All “Ger-ed” Up
by Sally Theriault, Anza-Borrego Institute Manager Photo by John Peterson
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t long last, gers from Mongolia are in place and ready for students to arrive, as part of Anza-Borrego Foundation’s Fifth Grade Environmental Education Camp. Since the camp began six years ago, sleeping in tents has been part of the experience for San Diego and Imperial County fifth graders who visited AnzaBorrego Desert State Park for an overnight outdoor adventure. But when harsh spring winds blew across the desert, tents were not ideal accommodations. Erratic weather forced some camp sessions to be cancelled or rescheduled, a disappointing outcome for eager youngsters who looked forward to camp all year. The search for a stormy weather solution led to the consideration of Mongolian gers (large round tents, called yurts in many other countries) from the wind-swept steppes of the Gobi desert. During recent visits to Mongolia, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s recently retired Superintendent Mark Jorgensen was impressed with their snug coziness and wind-worthiness, and was convinced that they could serve our students well. So ABF decided to order seven authentic gers from Mongolia for the Fifth Grade Camp program. On a typically sunny day in early January, a team of volunteers, including ABF and state park staff and friends, got together to erect four gers in time to shelter students during the 2010 spring camp season. For many children, this is their first camping experience, as well as their first visit to a state 80 roof poles (uni) form the skeleton that park. Throughout the students’ supports the ceiling of the gers. Photo by three-day adventure they learn Linda Tandle about desert plants, animals, and the duties of a ranger. Together they hike up Borrego Palm Canyon, visit a Native American village site, and even get a special tour of the Park’s paleontology laboratory, where they are introduced to scientific research and new careers they may never have continued on page 9
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From the President Challenges and Opportunities I am honored to have been elected as the new President of Anza-Borrego Foundation. In my seven years on the Board, I have been amazed at the scope of work, level of professionalism, the dedication of ABF members, the state park staff and our Board of Trustees, all resulting in accomplishments, year in and John Peterson year out. We all have joined together to make Anza-Borrego Desert State Park one of the best state parks in the nation. I thank former president, Ray Mouton, for his tremendous dedication and leadership, as well as the support and direction he gave our Board of Trustees and staff over the last three years. Ray will continue to serve as a trustee for the Foundation and I look forward to his guidance in my new role as President. It is with great sadness that I tell you that ABF’s Executive Director Linda Tandle has resigned. After 16 great years with ABF she has decided to make the leap into retirement. She leaves a legacy of helping ABF become a distinguished leader in land conservation. We will miss her greatly and wish her the very best in the future. Anza-Borrego Foundation, along with the rest of the nation, has faced a variety of challenges from the effects of the economic downturn. Though very difficult, our struggles have provided opportunities for growth, to examine the work of the Foundation and ensure that we remain consistent with our goals and objectives. The recession has forced us all to reassess what is important in our lives and the Board especially thanks all the members of ABF who have continued to support our organization and the Park through this most difficult time. ABF has weathered the downturn and remains a strong organization. Current major tasks facing the Foundation include: 1) protection of the Desert Cahuilla properties, 2) acquisition of the Park’s remaining inholdings, 3) ongoing support of ABDSP, and 4) continuation of the Institute’s education programs for adults and children. These tasks also bring opportunities to strengthen the Foundation as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s nonprofit partner. Keeping in line with our conservation mission, the summer issue of Desert Update will be sent by email only. Even throughout our sizzling summer, we’d like to keep you informed of our work and good news. Please take this opportunity to update your email address with us by visiting www.theabf.org or calling 760-767-0446. Again, I would like to thank our members, volunteers, and supporters for the many ways you help the Foundation fulfill our mission to support and protect this “gem of the desert,” Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Sincerely, John Peterson, President
ABI Awards Wier Conservation Grant Anza-Borrego Institute congratulates James Michael Heaney, our 2010 Howie Wier Memorial Conservation Grant recipient. Mike is a student in the doctoral program at University of Florida. He will be studying the systematics and genetics of Nolina in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and southern California. Annual grants up to $2,000 are awarded in memory of Harold A. “Howie” Wier (1952-2001), a lifelong naturalist who worked in conservation biology throughout southern California. More information about this grant and recipients’ research Nolina micrantha, Photo by projects can be found at www.theabf.org/research. James Michael Heaney
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Construction of a Ger
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Over 30 volunteers joined in the effort to “raise” the four gers near Borrego Palm Canyon campground. The first ger was erected in three and a half hours, a task Mongolians typically accomplish in 30 minutes. Incredibly, all materials needed to set up a ger (image at top left) can be packed onto a single camel’s back when the nomadic Mongolians relocate. Photos by Linda Tandle and Martha Baker. No. 66 • Spring 2010
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Wildlife of Borrego
Palm Canyon Photography by Jeff Young
Lifeless desert? Jeff Young begs to differ. A photographer from San Marcos, Young has captured the wide range of life in the Park’s most popular hiking destination, Borrego Palm Canyon.
