EcoNews Vol. 43, No. 4 - Aug/Sept 2013 by EcoNews

Over 40 Years of Environmental News

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Arcata, California

Vol. 43, No. 4 Aug/Sept 2013

 R Published by the Northcoast Environmental Center Since 1971

Remembering

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1385 8th Street - Suite 226, Arcata, CA 95521 PO Box 4259, Arcata, CA 95518 707- 822-6918, Fax 707-822-6980 www.yournec.org

EcoNews is the official bi-monthly publication of the Northcoast Environmental Center (NEC), a non-profit organization. Third class postage paid in Arcata. ISSN No. 0885-7237. EcoNews is mailed to our members and distributed free throughout the Northern California and Southern Oregon bioregion. The subscription rate is $35 per year. Editor/Layout/Web: Morgan Corviday, morgan@yournec.org Advertising: ads@yournec.org Proofreaders: Karen Schatz and Midge Brown Writers: Sid Dominitz, Morgan Corviday Hollis, Dan Ehresman, Sarah Marnick, Dan Sealy, Jennifer Kalt, Jessica Hall, Brandon Drucker, Scott Greacen, Hezekiah Allen, Dan Equinoss, Maggie Gainer, Gary Graham Hughes Tom Stokely, Todd Rowe. Cover Photo: Jennifer Kalt Artist: Terry Torgerson

The ideas and views expressed in EcoNews are not necessarily those of the NEC.

NEC Staff NEC Executive Director: Dan Ehresman, dan@yournec.org Office Assistant: Brandon Drucker, brandon@yournec.org Office Assistant: Alanna Cottrell, alanna@yournec.org

Board Of Directors Safe Alternatives for our Forest Environment- Larry Glass, President, larryglass71@gmail.com At-Large, Trinity County Rep.- Bob Morris, Vice-President, bob.morris@wildblue.net At-Large - Chris Jenican Beresford, Treasurer, thegang7@pacbell.net California Native Plant SocietyJennifer Kalt, Secretary, jenkalt@gmail.com Humboldt Baykeeper-Jessica Hall, jessica@humboldtbaykeeper.org Redwood Region Audubon SocietyCJ Ralph, theralphs@humboldt1.com Sierra Club, North Group Richard Kreis, rgkreis@gmail.com Friends of the Eel River- Scott Greacen, scott@eelriver.org At-Large - Dan Sealy, rangerdans@msn.com

News From the Center

A couple of weeks ago I had the honor of attending a meeting organized by the Seventh Generation Fund for Indigenous Peoples on the theme of protecting the Rights of Mother Earth. The meeting was called to strategize how to elevate the issue in our community, and in local politics. One connection that became immediately apparent to me was that at a local level there have been a lot of discussions about rights— water rights, human rights, and property rights—but all of those “rights” point towards one particular species: Homo sapiens. On the topic of Humboldt County’s belabored General Plan Update, we have for years been hearing a lot of buzz about protecting “property rights” but no one to my knowledge had specifically broached the issue of protecting the rights of our living planet. It does not seem like an exaggeration to say that so many of the problems we face today have at the root of them our collective failure to think about the systems of which we are all part, and assess how our actions (positive and negative)

NEC Member Groups Humboldt Baykeeper

www.humboldtbaykeeper.org 707-268-0664

Sierra Club,North Group, Redwood Chapter

www.redwood.sierraclub.org/north/

California Native Plant Society North Coast Chapter www.northcoastcnps.org

Redwood Region Audubon Society www.rras.org, rras@rras.org

Friends of the Eel River

www.eelriver.org, foer@eelriver.org 707-822-3342

Safe Alternatives for our Forest Environment (SAFE)

Dan Ehresman, Executive Director

ripple out to the rest of the world. At the time of this writing, over 30,000 acres of forest are burning in Northern California a n d Southern

Oregon in what is shaping up to be one of the worst fire seasons in a decade. Water levels in our region’s rivers are worryingly low, temperatures continue to climb, and there is no rain in the forecast—a grim

outlook for record returns of salmon. Reports also continue to come in about the most recent busts of illegal marijuana grows on public lands where forests have been hacked, watercourses diverted, and highly toxic biocides have been dumped—resulting in the death of uncounted fish and wildlife. Other regions of the globe are facing similarly grim realities at the hands of climate change and resource abuse. All of this is not to say we are doomed; it is to directly call attention to some very deep challenges so we can face them together; tending to our roles both individually and as part of an interconnected, living planet. Here at the NEC, we are so grateful for such an amazing network of volunteers, members and supporters. The contributions that are coming in as part of our summer fund appeal give a tremendous boost to the work we are engaging in. A huge thanks to all who have sent in their gifts of support. For those who have not yet responded to our appeal, please consider doing so now. Help us reach our goal of an additional $5,000 by September 1.

