! You’ll get $1,000 for that will detail your solar options, show
code for new buildings in our has rolled out bills in Georgia, with discounts. A Tesla Powerwall is participating and Swell Energy will you what your home would look like,
Chapter region (Santa Barbara and Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, also available. donate $500 to the Sierra Club. In and how much you would save at:
Ventura counties). Santa Barbara Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, “We continue to be amazed by the addition, there are state cash-back http://www.swellenergy.com/
looks like it will follow with an Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, number of people interested in going rebates and federal tax incentives SierraClub
Vote for directors
all-electric code this spring. And North Carolina, Pennsylvania, solar with Sierra Club,” according to the
there are more in our area that Texas and Utah. Only Colorado, campaign.
could take the plunge this year. with a Democratic-controlled Hundreds of people in or near the
Los Padres Sierra Club have requested
On March 17 we co-sponsored legislature, has stopped it in Sierra Club’s National Director, Ramon Cruz, is urging members to take
a solar quote and actual installations
a webinar with Community committee – on a party line vote. nationwide are growing by the the opportunity to exercise one of the most important responsibilities of your
Environmental Council entitled: Given that, I urge cities thousands. membership by voting for the Sierra Club Board of Directors.
Santa Barbara Electric New in Ventura and Santa Barbara “You can lock in your electricity Voting is particularly important as the Sierra Club is changing with more
Buildings 101. It’s available here: counties (as well as the counties rate for the next 20 years, free yourself attention to diversity, social justice, climate solutions and more, including a look
https://tinyurl.com/GoElectricSB themselves) to run with the ball. from dirty energy, and do it all with no back at its history and where we go from here.
Already 45 cities have Some are running. But some are upfront investment,” said the club’s A robust portal of everything you need to know is here:
already passed similar ordinances slow walking. Some are frozen. executive Director Michael Brune, who https://tinyurl.com/SClubElections
had a system installed on his home, as It includes the candidate profiles, statements, a forum of candidates
to reduce carbon in buildings in This is a 50-state fight. The
did Condor John, editor of Condor Call. answering important questions, their vision, and goals.
California including San Francisco oil and gas industry is running Members should have received voting information by mail or email by now;
and San Jose. They are called with the ball everywhere it can Swell Energy is the company that
will assess and install the system using if not, contact Election Services at (866) 720-4357 or email:
“reach codes,” which simply mean and so must we. sierraclub@electionservicescorp.com
local contractors, and it has a leasing
reach as high as far as you can. If you want to help with an all- Deadline to vote is noon April 28.
program. The program, in most cases,
(Technically, it means locals can electric new building campaign to will fund the installation of a Tesla The Board of Directors is the governing body of the Sierra Club, which
vote in stricter rules than the state.) protect health and climate in your Powerwall home battery system that can establishes conservation and internal priorities.
California wants cities to set city in the next couple months, keep your medical equipment and other “Their strong leadership and dedication are critical to the ongoing
climate goals, pass climate plans email me at jonathan.ullman@ parts of your house operating during the effectiveness of the Sierra Club,” Cruz said, and “while it will take only a few
and take actions beyond the state’s sierraclub.org outages for a limited time. moments of your time, the impact to our organization, our mission and our planet
minimum standards. To use a We have rights, and we Be a part of a local solution to will be far reaching.”
reduce our dependence on fossil fuels Please vote.
football metaphor, California gave intend to use them.
Local donors drive climate plan All physical meetings
The eminent biologist E.O. with increased environmental protections for mountain lions,
Wilson has argued that to preserve protection. After four million acres condors, whales, and other suspended - we’re online
biodiversity, we need to set aside
half the planet for wild nature.
of California burned in 2020, we
need climate action now!
precious wild life.
5 - Santa Barbara and other Group News
Now, conservation groups, 3 - Stop Big Oil! Your local cities are considering shifting www.SBSierraClub.org
including the Sierra Club, are contribution provides vital to clean energy homes through The public is welcome to our programs
laying out a road map to reach that resources to Chapter staff and all-electric buildings, vehicles
“half Earth” goal, demanding that volunteers who are working powered by the sun, and other CHAPTER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
governments protect 30 percent of diligently to ensure that oil renewables like wind supported by ~ Meets 4th Thursday 7pm of every month, via internet for now.