Female yearling bighorn sheep Yellow-backed Spiny Lizard
California Tree Frogs No. 66 • Spring 2010
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Big Red Skimmer Dragonfly
Bighorn ewe
Loggerhead Shrike
Peninsular bighorn sheep, ram and ewe
No. 66 • Spring 2010
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A Salute To Our Executive Director by Diana Lindsay, Vice President for Environmental Affairs
For 16 years, ABF’s Executive Director Linda Tandle has faithfully served with enthusiasm and dedication. As she retires from her post, she can proudly reflect on her many accomplishments, leaving the organization poised for a new level of achievement. Linda was first hired in December 1992 as a part-time director of development, serving until August 1994. In July 1995 she was rehired to serve as the Foundation’s first executive director. ABF had no office, no long-range strategic plan and was virtually unknown within the state. Linda’s knowledge and skills completely revamped the way ABF did business and the level of professionalism she brought now defines the organization. Linda’s style stressed the importance of a fully engaged board of trustees. Her emphasis on board development and training reshaped the board and the way Linda Tandle it operates. The efforts of Linda and the board were recognized in 2001 when ABF was awarded the Land Trust Achievement Award. Then in 2003, Anza-Borrego Institute was formed as part of the Foundation and ABF became a Cooperating Association for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. As executive director, one of Linda’s first directives was to develop a positive rapport between ABF and the community. She interfaced with the community and personally participated with community organizations, thereby enhancing the image of the Foundation. As president of the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce, Linda worked to revitalize the community by
developing Borrego Vision Quest, a group of community leaders that created a vision for Borrego Springs’ future and a plan for implementation. The Chamber subsequently received a $50,000 Community Development Block Grant to hire a consultant to develop a marketing plan for the community. Linda also served as president of the local Kiwanis Club and was awarded the Distinguished Service Award in 2000 by Kiwanis International for her outstanding service to the community and Kiwanis. As a result, ABF became a wellrespected organization, not only within Borrego Springs, but also within the state. In 2000, Linda was the recipient of the Public Relations/Nonprofit award for “San Diego Women Who Mean Business,” sponsored by the San Diego Business Journal, and in that same year, the California State Assembly passed a resolution on June 9 stating that she “personifies that which is the very best in community leadership, and she has served as a worthy model for all public-spirited people of the state.” As Linda steps down, she leaves an organization that has made major strides in achieving its objective of making Anza-Borrego Desert State Park whole through the acquisition of large inholdings and in becoming a full partner with the Park as a leading Cooperating Association in California. It is with great appreciation that we thank Linda for all her years of dedication to this organization and we wish her the best in her retirement.
Save bighorn sheep while you work. Workplace Giving. When you donate to Earthshare of California through your workplace giving program, you can support our work to protect bighorn sheep and so much more... Anza-Borrego Foundation acquires land to preserve natural habitat for the endangered
No. 66 • Spring 2010
Peninsular bighorn and hundreds of other rare animals and plants. ABF Institute programs connect nearly 10,000 adults and students to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park® each year. To donate to ABF through Earthshare, United Way or a Federated Campaign, select AnzaBorrego Foundation or enter EIN#33-0334338.
Desert Update
Thank you for your support!
photo by Ernie Cowan
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DESERT CONNECTION INSTITUTE
Anza-Borrego Institute Spring 2010 Schedule of Events Calumet Photo Trek, photo by Katie Cowan
Vallecito Days
March 5 – 7 Vallecito Stage Station County Park Experience what life was like in the 1850’s, in the days of the Overland Mail Route, with demonstrations, reenactments, and more! For details visit www.theabf.org/event Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves March 6, 8 am – 4:30 pm Paul Johnson You won’t want to miss this popular 4WD tour to explore fascinating geological features! Participants will also hike extensively in the mud caves. $45 or $35 for ABF members A Celestial Bucket List (Desert Skies Outdoor Lecture Series) March 6, 7 – 9 pm The heavens are filled with amazing sights you won’t want to miss! Astronomer Dennis Mammana enlightens and inspires us with the mysteries of the cosmos, followed by telescope viewing (weather permitting). Bring blanket and flashlight with red lens or covering to the Nierenberg Plaza at ABDSP Visitor Center. No registration required. Suggested donation $5 Wreckage of Time: The Fish Creek Badlands March 7, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Paul Remeika Explore the fascinating geology of Split Mountain Gorge and Sandstone Canyon. 4WD required. $45 or $35 for ABF members
Desert Connection
Illustrated Nature Journaling March 7, 8 am – 4 pm Phil Roullard and Callie Mack Journaling, especially when enhanced with your own illustrations, can add much to your enjoyment and remembrance of time in nature. Documenting what you see through photography or by creating sketches is something that can be learned by almost anyone, especially under the guidance of skilled, experienced instructors. $45 or $35 for ABF members Hike of the Month: Grapevine Canyon (Rescheduled) March 7, 8 am – 1 pm Mountain lion expert, Mike Puzzo This strenuous hike will explore various canyons within Grapevine Canyon as you learn about our neighbor, the mountain lion. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring leather gloves for off-trail hiking that may require some scrambling. High-clearance vehicles required, 2WD OK. Bring water and snacks/lunch. $10 each
Desert Skies Outdoor Lectures, photo by Dennis Mammana page A
July 23 – August 6, 2010 Join retired ABDSP Superintendent Mark Jorgensen on a two-week tour of the Gobi Desert of Mongolia this summer!
