Desert Update No. 86 Fall 2016
A Solid “Foundation” for the Park: 50 Years of Dedication to Anza-Borrego By Paige Rogowski, Executive Director
Anza-Borrego Foundation will celebrate our
golden anniversary — 50 years of partnership with the Park — on April 1, 2017. A lot has changed since our first meeting in 1967, and this desert season is dedicated to celebrating our many accomplishments, while looking ahead to how we can achieve even greater success as the Park’s partner. Thanks to a generous challenge grant from The Parker Foundation of San Diego, as well as the matching donations provided by ABF members and donors, this season will be our best one yet. Before we get into the celebrations, let’s take a look back at where we started and just how far we’ve come! Anza-Borrego Committee, formed at the request of the California State Parks and Recreation Commission
In February 1967, the California State Parks and Recreation Commission met to discuss one pressing topic — the study of the problems created by inholdings (privately held Inholdings within the Park at the time of its formation created a checkerboard parcels of land) pattern (in yellow), and a management within the problem. boundaries of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP). At the time, there were approximately 1,700 individual land owners for 68,000 acres of private inholdings. Under the urging of Park Commissioner Margaret Owings and California State Parks Director William Penn Mott, Jr., the
commission passed a resolution calling for park staff to determine how to best deal with this problem. It was suggested that an organization similar to the Save the Redwoods League be formed. And so the Anza-Borrego Committee of Desert Protective Council (later ABF) was created to protect and assist ABDSP.
The Anza-Borrego Committee established its roots in saving desert lands. The acres of inholdings were spread throughout the Park, creating a difficult situation for park managers. The first few years of land acquisition were slow, but within the first two decades, the Anza-Borrego Committee had added more than 10,000 acres of land to the Park. In addition to easing the management burden, the added acreage provided critical habitat for desert plants and animals. For instance, some of the parcels were along Henderson Canyon Road, ensuring that the beautiful Anza-Borrego wildflowers could show off their blooms, undisturbed by development, forever. Expansion and Public Education In 1988 ABF separated from the Desert Protective Council in order to hold the property titles in its own name. We grew in donors and members and were able to add about another 10,000 acres to the Park by the end of the millennium. Then in 2003, ABF signed a contract with the California Department of Parks and Recreation that defined the organization as a cooperating association. continued on page 5
From the President This newsletter brings you anniversary greetings. On April 1, 2017,
Anza-Borrego Foundation will be celebrating 50 years of successful partnership with the Park, and this upcoming desert season will be devoted to all of you who have been a part of our great organization. We are proud of what those before us set in motion and even more excited about the energetic momentum that will carry us on to the century mark.
BOARD of TRUSTEES: Ernie Cowan PRESIDENT
Bill McDonald
VICE PRESIDENT
Lynn Rhodes TREASURER Ralph Singer SECRETARY
TRUSTEES: Janie DeCelles Sharon Goldsmith John Peterson Philip Pryde Bill Reavey Joan Schneider Jim Smith Linda Tandle Dick Troy David Van Cleve Mike Wells ABF STAFF: Paige Rogowski
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Lauren Poole
STAFF ASSISTANT
Bri Fordem
DONOR RELATIONS MANAGER
Julie Gerson
LAND PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Ashley Kvitek
EDUCATION AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR
Briana Puzzo
EDUCATION MANAGER
Chris Rogowski
DIRECTOR OF INTERPRETIVE SALES
If you are reading this, you are no doubt a desert lover. You have sand in your shoes. We hope you are also a member of the Anza-Borrego Foundation. Membership allows you to keep close tabs on all we do during the year, from workshops and tours to fundraising efforts and special membersonly events. We also hope that you will become a champion for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park by bringing friends here who have never explored the desert, or gifting a membership to a nature lover you know. There is no other place in Southern California that offers the outdoor activities found in Anza-Borrego. Hikers have hundreds of miles of trails, or just open desert, to explore. There are many roads that the bicyclist can enjoy, with challenging hills to climb... or avoid. There is endless wildlife from unique bird species to the iconic desert bighorn sheep. I never cease to be thrilled at the site of a bighorn ram standing majestically on a boulder as I drive up Montezuma Grade, or the comical show of a roadrunner dashing about looking for food at the Park Visitor Center. Fall brings mild temperatures, crystal clear skies and a desert wonderland ready for exploration. Maps and guidebooks are available (at the State Park Store in the Mall or the Visitor Center) that will lead you to remote places that have changed little since the first footprints were left by ancient travelers. There is history to discover here. Imagine walking on the same ground covered by Juan Bautista De Anza in 1774, or following the path of the Mormon Battalion as it opened a trail to the West in 1846. Later this would become the route of the Butterfield Overland Stage from St. Louis to San Francisco. If you have never camped in the desert, fall and spring are two prime times. You will be stunned at the grandeur of a dark desert sky and a star field of unimaginable beauty. It’s impossible to not sit quietly and ponder infinity as you share a scene that every other traveler has viewed since time began. How about walking on a bed of petrified oyster shells in the Carrizo Badlands? It’s hard to believe the ocean once covered this arid area. These are just a few of the endless wonders to be found once you begin to explore the varied geography, geology, botany and zoology of Anza-Borrego. We welcome you to California’s largest state park, and we hope you visit often. It will become an addicting place that feeds the soul. We also invite you to join us as we celebrate our 50 years!
Kathy Jorgensen
SALES ASSISTANT
ANZA-BORREGO FOUNDATION PO Box 2001 587 Palm Canyon Drive #110 & 111 Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (760) 767-0446 www.TheABF.org Info@TheABF.org
Ernie Cowan, President
Forbidden Canyons of the Carrizo Impact Area November 11-12, 2016 Instructor: Ernie Cowan
Anza-Borrego Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt [IRS code 501(c) (3)] charitable organization DESERT UPDATE: ABF Staff Carey Raffetto Copy Editor
Sara Jacobi Design
Printed in U.S.A. on 50% post-consumer recycled paper.