landscapes and seascapes by 2030. companies are not allowed to the chapter in the Lompoc area. Email Secretary Gerry Ching for the agenda: gching@cox.net
Donate today to support our increase local oil production, 6 - From bike lanes to ~ Chapter website and blog at:
www.SierraClub.org/LosPadres
30x30 conservation work in Santa such as Exxon trying to restart preserving local lands, Chapter
oil drilling and sending 70 trucks volunteers and staff are advocating SANTA BARBARA GROUP
Barbara and Ventura counties. ~ We meet 1st Tuesdays, noon to 1:30pm of each month. For details
We can do our part locally of oil per day on the 101 freeway. at city and county meetings to and to follow the South Coast area, contact:
to support the Sierra Club 30x30 Meanwhile, Plains Pipeline create opportunities for all of us to http://www.sbsierraclub.org
Conservation Agenda. (which was convicted of felony get outside safely. https://www.FACEBOOK.com/SBSierraclub
Here’s seven reasons your negligence) seeks to build an oil 7 - Your donation directly https://TWITTER.com/SBSierraClub
donation makes all the difference: pipeline across sensitive rivers, protects our precious local https://www.INSTAGRAM.com/SierraClubSantaBarbara
parks, and public lands. Ventura wildlands and wildlife. We also https://www.MEETUP.com/SierraClub-SantaBarbara
1 - Without your support,
oil interests are working to drill favor social justice and working https://tinyurl.com/SBGroupBlog
critical federal, state, and local
legislation will not be passed, new wells using old oil permits toward opportunities for all of us ARGUELLO GROUP
without modern environmental to enjoy the outdoors. Our North County Group will keep you informed on our Facebook
leaving our wildlands vulnerable page:
to destruction, neglect, and review. Please donate whatever you
www.facebook.com/SierraClubArguelloGroup ~Volunteers needed;
development. Examples are 4 - Your dollars go directly can here: your talents could make a difference. Call 350-0629 or:
plentiful via legislation put to securing endangered species www.sierraclub.org/donate/1000 RebeccaAugust@mac.com
forward by our local leaders and VENTURA NETWORK
lobbied by the Sierra Club, like ~ For board meeting dates, times and location email:
the California Land Protection sierraclubventura@gmail.com
~ Get latest info about the western Ventura County group via Facebook
Act and Central Coast Heritage
and a blog:
Protection Act, both sponsored by http://tinyurl.com/VenturaSierraClubFB
local Rep. Salud Carbajal. https://tinyurl.com/VenturaSierraClubBlog
2 - The urgency of climate ~New MEETUP site for hikes, outings etc:
change is glaring. Chapter www.meetup.com/SierraClubVentura
advocates are in regular CONEJO GROUP
conversation with the Biden ~ Events, outings and meetings will be sent to you if you sign up at
Administration, urging Secretary ConejoGroup@gmail.com
Deb Haaland, Tom Vilsack, Otherwise, get all information on this eastern Ventura County Group
and others to reverse Trump from Hugh Warren, 341-6295 mail@hkwarren.net
www.sierraclub.org/los-padres/conejo
Administration environmental www.sierraclub.org/los-padres/conejo/outings
rollbacks and move forward
30x30 Conservation Agenda
A bold vision for the future: Protect 30 percent of lands and waters in the United
April/May 2021 • Condor Call 4
SIGHTINGS
We persist despite pandemic
By John Hankins “To explore, enjoy, and protect Here’s what we’ve been up to
While we’re not back to our the wild places of the earth; To since our last issue:
normal free outings and in-person practice and promote the responsible March 28: Renew Your Shoes
meetings, our chapter is highly active use of the earth’s ecosystems and event to benefit Ventura Sierra
to achieve the mission of the Sierra resources; To educate and enlist Club, featuring artist Linda Zolten
Club in modern times, which is: humanity to protect and restore the Wood showing you how to create a
quality of the natural and human distinctive shoe-sneaker via painting
EAVESDROPS environment; and to use all lawful designs of your own choosing.
“The California coast won.” means to carry out these objectives.” Nina Danza organized the event via
~ Coastal Commission Chair Please join us; see Group News
Steve Padilla on a 10-0 vote MeetUp.
box on page 3 for contacts and links
in mid-March to end off-road where you can get involved. We March 25: Save the Foothills Despite an appeal from the Landmarks Committee, the SB City Council did approve
driving at Oceano Dunes State encourage all to go outside on your cry was answered by our chapter green-painted bike lanes and a route that would allow better east to west access. The
Vehicular Recreation Area donating $1,000 to help save the San Sierra Club supported the move.
own or by MeetUp.
within three years to restore Marcos Foothills from development March 23: SB Westside Bike Feb 21: Call to Action
If you’d like to donate (it helps
eight miles of coastline to a at a cost of $18-$20 million. A major plan strongly supported by our SB supporting permanent wilderness
a lot and the money stays here at
more natural state. Issue is a campaign is underway with a deadline
home), do not pass go, but go directly Group. Landmarks Committee protection in our region via HR 803,
40-year battle, and off-roaders
to: of June 2 (see story pg 6). To help: didn’t like the green bike paths. The Protecting America’s Wilderness and
vow to fight the decision.