Leave a North Coast Legacy Give a gift that will endure beyond your lifetime. Leave a lasting legacy by naming the Northcoast Environmental Center as a beneﬁciary of your will, trust, or other estate plans.

Your bequest will help us advocate for and educate about the North Coast and the KlamathSiskiyou bioregion for future generations. To learn more, call us at 707-822-6918. The NEC is a 501(c)(3) not-for-proﬁt organization, EIN 23-7122386.

www.safealt.org

NEC Affiliate Members Environmental Protection Information Center (EPIC)

www.wildcalifornia.org, epic@wildcalifornia.org 707-822-7711

Friends of Del Norte www.fodn.org

Mattole Restoration Council www.mattole.org, mrc@mattole.org (707) 629-3514

Zero Waste Humboldt

www.zerowastehumboldt.org contact@zerowastehumboldt.org

Adopt-a-Beach

Be a part of our growing team of site captains and volunteers! Visit our website for more information and a list of available sites.

www.yournec.org/marinedebris/adoptabeach

Congressional Courage

The NEC would also like to offer our sincere gratitude to 2nd District Representative Jared Huffman for his leadership on issues that affect our treasured North Coast. In April, Congressman Huffman introduced the California Coastal National Monument Expansion Act of 2013 (H.R. 1411) which would expand the California Coastal National Monument by 1,255 acres through the addition of Mendocino County’s Point ArenaStornetta Public Lands. The bill would also add 10 miles to the California Coastal Trail and protect two miles of the Garcia River, which provides critical habitat for salmon and steelhead. After making its way quickly through committee, the United States House of Representatives voted to pass the bill on July 22. The next hurdle it faces is the US Senate where Senators Feinstein and Boxer have introduced companion legislation. We’d also like to thank Congressmembers Huffman, Mike Thompson and George Miller for calling on the Interior Department to honor and utilize Humboldt County’s 50,000 acre-feet of water from the Trinity Reservoir to increase flows in the Klamath River and avoid a massive fish kill such as the one witnessed in the fall of 2002. At the NEC, we are proud to stand with so many others to demand that the Department take immediate action to prevent another senseless environmental, economic, and cultural disaster.

Bouquets

Scandalous NCRA Anti-Trail Coup d’Etat Here at the NEC we work to be collaborative even with folks with whom we do not necessarily see eye-to-eye. However, there are some individuals who take such extreme measures that we would be doing a disservice to the world if we did not take a moment to call them on their abuses of power. In the spirit of working to uphold the public good, we are hereby presenting our first ever “Pie in the Face” award to Eureka City Council member Mike Newman. At the last Mayor’s City Selection Committee, in a vote that was nothing short of a scandalous power-play, Mike Newman played a pivotal role in ousting recently appointed NCRA Board member Alex Stillman who supported a “Rail with Trail” vision for Humboldt County and replacing her with a purported “Rail First” candidate, Fortuna mayor Doug Strehl. It should be noted that Newman was standing in (for reasons unclear) for Eureka Mayor Frank Jager who had been the deciding vote in favor of Stillman at the previous Selection Committee meeting. It seems quite likely that a behindclosed-doors shakeup from rail-first extremists was reason enough to overturn the initial decision. We should point out that Mike Newman, along with three of his fellow Eureka City Council members, are up for reelection in 2014.

An up-cycled beach debris bouquet to Brandon Drucker for stepping up so valiantly at the Center and proving invaluable in helping to coordinate Coastal Cleanup efforts during the short-staffed summer months. A vibrant, well-planned native plant bouquet to Martha Spencer for enduring many years of contentious Planning Commission meetings, keeping focused on the task at hand with a kind smile through it all. A QuickBooks bouquet to Anita Gilbride-Read for stepping in to do our bookkeeping while our treasurer, Chris, was out travelling for the last 2 1/2 months. We could not have managed without her assistance. Anita has agreed to continue doing this for the NEC, so she gets a second special bouquet as well! Thank you, Anita!