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his all-inclusive adventure will introduce you to the distinctive culture, wildlife, and varied terrain of Mongolia, including remote desert landscapes and Mongolia’s bustling capital, Ulaanbaatar. Tour leader Mark Jorgensen, along with a bilingual guide, will lead you on a variety of hikes, drives, and a river raft float excursion, which explore the Gobi Desert’s wildlife, history, and current research. Most accommodations are in rustic ger (yurt) camps, with very simple facilities. All meals outside of Ulaanbaatar are included.
For ABF members only: $1,995. Price includes airport transfers, but does not include airfare.
Tour Highlights:
Two days in capital city Ulaanbaatar for museums, shopping, and a folk concert. Hotel accommodations
Two nights and days in Hustai National Park for wildlife viewing, including Przewalski Horses. Two nights at Arburd Sands Ger Camp, exploring grasslands and sand dunes, looking for wildlife and visiting a local nomadic family.
Three days and nights in and around Ikh Nart Nature Reserve, AnzaBorrego Desert State Park’s sister park.
Visit a local village on the way to Gun Galuut Nature Reserve, ideal for birdwatching in steppes habitat. Two days and nights at Jalman Meadows
Includes a float trip down the Tuul River on rafts
Register by June 1, 2010. Visit www.theabf.org or call 760-767-4063 for more information. Photos by Steve Bier, Diana Lindsay and Mark Jorgensen
Spring 2010 Events
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Anza-Borrego Institute 2010 Desert Hostel:
Standing Up Country: Arches and Canyonlands September 21-28, 2010 An introduction to the unique and captivating geology found throughout Utah and Arizona
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oin earth scientist Paul Remeika on this fascinating 2-wheel drive trip through the Colorado Plateau’s fantasyland known as “Standing Up Country.” Learn about the breathtaking scenery of the world’s greatest concentration of natural arches at Arches National Park, unparalleled vertical edifices that edge Island in the Sky within Canyonlands National Park, and unreal red rock spires and towers in the land of the Navajo at Monument Valley. Included: 4 nights at the Moab Valley Inn, in Moab, Utah, 2 nights at the San Juan Inn in Mexican Hat, Utah, and 1 night at Marble Canyon Lodge on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona. All rooms are double occupancy with singles available at an additional cost. Also included: breakfasts, lunches, museum fees, state park day-use fees, white-water raft trip, loop drive in Monument Valley, and handout materials. Not included: Dinners, except for our first and last nights, (dinners are not included to allow participants maximum flexibility to choose the foods and portion size they desire.), alcoholic beverages, National Park fees, and transportation. Participants are required to bring their own vehicles and 2WD is OK. Physical difficulty: Most stops will feature informative field study with short hikes to points of interest such as Dead Horse Point, and involve cross-country travel. An additional hike to Delicate Arch is 3 miles roundtrip. Fee: $1210, or $1175 for ABF members. Prices are based on double occupancy. Add $350 for single accommodations. Children over 10 years old welcome. No pets please. Register by July 31, 2010. Visit www.theabf.org or call 760-767-4063 for more information.
All photos courtesy of National Park Service Spring 2010 Events
Program Itinerary
Day 1 serves as an introduction to the Dinosaur Triangle with visits to Copper Ridge and the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail. Other geologic visits include Dead Horse Point, Upheaval Dome, and Grandview Point atop Island in the Sky. Here the northern half of Canyonlands National Park features incredible geologic terrain. Days 2 and 3 are dedicated to Moab’s scenic back country of Castle Valley and Arches National Park. Witness red rock strata weathered into a netherland of delicate arches, fins, castles, balanced rocks, and hoodoos. Hikes to Landscape Arch and Delicate Arch are a must-do. continued on page D
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Anza-Borrego Institute 2010 Desert Hostel:
Program Itinerary continued from page C
Day 4 is a soaking wet and smiling half-day whitewater rafting adventure through Professor Valley on the Fisher Towers section of the Colorado River east of Moab, Utah. Towering sandstone walls, exhilarating waves, and fun on the river are guaranteed for all. Day 5 will be a scenic travel day into the southern half of Canyonlands National Park. Stops at the Needles and Anticline Overlooks, with drops of 1,500-2,000 feet, overlook the Colorado River. Another point of interest is Newspaper Rock where prehistoric inscriptions are carved into sandstone cliffs.