www.sierraclub.org/donate/1000 www.FoothillsForever.org new lanes would close a glaring gap Public Lands Act. Help Sierra Club
between the Westside and Eastside. gain critical support for protection
But it will move forward via of the Los Padres National Forest,
unanimous vote by the city council Carrizo Plain National Monument
on appeal. Read about the issue here: and Rim of the Valley Corridor. It
https://tinyurl.com/SBBikeVictory passed the House and is now in a
March 19: Wildlife Overpass Senate committee.
proposed at Liberty Canyon was Feb 20: Sierra Club California
A climate gap still faces us one of the key issues of interest to
the Rotary Club of Westlake Village
when our Chapter co-chair, Jim
Conservation Committee
virtually to review conservation
met
issues. The was the 30 x30 Executive
Editor’s note: Emily Williams emissions reductions over the next The Biden Administration Hines, spoke to them. “Lots and lots Order by Gov. Newson: How it
is a PhD candidate in Geography decade, globally, we would be nearly has launched an ambitious climate of questions,” Jim reports, such as the protects California’s land and water,
at UC Santa Barbara, a climate on track to avoiding 1.5C. agenda; yet, tallying up the related Rim of the Valley Corridor and Santa what changes we would like to see,
justice activist and scholar. For But as we all know and feel emissions reductions, we are still
Monica Mountains issues. The club and how Sierra Club California and
those interested in references, ask the deeply, having lived through the past faced with a carbon ‘gap’ between
strongly supports the overpass and the chapters can best advocate for
author at: year, a pandemic is not a climate where we need to be and where
solution. We’ve just had a taste the Rim Corridor. change.
emilylynnwilliams@gmail.com we are. Nevertheless, real climate
of what it would take to reduce solutions do exist, right here, right March 17: Electrify buildings Feb 11: Central Coast
By Emily Williams
emissions via individual actions now. They’re being articulated by campaign featured a webinar with Heritage Protection Act (HR-973) is
One year into shelter-in-place
alone--and it’s not sustainable. young people, unions, and frontline the Sierra Club’s statewide organizer, introduced by our Rep. Salud Carbajal
due to Covid-19, we’ve experienced
So how do we reduce emissions communities, and even made their Matt Gough, affecting our chapter (D-Santa Barbara) to protect the Los
a fundamental shift in the way we live
to avoid catastrophic climate change way into a House Resolution in 2019. region, notably the heated battle Padres National Forest and Carrizo
our lives. For many, this has included
without going insane? Collectively they are understood with SoCalGas which is pushing Plain National Monument. Status:
working from home—leading to less
The answer is simple--climate as a green recovery, a just transition back against a proposed ordinance in referred to the House Committee on
flying and commuting (my commute
change isn’t an individual problem, or the Green New Deal. Together the city of SB in favor of electricity Natural Resources. The Sierra Club
from the bedroom to the living room
it’s a collective one. Anyone who tells these prioritize systemic economic instead of gas to reduce pollution. is lobbying for the bill’s passage.
is more or less emissions free).
you that individual actions are enough recovery, not by building back the “Congrats to Alex, Martha and Jon
In 2020, global greenhouse Feb 8: Toxic Gas Plant in
is parroting the fossil fuel industry’s same systems that created the mess who all spoke in support of building
emission s fell by 6.4%; in the US, Ventura (1555 N. Olive St.) is
obstructionist talking points. Not in the first place, but instead by
they fell by a whopping 13%. Yet electrification at the sustainability
that we shouldn’t take actions where investing directly in communities defunct, needs to be cleaned up by the
these reductions cannot be interpreted committee meeting today. Great
we can (I am a vegetarian and drive and creating jobs to build the state as it’s a methane super-emitter.
as a climate solution. A one-off year job!” wrote Katie Davis.
a plug-in hybrid vehicle) but rather, sustainable infrastructure that will To ensure it is fully abated, the Sierra
of lower emissions is a microscopic
as 2020 showed us, the nature of phase out fossil fuels, increase March 10: Glass vs Club and others signed a letter listing
blip when it comes to necessary
individual actions that would be resilience to climate impacts, and Alternatives issue was analyzed potential problems to nearby schools,
reductions.
required comprise totally unrealistic build out already low-carbon sectors by David Goldstein’s “Eye on the residences and traffic mitigation that
To put 6.4% in context, year-
expectations of what we as humans of the economy. Environment” in the VC Reporter. must be followed.
on-year global emissions reductions
are able to sacrifice. We cannot go “back to Goldstein, an analyst with Ventura
of 7.5% are required to avoid 1.5C Feb 2: Loophole politics:
Meanwhile, nearly half of normal” after Covid-19. In May, the County Public Works, mentions a
of warming and the most serious Ventura supervisors had to certify
emissions in the US come from International Energy Agency warned Sierra Club analysis of a 2019 study
consequences of climate disruption. signatures gathered by the local
electricity production and industrial that the economic rebound post- which considered “overall harm”.