EcoNews

Aug/Sept 2013

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Klamath Fish Kill? Twin Tunnels Trouble for North Coast Kin to the Earth: Mel McKinney Fracking in California Scheduled Hearing for Guiding Principles Action Alert! Ban Rodenticides All Species Parade Eye on Washington Coastal Cleanup Day is Coming! INSERT: Sandpiper Zero Waste Humboldt Humboldt Baykeeper Friends of the Eel River EPIC Mattole Restoration Council Sierra Club, North Group California Plant Native Society Creature Feature: California Condor Eco-Mania Kids’ Page: Caddisflies

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We want to hear from you!

An origami bouquet of decadesold newspaper to Todd Rowe for his great work on the EcoNews Archive project and for being such an upstanding, upbeat intern. A bouquet to the Arcata City Council and staff—in particular to Julie Neander, Karen Diemer and Mark Andre—for their working to minimize trash on our beaches by moving forward on a Plastic Bag Ban, for their help towards a Eureka Community Forest, and for their leadership on the Humboldt Bay Trail.

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Send your letters and comments by mail: EcoNews Editor PO Box 4259, Arcata 95518 by email: editor@yournec.org or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/yournec

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Water Conditions on the Klamath Signal Another Fish Kill

Dan Ehresman In September of 2002, there was an unprecedented nightmare on the Klamath River— water levels bottomed out, river temperatures rose, and tens of thousands of salmon perished. Their corpses floating in fetid pools and rotting on river bars painted a vivid picture of an ecological, economic, and cultural disaster that could have been prevented. The fish kill of 2002 was the result of two years of drought coupled with decades of resource mismanagement, disastrous water policies, and strong-arm tactics by Central Valley irrigators. Fast-forward to present day and, some 11 years later, we are facing yet another catastrophic die-off on the Klamath—only this year it could be worse. Record numbers of Chinook salmon, which are a mainstay for local tribes and fishing communities, are feeding off the ocean’s bounty in preparation

for their fall return to historic spawning grounds in the region’s rivers. Coho salmon and steelhead are also expected to return in significant numbers. At present, as with the summer of 2002, water levels on the Klamath are dangerously low, and temperatures are rising. While no measurable amount of rain is projected for the near future, there does seem to be a glimmer of hope in the possible release of more water from the Trinity Reservoir to Two years of drought coupled with decades of resource mismanagement resulted in a attempt to avert disaster mass fish kill on the Klamath River in 2002. Photos: Tim McKay. on the Lower Klamath and 50,000 acre-feet of water from the Trinity Reservoir Trinity Rivers. At the urging of the Hoopa Valley to further augment river flows. Tribe and numerous other stakeholders, the US Unfortunately Central Valley irrigators are yet Bureau of Reclamation has stated the intent to again putting pressure on the Interior Department release 67,000 acre-feet from the Trinity and and Bureau of Reclamation to favor the special Lewiston reservoirs to augment late-summer flows. interests of a few mega-farms over the needs of an Even though this coldwater release may provide immeasurably important fishery and the people significant benefit to Trinity and Lower Klamath who depend on it. In a July 11 letter, the San Luis fisheries, there are many who question whether & Delta-Mendota Water Authority and Westlands it will be enough. Klamath River advocates are Water District stated their intent to sue should the joining with Congressmembers Jared Huffman, Bureau move forward with the release. Mike Thompson, and George Miller in calling on The coming days are critical to the immediate the US Department of the Interior to honor and future of the Klamath salmon. It is imperative that utilize Humboldt County’s contractually allotted people take action and urge the Interior Department to stand their ground with the industrial ag lobby and release not only the 67,000 acre-feet, but Humboldt County’s allotted water as well to protect these great fish and those who depend upon them. If successful, this may very well avert catastrophe on the Lower Klamath and the Trinity River. However, this is only a short-term fix to a fraction of the watershed. There are varied, complex issues that threaten the Klamath Basin as a whole. From severe groundwater-pumping on the Scott River and water-intensive agriculture in the Upper Klamath Basin and Central Valley, there is a big river to swim before we reach a time when human activities throughout the Basin are in balance with the needs of the rest of its residents. Although there is still debate on how we get there, there is little argument that one major step towards recovery of the Klamath watershed as a whole is the removal of the four dams that have for decades been impediments to river flows and fish passage. Let us use the foreboding conditions we face in this time of extreme temperatures and low flows to serve as the catalyst for collaboration that leads to a Klamath River that flows wild and free.