Photo: Ernie Cowan
Explore the beauty of the Carrizo Impact Area through the magic of the photographer’s lens! Our first class in the Anza-Borrego: In Focus series explores a unique twist on research using photo documentation. Cowan spent eight years exploring, photographing and mapping the human history, natural history and military history of the area. Please note: this tour will not physically visit Carrizo Impact Area, which is off-limits to the public since 1942 due to the dangers of unexploded ordnance.
Superintendent’s Corner by Kathy Dice, ABDSP Superintendent
It has been quite a year for celebrations. California State Parks just celebrated their 150th anniversary, and National Parks are marking their 100th birthday with events in each of their spectacular landmarks. I have been lucky enough to be associated with both of these agencies over my 35-year career as a park ranger. So much to explore and appreciate — so many incredible sunsets! To make things even better, I have had the pleasure of working closely with Anza-Borrego Foundation for at least half of those years, and now they are getting ready for their 50th anniversary lollapalooza! Everyone loves a good party, and we have a whole year to revel in ABF’s accomplishments. When I first arrived in Anza-Borrego many years ago, ABF was still called the Anza-Borrego Committee (ABC), and they seemed quite mysterious. The committee formed as a nonprofit at the behest of our State Parks leaders in 1967, with the mission of acquiring inholdings within the drawn boundaries of Anza-Borrego
Desert State Park (which had its 80th birthday in 2013! We are all oldies but goodies!). It was a worthy but arduous undertaking — raising funds and finding willing sellers and donors with the aim of making a park whole. From the outside, ABF worked quietly, without fuss or much recognition until in 2003. They burst on the scene as the new cooperating association for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, with a new mission to encompass all that they now task themselves to do. Now not only does ABF acquire lands for the Park, but they also assist us with operating the Visitor Center and State Park Store; they do educational programs; a fifth-grade camp with yurts; support park research through our UCI research center; and do so many other things to promote and contribute to the well-being of ABDSP. Harking back to their original mission, ABF has now surpassed the 50,000-acres mark in their work to acquire park inholdings and, more recently, celebrated the addition of the Lucky 5 Ranch, which finally linked Anza-Borrego Desert and Cuyamaca Rancho State Parks, creating a habitat and wildlife corridor for backcountry San Diego County! State Parks is proud and grateful for ABF’s accomplishments! Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Anza-Borrego Foundation have big hopes, plans and dreams for the next 50 years. In the meantime, I hope you will join the celebration of ABF’s 50th anniversary by cheering us on at the Borrego Days Desert Festival parade on October 22, by attending one or more of ABF’s special events and programs, or by simply joining us out here in this beautiful desert for a little time with our landscapes, wildness and amazing dark skies. Start planning now — fall is a wonderful time to be here, and time goes by all too quickly.
Celebrate in Style as Anza-Borrego Foundation Turns 50! We’re celebrating 50 years of park support! To commemorate this achievement, we are offering an exclusive gift. Memberships at the $50 level or higher will receive a limitededition, vintage-inspired park T-shirt. This one-of-a-kind tee is only available through our membership program. Thank you to all who attended “A Day at the Ranch” with us this past June! Although it was warm, we had a great turnout and a wonderful time exploring and learning the story of our newest tract of land. As we look forward to our 50th Anniversary, it was rewarding to see the perseverance and engagement of those who care so much for our desert home. Through the support of our members and donors, this event raised over $9,000 for our work supporting the Park. Again, thank you all for your continued support!
This summer, ABF enthusiasts celebrated the acquisition of a new property, Lucky 5, with food, music, tours and togetherness. Photo: Dan DiPinto
*Supplies are limited. T-shirt: unisex, sizes S–XL. Offer valid 2016–17 season only. Additional $5 for shipping.
Join or Renew today: Online at TheABF.org/membership Or call 760-767-0446 EXT 1002 www.TheABF.org Desert Update Fall 2016
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Why I Give: To Give Back Mike Medema “Once you start, it grows,” Mike Medema says. He’s referring to giving back, and he should know. Mike has been a Visitor Center Volunteer for 11 years; he led the charge in bringing the Adopt-A-Wash program to life (a monitoring program similar to the “Adopt-A-Highway” program); he volunteers his time at the State Park Store once a week; and he’s been instrumental in our legacy campaign to support an endowment fund for ABF. It is clear that Mike is passionate about Anza-Borrego and feels strongly about giving back. Like many who give to the Park, he started with some familiarity of the Park’s inner workings — but lots of intrigue — and grew to a level of both deep understanding and major involvement. Mike began his relationship with the Park on New Year’s Eve in 1969, by being “dragged” here by his wife, Fran, who wanted to ring in the new-year with family members who also enjoyed the Park. Mike’s reluctance turned to reverence; they returned every year thereafter and eventually decided that they would retire here. They purchased some land with a vision in mind and 15 years later built a home. In 2005 Mike became a Visitor Center volunteer and has never stopped. In the early days of Borrego living, Mike started going out in the Park on his own and would pick up trash. Wanting to get more people involved in the undertaking in order to make a greater impact, Mike pitched the idea of “Adopt- A-Wash” to one of the rangers. Within six months he had the Park’s buy-in, which turned into five major cleanups of areas that had been blighted by trash. The end result was about 25 volunteers dedicated to picking up trash in the Park all year long. Run by Visitor Center volunteers, the Adopt-A-Wash program coordinates cleanups in various ABDSP washes — and partners with rangers by reporting and monitoring any issues encountered. In making the program a reality, Mike was in awe of the dedication and passion that he saw not only in the
