Improvements Underway at the State Park Visitor Center By Sally Theriault, State Park Interpreter II and Visitor Center Manager
No. 83 Fall 2015
Photo by Ernie Cowan
They may not be immediately apparent to the casual visitor, but new things have been happening at the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (ABDSP) Visitor Center.
Most exciting for me, as a stargazer, was the acquisition of a new computerized telescope last spring! It has been put to good use already this summer, providing great views of Jupiter and its moons, and Saturn with its ring system, for dozens of visitors who have braved high temperatures during monthly stargazing programs on the Visitor Center’s roof. Providing quality programs that convey the value of dark skies is a key component in our quest to become an official Dark Sky Park, recognized by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) for our efforts and commitment to keep the skies over Anza-Borrego as dark as possible. Nighttime visitors and campers have probably noticed the orange glow of new exterior lights at the campground and Visitor Center restrooms and some of the walkways at the Visitor Center. We installed these “warmer” lights at the recommendation of IDA. Not only do they protect the darkness of the night sky for stargazers and our neighboring Palomar Observatory, but they also are designed to have a less disruptive effect on the physiology and rhythms of human beings as well as wildlife! A water-conserving irrigation system, which is important for the health and long-term sustainability of the plants in the Visitor Center garden, has replaced the crumbling drip system that for years would spring a new leak whenever a sharp-toothed rodent or mammal was thirsty! Charged with using less
water (like Californians everywhere) and cognizant of our precious aquifer here in the Borrego Valley, ABDSP — with help from ABF and California Garden Clubs — has invested in a plan and system suitable for an uncertain water future. Our goals are to keep the specimen plants in our landscape thriving with minimal water usage and to bring the garden back to health for the enjoyment and education of our visitors, while remaining excellent stewards of limited resources. And speaking of resources, some of the best resources we have available to us in this Park, as we strive to serve a million visitors every year, are our human resources. This past season, thanks to ABF donors, we were able to hire two seasonal support staff. We are lucky to have Abby Barker, Senior Park Aide, who has been with the Park for more than a decade, providing interpretation and serving park visitors in a myriad of ways as well as supporting our volunteers. This past year we were able to hire Regina Reiter as a seasonal Park Interpretive Specialist. Regina was able to offer many new educational programs to park visitors, and we look forward to her return this fall. In addition to our paid staff, we have the most amazing Park Volunteers. Volunteers do so many things here, from protecting prehistoric sites and continued on page 5
From the President
Well, my goodness, there goes a whole year! What the heck happened? Good question. What did BOARD of TRUSTEES: Jim Smith PRESIDENT
Dick Troy
VICE PRESIDENT
Lynn Rhodes TREASURER Bill Reavey SECRETARY
TRUSTEES: Nicholas Clapp Ernie Cowan Sharon Goldsmith Bill McDonald John Peterson Philip Pryde Ralph Singer Linda Tandle David Van Cleve ABF STAFF: Paige Rogowski
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Tracie Cofer
STAFF ASSISTANT
Bri Fordem
DONOR RELATIONS MANAGER
Julie Gerson
LAND PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Ashley Kvitek
EDUCATION COORDINATOR
Briana Puzzo
EDUCATION MANAGER
Chris Rogowski
INTERPRETIVE SALES MANAGER
Christina St John
ABF do for the world that really mattered in the last 365 days? Here goes:
There are now 1,463 additional acres in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (scattered all over the place) that will never see the hammer and saw, bulldozer, mineshaft, etc., in their future. Maybe a tent, telescope, easel or camera, but no CHANGE except by nature herself. These opportunities for conservation come in little 10-, 20-, 30-acre packets and demand all the organized care of a charitable entity like ABF. There is all the initial fundraising, accounting, reporting, legal work, escrow and proper distribution of monies — all effected by a staff member or Board volunteer. That is a lot of work, lovingly done by somebody! Also, these additions make the continued care by the park staff so much easier. Think of it: no boundaries of private land inside the Park to worry about, no roads of ingress and no detrimental activity to monitor, which are all extra worries for a ranger. ABF has been unrelentingly chasing a major goal for 40 years, and that is the acquisition of phase II of the Lucky 5 Ranch land to add to ABDSP. This is a big deal, folks, not so much for all the time and work that has been spent, but because this addition connects our Park, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and Cleveland National Forest for the refuge of all that lives and grows there. Oh, and us, too. That’s almost 1,600 acres of saved land. We are so close to the consummation of this contract that we can almost taste it. More soon! ABF staff and dedicated board members grind away daily toward these dreams. This year witnessed the beginning of another long and arduous process: the application for World Heritage status for this land that we love. These movements take money and, again, one of our benevolent, longtime supporters has stepped up to the plate to help us get started. And, of course, tireless board members saying, “YES!” have aided us on our way. Get a ticket on this train, folks. It’s rolling! And then there is some of the “ordinary” stuff we do every year, such as making it possible for the Visitor Center to stay open all week long during the season and exposing 300 kids who have never been out of their neighborhood to what a “Park” really is, including history, ferocious man-eating animals in the dark, stars, galaxies, very old bones of very old animals — OMG! And let’s not forget the many membership hikes, Natural History and Cultural Heritage Symposia for all the world to see, and UCI research study programs and presentations that lead all of us to a deeper understanding of this splendid place. All in the day of an ABF devotee! Thanks to everyone for another wonderful year. Thanks to this place for being here.