It is time to Un-Dam the Klamath!

www.yournec.org

Aug/Sept 2013

EcoNews

Twin Tunnels are Trouble for North Coast Rivers

Van Duzen, Trinity, Klamath and Smith Rivers as state Wild and Scenic Governor Brown’s Twin Tunnels Project will Rivers, putting them off limits to new adversely affect the Trinity and Klamath Rivers dams. These North Coast rivers were and has the potential to result in de-designation incorporated into the federal Wild and of North Coast Wild and Scenic Rivers, Scenic River system by former Interior including the Eel River. Secretary Cecil Andrus in 1980. The Twin Tunnels are part of the Bay Delta It is not unreasonable to assume Conservation Plan, an initiative that purportedly that California’s North Coast rivers, will restore the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta especially the Eel, could be deand protect water supplies from Delta levee designated as Wild and Scenic if the failure due to earthquakes and sea level rise. Twin Tunnels are built. The tunnels will The scheme calls for spending billions of dollars need MORE water than the amounts to “restore” Delta fish and wildlife habitat that currently exist in order to make and build two 35-mile-long tunnels 150 feet the project pay. As a result, Dos Rios under the Delta to export freshwater from the Dam could be back on the table. Sacramento River. A portion of the Merced River, a The rationale: levee failures in the Delta will nationally-designated Wild and Scenic result in salt water inundating the intakes of River, has been proposed Wild and Scenic deClaims on water from Central Valley for designation so the Merced District can build rivers are more than five times greater Irrigation New Exchequer Dam. A than the water that actually exists. proposal by the Bureau of Reclamation to raise Shasta the pumps that supply fresh water to more than 65 percent The Bureau of Reclamation’s Trinity of Californians. The real bottom line: the tunnels will River water permits allow diversion of do nothing to assure water six times more water than actually reliability—but they will result in a 50-year exemption to the exists in an average year. U.S. Endangered Species Act, permitting the pumping of unlimited amounts of Dam would also require state de- Map of proposed Bay Delta Twin Tunnels, by baydeltaconservationplan.org. the Bay Delta Conservation Plan shows increased water south of the Delta. designation of a portion of the McCloud diversions from Trinity Lake into the Sacramento The trouble is that no “new” water exists to River, given that this stretch of pristine native trout River. Decreased reservoir levels adversely affect fill the Twin Tunnels. Further, climate change water would be inundated by the project. EcoNews the cold-water pool in Trinity Lake available for models indicate a high likelihood of decreased readers are encouraged to contact Senator salmon and steelhead in the Trinity and lower water supplies. Claims on water from Central Feinstein to oppose the Twin Tunnels, oppose deKlamath Rivers. Trinity River water is needed Valley rivers are more than five times greater designation of the Merced River and to oppose the this August and September to improve water than the water that actually exists. The Bureau of raising of Shasta Dam. quality and quantity in the lower Klamath River in Reclamation’s Trinity River water permits allow The Trinity River is the only California North order to prevent a catastrophic fish kill similar to diversion of six times more water than actually Coast river that is plumbed to the Central Valley. that of 2002. exists in an average year. While Trinity River fishery flows were increased In addition to the environmental impacts State Water Project contracts are based on with the 2000 Trinity River Record of Decision on Northern California’s rivers, reservoirs and now defunct plans to dam several of California’s by former Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt, the aquifers, the dire economic impacts of the Twin North Coast rivers and shunting an additional five Bureau of Reclamation’s water rights and water Tunnels cannot be overstated. Many of the Twin million acre-feet of water to the Central Valley. contracts have never been modified to reflect Tunnels’ costs would be paid for by state and federal This, of course, never happened: in 1972 Governor these new requirements. Continued on page 8 taxpayers. Ronald Reagan designated portions of the Eel, Operational analyses of the Twin Tunnels by Tom Stokely