volunteers, but also from park staff going above and beyond their call of duty. This reinforced in Mike his commitment to the Park and his resolve to continue making a difference. Mike’s professional and volunteer experiences have added great value to his collaboration with visitors and to his support of ABF. His dynamic work history includes Revenue Manager, Treasurer Assistant and Special Projects Manager for the City of Sacramento. He has also served as a board member on the Sacramento Zoological Society and the Boys and Girls Club. Mike has been a long-time donor to the Anza-Borrego Foundation; he is a current Century Circle member who has named ABF in his trust. Furthermore, when it came time for ABF to solidify our legacy campaign in order to fulfill long-term goals, it was a natural fit to seek Mike’s input and financial-management experience. Mike’s support of the Foundation has evolved over the years as he has grown to better understand how we partner with the Park to meet its needs. There was a time when Mike felt compelled to restrict his gifts to particular aims and programs, but he professes that it is too hard to know what ABF’s needs will be in three, five, ten and more years. As such, he has put his trust in the board of the Foundation to do what is most pressing to achieve our mission. Mike is confident in his decision to leave a portion of his assets to the Foundation to support the future of ABF. Today he does what he can because he enjoys giving back. He offers our visitors a rich personal history, a passion for the Park, and a dynamic skill for helping us plan a bright future for Anza-Borrego. We are grateful to you, Mike, for all your gifts. We, and future generations of park admirers and advocates, thank you. Want to learn more about giving a “forever gift” through your will or trust? Join us to hear Mike share his personal story for how and why he supports ABF and the Park. November 10, 2016, 2:00–3:30 p.m. Visitor Center – Discovery Lab
Your Action Plan to Clean Energy = ABF Support What if you could donate $50 to ABF for free? Have you ever wondered how you could reduce your own carbon footprint? MyDomino offers practical, customized advice on the subject. ABF has partnered with this unique clean-energy concierge service to help support the protected space of AnzaBorrego Desert State Park, while contributing to clean air and greener energy. By learning more about how you can choose cleaner energy sources in your own home and life, MyDomino will donate $50 to ABF. Just call 800-979-2215 to speak to a MyDomino concierge, and mention that you were referred by ABF. There is no commitment required in order for us to receive the donation.
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Fall 2016 Desert Update www.TheABF.org
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The contract formalized the partnership that had begun 35 years before — a partnership to raise private funds to support land conservation, education and interpretive programs, capital, and other needs of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The new cooperating association agreement added another program to ABF’s mission: managing interpretive sales on behalf of the Park. Many people underestimate Sentenac Cienega, ABF’s first major land acquisition, closes escrow in 1998. just how significant the sales Photo: Paul Johnson program is for ABDSP. Park visitors purchase more than a quarter of a million dollars’ worth of merchandise each year. Each year sales typically nets proceeds of about $35,000 to $50,000. This represents about an 18% profit which is much greater than the retail industry standard. Prior to the cooperating agreement between ABF and ABDSP, the proceeds went back to the state treasury. With ABF’s management of the sales, the proceeds are kept local, where 100% of them fund education and interpretive projects in Anza-Borrego. Also in 2003, ABF and the Park envisioned the Anza-Borrego Institute, which produced high-level education programming regarding the natural and cultural resources of the region. Although the name “Institute” is no longer used, the original vision continues with the addition of a new partner, UC Irvine. The Steele/ Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center is a three-way partnership: UC Irvine provides the academic structure, ABDSP provides the research venue and utilizes that research to better manage the Park, and ABF allows the public a glimpse into the research in progress. Through the formation of these partnerships, ABF has provided education programming to more than 13,000 children and adults — and added nearly 54,000 acres to the Park. Furthermore, funding provided by ABF for park programs over the years has helped serve more than 4 million visitors! What started as the vision of a few community and park leaders 50 years ago has turned into a nationally recognized public-private partnership.
opportunity for a special behind-the-scenes look at research in the Park. The Stout Paleontology Laboratory and the Begole Archeological Research Center (both buildings that were built by ABF’s fundraising efforts) will be open to the public for free tours that weekend. Speaking of free, thanks to the generosity of ABF’s donors, ABF will offer “BPC for Free” – six weekends of free access to the Park’s most popular hiking trail, specifically for brand-new visitors. One of our goals this year is to introduce more people to the amazing aspects of ABDSP. For each of those weekends, we will invite about 100 families to enjoy the Park for the very first time. We all know how special ABDSP is, and we want to share that knowledge with others. ABF’s education programs are also specially themed to feature the significance of park history and/or ABF’s accomplishments over the years. For instance, the third Colorado Desert Natural History Research Symposium on November 4–6, 2016, will highlight the work of many researchers throughout ABDSP’s history. And the Anza-Borrego: In Focus series will have several programs dedicated to the scientific or historic significance of land that ABF has acquired for the 2016 Anza-Borrego: In Focus field program Park. on desert plants with Dr. Jim Andre. Members, donors and Century Circle members will not be forgotten! Back again this year are weekly hikes on Tuesday mornings, exclusively for ABF members. Century Circle members will also be treated to exclusive access to Park and ABF leadership as we host several unique events this season. And what better year to initiate the Anza-Borrego Legacy Society, a remarkable group of donors. The Anza-Borrego Legacy Society unites donors with the specific goal of ensuring the future of ABF’s mission. By leaving a legacy gift to ABF in one’s will or estate plan, ABF can establish an endowment to fund the protection of the Park forever.
Join Us for a Season of Celebration For this 2016–17 season, ABF has planned a whole host of events and programs themed around celebration and reflection. The season kicks off with the Borrego Days Desert Festival in Borrego Springs on October 21–23, 2016. ABF will be honored for its upcoming anniversary, including a very special designation of Grand Marshal for ABF, represented by one of ABF’s patrons, Diana Lindsay. Many of the organization’s accomplishments are a direct result of Diana Lindsay’s leadership, so it is fitting that she represents ABF during the festivities. ABF will underwrite park fees to encourage first-time visitors to experience the desert. Borrego Days is also a great
Century Circle members enjoy an exclusive tour of Lucky 5 Ranch. Photo: Dan DiPinto
All of these programs and events will culminate in a momentous celebration on April 1, 2017 – exactly 50 years after the first meeting of the Anza-Borrego Committee. The event committee is hard at work planning a whole weekend’s worth of tours, trips, auctions, music, food, friends and fun. Save the date and look for more details in the coming weeks.