If we were to maintain 2020-level oil industry to force a vote in the
sources. pandemic could result in even higher Read it here:
emissions than pre-pandemic. upcoming June primary election.
https://tinyurl.com/RecycleStudy.
Looking at current data it Issue is over the county’s approval
March 2: Conejo Climate
seems that emissions bounce-back is of closing a loophole that allowed
Coalition was the Ventura Sierra
already happening. drilling or fracking under antiquated
Club’s guest during its regular
As our frontline allies have permits, many of which do not have
(webinar) meeting to update us on
made clear, “back to normal” an expiration date. Our Sierra Club
their efforts lobbying the City of
perpetuates violence against and and many others (notably CFROG,
Thousand Oaks to adopt all electric
marginalization of people of color, Climate First Replacing Oil and Gas)
building codes.
“normal” entrenches skyrocketing fought to close the loophole and insist
www.conejoclimate.org
wealth inequalities, and “normal” on environmental review. A coalition
continues sacrificing communities Feb 25: CFROG (Climate will continue the fight against the
of color for expansion of fossil fuel First Replacing Oil and Gas) asked ballot measure.
infrastructure. Coming out of the the chapter to support safe clean-up
worst global pandemic of the past of Ventura’s old compressor station
century, we have a choice to make: and questions about an Oxnard oil
return to that “normal” or build back field study. ExCom motions passed
fossil free. unanimously.
And when it comes to
climate, this may be our last chance Feb 22: Wildlife Underpass
to make the right choice. To learn at Gaviota is fully supported by our
more about the push to build back Sierra Club Chapter, which sent a
fossil free, visit: letter to that effect this day to the CA
https://buildbackfossilfree.org Coastal Commission.
Katie Davis
Feb 1: Two Climate Warriors
interviewed about Santa Barbara
County’s One Climate Initiative,
by Tara Messing, appeared in the
February issue of Santa Barbara
Lawyer. Our chapter Chair Katie
Davis and Garrett Wong of the
County’s Sustainability Division
are the two “warriors”. Worth the
read here:
https://tiny.one/2EcoWarriors
April/May 2021 • Condor Call 5
We’re done with oil
By Gene Rubin and for free.
Only a handful of years ago, I I can’t tell you how many times I
used to dream of an electric car that pinch myself to be sure I am actually
I could charge from solar panels. The awake and not back in that dream!
car of my dreams was something like I’d really like to share with
a converted VW Bug that would take you why I made the decision, why
Drive Electric Earth Day is a national campaign to share me to the beach and back, maybe I felt it was “my duty” to buy the grew up next to an oil refinery. You
information about electric vehicles during April, so instead of a day, is around town a bit. Gee … if that car Model S and to support Tesla’s see, I have been an environmentalist
all the days in April. could take me 20 miles or so, wow, efforts to electrify transport. I have for years. I realized that as long as I
In addition to being better for the environment, electric vehicles that would really be great! travelled the world as an amateur buy gas to put in my car, I am ‘part
are more fun to drive, more convenient to fuel and less expensive to Only a few years later came the anthropologist. I am keenly aware, of the problem’. I decided to stand
operate than gasoline vehicles. Attend an online event to experience Model S. I bought one of the very and I have witnessed firsthand, for what I believe. I decided to be
driving electric. first, and here I am two and a half the destruction that oil industry “part of the solution” and I chose the
Drive Electric Earth Day, April 1-30, is a nationwide celebration to years later with over 50,000 miles exploration and drilling do to Model S as an EV that could take
raise awareness of the many benefits of all-electric and plug-in hybrid driven. I still chuckle to myself about people’s land, lives, and family. me the distances I need to travel. It
my wishes for a 20-mile EV car. These are those peoples whose is my only car. It is all the car I could
cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more. They are fun to drive, are better
Were my dreams fulfilled? Oh yes, voices are seldom heard. ever need.
for the environment, promotes local jobs, and reduces our dependence
my dream came true, and to a level I then thought of all the wars The buying and service
on foreign oil. experience that I have enjoyed with
Are you considering going electric? Come talk to owners who I could have never, ever imagined. fought over oil, the spills that have
I can go nearly anywhere I choose destroyed so much wildlife, global Tesla has been an absolute pleasure.
have successfully done so. The Model 3 would be great for my
in the USA; at high speed, in full climate change, and the soon coming
Register to attend an in-person or online event for a chance to win son Michael, and one for my sweet
comfort, in full safety, and charge fast cancer death of a loved one who
a $250 Visa gift card here: Jayne. Oh yes, and Amelia, our
https://driveelectricearthday.org/events-search wonderful 9-year-old? When she is
16, I assure you, she’ll be driving on
electricity as well.