SALES ASSISTANT
ANZA-BORREGO FOUNDATION 587 Palm Canyon Drive #110 & 111 Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (760) 767-0446 www.theabf.org info@theabf.org Anza-Borrego Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt [IRS code 501(c) (3)] charitable organization DESERT UPDATE: ABF Staff Printed in U.S.A. on 50% postconsumer recycled paper.
Thanks, Jimmy Smith ABF President
ABF Offers Second Year of Free Member Hikes Last year's inaugural member hikes, offering an insider's view of favorite Park places, were such a hit, we're doing them again! All ABF Members can join us outside the ABF Office (next to Calico’s) every Tuesday morning at 8:30 a.m. from November 3, 2015 until April 26, 2016. Our hike leaders will vary, as will the locations, but we will do our best to have you back to town no later than 12:00 p.m. Not an ABF member? Join today! We’re celebrating 25 years of membership with a special rate- new members can receive two years of benefits for just $25! You can join online at www.theABF.org/Membership or give us a call at 760-767-0446 and select option 2.
Superintendent’s Corner by Kathy Dice, ABDSP Superintendent
In this part of the world, fall weather with its cooling temperatures and spectacular color changes is all wishful thinking. September is the month when we start looking for signs of change while we continue to sweat through 100+ degree days, although the sunsets can be spectacular! By October we see temperatures dip into the 90s and the nights become cooler and starrier — if that’s possible. Three sure signs of autumn here in Anza-Borrego are the rabbit brush (Chrysothamnus paniculatus) blooming yellow in all the washes, residents beginning to trickle back to their winter homes and the annual Borrego Days Desert Festival. This is the 50th year Borrego Springs will hold its gateway celebration to the desert season. The Borrego Days Desert Festival hosts a parade (of which park and ABF staff have happily participated), booths, food, friend reunions and other fun events. It is a much loved tradition for getting things started around these parts. The theme this year is “Those Were the Days.” It got me thinking about the many years (33 but who’s counting?) I have spent in this desert – every one of them special in their own way. I love this park and this community – we are a village and a family – and as part of those qualifications, we have had our ups and downs. Things look different in many
ways and yet they remain the same. The town is pretty much the same size but the park has grown larger, thanks to AnzaBorrego Foundation’s land program. ABF has worked tirelessly to acquire properties that are within the current boundaries of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and some that have expanded boundaries while preserving important habitats and viewsheds. Park staff is currently doing some resource and boundary work in the Clark Lake area of the park where AB F recently added several large parcels valuable to Santa Rosa Mountain/playa habitat. There are also quite a lot of local history stories to tell there. Hellos are always fun and exciting — goodbyes difficult. Within our park family we have seen many staff put in years of dedicated service and then move on to well-deserved new chapters. This year we saw Supervising Ranger Susan McLaughlin and Ranger Jeri Zemon retire. Sue worked closely with park volunteers and ranger staff, but her endeavors kept park operations going so smoothly that her wonderful efforts went almost unnoticed! I hope you got to participate in one of Jeri’s great campfire programs or other nature activities, or more importantly did not break any laws in her presence! Each loss opens the door to new possibilities, of course, and we look forward to new staff and new talents coming our way. We continue to make plans and dream for the future of AnzaBorrego Desert State Park, always looking for ways to improve on services to our park visitors, the most important people in our world! Anza-Borrego Foundation helps us bring those plans and dreams forward — working hand in hand with the Park to provide educational opportunities, raise funds for projects and services that are dear to us, supporting research opportunities and helping us conserve our beautiful, historic desert. With partners like that, the best is yet to come.
World Ranger Congress 2016 Fundraising Effort Underway for Mongolian Sister Park Ranger Attendance By Lynn Rhodes In anticipation of the upcoming World Ranger Congress in 2016, a fundraising effort is underway to assist up to two rangers from Mongolia’s Ikh Nart Nature Reserve to attend. Ikh Nart is the official Sister Park of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and is California State Parks’ only formal Sister Park. The cost per Mongolian Ranger to attend is approximately $4,000, including registration, travel, lodging and meals at the conference. ABF formally endorsed our Sister Park several years ago and continues to help support and coordinate official Sister Park activities between the two parks. Our fundraising goal is $8,000. One grant proposal has also been submitted.