Where would Anza-Borrego Foundation be without the generous contributions of people like you? ABF’s accomplishments are the result of hours upon hours from devoted volunteers, talented leadership within the Park, tireless work from staff, faithful yearly donations from donors, and votes each election for public funding of our parks and open spaces. It is people who make ABF successful. People ensure the future of this incredible desert. The one constant over the last five decades has been change, but with the right people involved, we continue to progress. www.TheABF.org Desert Update Fall 2016
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2016 Winter Programs Visit www.TheABF.org/events or call 760-767-0446 for full event information.
Hikes & Hops and Bikes & Brews
$20 / $15 for ABF Members; Free for new members who joined within the last 3 months Hikes & Hops and Bikes & Brews connect people with two things in common: a love of Anza-Borrego and craft beer. This is a social hike and bike series in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park sponsored by craft breweries in the region. Join us for a hike and some hops or, if it’s more your thing, a bike and a brew!
A Hikes & Hops group traverses a rocky section of trail.
Hikes & Hops at Lower Willows October 29, 2016 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Leader: Scott Turner Join ABF and Scott Turner, co-writer of the 5th edition of Afoot & Afield in San Diego County, for a social hike in one of the most beautiful areas of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. We will do a loop in Lower Willows, taking in the breathtaking scenery and celebrating the start of the desert season. 4WD vehicles and carpooling will be required for this hike.
Bikes & Brews Down Grapevine Canyon November 12, 2016 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Leaders: Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman It has become tradition to kick off our bike rides with a ride down Grapevine Canyon each November. This year, we’ll be altering the route just a little bit, starting off Wilson Road. We will ride down the exhilarating Grapevine Canyon and end with a cold beer at Tamarisk Grove Campground. Hikes & Hops at Travertine Palms December 3, 2016 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Leader: Bob Theriault, Retired ABDSP Ranger Retired ABDSP Ranger Bob Theriault will lead us on a 5-mile hike to one of the lesser-known and lesser-visited palm groves in ABDSP, Travertine Palms.
Bikes & Brews in Blair Valley December 10, 2016 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Leaders: Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman Join us for a 12-mile mountain bike ride in beautiful Blair Valley. This moderate route will take us into Little Blair Valley Cultural Preserve and along some of the most popular trailheads in the area. Bikes & Brews in the Borrego Badlands January 28, 2017 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Leaders: Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman The route of this two-wheeled adventure is not yet finalized. More details coming soon on the website. Hikes & Hops in Canyon Sin Nombre February 11, 2017 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Leader: Ashley Kvitek This five-mile route will lead us through Canyon Sin Nombre in the southern area of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Striking, multi-hued rock formations will tower above us before we venture into a slot canyon. This remarkable part of the Park is a must-see! Bikes & Brews in Glorieta Canyon March 18, 2017 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Leaders: Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman This will be a strenuous, 15-mile mountain bike ride up Glorieta Canyon. We will pedal our way up Glorieta to the turnaround at the end of the road, break, and then ride the dirt road east, past some of the amazing Ricardo Breceda statues and back to our cars at the end of the trail.
Certified Interpretive Guide Training Course January 23–26, 2017 Instructor: Crystal De Soto ABF, in partnership with the National Association for Interpretation, is offering an interpretive guide training course for individuals who deliver interpretive programs or have public contact at interpretive sites. The nationally recognized Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) program is designed for anyone in the field of interpretation who would like to improve their presentation and communication techniques. The course will take place at the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center. Visit TheABF.org/2017CIG for details. 6
Fall 2016 Desert Update www.TheABF.org
Stopping for a cold one at the end of a Bikes & Brews ride.
Bike Borrego offers bike rentals, sales and repair services.
Botany Festival & Native Plant Sale November 25-26 Friday, 9 a.m. –3 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.–sellout Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center On Saturday at 10:00 a.m., Don Rideout will give a talk titled, Our Native Trees. All plants offered for sale will be native to the Lower Colorado Desert, and volunteers will be available to answer questions. Plants may be preordered from a list at www.anzaborregobotany.org.
Mike’s Hikes: Five-Peak Feat In celebration of ABF’s 50th Anniversary, we’re making the effort to hike to the top of five of the most iconic peaks in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Join fitness enthusiast and hike leader Mike Puzzo for a series of five strenuous hikes to some of the most popular and iconic peaks of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. These hikes are not interpretive walks; they are strenuous, fast-paced hikes intended for experienced hikers in good physical condition looking for some guidance up to the top of our desert mountains.
Clambering up rock walls on a Mike's Hike.
Ramsey Canyon Birding Tour May 8–12, 2017 Instructors: Bob Thériault and Mark Jorgensen $849 per person (double occupancy only) ABF members only; limited to 12 birders
One Hike: $45 / $35 for ABF Members All Five Hikes: $180 / $140 for ABF Members Follow the trail! ABF members explore as one.
Whale Peak November 19, 2016 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Our kickoff hike of the season will be to Whale Peak, offering a glimpse of transitional vegetation as we make our way to the summit. This is an 8-mile, offtrail adventure that will take us the whole day and reward us with breathtaking views in all directions.
The view is the reward. Gazing out from Indian Head.
The hard work is over; resting on Whale Peak before the downward trek. Photo: Rusty Reniers
Indian Head Peak December 17, 2016 6:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Arguably the most recognized peak in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Indian Head Peak looms above the town of Borrego Springs, giving character to the ridgeline. This hike is for very advanced hikers capable to traversing steep off-trail routes on loose footing while dodging the ever-present agave and cholla. Indian Head is a steep, 8-mile, off-trail adventure that is not for the casual explorer.