Earth Day, virtually I have never heard of a war
fought over electricity and I have
Editor’s note: As of press event will focus on key areas never seen an “electric spill” in our
time, there are few Earth Day where youth, business, and oceans.
events announced in our chapter community climate leaders are This family is done with oil.
region, but it’s likely more will stepping up to do the critical
pop up as the day gets closer. work needed to combat the EAVESDROPS
climate crisis. “Going on a business trip to a
The official Earth Day is
Annie Leonard, Executive location that does not offer rental
Thursday, April 22 with about
Director of Greenpeace USA, electric vehicles can cause me angst.
a billion participants expected
is the recipient of CEC’s 2021 Gene Rubin and his family are done with polluting cars in favor of the game-changing Having to sit in front of dozens of
around the world over a three- Tesla. (Photo contributed)
Environmental Hero Award; buttons, switches and dials is bad
day period from April 20-22,
she will appear on Saturday to enough, but when that one indicator
with the theme of Restore the makes me go to a putrioleum station
discuss her vital work.
Earth. it’s a real retro journey. Dirty, stinky,
The 3-day schedule (go to
The biggest event and costly … why? Life is so much
the website to register) is April
always is the SB Community better in an EV.”
22, Youth Leadership; April 23,
Environmental Council’s Earth ~ Kent Bullard, EV driver
Business Leadership and April
Day Thursday April 22 through since 2011.
24, Community Leadership.
Saturday April 24. Details are
Also, on April 21 a co-
available here:
https://sbearthday.org/
www.Facebook.com/
sponsored talk with UCSB
entitled “The Quest for EV drivers
SBEarthDay
Our Santa Barbara group
Environmental and Racial
Justice” features Dr. Robert tell stories
Bullard at 5pm during a virtual Top ten things I love about driving
will have a virtual booth during
event, as part of its April- my Tesla Model 3:
CEC’s 3-day virtual event.
May Race to Justice series that 10. Instant pick up and go when needed.
This year’s festival
features six other events on the 9. Smooth acceleration (no shifting).
theme for CEC is
topic. Register at 8. Ability to get huge discounts on
#CelebrateClimateLeadership,
www.ArtsAndLectures.UCSB.edu electricity from 10pm to 7am.
and the free three-day virtual Gregory Young, program manager of Clean Coalition, with his new EV car Bolt and his
7. Brakes that last way longer.
new dog Quest. (Photo contributed)
6. No tail pipes because no emissions.
DDT pollution persists off our shores
5. No more oil changes.
4. One-pedal driving.
3. Software updates that keep improving
Editor’s note: Channel Islands easily and tends to accumulate in to nurse their pup for up to a year. Sea lions, like many mammals, functions and features.
Marine and Wildlife Institute fatty tissue of animals. This stability Marine Mammal Rescue and can be infected with a species-specific 2. Leaving the garage every morning
responds to animals found on results in biomagnification as it Rehabilitation organizations span herpes virus: Otarine herpesvirus-1 with full range,
beaches from Ventura all the way moves up the food chain from krill, the entire coast of California with the (OtHV-1). Over the last 20 years 1. Never having to visit a gas station!
to Point Conception. If you see a to fish, to marine mammals and largest facility (The Marine Mammal samples collected at the TMMC have ~ From David Pollock of
stranded marine mammal please call humans. Center (TMMC) in Sausalito near the been analyzed and found that the Moorpark, a director of Client Relations
the rescue hotline: 805-567-1505. By the late 60’s and early Golden Gate Bridge. odds of cancer are much higher in at the Green Law Group.
70’s scientists began to measure For the last 25 years veterinarians sea lions infected with OtHV-1, and
By Catherine Mullin Doggone magic of fate:
remarkably high levels of DDT and scientists have been observing a this is exacerbated with increasing
In the middle of the night in The desire to own a dog came
in mackerel caught off Southern gynecological cancer in 17-22% of concentrations of toxins in their
the 1950’s a salvage barge leaves long before my desire to own an electric
California. Finally, in 1996 the area all stranded adult female and male blubber.
the Port of Los Angeles heading for vehicle (EV), but I never would have
off Palos Verdes was declared a sea lions. This is surprising, as wild The conclusion is that toxins
the deep waters off Santa Catalina guessed that they both would be satisfied
Superfund Toxic Cleanup Site. animals tend not to develop cancer such as DDT increase the chance
Island. Loaded on deck are barrels on exactly the same day. I mostly have
While the story of toxic waste to that extent. Yet the prevalence of herpesvirus infected sea lions
filled with toxic ‘acid sludge’. the magic of fate to thank for that —
dumping made headlines it then of cancer in wild California Sea getting cancer. The level of DDT
Many originated from the but I can proudly say that research and
largely disappeared as other more Lions is one of the highest amongst concentrations found in our sea lions
Montrose Chemical Corp. near persistence also played a large role.