Day 6 will complete a geologic orientation of the area west of upended Combs Ridge. Traveling on dirt roads through Valley of the Gods, we’ll then head out to Muley Point Overlook, and the natural wonders at the Goosenecks of the San Juan River. Day 7 is a delightful drive along Trail of the Ancients to Natural Bridges National Monument. Hikes to some of the largest natural bridges in the world wil be geologically rewarding. A free afternoon allows further exploration of the upper end of Lake Powell via ferry boat. Day 8 will be a scenic travel day to Marble Canyon Lodge with a loop drive through unspoiled Monument Valley. Time-permitting, an afternoon hike out to the steep walls of Horseshoe Bend overlooking Glen Canyon and the Colorado River is always a thrilling experience. Our day ends at Marble Canyon with our famous barbeque at the historic lodge.
Spring 2010 Schedule of Events continued from page A
Hike of the Month: Harper Cabin March 13, 8 am – 3 pm Mark Jorgensen, Strenuous Hike to the old Harper brothers’ cabin with retired superintendent, Mark Jorgensen as your guide. Meet at Tamarisk Grove campground parking lot. Advanced registration required. $10 each Hollywood in Borrego March 14, 8 am – 4 pm, Fred Jee See clips of movies shot in Borrego, and travel to locations, primarily in the southern part of the Park, where scenes were filmed. $45 or $35 for ABF members Boat Tour through Picacho March 14, 9 am – 4 pm, Robin Greene Our popular jet boat tour on the lower Colorado River is back, enhanced by more paddling opportunities to experience the river up-close and Spring 2010 Events
personal! Trip meets just north of Yuma. Space is limited. $150 or $125 for ABF members Festival of Hawks March 19 – 20 The Borrego Valley Hawkwatch counts more spring Swainson’s Hawks than any other site in North America. It’s possible to see 500 hawks in one day! Be a part of science in action: Join counters at the Evening Hawkwatch Site on Borrego Valley Road (1.5 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive) one hour before sunset. To catch morning “lift-off”, plan to arrive at the Morning Count Site on DiGiorgio Road (2.3 miles north of Palm Canyon Road) between 8-9 am. While the peak of hawk migration through the Borrego Valley is often mid-March, counts are variable and observers will be present at both sites through April 15.
Desert Connection
Wildflower Walks ABF and members of AnzaBorrego Desert Botany Society will lead tours to the best display areas throughout the bloom. Join us! • Tuesday, March 9 • Wednesday, March 10 • Thursday, March 11 • Friday, March 12 • Tuesday, March 16 • Wednesday, March 17 All walks are 9 – 11:30 am. Meet at ABF’s State Park Store. $5 each. Be sure to check our website or call 760-767-4063 for additional dates. photo by Judy Kramer
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Festival of Hawks, photo by LeRoy Dorman Hawkwatch Lecture: What’s Going On in Our Valley? March 20, 2 pm Borrego Springs Library Community Room Hawkwatch organizer Hal Cohen explains what we are learning about these amazing birds that journey 7,000 miles every year, and why they are stopping off in Borrego Springs!
Calumet Photo Trek
March 26 (evening) and 27 (all day) Ernie Cowan Photo seminar through AnzaBorrego Desert State Park. Contact Calumet Escondido for details: 760-737-6002 or www.calumetphoto.com Flowering Plants of Higher Elevations March 27, 9 am – 4 pm Michael Wangler This session focuses on the recognition and identification of flowering plants found at higher elevations within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. $45 or $35 for ABF members
Borrego Birders
• First Monday of every month, 8 am • New leader and destination every month • Meet at Christmas Circle • No charge photo by Eric Kallen Spring 2010 Events
Why Are There Wildflowers? March 27, 7:30 pm Dr. Michael Wall Everyone loves flowers... now learn the other half of the pollination story – how insects have colored the desert – from the San Diego Natural History Museum Curator of Entomology. Lectures take place at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. No registration required. A $5 donation is suggested.
Why Are There Wildflowers, photo by J. Rebman Fossil Treasures of Anza-Borrego April 3, 7:30 pm Dr. George Jefferson and Lowell Lindsay Learn about the tremendous variety of life forms that populated this area long before it was a desert! Lectures take place at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. No registration required. A $5 donation is suggested. Hike of the Month: Lower Willows April 11, 7:30 am Paul Jorgensen, Moderate Hike through Lower Willows to spot migrating warblers and other wildlife. Meet in front of the State Park Store in Borrego Springs. $10 each
Desert Connection
California Overland offers off-road excursions on special wildflower routes to beautiful, remote locations throughout the spring bloom. Half-day tours are $85 or $70 for ABF members. Visit www.californiaoverland.com or call 760-767-1232 for more information.