Villager Peak January 21, 2017 6:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Nestled among other iconic peaks in the Santa Rosa Mountains ridgeline, Villager Peak is a true adventure in stamina. This faint trail steamrolls right up Villager Peak and seems to never quit, climbing higher and higher. This is the longest of our Mike’s Hikes at 13 miles — and will require us to keep moving with few breaks. Although Villager has stable footing and a faint trail, the continuous incline makes for a very long and tiring day of hiking.
Birds of a feather travel together! Birders of all levels are invited to join us in Ramsey Canyon, Arizona, for a trip of feather-themed fun. Bob and Mark will lead this 5-day tour based out of Ramsey Canyon Inn, adjacent to the Nature Conservancy's Ramsey Canyon Preserve and the Coronado National Forest. ABF tour participants will take over the inn for the week as exclusive guests. Enjoy early-morning breakfasts, freshly baked pies every afternoon, and a relaxing, educational and inspirational week!
Above: Sharing a few laughs on a birding excursion. Photo: Linda Roller
We made it! Group selfie atop Villager Peak.
Sombrero Peak February 25, 2017 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Visible on the skyline from many points in the southern area of the Park, Sombrero Peak is a standout and our only Mike’s Hike to venture this far south. We will start out from the Bow Willow Campground and continue on a 12-mile journey to the summit of this aptly named peak. Sunset Mountain March 25, 2017 6:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunset Mountain stands strong — practically right in the middle of the north-to-south stretch of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. A pillar of pink in the evening light, this strenuous 6-mile trek will take us on a boulder scramble like no other, with rewards well worth the effort.
Left: Do you see what I see? Birding excursion with ABF.
Nestled deep in the Huachuca Mountains, Ramsey Canyon’s 5,500-foot elevation makes it one of Arizona’s "sky islands.” Daily birding expeditions will likely visit Miller, Carr and Ash Canyons, the Ramsey Canyon Preserve and the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area. New birds the leaders hope to locate include: Mississippi Kite, Northern Goshawk, White-eared Hummingbird, Greater Pewee, and Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher. As usual, we expect to see a number of hummingbirds, woodpeckers, flycatchers and warblers not present in Southern California. Learn more at TheABF.org/2017Birds www.TheABF.org Desert Update Fall 2016
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5 Hikes for 50 Years In celebration of Anza-Borrego Foundation’s 50th Anniversary, ABF and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park are launching 5 Hikes for 50 Years to introduce visitors to the many wonders of California’s largest state park. Visit www.theABF.org/5hikes to get your participant packet. You will be doing these hikes on your own, so please carefully read through each of the descriptions in order to be prepared for your desert adventures. Already a desert expert? Bring a friend to introduce to the joys of desert hiking, step by step!
Hikes range from the popular and well-signed Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail to less-visited hikes in more remote areas of the Park, such as Mountain Palm Springs. Stop at the Visitor Center or State Park Store for more information on the individual hikes and to learn how ABF supports Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. If you finish all five hikes before June 1, 2017, you’ll get a signed certificate from the Park and a commemorative sticker! As you complete each hike, post a selfie on ABF’s social media! • Facebook: facebook.com/AnzaBorregoFoundation • Instagram: @anzaborrego • Tag each photo with #anzaborrego, #5hikes50years When you’ve completed all five hikes, submit your proof to ABF, and receive your certificate! More details at www.theABF.org/5hikes.
1. Vistas, erosion and solitude: Just another day in Anza-Borrego. Photo: Jen Wilkinson 2. Admiring a Native American village site in Blair Valley. 3. Enjoying family time on the trail. Photo: Amanda Leopold 4. Jump into the season with the Hikes & Hops series. Photo: Blair Brown 5. Feel the squeeze in one of Anza-Borrego's many slot canyons.
Anza-Borrego: Legacy Society When you think of your legacy, do you want it to be marked by your love for the natural resources, inspiring beauty and captivating history of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park? If so, make us a part of your family. Leave a “forever gift” by designating Anza-Borrego Foundation as the beneficiary of your asset by will, trust or other instrument. Your legacy gift ensures that the wonders of the Park are here to contemplate and cherish for generations to come! Why give a legacy gift? Because we cannot all give in the way we wish we could today. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is in constant need of vibrant programming, natural and cultural resource protection, exciting visitor experiences and well-maintained amenities — so that the Park can continue to be replenished and inspire all who visit. Your legacy gift ensures that all of this is possible through the support of Anza-Borrego Foundation. Learn more: Go to www.theabf.org/legacy, or Contact Bri Fordem 760-767-0446 EXT 1006. 8
Fall 2016 Desert Update www.TheABF.org
2017 Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest ABF, Borrego Art Institute, and ABDSP are again joining together to host the annual Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest. As of August 1, the 2017 contest is open for digital submissions. This year, judges will peruse each and every approved entry and then ask the top 100–200 to submit printed photographs and a $5 processing fee. Judges will then meet in Borrego Springs for their Final Judge Review to choose the winners and best of show. Winners and visitors alike should be sure to join us for the Opening Reception at Borrego Art Institute on February 4, 2017, from 6 to 8 p.m. A Judge Critique will be held at 5 p.m. that day, but the location is still TBD. Please visit www.theABF.org/ PhotoContest for guidelines, dates and deadlines, and to enter the contest.
2017 Contest Timeline Digital Submission Deadline
December 10, 2016
Initial Judge Review
December 11-17, 2016
Print Submission Window (Invite Only)
December 19, 2016 - January 20, 2017
Final Judge Review
January 29, 2017
Online People's Choice
December 20, 2016 - January 25, 2017
Gallery Display Opening Reception
February 4, 2017 | 6-8 p.m.