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Kin to the Earth: Sue Leskiw

Mel McKinney

received an achievement award from Humboldt Baykeeper. He spent a decade serving on the Humboldt Bay Watershed Advisory Committee. Mel (along with Eureka City Manager David Tyson) was featured in a September 2002 North Coast Journal cover story entitled “Clashing Visions: The Future of Eureka Marsh.” He closely followed the progress (or lack of it) by the City of Eureka to rehabilitate the area donated to it

Melvin “Cappy” McKinney wasn’t a scientist or an environmental lawyer. He was a retired, proudly union man from the lumber mills whose love of fishing transformed into a passion for protecting Humboldt Bay and its adjacent lands. Long before Humboldt Baykeeper set up shop in Eureka, Mel was a passionate, effective, self-taught advocate for the Bay. To paraphrase Sarah Palin, Mel was a “pitbull with chewing gum.” Once he got his teeth into an issue, he doggedly kept after it, even if resolution took years. Dressed in his trademark plaid shirt, oversized wireframes, and Northcoast Environmental Center (NEC) cap bristling with issue buttons or even a rubber shark, Mel was a familiar sight at meetings and hearings. He was not shy about taking his three minutes at the bully pulpit to speak on issues such as Waterfront Drive Extension and the Palco (aka Eureka) Marsh. Our paths intersected during his long involvement with North Group Sierra Club’s Executive Committee and Redwood Region Audubon Society (RRAS). (Whereas most people concentrate on volunteer service with one organization, we were among the few crossovers.) Mel also loved the Mel McKinney showing off his catch. Photo courtesy of Greg McKinney. NEC and served as the Sierra Club representative by the Coastal Conservancy. Besides testifying to the NEC Board of Directors for several years. at public meetings having to do with the Marsh, Mel was on a first-name basis with agency he organized many cleanups of the area. He was people and elected officials alike. His reports a talker AND a doer. I’m so glad that Mel was still during Sierra Club meetings often bewildered with us when the Eureka City Council voted to newcomers due to his constant referring to staff quash further spending on the Waterfront Drive of the Coastal Commission, Coastal Conservancy, Extension and to request reprogramming of the City of Eureka, or other agency by first name only. money to build a trail through the Palco Marsh He was active in local progressive politics and often and Parcel 4 behind Bayshore Mall. sported a campaign button for a supervisorial, Mel liked to call me to engage in long city council, or harbor commission candidate. His conversations about environmental issues. My diesel pickup was plastered with environmental husband Tom would gently tease me that “my bumper stickers. boyfriend was on the phone.” During my recent He was a habitué of meetings of the Humboldt clean-up of Sierra Club files stacked in my office, Bay Harbor, Recreation, and Conservation I found Mel’s 25 questions submitted on the District, and unsuccessfully ran for election to be a proposed Marina Center’s Draft Environmental Harbor District Commissioner. He was a stalwart Impact Report. attendee of Audubon Conservation Committee Mel was a fisherman who spent a lot of time meetings at Golden Harvest Cafe, usually ordering working on his boat. His great interest in the a lunch of one pancake. He also faithfully came to Bay’s eelgrass brought him up against local oyster RRAS evening lectures. In 2001, Mel won the firstgrowers, as he strove to ensure that necessary ever RRAS Conservation Award. also In 2007, he environmental permits were obtained. Mediterranean food truck and catering service.

707-326-9803 Locally owned, locally sourced, locally loved!

The environmental issue most closely associated with Mel was the Elk River Wildlife Sanctuary. He was the driving force behind that Wildlife Area being upgraded to a Wildlife Sanctuary. He would patrol its pathways nearly every day, with the Eureka Police Department and the city’s treatment plant management on speed dial. He would report illegal shooters and campers and even flag an occasional invasive gorse plant. I hope he receives formal, tangible recognition somewhere along the Hikshari’ Trail for his dedication. Ill health slowed down this nearoctogenarian, so that he had to walk with a cane and give up night driving. But before he passed away, Mel invited representatives from various environmental groups to take possession of his issue files. I’m happy that these notes, often handwritten, were saved, to possibly inspire a new generation of environmental advocates. Mel was living proof that you don’t have to be a trained scientist to make a difference. You just need heart and will and perseverance. Mel, you are gone, but certainly not forgotten for all you accomplished to make Humboldt a better place. Thank you. Epilog: Nearly 50 people attended a Celebration of Life held for Mel on July 10 (see photo, right). Participants walked to the southern entrance of the Hikshari’ Trail through the Elk River Wildlife Sanctuary, stood in a circle, and related stories about Cappy. His son Greg was able to attend and experience first-hand how highly his father was regarded in the environmental/ conservation community.