visible environmental issues took mammals. continued on page 7
Torrance. Starting in 1947 it was While the time and effort put
precedence. However, in 2011 and
one of the biggest manufacturers of into finding the right dog has paid off
2013, a UCSB science project using a
DDT used to combat malaria and tremendously in companionship and
marine robot to study deep sea vents unconditional love, the time and effort
typhus during WWII. Environmental
happened to capture photographs put into leasing an EV has paid off in a
protections were scant then, and the
of barrels littering the ocean floor. net gain of $620.
practice of dumping toxic waste in
Samples collected during these I was shocked myself when I first
the deep ocean was an ‘accepted’
missions found extremely high started adding together the California
practice. The destination was the
concentrations of DDT. Shipping grants and rebate funds that I could
deep water about 10 nautical miles
logs uncovered in the 1970’s receive when purchasing or leasing
NW of Santa Catalina, but many
indicated that every month thousands an EV. I was also guided by the
barges took short cuts and dumped
of barrels were taken out to sea for Community Environmental Council’s
their load much closer inshore, often
decades. It is estimated that over website, which helps you understand
close to Palos Verdes. Photographs
half million barrels were dumped. whether you qualify for a free or low-
show crewmen wielding hatchets to
Extrapolating the potential amount of cost leased or used electric vehicle in
puncture barrels so that they would
toxins still seeping from these largely eight simple steps:
sink more quickly.
forgotten barrels is huge. https://tinyurl.com/FreeEVsite
The US finally banned DDT
Our California coast is an In a nutshell for a Chevy Bolt LT,
in 1972 when its danger became
ecological marvel. California Sea 3-year lease cost: Lease $8,880 - $5,000
evident, although the Montrose Clean Vehicle Assistant Grant, $4,500 =
Lions breed out on the Channel
plant continued to manufacture the $620 net positive!
Islands where pups are born every
substance up to 1982 for countries ~ From Gregory Young, program
without a ban. DDT is extraordinarily
June. The mothers leave to feed in Sea Lions are in danger of ocean pollution that is causing cancer.
the Channel Island waters returning (Photo by Catherine Mullin) manager of Clean Coalition.
persistent, does not break down
April/May 2021 • Condor Call 6
Take a Hike!
Los Padres Chapter
UPDATES: https://www.sierraclub.org/lospadres
Panorama above Goleta by Robert Bernstein
OUTINGS NOTES Los Padres National Forest are now
open. These developed areas are Progress for Santa Monica Mountains
Sierra Club Local Outings subject to a user fee, but if you are not Editor’s note: Our chapter co-
All Sierra Club local outings using a developed area, a fee cannot chair, Jim Hines represents the Los
have been cancelled until further be collected. A new sign posted at the Padres Chapter on the task force.
notice. Check the Los Padres Chapter first kiosk makes this clear, but you
must use an existing roadside turn-out By Jim Hines
website for updates to this policy at:
and be completely off the pavement. Mountain lions and wild lands
www.SierraClub.org/LosPadres
See the Conditions box below. dominated the work of the Sierra
You may find some private
Most information is at: Club Santa Monica Mountains Task
Meet-Up hikes that have a club
www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf Force so far this year.
member as an organizer; check pg.
We supported efforts to get
3 listings in the Group News box. Please Be Safe the Santa Monica Mountains
These are not sanctioned by the club, Please observe social spacing. Conservancy (a state agency) to
however. And if an area is too crowded, pick adopt the guiding principles of the 30
Forest Areas Reopen another. And be careful with fire. x 30 Conservation Plan in their work
The Los Padres Forest is plans for the Santa Monica, Simi
Day Use Fees Santa Monica Mountains Task Force at work over the conservancy’s land that is
open except for certain winter or Hills, Santa Susana Mountains and
Day use fees are not required immensely popular, drawing hikers from the LA and Ventura areas.
rehabilitation closures. Upper Santa Clara River Watershed.
for roadside parking outside of (Photo courtesy of Angeles Chapter)
Many of the campgrounds, day Several others and I have
developed campgrounds or day use
use areas and trailheads in the Lower spoken to the leadership in DC of that is not near enough. of the Liberty Canyon Wildlife
areas.
Santa Ynez Recreation area of the the National Park Service (NPS) We are also lobbying the Office Overpass over the 8-lane 101
about getting more Land and Water of Governor Gavin Newsom to freeway in the Agoura Hills area.