Characters and Stories Along the Southern Immigrant Trail
April 17, 10 am – 5 pm Diana Lindsay Travel back in time aboard a California Overland excursion vehicle to historic areas of the southern part of the Park. Includes lunch and Lindsay’s book, Marshal South & the Ghost Mountain Chronicles.Visit Marshal South www.californiaoverland.com or call 760-767-1232 for more information. $90 or $75 for ABF members. For additional information and online registration, visit
www.theabf.org
Thanks to our Institute sponsors!
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ABF Film Honored at Environmental Festival This year, the Anza-Borrego Back in the early 1980s, California Foundation film, A Year in the Desert: planned to dam the Yuba River Anza-Borrego – produced for the as it flowed through Park’s renovated Visitor Center – Sierra County – was an Official Festival Selection, only to face and was screened in mid-January grassroots before an enthusiastic audience. opposition from During the film’s introduction, the South Yuba filmmakers Chris Pyle and Nicholas River Citizen’s Clapp noted that, though originally League (SYRCL), an intended to illustrate the wonder organization with and mystery of our desert, the film goals and a tenacious had served an unexpected purpose. spirit much like AnzaOn the eve of the decision as to Borrego Foundation. In the film: a mountain lion cub whether many state parks would be The SYRCL battled on discovered by a team from the closed due to budget cuts, the film and didn’t let up until Wildlife Health Center, UC Davis. was hand-delivered to every state 39 critical miles of watershed and river gained federal protection with a Wild and Scenic legislator, poignantly showing all that would be lost to the public if the Park were shuttered. River designation. This victorious effort, in turn, inspired a modest, A Year in the Desert: Anza Borrego was further honored by its inclusion in a national, 90-site Best-of-Festival home-grown film festival. Little did its organizers know that, in just eight tour. years, the Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival [The film is currently offered as a gift to new and renewing would become the largest and most respected event of members. Visit www.theabf.org/support to join or renew and receive your copy of the DVD.] its kind in the United States.
5th Grade Environmental Education Camp Receives Numerous Grants Anza-Borrego Foundation’s 5th Grade Environ- environmental education camps give 5th grade students mental Education Camp has received a $10,000 grant intimate contact with the natural and cultural resources from The Heller Foundation of San Diego at Union of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. More than 1,500 Bank, a $5,000 grant from The students have attended camp Foster Family Foundation, since the pilot year in 2004, a $2,000 grant from H. Fort and gained an appreciation Flowers Foundation, and a for nature, scientific study, $20,000 grant from the Desert and the physical and mental Protective Council. The grants benefits of nature recreation. will help support intensive Since 2004, Anza-Borrego hands-on environmental Foundation (ABF) has conscience learning opportunities ducted camp sessions for approximately 300 urban entirely free of charge for 5th and rural students from San grade underserved students, Diego and Imperial Counties where most are eligible for this Spring. free lunch programs and “ABF is most appreciative rarely get recreational opporof these foundations’ generous tunities in wild nature. investment in our program. Campers head up the trail to explore in Borrego Palm In addition to their grants With their support, we are Canyon’s oasis. for the 2009-10 school year, shaping a new generation of conservation ambassadors The Heller Foundation, The Foster Family Foundation, to care for the Anza-Borrego Desert’s fragile resources,” H. Fort Flowers Foundation and the Desert Protective said ABF’s Institute Manager, Sally Theriault. Council have also provided generous funding for As mentioned in our cover article, the three-day previous camp sessions. No. 66 • Spring 2010
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Anza-Borrego Blooms
Deset Sand Verbena (pink) and Dune Evening Primrose (white), photo by Judy Kramer
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Above center, Brittlebush, photo by Deborah Knapp
Beavertail cactus, photo by Judy Kramer
f you’re lucky enough to be in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in the spring, look for these commonly spotted flowers and cacti. If the weather is starting to heat up, head for the hills to catch higher-elevation blooms before they’re gone. Right, Brown-eyed Primrose, photo by Judy Kramer