Read Jerry Martien’s poem to Mel “Gone to Glory” on our website www.yournec.org/kin/ melmckinney

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I met Mel when I joined the Sierra Club Executive Committee in 2001. Because of his depth of knowledge, command of the issues, and bulldog-like tenacity regarding environmental issues, for years I thought that he must have been a top lawyer before he retired. He was that impressive, and that good. I always had tremendous respect for Mel's passion for the environment and his willingness to invest so much time and effort on important local issues. We all have so much to be grateful for because of his work--he will be greatly missed. — Gregg Gold, North Group Sierra Club Cappy was the original Baykeeper. He spoke for Humboldt Bay and the Eureka waterfront every chance he got. He taught me a lot about the bay, politics, local history. He was my connection to the history of the waterfront. I loved his stories about working in the mills and representing the union millworkers. I will always remember his tales of replacing the old vacuum tube electrical system at the Korbel mill, battling the management on behalf of union members at the Fort Bragg Georgia-Pacific mill, and getting the boys to stop shooting at the Eureka Wildlife Sanctuary where the new section of Coastal Trail is now. I'm so glad he got to enjoy walking along that trail. —Jennifer Kalt, Humboldt Baykeeper One of the pleasures of doing environmental work on the North Coast was interacting with Mel. Every couple months he would give me a call and fill me in on the latest news, whether it was an erosion hotspot or a political power play. Mel was always fighting for what he believed in, but he also had a great sense of humor. He always seemed amused by the latest foolishness, whether it was committed by environmentalists, the government, or the private sector. I will miss his warm and scratchy voice on the phone and his friendly face under his ever-present baseball cap at meetings in Humboldt, and will remember him fondly. —Joel Gerwein, California Coastal Conservancy Cappy walked the talk, told the story, and wore the badge for conservation of Humboldt Bay. He was a true hero of conservation. I always made him a rhubarb pie for his birthday. —Maggy Herbelin, Humboldt Bay Stewards/ Humboldt Bay Watershed Advisory Committee

Remembering Mel Thoughts from Community Members

I am so sad. My best memories include his untiring efforts on behalf of Humboldt Bay and his attendance at so many Harbor District Meetings to make sure that the bay’s habitat was protected. —Julie Neander, City of Arcata Environmental Services Department Mel was an extraordinary Truth-and-Justice man. From his union organizing at the Fort Bragg lumber mill to his on-theground activism concerning the profound significance of eelgrass for Humboldt Bay ecosystem health--especially for fisheries, since he loved to catch, smoke, and eat 'em. He was a fair man, who disapproved of backroom deals and wanted public decision makers to act truthfully and with concern for the natural world. —Diane Beck, North Group Sierra Club It’s been a while since I crossed paths with Mel, but I always enjoyed my chats with him about Conservancy projects over the years. He’d always come up to me at meetings with a broad smile and twinkle in his eye, as he leaned in to let me know the latest political intrigue around Humboldt Bay. I will miss him. —Karyn Gear, California Coastal Conservancy I was so sorry to hear about Cappy. We worked together on Humboldt Bay's mariculture. He was a big part of much-needed changes in operations. On another note related to Cap’s love for the Elk River Wildlife Area, if you walk across the trestle, you’ll

see cooperative wildlife area signs that prohibit shooting. The adjacent property owner is finishing up a federal conservation easement. There will be some enhanced wetlands for water birds and the majority of the land from Elk River to PG&E will be protected. —Jimmy Smith, former Humboldt County Supervisor Here on the North Coast, we are blessed with an abundance of open space areas in which to recreate. Mel McKinney would frequent several areas. His love for the Eureka Marsh and the Elk River Wildlife Sanctuary (ERWS) stemmed from his interest in fish and the need to protect their habitat. Unfortunately, such open spaces are often used for activities that are incompatible with the site’s intended purpose. Mel championed the rights of wildlife, plants, and recreationists alike to flourish at places that include ERWS. Mel took on this role as steward of the places that meant so much to him with little fanfare; he continued doing so simply because it needed to be done. Now that the Hikshari’ Trail is proving to be the draw that proponents had predicted, perhaps those of us who visit it can continue the work that Mel began there: caring for this belt of greenery that welcomes northbound travelers to Eureka.