Follow the steps for donations, and in the comment section (or with a notation on your check) please put IKH NART Fund for WRC. Donations are tax deductible. Additional information about the International Ranger Federation and World Ranger Congress 2016 can be found here: www.worldrangercongressusa.com
Donations may be made by check or online. Checks to: Anza Borrego Foundation PO Box 2001 Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Or TheABF.org. www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2015
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Why I Give The Gift of Education Karin Vickars and Crawford McNair Karin and Crawford (Mac) have been visiting Anza-Borrego Desert State Park since the winter of ’87–88. It was Mac’s curiosity that led them here; as he perused the maps for a vacation spot, he identified a HUGE Park and decided that they would have to go see it. They spent their first holiday together here in the Park, car camping in Palm Canyon. As any curious traveler might do, upon arrival they headed to the Visitor Center to learn more about the area. Karin, a bird enthusiast, asked if there was a Christmas bird count happening. There was, so right on the spot she volunteered for the event. They also picked up the interpretive schedule and did every program they could and drove every road their 2WD vehicle would take them for the remainder of their stay. They were hooked and returned nearly every year, keeping in touch with park happenings through the ABF newsletter from their home in Canada. Each year they visited, they took advantage of all the education programs related to the Park, absorbing as much information as they could. They especially were fond of the ranger-led interpretive hikes, recalling them to be wonderful learning experiences. They traveled to all ends of the Park and continued to fall deeper in love with the rich and vast specimens of land formations, plants, animals and cultural sites. Then change came. One year when they returned for their annual trip, the access to rangers and education classes was gone, wiped out by budget cuts. Things shifted and they felt lucky to have experienced that earlier era of Anza-Borrego. They had both developed such an appreciation for this amazing Park and its resources that they could not imagine others not having the same opportunity. The decision to volunteer was clear when the chance arose. They both have dedicated themselves to giving back to the Park for all the Park has done for them. In love with learning, both Karin and Mac have spent their lives immersing themselves in new experiences and continuing their education in many aspects. Karin describes Mac as a “jack-of-all-trades” kind of guy. He holds many college degrees and has worked in professions from lumberjack to attorney to integrative pest management professional. Mac has put his expertise with integrative pest management to work, assisting with invasive plant removal as well as volunteering at the Visitor Center. Karin spent 34 years teaching accounting at Kapilano College and has always had a deep love of the natural world. Their combined skills in education, research and science make them unique and valuable resources as education volunteers in the Park.
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Fall 2015 Desert Update www.theabf.org
Karin says that she will continue to volunteer for projects with children in order to influence the next generation — and that she has done, with time spent on PORTS (Parks Online Resources for Teacher and Students) and the fourth-grade Junior Ranger program. She and Mac have also devoted volunteer time to the Archeology Department by becoming site stewards. Karin has spent many hours with the Botany Society both as a student and assistant to the certification class; she has also participated extensively in the San Diego Tracking Team with a focus on cyber tracking and sign monitoring wildlife in the area. Their interest in the Park and all its elements seems to have no end. “I wish I had more time to learn about butterflies and insects, plate tectonics and geology to really close the loop on the ecosystem,” Karin said. Among all her volunteering for the Park and its societies, Karin has also found time to host many ABF programs. Today Karin splits her time between the Visitor Center desk, the Tracking Team, leading flower walks and assisting with the botany certification course. And she still wishes she could do more! When asked hypothetically how she would allocate one million dollars in funding to the Park (were that funding to be available), Karin pointed to getting all facilities back in working order, revamping the garden at the Visitor Center, replacing signs throughout the Park, and reviving the interpretive programs to what they were 20 years ago. These are all gifts that require money, time and expertise and that are on ABF and the Park’s wish list, too. The gifts that Mac and Karin share with our visitors is special. They have a dynamic view of ABDSP and its ecosystems, and they share that perspective with all visitors who cross their path. They know there is a lack of resources to keep education going, a vital necessity for the Park’s future well-being. They are grateful for what they have received from Anza-Borrego and feel very rewarded by their volunteer work. “I think you probably always get more than you give,” says Karin of her time spent teaching others and talking with visitors. The fact is, supporting the education efforts of this Park seems almost unaffordable in the face of budget cuts. Anza-Borrego Foundation and the Park would not be as successful as they are without the gift of volunteering, a gift that can make a stronger long-term impact than dollars spent in some cases. Gifts come in all sorts of packages and sizes; it’s giving what you have to give that creates the difference. We are so appreciative of Karin and Mac’s incredible dedication to education and the Park. Thank you for your years of service to Anza-Borrego and its visitors!
...Park Visitor Center
Volunteer at the Park
continued from page 1
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is offering a training class this fall for people interested in becoming Visitor Center volunteers.
documenting rare plants to leading hikes and giving interpretive talks. Especially dear to my heart are the Visitor Center volunteers who answer visitors’ questions and provide guidance as to how to make the most of their limited time in the Park. Our volunteers take pleasure and pride in helping park visitors discover and explore the desert safely and in being part of a team (including park rangers, interpreters, other staff and, of course, ABF) that provides excellent service to the public. We offer training every two years for new folks interested in helping in this way, and will be holding the next class in November and December. More information is available on the right, or people can call 760-767-4205 or by emailing Sally.Theriault@parks. ca.gov. Stargazing at the Visitor Center October 31, November 13, December 11, January 8 7:30 p.m. Explore the Milky Way and several constellations, and then see what can be found through the telescope! Bring binoculars, if you have them, a flashlight (with red lens to preserve night vision), and a blanket and chair if desired. Check www.theabf.org, or ask at the Visitor Center for additional offerings throughout the season.