Far right, Cholla cactus, photo by Sam Webb
Desert Lily, photo by Judy Kramer No. 66 • Spring 2010
Desert Sunflower, photo by Deborah Knapp
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The Secret Life of the Smoke Tree By Gail Sevrens, District Services Manager
his is the desert. There is nothing out here. tiny leaves that appear only after a fall or winter Nothing.” — N. Karavasiles, on a plaque marking rain. So how, then, is the smoke tree able to carry out the intersection of the Anzaphotosynthesis? Borrego and Yuha deserts. Like some of its desert It usually takes a moment cousins in the pea family, to understand why the the smoke tree uses its stems smoke tree (Psorothamnus to photosynthesize. The spinosus) is so named. But, greenish tinge to the stems after a second glance at of many of these relatives, the trees scattered down a such as the palo verde, is sandy desert wash, you will evidence of the chlorophyll notice that the trees really do p re s e n t. T h e sm o k e t re e , resemble puffs of smoke. however, has gray stems You may b e temp ted that contribute to the blueto m o v e o n . A f t e r a l l , gray smoky illusion. h o w e x c i t i n g i s a bush The smoke tree packs Photo by Sam Webb that looks half-dead? Isn’t it another shocker, one most time for the more spectacular fields visitors to the desert never see: raging of wildflower blooms? purple blooms cover the tree’s boughs But like many other desert for several days in late May to early dwellers — and the desert itself — July — not exactly peak tourist season looks can be deceiving, and smoke here in Anza-Borrego Desert State trees are full of surprises. Park. When the petals fall and coat the Plants make a living through ground like spent cherry blossoms, photosynthesis. For most plants an ant hole is likely to appear nearby, photosynthesis is carried out in the down which the apparently tasty leaves, which take in sunlight and flowers disappear. There is nothing like carbon dioxide and convert that this explosion of summer color on the Photo by Franz Boschiero energy to sugars the plants can use. ephemeral looking trees to epitomize In the desert, this strategy faces a big problem: the the subtle secrets of the desert. larger the leaf surface available for photosynthesis, the So, after the spring wildflower blooms have faded more precious moisture is lost from the plant. (and the crowds have departed), venture back to Anza Desert plants adapt to deal with this water loss Borrego Desert State Park to experience the smoke trees in various ways; some leaves sport waxy coatings in bloom. And remember, there is more to the desert to seal in moisture, others, like the smoke tree, have than what meets the eye.
All “Ger-ed” Up
continued from page 1 never have considered. Camp Borrego provides maintenance workers, Jim Dascoulias, Dave Robarts, students with opportunities for team building and and Greg Johnson, who prepared the site to ADA positive self-growth, as they connect with nature and (Americans with Disabilities Act) specifications. SDG&E their classmates. generously donated anchors to help ensure ger stability In addition to offering shelter, the gers offer during high winds. opportunities to educate students and the public about Anza-Borrego Foundation would like to thank nomadic cultures and adaptations made for living in Mark Jorgensen for his leadership in this effort, and extreme climates throughout the world. ABDSP and its ABDSP’s new Superintendent Kathy Dice for her sister park, Ikh Nart Nature Reserve in the Gobi Desert, continuing support, as well as the many volunteers deal with similar challenges and rely on each other as a who have given so much time to make this happen. We resource and support. also express our utmost gratitude to all of our donors, This unique addition to our Fifth Grade Camp including The Foster Family and H. Ford Flowers program would not have been possible without the Foundations, and Senator Denise Ducheny and her hard work and dedication of Colorado Desert District husband Al, for their support of the Fifth Grade Camp Maintenance Chief Jason Duke and his team of park program, year after year. No. 66 • Spring 2010
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New Members – November 1, 2009 – January 15, 2010 Aurelia Adams Steven and Nanci Adler Mona Anderson Jesse Ariza Allison Atkinson and Brian Maxson Jakob and Xia Zhso Axelsson Martin Banks Susan Bazell Denny and Sally Becker Shirley Berry Roma Blanchet Thomas E. Boyle Rhonda and Mike Bradbury Tom Bradner Elaine Briggs Caryn and Gary Burger John Campbell Ken and Bev Carrier Ross and Mary Carroll Franklin and Vada Chapel Min Chu Ned and Kathy Clark John Clements Sandra Cohen
ABF welcomes our new members!