Gallery Display
February 4-26, 2017
Questions? | 760.767.0446 x1003 | Ashley@theAbf.org
Each class in this series of in-depth explorations begins with an evening lecture at the Steele/ Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center and continues the following day with a field trip that provides an enriching hands-on experience in the Park. This series of classes is presented in partnership between ABF, UC Irvine’s Steele/ Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Each class: $60 / $50 for ABF Members; lecture only: $5 See information on page 2 about the first Anza-Borrego: In Focus of the season on November 11-12, 2016 about the Carrizo Impact Area.
The Historic Landscape of the Vallecito Valley November 25–26, 2016 Instructors: Dr. Joan Schneider, Heather Thomson, and descendants of Granville and Mollie Martin Explore the ranching history of the valley and the landscape features that have attracted humans to Vallecito for thousands of years. For more than 40 years, the valley was home to the Campbell Ranch, a full-time desert ranching operation. Descendants of ranchers Granville and Mollie Martin will share personal stories and read diary entries that reveal what life was like for this hired cowhand and his family. The field class will include a hike to Bailey Cabin and an overview of the ranch operation. Wilderness & Enlightenment: On the Value of Desert in the Western Religious and Historical Tradition, from Biblical Sojourns to Southern California December 9–10, 2016 Instructor: Matthew T. Herbst, Associate Teaching Professor, Eleanor Roosevelt College, UC San Diego; Director, Making of the Modern World Program This class explores Western perceptions of desert environments, from Biblical sojourns and monastic ascetics to the incorporation of desert into the American landscape. We will consider how this setting was perceived, the ways it was valued (and not valued), and the technological and historical changes that made a grand cultural transformation possible in the twentieth century. A field trip and hike in the West Butte area will augment what is covered in the presentation.
Sentenac Canyon & Cienega January 13-14, 2017 Instructors: Robert Fisher & Dave Van Cleve
What’s Shaking? Earthquakes in Borrego Valley and Around the World February 3–4, 2017 Instructor: Jamison Steidl, Research Seismologist, Earth Research Institute; Adjunct Professor, Earth Science, UC Santa Barbara Underwritten in memory of Fran Medema The talk will focus on both local earthquakes and faults in and around the Borrego Valley, as well as provide a more global view of earthquake hazards in light of recent earthquake disasters. Along the way we will take a look at some earthquake myths, and see if any of them stand up to scientific scrutiny. The field trip will be an introduction to earthquake monitoring in the internet age, a visit to the UCSB Borrego Valley Seismic Station, and a stop at Lute Ridge. Anza-Borrego Place Names – Why is it called that? February 17–18, 2017 Instructor: Diana Lindsay, historian and author of Anza-Borrego A to Z: People, Places, and Things Most common names in the Park are based on historical events or characters, natural or cultural features, or geographical names. We will explore names in each of these categories to see why and how popular park places were named. Some of the interesting names include: Indian Head, Fish Creek, Fonts Point, Alcoholic Pass, Coyote Canyon, Nude Wash, Hellhole Canyon, Canyon Sin Nombre, Ghost Mountain, and even the name of the Park. A loop hike in Coyote Canyon will explore a popular riparian area, and a desert valley and canyon and give us an intimate look at local place names.
Anza-Borrego’s Mountain Lions March 3-4, 2017 Instructor: Dr. T. Winston Vickers
Caterpillars of the Western United States March 10-11, 2017 Instructor: Dr. David L. Wagner www.TheABF.org Desert Update Fall 2016
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Annual Report of the 49th Year (July 1, 2015–June 30, 2016)
of Anza-Borrego Foundation to the California Parks and Recreation Commission and the General Public Mission and History of Anza-Borrego Foundation The mission of Anza-Borrego Foundation (ABF or the Foundation) is to protect and preserve the natural landscapes, wildlife habitat and cultural heritage of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP) for the benefit of present and future generations. To accomplish this mission, the Foundation serves as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s Cooperating Association through fiscal and operational management of the interpretive sales at the Park’s Visitor Center and the State Park Store in the Borrego Springs Mall. Net proceeds from sales are used exclusively for park programs and interpretive projects. The Foundation also acquires private inholdings within and adjacent to ABDSP in order to make the Park whole, while supporting research conducted within its boundaries that allows park managers to more effectively manage and protect ABDSP’s resources. Furthermore, the Foundation educates adults and children about the Park to increase support for the conservation of desert lands, while advocating for the preservation of ABDSP and its resources. The Foundation was established in 1967 by the California Parks and Recreation Commission. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest unit within the State Parks System. It contains nearly 1,000 square miles and stretches approximately 60 miles long and 30 miles wide at its widest point. At the time of ABF’s creation, there were 68,000 acres of private inholdings, constituting nearly 10% of the total park area. Activities and Accomplishments Acquisition Summary During the fiscal year of July 1, 2015–June 30, 2016, the Foundation acquired an additional 2,129.92 acres of private inholdings and parcels adjacent to the park boundary at a cost of $3,210,418.34. This includes the phase II acquisition of the Lucky 5 Ranch. Interpretive Programs In keeping with our mission to educate adults and children about the Park and the desert, we continued to provide innovative interpretive programs and educational programs for the public. These programs are aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Park and the biodiversity contained within. The goal is to nurture continuing generations of desert lovers who will enjoy, support and defend ABDSP and deserts everywhere.