The staff of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park invests considerable time and energy in training park volunteers, through a combination of classroom instruction and field trips, to be able to give good information to the visiting public. The ideal volunteer is eager to invest his or her time, too, in learning about this amazing Park. Our award-winning Visitor Center is a fun place to work, and volunteers are expected to contribute at least 48 hours of “floor duty” time each year, for a minimum of three years, as well as fulfilling other requirements designed to keep participants learning more about the Park and its partners. The training this fall will consist of five to six hours of classroom time on Friday afternoons (12:30–6 p.m.), with all-day field trips in the Park on Saturdays (typically beginning at 8:30 a.m.). The class will take place on the following dates: November 6–7, 13–14, and 20–21, and December 4–5, 11–12, and 18–19. New volunteers will then be scheduled for “on-thejob training” with experienced volunteers during the month of January. If you are interested in being a member of this year’s Park Volunteer Class, the first step is to submit an application. This can be done electronically by filling out the application at TheABF.org/VolunteerClass and then emailing it as an attachment to Sally Theriault (Sally.Theriault@parks.ca.gov). Or the application can be printed and mailed to: Sally Theriault, ABDSP Visitor Center, 200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004. Questions should be directed to Sally Theriault at 760-767-4205.
New Trustee Lynn Rhodes, a former Division Chief of California State Parks and currently an international consultant on resource protection and management, has joined ABF’s Board of Trustees. Ms. Rhodes attended San Diego State University and first encountered AnzaBorrego Desert State Park when she arrived in 1998 to serve as chief ranger for the Colorado Desert District, which encompasses ABDSP as well as several other state park units in the region. She also served as District Superintendent of the Monterey District and for many years as a State Park Ranger and Administrative Officer. She was the first person from the parks system to attend the FBI National Academy. She retired from California State Parks in 2010 as Division Chief of public safety and emergency services. “Lynn’s extensive knowledge of the issues facing California State Parks is an important addition to our board,” said Jim Smith, ABF president. “She knows ABDSP well and can also see the Park in the context of the state’s limited ability to support natural resources at the levels needed.”
Working and living in ABDSP was, according to Lynn, "an adventure assignment of great proportions.” She recalls experiences such as flying in the park patrol plane, hiking part of the Anza Trail and backpacking to Rabbit Peak as “like being on assignment for National Geographic.” The challenges facing ABDSP — and, as its cooperating association, ABF — have never been greater, Lynn said. Insufficient funding, lower staffing levels and new hiring regulations that make securing replacements more difficult are straining the ability of the Park to fulfill its broad mission. ABF is helping to offset some of these threats to the Park’s well-being, Lynn noted, but ABF also has a broader purpose. “I see ABF fulfilling a very important role in building awareness and knowledge of the Park’s beauty and majesty,” she said. “And, in doing so, inspiring park staff and visitors, and members of the community, to protect the Park and all that it holds." Since retiring, Lynn, a resident of Aptos, California, has been advising the United Nations Development Program, particularly in regard to the Ikh Nart Nature Reserve in Mongolia. She was appointed to the Mongolian Protected Area management team by the area governor and serves as a consultant to the environmental law studies program at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law in Wuhan, China. www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2015
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2015 Fall & 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 three months This social hike and bike series in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park connects people with two things in common: a love of Anza-Borrego and craft beer. Join us for a hike and some hops or, if it’s more your thing, a bike and a brew!
Hikes & Hops at the Elephant Knees December 19, 2015 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Leader: Ashley Kvitek, ABF Education Coordinator Weather and road conditions permitting, this trip will head out for a 4-mile excursion in Mud Hills Wash to the Elephant Knees in the Split Mountain area. Hikes & Hops at West Butte Borrego Mountain February 7, 2016 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Leader: Scott Turner, Co-Writer of "Afoot and Afield in San Diego County” Join Scott Turner for a moderate 5-mile adventure at Borrego Mountain and be rewarded with views of the Borrego Badlands, a journey through The Slot and just enough difficulty to keep it interesting. Hikes & Hops on the PCT near Anza April 23, 2016 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Leader: Paige Rogowski, ABF Executive Director More info coming soon. Check the website for details.
Botany Festival & Native Plant Sale November 27–28 Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to sellout All plants offered for sale will be native to the Lower Colorado Desert, and volunteers will be available to answer questions. Plants may be pre-ordered from a list at www.anzaborregobotany.org. On Saturday, Theresa Everett from Moosa Creek Nursery will give a talk on gardening with desert native plants and tips for getting the best results. 6
Fall 2015 Desert Update www.theabf.org
Grapevine Canyon Mountain Bike Ride November 21, 2015 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Leaders: Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman This 14-mile strenuous mountain bike ride takes you through Grapevine Canyon and ends at Tamarisk Grove Campground. Borrego Badlands Mountain Bike Ride January 31, 2016 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Leaders: Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman Get ready for a 15-mile strenuous mountain bike adventure that starts at Arroyo Salado and winds through one of ABDSP’s remote Borrego Badlands areas. Coyote Canyon Mountain Bike Ride March 12, 2016 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Leaders: Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman More details to come soon; check the website. Glorieta Canyon Mountain Bike Ride April 3, 2016 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Leaders: Jim Roller and Gary Haldeman This ride will be a difficult 15-mile mountain bike ride up and back down Glorieta Canyon, featuring views of the Borrego Valley and sculptures galore.