Maureen Corrigan and Jim Russell Brooke Crothers Jean Davis Catherine Deshayes and Robert Chavez Professor Pamela Diggle Molly Donovan and Jeff Hoffman Patrick Donovan and Emilynda Clomera Dale Douglass Rebecca Duckworth and Stephen Ross Elaine Duguette Gerald and Ruth Ehly Jack Ellwanger Judy Farneth Rusty K. Farrell Ted Fautz Tony Feathers Katherine R. Francesca John and Sandra Franklin Karen and Ken Freeman Jennifer Guthrie
Virginia Hales Lilla Hangay James Hannen Joyce and C.W. Harrison Anne Charlotte and Michael Harvey LaRae and David Hayes Don and Jane Helminiak Steve and Tilly Hoard Kathie Horman Charles Houser Ronald A. Howard Julian Hurt M.D. and Myra Hurt V. Starr Hutchison Janice Jones and Sally Rosen Adam R. Kimmerly Graeme Kinsey David Klindienst Don and Joy Knight Marcia Knutt Mark Koons John Lane Sally Lawson Suzann Leininger
Dr. Gerald A. and Grace Lieberman Raymond A. Lonser Henry Louria Jr. Richard Luben and Ameae Walker Barry Martin S. Helene Martin Yaeko Masuchi Dr. Pamela McEvoy Lane and Elaine McVey William Modesitt Marilyn Moskowitz John and Ceena Negrych Bryan O’Leary John and Karen Poole Forest Quinlan Kurt and Nancy Rademacher Judy Ramirez Mr. Robamato Alex and Rebecca Ross Thomas Sanders Dr. Jim Schultz Daniel H. Schumann
Jack and Joanne Sims Richard and Anne Sipe Richard Smedstad and Larry Birkett Mark Smith Michael L. Smith Deena and Kent Staar Carol Stradley Joe W. Strow Jr. Alice Sundberg Swedlund Properties Tim Swift Mari Thygesen Ty and Julie Tybout Anna-Marie Updegraff Phil and Karen Van Horn Lynne Vasquez Robert C. Victor Betty Wallin and Donald Sweinhart Lisa Walswick Jerry and Brenda Watkins Bruce and Thera Woodruff David Worthy
Donations – November 1, 2009 – January 15, 2010 ABF thanks all of the following for their generous support. 5th Grade Camp Program H. Fort Flowers Foundation The Foster Family Private Foundation The Heller Foundation of San Diego at Union Bank Mark M. Jackson Deborah Knapp (in memory of Bob Cassidy) Herb and Irene Lagois Bird Fund Herb Stone Desert Connection Paul Johnson and Sonja Lane The Springs at Borrego General Operating 41 Pounds.org Greenwave Strategies Marty Allenby (in honor of H.A. Allenby) Marty Allenby (in honor of Leighton T. Allenby) Marty Allenby (in honor of Mark Albert) Marty Allenby (in honor of Peter Allenby) Marty Allenby (in honor of R.G. Allenby) Alliance Consulting International American Legion Post #20 Christopher M. Anderson Anonymous James and Louise Arnold Hamp Atkinson
No. 66 • Spring 2010
Russell Avery James Barnes Philip R. Behrends Ruth and Roy Belzer Mark and Cynthia Bender Larry E. Bennett Jeff Black Kathy and Stefen Boehme Prof. Dr. Edith F. Borie Homer L. Bosserman E.J. and Stacie Brandreth Janet Brecht Colin Brown William J. Bryan Thomas Buhler Clifford and Kathleen Burt (in honor of Cliff Schumacher) Jackie and James Caffee Bob and Anita Caplan Shirley and Webb Cate Samuel and Darlene Chirman David Clapp and Gayle Barsamian Nicholas and Bonnie Clapp Grace A. Clark Bruce Clegg Frank and Barbara Coates David and Edna Colwell Steve and Carolyn Conner Bill and Virginia Cooperrider Harry and Joanne Crosby Lauren Crux Dr. Pedro and Carol Cuatrecasas Dr. Earl Curtis J. Michael Deasy Janet M. Dellaria Karen and Tony DeLorenzo Desert Trails Hiking Club Daniel and Violet Devoe
Jim and Kathy Dice (in memory of Harriet Allen) David and Helen Dichek Marilyn Dickson Patricia K. DiGiorgio Elaine Diner Manfred and Elisabeth Dittmann Alex and Merry Draffan Bill Draper Brad and Micki Dutenhoeffer Jeanette Dutton Duane and Patricia Ebbert Joel S. Edstrom and Margaret I. Adams Bernard Eggertsen and Florence Nemkov Lee Elster Carl and Patti Emerich Bob and Suzanne Emery David and Peg Engel Rupert Essinger and Christen Powell-Essinger John and Beate Evey F1 Key Foundation Chris C. Farnsworth and Kathleen C. Day Kathy Farrelly Ted Fautz Susan Forsburg and Lisa Churchill Robert and Sharon Fritz Rosemary Gaeta Catherine Gay Robert Gerhard Garry and Valerie Gibson Frank J. Goebels and Renee Brinkman John and Jo Golcher Judd and Faye Goldfeder Gary and Jana Goodwin
Desert Update