Send trail problems Conservation Funds (LWCF) monies
for land acquisitions in the Santa
release state bond monies to purchase
the Sweetwater Mesa property in
Looks like construction will start in
the Fall of 2021.
to LP Forest Association Monica Mountains of Ventura and
Los Angeles counties. Our top land
lower Malibu Canyon, land which
was slated for development and then
We are elated that the Rim of the
Valley Corridor Protection Act (Schiff
If you come across any bad volunteers work to keep trails open, overturned by our lawsuit in court D-San Gabriel) passed the House of
protection priority is the 1400 acre
sections of trail, downed trees or report and assess forest conditions and two years ago. This 150-acre parcel Representatives in February. We are
coastal Mansdorf property adjacent
slides, take pictures and post to Hike provide public education on how to overlooking the Pacific Ocean is part now starting to lobby U.S. Senators
to Pt Mugu State Park. Also, we need
Los Padres and email the Forest safely use the forest. If interested in of a wildlife migration corridor and for passage. This bill would create a
funds for the NPS to finish out land
Service or your favorite trail group - becoming a member or volunteering, also a critical coastal watershed. The 250,000-acre National Park Service
acquisitions in the Zuma/Trancas
things change so quickly across the visit: property is owned by famed U2 rock managed system of open space lands
Canyons area.
trails and any information you can www.lpforest.org guitarist David Evans AKA ‘The for wildlife habitat, migration routes
So far, the Biden Administration
share is always appreciated! Website Surprising facts about the forest: Edge’. and outdoor recreation from the
has provided $6.5 million for the
is: www.HikeLosPadres.com there are 111 peaks throughout the LP We continue to take part in San Gabriel Mtns across to eastern
Santa Monica Mountains region, but
The Los Padres Forest forest, 174 springs, 206 dirt roads, 56 meetings of the Caltrans Working Ventura county, and include the Simi
EVENTS
Association’s mission is to care for off-highway vehicle trails, 293 camps, Group on plans for the construction Hills, Santa Susana Mountains.
the Los Padres Forest, ensuring it 205 hiking trails and over a thousand
thrives and remains safe and open
for the people to use and enjoy. LPFA
cataloged locations. More info is at the
Hike Los Padres website. April 8: Virtual Town Hall at 5pm Huge drive to save
GREETINGS FRIENDS
with Rep. Salud Carbajal and Senator
Alex Padilla, talking about Covid-19 San Marcos Foothills
Go to the wild land
and benefits of the newly enacted Our Sierra Club Los Padres However, the owners have agreed
American Rescue Plan and how it Chapter is supporting a push to purchase to sell the property for $18 million to a
will help you. Register here: the San Marcos Foothills West Mesa conservancy to protect it forever. The
Greetings Friends: own strength. which is a privately-owned 101-acre campaign is to raise $20 million, with
By Jim Hines Exploring endless wildlands https://tinyurl.com/CovidARPlan
property next to the County-owned San the difference used to cover the costs of
I walk on ancient land ... the land where I grew up -- a 20,000-acre April 8: Beaver Believers: A Marcos Foothills Preserve. acquiring it plus an initial endowment
is old ... I am young. ranch by Lake Casitas -- touching special virtual screening about the Significant positives include the to maintain and manage it.
I seek the wildness of nature to wildflowers in the fields, placing my importance of beavers in western ability to access it by bus and bicycle Foothills Forever has a deadline of
calm my mind, soothe my soul and give hand in the warmth of a bird’s nest,
North America. There aren’t many and it would be managed in concert June 2 to raise the money so the time
me emotional and physical strength. watching bobcat hunt rodents and, as I
sit quietly, allowing all of the goodness
left in the Los Padres National with the existing Foothills Preserve, is short. Donations are tax deductible
I walked in the wildland before adding to wildlife, watershed, and and are handled via the Santa Barbara
I was born when my hiking mother which nature has to give enter my Forest where they were once more
abundant before fur trapping and conservation goals. Foundation. It would be managed
carried me in her womb, then I walked body. The nature of my youth has never To help the effort and to learn as part of the San Marcos Foothills
in the wildland when she carried me in left me. other activities decimated their
more, go to: Preserve.
a baby pack on her back and now as an We all seek nature for various populations. Join a growing chorus
www.FoothillsForever.org Our chapter gave $1,000 and may
adult I walk in the wildland with my reasons ... to view wildlife ... good of voices advocating for restoring The West Mesa property is in Santa give more later.