2016 Certified Interpretive Guide Course January 25–29, 2016 Instructors: Roger Riolo & Sally Theriault Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center ABF, in partnership with the National Association for Interpretation, is offering a professional certification course for individuals who deliver interpretive programs or have public contact at facilities such as visitor centers, nature centers, parks, museums, zoos, tour companies or heritage sites. Details and pricing: www.theabf.org/CIG
Mike’s Hikes with Mike Puzzo $45 / $35 for ABF Members Not for the feeble-legged or the weak-hearted, Mike’s Hikes are extremely strenuous treks through difficult terrain. All participants should be very experienced hikers, accustomed to full-day, 10+ mile strenuous hikes. December 12: Yaqui Pass to The Slab The first mile of this 8-mile route is the hardest, steepest incline, and then the route eases out to a gradual incline up to our high point, with a cross-country desert traverse. Total elevation will be around 2,500 feet. Explore Anza-Borrego Desert State Park further through this series of in-depth learning experiences. Each class 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. Each class: $60 / $50 for ABF Members; lecture only: $5 Natural History of Desert Bighorn Sheep October 30–31, 2015 Instructor: Mark C. Jorgensen, Desert Bighorn Sheep Researcher and Retired Park Superintendent Underwritten in memory of Fran Medema This lively program will highlight the iconic bighorn's adaptations to survive in some of the harshest habitats in North America and the efforts underway to restore and maintain populations of desert bighorn. Modern Borrego December 19–20, 2015 Instructor: Anna Kryczka, Doctoral Candidate, University of California, Irvine Through an exploration of the architecture and institutions of modern Borrego, this course will contextualize the town's development within architectural, environmental and American history. Desert Flash Flooding in Anza-Borrego and Beyond January 1-2, 2016 Instructors: Dr. Warren Campbell, Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Western Kentucky University; Paul Johnson, Retired Park Naturalist and professional photographer The California Deserts: A Hotbed for Floristic Diversity and Discovery March 4–5, 2016 Instructor: Dr. James André, Plant Ecologist and Director of the Granite Mountains Desert Research Center Underwritten by the Hattie Ettinger Conservation Fund at The San Diego Foundation This program provides an overview of botanical exploration in the California Deserts, highlighting many recent discoveries, needs for additional inventory and the conservation implications of looming large-scale impacts to our desert floristic frontier. The Evolutionary & Conservation Importance of Short-Range Endemic Arachnids from Desert Habitats March 18–19, 2016 Instructor: Dr. Marshal Hedin, Professor, Department of Biology, San Diego State University This program highlights California arachnids with naturally small geographic distributions and their implied conservation risks, focusing on several species from ABDSP. Avian Fire Recovery in Western Anza-Borrego Desert State Park April 22–23, 2016 Instructor: Philip Unitt, Curator of Birds and Mammals, San Diego Natural History Museum ABF needs your help to underwrite these special programs. If you can help, please contact Bri Fordem at bfordem@theabf.org or (760) 767-0446 ext. 1006.
January 9: Indian Head Peak This will be an aggressive and steep 8-mile hike with loose footing to the summit of Indian Head with a total elevation of 3,200 feet. February 20: Granite Mountain Granite Mountain overlooks Shelter Valley and Sentenac Cienega, and offers a strenuous climb with some bouldering and bushwhacking required to accomplish our journey. Total elevation will be about 3,200 feet.