ABF, in cooperation with the University of California, Irvine; AnzaBorrego Desert State Park; and the Colorado Desert Archaeology Society, produced the Colorado Desert Cultural Heritage Symposium on December 4–6, 2015. The symposium hosted more than 90 professionals, students and volunteers at our Saturday speaker sessions held in Borrego Springs Resort. The poster session at the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center on Friday evening featured nine student and research posters and more than 100 attendees. Native American artisans from Baja California and a Bird Singer from Sonora, Mexico, added to the weekend by providing interpreted presentations and the sale of their art. The keynote address was given by world-renowned archaeologist, Dennis Jenkins. ABF launched Anza-Borrego: In Focus, a series of six researchcentric educational field classes and lectures in partnership with the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center. The classes engaged 121 people, who now have a greater understanding and appreciation of the resources in Anza-Borrego. The series covered a variety of topics, including bighorn sheep, Borrego Springs’ mid-century history, flash floods, desert flora, and arachnids. Interpretive Sales Interpretive Sales is an important part of ABF’s mission. Through management of the sales operations at the Visitor Center and State Park Store, ABF is able to keep funds local and provide direct support to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Gross sales for the period of July 1, 2015–June 30, 2016 were $262,513, of which $38,000 was given directly to the park.
To reach the next generation, ABF sponsors Camp Borrego, an environmental camp for fifth-grade students, which hosted 148 students in five sessions in spring 2016. The program is in its twelfth year and affords many underserved inner-city students their first opportunity to visit the desert and to camp outdoors. These classes are conducted in partnership with the San Diego County Office of Education and California State Parks. The richness of this experience has been confirmed through communication with many of its “graduates.”
Research Support The Foundation administers four research programs annually: the Howie Wier Conservation Grant, the Begole Archaeological Research Grant, the Paul Jorgensen Bird Research Grant and the ABDSP Paleontology Society Education Support Program. Brendan Boyer is the 2016 awardee of the Wier grant. Brendan’s project will compare patterns of diversification in Habronatus tarsalis (jumping spider) populations found in desert oases throughout southwestern North America. Desert populations are expected to show high levels of divergence due to fragmentation that has resulted from past geological and climatological events. The 2016 Begole Archaeological Research Grant was awarded to Charles Bennett and co-applicant Daniel DiPinto for their project, Aerial Photographic Documentation of Archaeological Features Using Quadcopter Drone-Mounted Camera. The pilot project will use a small, lightweight, portable quadcopter drone and high-definition camera to document ground figures, intaglios, geoglyphs and other archaeological features and sites in a consistent, predictable and easily duplicated process.
Another effective and powerful program that ABF has helped fund is PORTS (Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students).
There were two recipients of the Paul Jorgensen Bird Research Grant in 2016. David Zonana received $1,500 to assist with his
Between July 1, 2015 and June 30, 2016, ABF conducted a total of 43 adult education and outreach programs with 2,534 participants.
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This is an interactive, distance-learning program that utilizes the green screen and mobile satellite transmission to connect a park interpreter from any point of interest in ABDSP directly into the classroom to teach students “face to face” about the Park. For the 2015–2016 school year, the program reached nearly 6,000 students throughout California.
Fall 2016 Desert Update www.TheABF.org
study, Social networks and patterns of paternity across a climatemediated quail hybrid zone. A second grant of $1,000 was awarded to Katherine Johnson for her project, Vocal Learning & Signal Matching in the Costa’s Hummingbird. Grants and Other Funding For the period of July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016, ABF received the November 4–6, 2016 Colorado Desert following: $1 million from The Nature Conservancy, $1 million from Cultural Heritage Symposium the Wildlife Conservation Board, and $1.1 million from SANDAG December 4-6, 2015 – Borrego Springs, CA Transnet Environmental Mitigation Program for Lucky 5 Phase II; $492,706 from Resources Legacy Fund for land acquisition; $45,000 from San Diego County to produce the Park’s magazine Join us for our third research symposium in Borrego Springs, and purchase an outreach vehicle; $15,000 from the Desert California — a weekend-long event where research, education Protective Council for Camp Borrego and PORTS; $10,000 from San and inspiration unite. The symposium provides a forum for Diego Gas & Electric for Camp Borrego; $10,000 from the Heller the community, studentsJOIN and US researchers to learn about a SYMPOSIUM AGENDA Foundation of San Diego for education programs; and $7,500 broad range of disciplines. This event showcases research in from The Foster Family Foundation for Camp Borrego. InFRIDAY, addition DECEMBER 4 SYMPOSIUM REGISTRATION Anza-Borrego Desert State ParkSaturday withincludes the goal of raising public Friday Welcome Reception, speakers, Welcome Reception & Poster Session, Steele/ to the contributions listed above and other, smaller gifts from awareness, inspiration and appreciation for our diverse desert Sunday demos, and Saturday breakfast & lunch: Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center organizations and businesses, individuals contributed $185,433. $150 - Public Rate ecosystem. $130 - ABF Member Rate SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 ABF had 2,599 members whose membership contributed $72,158. $115 - Student Rate Speaker Presentations & Banquet Dinner, Borrego Springs Resort This dynamicBANQUET three-day weekend includes: DINNER - $45 / person Financial Information - An evening welcome reception and research poster session SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 