exercise ... great scenery ... to feel close beaver populations in California, and Barbara, near “the bridge to nowhere” In addition to Sierra Club,
CONDITIONS to Mother Earth. this documentary highlights why it over San Marcos pass, at the north end supporters include Channel Islands
Campgrounds trails and roads in I come to the wild land not matters. Sign up at: of Via Gaitero Road. The owners are Restoration, SB and Goleta Audubon,
Los Padres National Forest can be closed, because I want to but because I am https://tinyurl.com/BeaverBelivers currently in the process of securing SB Botanic Garden, Land Trust for
have restrictions due to habitat protection, called to ... I cannot pull away from the final County approval to build 8 new Santa Barbara County, Environmental
repair or weather. Before you go into the wild land ... the land tickles me as I lay April 21: The Quest for homes, guest houses, and associated Defense Center, among many others
backcountry ensure you check conditions
with rangers. Numbers to call (805 area
on the grass in a meadow, it fills my Environmental and Racial Justice development and landscaping. and numerous citizens.
unless noted) are: senses with fragrance from the smell featuring Dr. Robert Bullard at 5pm
Los Padres Forest Districts
Headquarters 865-0416
of sweet blooming native shrubs and
wildflowers. I am wet from the wild
during a virtual event, sponsored by
UCSB Arts and Lectures as part of its
Forest office relocated
Ojai-Ventura 646-4348 river … I am dry from a day hiking April-May Race to Justice series that The Los Padres National Forest ranger stations and offices that are
Mt Pinos (661) 245-3731 in the heat ... I place my hand in the
Santa Barbara 967-3481 features six other events on the topic. Supervisor’s Office has moved from open. Contact the national forest or
tracks of a mountain lion and I feel her Goleta to Solvang. national park that you plan to visit
Santa Lucia 925-9538 strength, she gives me power ... we are
Register at
Other Areas www.ArtsAndLectures.UCSB.edu The long-time headquarters in to find out if passes are available.
Santa Monica Mtns 370-2301
kin, in this wild land and her creatures. Goleta at 6750 Navigator Way has Otherwise, those passes and maps
Conejo Park 381-2737
The wild land is broken, and April 28: Noon deadline to vote permanently closed. Phone calls will are always available at:
Simi Valley 584-4400 it is my job to fix the hurt, to right for National Sierra Club Directors; be answered during the work week www.usgs.gov
Montecito 969-3514 the wrongs given to this land for the see story pg 1. Questions? Contact business hours at (805) 865-0416. The $80 Annual Interagency
crack in the earth needs mending ...
Forest Information Election Services at 1-866-720-4357 The new office will at 1980 Old Pass may be available at REI stores
the logged tree needs righting ... the Mission Drive, Solvang CA 93463/ in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara,
For updated info, maps, news
dammed river needs to be set free ... the
or email:
releases, and other goodies: sierraclub@electionservicescorp. phone is (805) 448-6487. or Oxnard.
http://FS.USDA.gov/LPNF trapped wolf needs healing ... the whale Forest Supervisor is Kevin Adventure Passes are currently
entangled in fishing net needs freedom. com
Regional Hike Info Elliott and his deputy is Chris not being sold at the ranger
I hear their calls and I weep with them May 13: Green & Blue, Living Room Stubbs. Andrew Madsen remains the stations due to COVID office
Lots of local info on websites that
give you varied info on outings, trail profiles, ... and then I pull myself together and Edition is the SB Environmental public affairs officer while the visitor closures. But the passes are sold
wildflower alerts, work opportunities and do what I can to bring calm to the wild
Defense Center’s annual celebration information assistant is Jennifer at Big 5 Sporting Goods, among
much more. land and her creatures. Gray, both veteran employees. other sporting goods stores and
https://www.sierraclub.org/lospadres Mother, thank you for carrying
the many years of accomplishments
we have won together. This year’s Also closed (temporarily) sales outlets throughout Southern
www.LPForest.org me into the wild, allowing me to
https://LPFW.org Environmental Hero is Carmen are Ranger stations in Los Padres California. Note: Adventure Passes
experience wildness, freedom, love National Forest due to COVID. are required to park at snow play
www.HikeLosPadres.com Ramirez (newly elected Ventura
and gentleness of heart which comes No passes are currently sold at the areas on the Mt. Pinos Ranger
www.SBSierraClub.org
www.SantaBarbaraTrailGuide.com
from early experiences which left an County Supervisor) on her steadfast stations. District during winter months.
www.SantaBarbaraHikes.com indelible mark on my spirit. leadership in protecting our coast Interagency passes (Senior, Check out the conditions on Mt.
https://SBTrails.org When I need to renew, reconnect, and communities. Details of this Access, Annual, Military, and Fourth Pinos all year long via the Pine
www.VenturaCountyTrails.org and recharge I go to the wild land. major event here: Grade passes) are sold at Forest Mountain Club web cam here:
http://Hikes.VenturaCountyStar.com ~ For the wild, Jim www.EnvironmentalDefenseCenter.org Service or National Park Service www.frazmtn.com/pmcwebcam
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