Check TheABF.org/events for detailed descriptions, meeting places and times. Celestial Overnight Camping Trip with California Overland December 12 $250 / $195 for ABF Members Join California Overland and astronomer Dennis Mammana on a fascinating tour of our incredible night sky. The price includes a telescope viewing, gourmet dinner with wine, hot breakfast, 3-hour daytime excursion, and all camping gear provided and set up. Discover the Old West of Marshal South November 21 $165 / $135 for ABF Members Historian and guidebook author Diana Lindsay and California Overland team up to take you on an exciting excursion back in time. Travel the Butterfield Overland Stage Line and explore the stops that inspired the writings of author/poet/ artist Marshal South. The tour is 8 hours; includes lunch and 2 of South’s novels, plus a bonus book. Contact California Overland 760-767-1232. www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2015
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Colorado Desert Cultural Heritage Symposium December 4-6, 2015 – Borrego Springs, CA
SYMPOSIUM AGENDA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4
Welcome Reception & Poster Session, Steele/ Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5
Speaker Presentations & Banquet Dinner, Borrego Springs Resort
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6
Morning Field Tours and Cultural Art & Dance Demonstrations
JOIN US SYMPOSIUM REGISTRATION includes
Friday Welcome Reception, Saturday speakers, Sunday demos, and Saturday breakfast & lunch: $150 - Public Rate $130 - ABF Member Rate $115 - Student Rate
BANQUET DINNER - $45 / person WELCOME RECEPTION ONLY
$20 - Public Rate, $15 - ABF Member Rate
Featured Speakers ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊
Stanley Rodriguez (Ipai - Kumeyaay - Santa Ysabel) - Traditional Games of the Kumeyaay Sean Milanovich (Cahuilla) - Creating the Cahuilla Continuum Museum Exhibit Joan S. Schneider, PhD - Prehistoric Hunting of Bighorn Sheep in the Colorado Desert Dr. Jennifer E. Perry - Interactions Between Interior and Coastal Peoples in Southern California Michael Wilken - Traditional Arts and Artists of Baja California Phil Brigandi - Mason Valley and the Mason Family Brian Williams - 9,000 Year Old Earth Ovens in Southeast San Diego County Afternoon Keynote Address Dr. Margie Burton - Boulders, Outcrops, and Caves: by world-renowned documentation of cultural landscape features Steve Bier - Interpreting Archaeology to Children Dr. Dennis L. Jenkins Don Endicott - 1940 Naval Airplane Crash Site in ABDSP Archaeology and Science at Jeanne Binning - Lithic Production and Materials the Paisley Caves Chuck Bennett & Daniel DiPinto - Ground Figure Documentation Using A Drone-Mounted Camera BORREGO SPRINGS
RESORT & SPA borregospringsresort.com
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Fall 2015 Desert Update www.theabf.org
Many thanks to our symposium sponsors!
2016 Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest a partnership between
Storm Catcher by Janet Mowrey, 2015 Best in Show
Happy 10 Years, Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest! It’s hard to believe, but the Anza-Borrego Desert Photo Contest has been around for a solid and successful 10 years! We cannot believe how lucky we are to have the support of our wonderful contest judges and committee members, many of whom have been involved in one way or another for the majority of the 10year run! To mark this anniversary, we’re making some pretty exciting decisions. Our first big decision was really a no-brainer — we’re making our partnership with Borrego Art Institute official! They’ve helped us in many ways for the past decade, and with increased support this year, we’ve decided to call it like it is: We’re partners in this endeavor to spread the love of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park through photography. Welcome aboard, BAI! We’ve also decided to drastically change how the contest is going to run. We’re taking to heart the suggestions and comments of our participants, and we’re joining the digital age! With this big step, entry into the photo contest is now free of charge to all contestants. This was an intentional move to open the contest to more participants. With the ease of access of digital uploading, paired with no entry fee, we feel that we will be able to engage a wider range of the general public. The contest is live on our Facebook page and website. We think this is a step in the right direction to keep the contest relevant for the future. Here’s how it works: Step 1: Take a beautiful photo next time you visit Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, or find your favorite from a previous trip. Be sure your photo was taken within the boundaries of the Park. Step 2: Upload your photo either at www.facebook.com/ AnzaBorregoFoundation or at www.theABF.org/PhotoContest. Step 3: Vote for your favorite photos during the public voting period (dates listed in table). Step 4: The top 20 photos in each category will be selected for the final judge review. You will be notified by email on January 4, 2016, if your photo has been selected by the public to move on to the next phase of judging. At that time, we’ll ask you to submit a printed copy of your photo.
Thank you to our contest sponsors Borrego Valley Inn and Borrego Springs Resort.
For more information on the contest and to enter, visit our Facebook page and click on Photo Contest or go to www.theABF. org/PhotoContest. We’ve asked a few of our longtime supporters to tell us why they keep supporting the Photo Contest year after year: Borrego Art Institute: “BAI’s mission is to promote the arts and art education in the community. The ABF Photo Contest created a perfect venue and goal for our youth photographers to strive for. After seeing what a boost to the community the ABF Photo Contest was and how it fit in with our Mission, partnering with ABF to help them continue with the program was an easy sell to the Board of Directors.” Kay Levie, Borrego Art Institute Board Member and Operations Consultant, and coordinator of the youth photography program: “I just love the whole idea and what a great thing for ABF, the community and BAI it has become. But I especially love what the kids in the photo program experience of the Park through their eyes and what they do when they are given the skills and tools to capture it. It’s wonderful witnessing the pride they feel when they see their wonderful photos displayed for everyone to admire.” {Note that this is the third year that Kay, as a representative of BAI, will lead the youth photography program at Borrego Springs Elementary School. We are very proud of her dedication and excellent work, and we know the students love learning with her!} Paul Johnson, Founding and Current Contest Judge: “It has always been my belief that the single most important part of the contest is the judge critique and having judges present to answer questions from participants. It makes the reception more than just an exhibit of winning photographs. I wanted to make it a learning experience from the beginning, and I firmly believe it makes our contest unique.