WELCOME RECEPTION ONLY The 2015–16 Fiscal Year audited financial statement reported Morning Field Tours and Cultural Art & Dance - Public Rate, $15 - ABFby Member Rate - A full day of$20presentations distinguished research Demonstrations total revenue for the Foundation as $3,650,950, less expenses of professionals $3,657,993 for a net balance of ($7,043). The negative net balance Featured represents expenditures using funds raised in a prior period. TheSpeakers - Half-day field tours providing hands-on experiences in ◊ Stanley Rodriguez (Ipai - Kumeyaay - Santa Ysabel) - Traditional Games of the Kumeyaay the Park Fiscal Year 2016 net assets and fund balance on June 30, 2016, ◊ Sean Milanovich (Cahuilla) - Creating the Cahuilla Continuum Museum Exhibit ◊ Joan S. Schneider, PhD - Prehistoric Hunting of Bighorn Sheep in the Colorado Desert were $2,278,139. The audit was conducted by Munger & Company, - Banquet dinner facilitating relationship building ◊ Dr. Jennifer E. Perry - Interactions Between Interior and Coastal Peoples in Southern California CPAs, and the fiscal year tax returns are available for review. ◊ Michael Wilken - Traditional Arts and Artists of Baja California ◊ Phil Brigandi - Mason Valley and the Mason Family
Speakers include: ◊ Brian Williams - 9,000 Year Old Earth Ovenswill in Southeast Staff, Members and trustees San Diego County Afternoon Keynote Address - Dr. Rulon Clark, San Diego State University Dr. Margie Burton - Boulders, Outcrops, and Caves: Paige Rogowski serves as Executive Director and oversees◊ the by world-renowned The Ecology documentation of cultural landscape features of Sidewinders management of the organization with the assistance of Education ◊ Steve Bier - Interpreting Archaeology to Children Dr. Dennis L. Jenkins - Dr. Phil Rundel, of California, ◊ Don Endicott - 1940 Naval Airplane Crash Site in ABDSPUniversity Manager Briana Puzzo, Interpretive Sales Manager Chris Rogowski, Archaeology and Science at Los Angeles ◊ Jeanne Binning - Lithic Production and Materials Paisley CavesPatterns and Processes Plant Biodiversity in DeserttheRegions: Donor Relations Manager Bri Fordem and Staff Assistant Lauren ◊ Chuck Bennett & Daniel DiPinto - Ground Figure Poole. The staff also includes Education Coordinator AshleyDocumentation Kvitek, Using A Drone-Mounted - Dr. MaxiCamera Richmond, University of California, San Diego Land Program Coordinator Julie Gerson and Sales Assistant Kathy The Mysterious Micro-community of Arthropods in Rotting Many thanks to our Jorgensen (as of June 30, 2016). Barrel Cactus symposium sponsors! - Dr. Chris Hamilton, Florida Museum of Natural History The Foundation has 2,599 Members. Understanding the Evolution of Miniaturization and Other Tales of North American Tarantulas Ernie Cowan serves as President of the Board of Trustees. Other - Dr. T. Winston Vickers, University of California, Davis officers and trustees include Bill McDonald, Vice President; Lynn Puma Population Dynamics and Conservation in the Western Rhodes, Treasurer; Ralph Singer, Secretary; Janie DeCelles, Sharon Colorado Desert, the Peninsular Ranges, and Beyond Goldsmith, John Peterson, Phil Pryde, Bill Reavey, Joan Schneider, Jimmy Smith, Linda Tandle, Dick Troy, Dave Van Cleve and Mike - Linh Anh Cat & Morgan Gorris, Ph.D. candidates, University of California, Irvine Wells (as of June 30, 2016). Disease in the Desert: Ecology, Epidemiology and Environmental Modeling of Valley Fever (Coccidioides immitis) Respectfully submitted, - Keynote Address: David Van Cleve, Anza-Borrego Foundation Ernie Cowan, President 2016 The Anza-Borrego Foundation: 50 Years of Conservation in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Underwritten by Dr. George Sardina BORREGO SPRINGS
RESORT & SPA borregospringsresort.com
2016 Photo Contest Best In Show winner – “Desert Stargazing” by Andy Shaver
Registration Pricing Symposium (includes Welcome Reception): $135 Public Admission $115 ABF Members Saturday Evening Banquet Dinner: $45 per person Sunday Field Tours: $15 per person Event Sponsors:
www.TheABF.org Desert Update Fall 2016 11
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Anza-Borrego Foundation P.O. Box 2001 Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Non Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 17 San Diego, CA
Tax Deduction Fast, Free Towing Easy Process Century Circle Members Benefactor's Circle Hank and Christie Barber Florian G. Boyd Bonnie and Nicholas Clapp Bruce and Christine Clegg Clifford and Carolyn Colwell Steve and Carolyn Conner Karen and Anthony DeLorenzo Jim and Kathy Dice Richard Fowler and Terry Begole Fowler Thomas Garner Susan Gilliland Bruce Heimbach Sandra Hobson Bill and Nancy Homeyer Ann Keenan Kathy King Janet and John Kister Dan and Steff Leidecker Elizabeth Levin Linda Tandle and Jim Moretti Jack and Arlene Oakes Jean Odmark John Peterson John & Diane Prewitt Family Foundation Larry and Peggy Puzzo Judith Begole Rahner Jim and Linda Roller Michael Wells and Prof. Marie Simovich Dennis and Debra Stanger George and Lucy Steers
Herb Stone Melvin and Ellen Sweet Homer and Bettina Townsend Dave and Mary Van Cleve Donald J. Stang and Helen Wickes Eric Mustonen and Amee Wood Wendy Youngren President's Circle Elizabeth Javens Callie Mack and Phil Roullard Jim and Judy Smith Cynthia Stribling and Paul Webb Founder's Circle Ralph Singer and Lou Bahar Jeanne Johnstone and George Jefferson Douglas and Peggy Magde Leslie and John McQuown Mike Medema Barbara Oyler Vanessa Rusczyk Karen Smith Grants and Business Donors Bike Borrego Borrego Outfitters Borrego Rental Management Group Borrego Springs Resort Borrego Springs Rotary Borrego Valley Inn
California Garden Clubs California Overland California State Parks Foundation Earth Share F1 Key Foundation George's Camera Exchange Hattie Ettinger Conservation Fund Jilberto's Taco Shop Jimbo's Natural Family Inc. Kendall's Cafe La Casa Del Zorro Palm Canyon Resort Palms at Indian Head Porter Sesnon Foundation Regalos de Borrego Resources Legacy Fund San Diego County San Diego Gas & Electric Sunbelt Publications The Community Foundation Serving Richmond and Central Virginia The Heller Foundation of San Diego The Hobson Family Foundation The Pratt Memorial Fund at Union Bank of California The San Diego Foundation The Springs at Borrego The Surfer's Journal
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