Eloise Gore and Allen Hile Jeremy and Maureen Gorman Steven Grady and Joan Warren-Grady Sinda Gregory and Larry McCaffery Patti Del Guercio Rick, Tory and Luke Gulley Thomas and Peggy Hall Ellen Hamilton Tom Hamilton and Carin Dugowson Dan and Shelley Hammer Gwen and Rolland Hammerness Virginia Hammerness Walter K. Harrison Chuck and Tootie Hatch Ross and Kay Henry Jackie Hider Rose Hingeley Nancy and Bill Homeyer David Hurwitz and Rebecca Smith Ted Jackson Gary and Marty Jacobson Victoria and David James Elizabeth A. Javens Lydia Louise and Fred Jee (in memory of Nee Lim Jee) Jeanne Johnstone and George Jefferson Dave and Gail Jones Jeffrey Jones Samy and Hedi Kamienowicz Gerald and Nancy Kibbey Mr. & Mrs. Ken King Janet and John Kister
Larry and Pat Klaasen Laurel Klein Bob and Barbara Kleist Dave and Lou Klindienst Dr. Arie Korporaal Ray and Lucy Larson Mark and Noriko Lawless Thomas F. Lennon Larry and Karen Leonardson Cornelia Lieb-Lundell Robin Lillyreed and Joseph Lilly Diana and Lowell Lindsay (in memory of Nee Lim Jee) Diana and Lowell Lindsay (in memory of Jay Von Werlhof) John Liponi Doug and Karen Lister Lt. Col. R. L. Llewellyn III, USMC Ret. Lyn Loerke Kathleen Loewy Bonnie Loizos Clapp Delores and Wally Lukina (in memory of Nee Lim Jee) Brian and Celia Lux Callie Mack and Phil Roullard Kenneth and Susan Maehler Stan and Ann Magagnosc Frank and Jean Mallory Elizabeth Martin Donna Matson Thomas Mauldin (in memory of Robert Clark)
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ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Non Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 17 San Diego, CA
Anza-Borrego Foundation P.O. Box 2001 Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (760) 767-0446 www.theabf.org
Donations – November 1, 2009 – January 15, 2010 Bucky and Colleen Maurin George and Rosemary McDaniel, Jr. Frederick McDavitt Bertha McKinley Susan McLaughlin Joan and Joe McNamara Carrie McNeil Martha McPhail Pat McReynolds Gordon and Trudy Melvin Dan Mercola and Eileen Adamson Christine R. Miller Lee Miller Dr. Robert and Anne Morrison Robert W. Muldrew Sanjiv Nanda and Urmi Ray Curtis Nelson and Annette Seppanen Eugenie Newton David and Ann Nunez Bryan O’Leary Christine Lee Oler PGE Lore Parker and Charles Lough Robert and Catherine Parks James and Nancy Pearson Frank and Deanne Pedroni John David and Mary Yankee Peters John Peterson and Jennifer Gwynne
No. 66 • Spring 2010
Daniel Porter Georgia Prior Danielle Putnam Larry and Peggy Puzzo Gene and Ann Rasmussen Lynn and Harry Rhodes Anthony Richards Norman Roberts Estate Ken and Jan Robinson Catherine Rose Mary Rosenfeld Briana Ross James W. Royle Laura Rupp Louise Russell Stephen and Teresa SanFilippo Jack and Kathleen Saucier Ann H. Sayre Greg Scharf Steven and Brenda Schick Richard Schilk and Mary Olander Sanford and Joan Schneider Tim and Nancy Sexton Joanie and Dave Shannon Clark and Eleanor Shimeall Dolores and Jack Siegel Jeanne Siegel Ralph Singer and Lou Bahar Jon Sirkis James C. Skelton Adam Smalley and Diane P. Strong
Fritz F. Smith MD and Aminah Raheem PhD Gerould H. Smith James A. Smith James H. Smith Teri G. Smith Donald J. Stang John Steele George and Lucy Steers Tom and Christine Stemnock Lem and Louise Stepherson Cynthia Stribling and Paul Webb Georgia and Michael Stroud Alene and Frank Stuart Sunbelt Publications Dan and Katie Sullivan Melvin and Ellen Sweet Gary and Carol Szytel Linda Tandle (in memory of Nee Lim Jee) Barbara and Daniel Tartre Don Tellez Peter Thomas Homer and Tina Townsend Carol and John Tyrrell Dave and Mary Van Cleve John E. Venton Steve and Kelly Vitt Bill Walker Elizabeth Wall Albert Walter Neal and Coleen Walters
Desert Update
Addis and Bev Ward Marian Warwick Judith Waterman George and Anne Watts Michael Weber Jean P. Wehren Mikel Weinberg M.D. and Betzi Roe Weinberg Mike Wells and Marie Simovich Heidi West R. Michael West Catherine and Garrett Westover Michael White and Jerre Stallcup Gail Williams Kate and George Willis Kirsten Winter and Charles Vantassel Eldon and Marilyn Winterbourne Peter and Donna Worcester Rusty and Deanna Young Fran Zajac and Barb Peterson Edward and Bonnie Zeranski Richard and Lynne Zinsley Richard Zundel In-Kind Martha Baker Denis Hunsinger Brett Kirkman and Bill Linda Tandle Wendy Youngren
Land Acquisition James Bauer Bill Bookheim Janene Colby Gail Ellestad William and Sally Hawes Hermosa Garden Club Miriam Lakritz Cora Long (in honor of Cora Steffen) Mike and Sue Mahoney Jerald Heschel and Mary Morgan Greg and Frances Penkowsky Dennis and Debra Stanger Paleontology Fund CRM TECH Dr. Robert and Patricia Gerdsen Ralph and Rosalie Webb Photo Contest Calumet Photographic Inc. Oceanside Photo and Telescope Wier Memorial Grant David Weston Wendy Youngren
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