2016 Contest Timeline Online Submission Period August 17–December 15, 2015 Online Public Voting Period December 16–December 31, 2015 Finalist Notification January 4, 2016 Printed Photo Submission Period January 4–January 20, 2016 (invite only) Judge Review of January 23, 2016 Printed Photographs Opening Reception and February 6, 2016 Awards Night Borrego Art Institute Gallery Display February 6–February 27, 2016
www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2015
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Annual Report of the 47th Year (July 1, 2014–June 30, 2015)
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. Use of net proceeds from sales is used exclusively for park programs and interpretive projects. The Foundation also acquires private inholdings within ABDSP in order to make the Park whole, while supporting research in ABDSP that will allow park managers to more effectively manage and protect the Park’s resources. The Foundation educates adults and children about the Park to increase support for the conservation of desert lands while advocating for the preservation of the Park and its resources. The Foundation was established in 1967 by the California Parks and Recreation Commission. The Foundation acquires private inholdings within the boundaries of the Park as well as other high-quality properties that benefit the Park. 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 67,000 acres of private inholdings, constituting nearly 10% of the total park area at the time.
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 it. The goal is to nurture continuing generations of desert lovers who will enjoy, support and defend ABDSP and deserts everywhere. Between July 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015, ABF conducted a total of 61 adult education and outreach programs that reached 2,057 participants.
To reach the next generation, ABF sponsors Camp Borrego, an environmental camp for fifth-grade students, which hosted 273 students in 9 sessions in spring 2015. The program is in its tenth year and affords many underserved inner-city students their first opportunity to visit the desert and 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.” Another effective and powerful program that ABF has helped fund is PORTS (Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students). This is an interactive, distance learning program that utilizes a green screen and mobile satellite transmission to connect a park interpreter from any point of interest in the Park directly into the classroom to teach students face to face about ABDSP. For the 2014–15 school year, the program reached over 8,100 students from 24 counties in California.
Activities and Accomplishments Acquisition Summary During the fiscal year of July 1, 2014–June 30, 2015, the Foundation acquired an additional 1,463.12 acres of private inholdings and parcels adjacent to the park boundary at a cost of $448,030. This included a donation of 80 acres near Glorieta Canyon and a full section of land on upper Coyote Mountain.
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Fall 2015 Desert Update www.theabf.org
Desert Hostel Programs included an amazing geology field excursion through the Colorado Plateau, Owen’s Valley and the Sierra Nevada. ABF also sponsored its second birding tour, this year to Southeastern Arizona in the Chiricahua Mountains. New this year was an archaeological trip to Baja California to visit three indigenous communities and learn about the authentic traditional arts as well as the cultural and natural heritage of the region. ABF, in cooperation with the University of California, Irvine and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, produced the Colorado Desert Natural History Research Symposium. The symposium featured a welcome reception with research posters, a full day of lectures presented by invited speakers, a banquet dinner with a keynote speaker and half-day field tours into the Park. Nearly 100 participants attended the event, including 20 students sponsored by special scholarships from the Rose Foundation’s California Wildlands Grassroots Fund, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act.
Interpretive Sales Interpretive Sales are 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, 2014 through June 30, 2015 were $262,425. 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. Sarah O’Neill and Daniel Winkler were the recipients of the 2015 Howie Wier Conservation Grant. Sarah studies at UC Riverside and her project is “The Impact of Sahara Mustard on Anza-Borrego’s Arthropod and Plant Communities.” Daniel studies at UC Irvine and his project is “Origins and Impacts of a Highly Invasive Plant Species in the California Deserts.” There was no award in 2015 for the Begole Archaeological Research Grant.
Financial Information The 2014–15 Fiscal Year audited financial statement reported total revenue for the Foundation as $1,009,154, less expenses of $1,280,480, for a net balance of ($271,326) not including a pledge write-off of $50,000 due to contributions no longer needed for a project. Although ABF spent more than it brought in during the reporting time period, the majority, $246,336, was for the purchase of land and other program areas using funds raised in previous periods. The Fiscal Year 2015 net assets and fund balance on June 30, 2015, were $2,229,076. The audit was conducted by Rollie Munger, CPA, and the fiscal year tax returns are available for review. The people of abf Paige Rogowski serves as Executive Director and oversees the management of the organization with the assistance of Education Manager Briana Puzzo, Interpretive Sales Manager Chris Rogowski, Donor Relations Manager Bri Fordem and Staff Assistant Tracie Cofer. The staff also includes Education Coordinator Ashley Kvitek, Land Program Coordinator Julie Gerson and Sales Assistants Emi Gates and Christina St. John.
The Paul Jorgensen Bird Research Grant gave its first-ever grant to Katherine Johnson, a PhD candidate in the Department of Biology at UC Riverside. Katherine studies vocal learning of the Costa’s Hummingbird. The Paul Jorgensen Bird Research Grant is intended to assist undergraduate and graduate students conducting field studies in ornithology within the Colorado Desert and Peninsular Ranges of Southern California. Grants and Other Funding For the period of July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015, ABF received: $323,675 from Resources Legacy Fund for land acquisition; $25,000 from the Disney Conservation Fund for bighorn sheep conservation; $19,990 from the Desert Protective Council for Camp Borrego and PORTS; $16,000 from San Diego Gas & Electric for Camp Borrego and the symposium; $10,000 from the Heller Foundation of San Diego for education programs; $7,410 from Cuyamaca Rancho Foundation for Lucky 5 Phase II; and $7,000 from The Foster Family Foundation for Camp Borrego. These grants and other smaller grants and sponsorships totaled $667,408. In addition to contributions from these organizations and businesses, individuals contributed $129,635. ABF celebrated the 25th year of its membership program. There was a celebration event held on January 24, 2015 and launched free, weekly hikes for members during the season. ABF had 2,235 members whose membership contributed $88,258.
The Foundation has 2,235 Members. Jimmy Smith serves as President of the Board of Trustees. Other officers and trustees include Dick Troy, Vice President and Chair of Land Committee; Delores Lukina, Vice President of Acquisitions; Bill Reavey, Secretary; John Peterson, Chair of Advancement Committee; Nick Clapp, Ernie Cowan, Sharon Goldsmith, Bill McDonald, Phil Pryde, Lynn Rhodes, Ralph Singer, Linda Tandle and Dave Van Cleve (as of June 30, 2015). ABF celebrates the legacy of Vice President of Acquisitions Delores Lukina, who retired from the ABF board in July 2015. Mrs. Lukina gave 18 years of her life as a volunteer to help ABF acquire land for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. During her service to the organization more than 22,000 acres were acquired by the Foundation. ABF is truly grateful for Mrs. Lukina’s hard work over the years and her many accomplishments on behalf of ABF and the Park. Respectfully submitted, Jimmy Smith, President 2014–15
www.theabf.org Desert Update Fall 2015 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
Century Circle members are an integral part of making a larger impact and have unique opportunities to learn more about Anza-Borrego Desert State Park though exclusive tours, lectures, and events. Whether it’s a tour to view a newly acquired property, or a gathering
to discuss Park activities and celebrate accomplishments, Century Circle members have access to park officials and communicate closely with Foundation staff and Board Trustees. Together we achieve our goals for a world class park.
We offer three accessible levels of annual membership:
$1,000 - $2,499 Benefactor’s Circle $2,500- $4,999 President’s Circle $5,000+ Founder’s Circle
Century Circle Members Founder's Circle Henry Feilen Sharon and Jerry Goldsmith Ann Keenan Douglas and Peggy Magde Leslie and John McQuown Mike Medema Barbara Oyler Ralph Singer and Lou Bahar Gabriel and Diana Wisdom President's Circle Stephen Burch Elizabeth Javens Bob and Barbara Kleist Vanessa Rusczyk Jim and Judy Smith Benefactor's Circle Janet Anderson Hank and Christie Barber Sharon Barta Pat Carson Nicholas and Bonnie Clapp Bruce and Christine Clegg Clifford and Carolyn Colwell, The Colwell Family Distributable Fund at The San Diego Foundation Bruce Crabtree Alan and Jay Creutz Lois Day Jim and Kathy Dice David and Peg Engel, The Engel Fund at The San Diego Foundation
Richard Fowler and Terry Begole Fowler Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Garner, Jr. and Dr. and Mrs. William V. Garner with The Community Foundation serving Richmond and Central Virginia Susan Gilliland Bruce Heimbach Nancy and Bill Homeyer Dick and Joanne Ingwall Fred and L. Louise Jee Jeanne Johnstone and George Jefferson Janet and John Kister John Martinez John and Christine Murphy Eric Mustonen and Amee Wood Jack and Arlene Oakes John Peterson Philip Pryde Larry and Peggy Puzzo Judith Begole Rahner Laura Roderick Jim and Linda Roller Joan and Martin Rosen Callie Mack and Phil Roullard Eleanor Schubert Michael Wells and Marie Simovich Donald J. Stang and Helen Wickes, Schwab Charitable Fund Herb Stone Cynthia Stribling and Paul Webb Melvin and Ellen Sweet Homer and Bettina Townsend Ralph and Rosalie Webb
Grants and Business Donors Anonymous Bighorn Fudge Co. Borrego Outfitters Borrego Rental Management Group Borrego Springs Resort Borrego Springs Rotary Foundation Borrego Valley Inn California Overland California State Parks Foundation Carlee's Carmelita's Caterpillar Foundation CH Stout Foundation Desert Protective Council Disney Conservation Fund Foster Family Private Foundation, Inc. Gabriel Wisdom George's Camera Heller Foundation of San Diego, Jilbertos Taco Shop John and Diane Prewitt Family Foundation Kathy King for Coldwell Banker La Casa Del Zorro La Mesa Woman's Club New Belgium Brewing Co. Nickel Beer Co. North Marin Water District Oceanside Photo & Telescope Palm Canyon Resort Porter Sesnon Foundation Pratt Memorial Fund Regalos de Borrego Resources Legacy Fund
Road Runner Club Rose Foundation California Wildlands Grassroots Fund San Diego County San Diego Gas & Electric Shelter Valley Citizens Corporation Sierra Club - Desert Peaks Section Tandem Solar, Inc. The Nature Conservancy The San Diego Foundation The Springs at Borrego Tubb Canyon Desert Conservancy University of California, Irvine
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