Mel’s passing prompts me to reflect on how fortunate we are to live in this special place. And how we’re part of a community that cares deeply about this place where we’ve elected to put down roots. The spirit of Mel lives on, in George Ziminsky’s efforts at the Arcata Marsh; Kim Tays, Virginia and Jim Waters, and others of Trinidad’s “NoIvy League”; Ted Halstead at Liscom Slough; and at myriad other places where people acknowledge and act on the reciprocity that exists between place and those who care for it. —Tom Leskiw, Redwood Region Audubon Society Members of the conservation community gather at the southern entrance of the Hikshari’ Trail to remember Mel McKinney. Photo: Richard Kreis.

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Will We Frack the Future of California?

Todd Rowe As hydraulic fracturing receives increased scrutiny from scientists, lawmakers, and environmentalists, new developments continue to cast doubts on the safety of the controversial process of extracting oil and gas from shale formations deep underground. Hydraulic fracturing, often called “fracking”, injects large volumes of water, sand, and hundreds of chemicals underground at high pressures to fracture layers of shale and release the oil and gas trapped within. Fracking is already taking place in nine counties in California, but the exact number and locations of these wells is unknown because there are no disclosure requirements. Conservative estimates are that 700 new wells are fracked each year in the state. The Monterey Shale formation, which stretches across southern and central California, is the site of a modern day “Gold Rush.” The Monterey Shale contains 400 billion barrels of previously unobtainable oil—a particularly heavy crude that the California Air Resources Board ranks as some of the dirtiest in the world. Modern fracking techniques, however, promise to release fifteen billion barrels of it—64% of the recoverable shale oil in the continental U.S. According to industry representatives, fracking the Monterey shale could provide tens of thousands of jobs, billions of dollars in tax revenue, and free California from reliance on foreign oil. However, as fracking increases in California, so does the likelihood of air pollution and water contamination that has afflicted other states, posing a significant threat to water quality in a state that already has chronic water problems. Each fracking well uses 2-4 million gallons of water, and with the planned expansion of fracking in the state, competition between the industry, agriculture, and residential users will be fierce.

American Gasland. Dowload a free pdf of this artwork here: www.marcellusprotest.org/american-gasland

This could significantly increase the already intense pressure on Northern California to divert water from our rivers south. Hydraulic fracturing is also currently unregulated and unmonitored by the state, and is exempt from the Clean Drinking Water Act (thanks to the Energy Policy Act of 2005). The New York Times, in reviewing more than 30,000 pages of records in 2011, found that over 1.3 billion gallons of fracking wastewater was produced between 2008 and 2011 in Pennsylvania alone, and most of it was sent to wastewater

treatment facilities unable to properly treat the contaminants and radioactivity in the wastewater. At least 116 wells in the area reported radioactive levels 100 times the federal standard for drinking water, and fifteen wells reported levels 1,000 times the standard. According to a 2011 report from the House Energy and Commerce Committee, 750 chemicals are used in the fracking fluid injected into the ground. These chemicals come back up in the form of wastewater, and include contaminants such as naphthalene, benzyne, acrylamide, methanol, trimethylbenzene, and xylene. Some of these can cause problems with the liver, kidneys, and nervous system, and many are known carcinogens. The wastewater also includes elements (some radioactive) picked up from those deep shale formations, including radium, uranium, chlorides, bromides, arsenic, and strontium. Accidental spills and intentional dumping of this radioactive and toxic wastewater has also been documented—hundreds of thousands of gallons in the past few years in Pennsylvania alone. Mismanaged wastewater, however, is just the tip of the iceberg where fracking is concerned. A study published in the July issue of Science implicated fracking in relation to several large earthquakes in the U.S., including a magnitude 5.6 in Oklahoma. The high fluid pressure from forcing fracking solution into cracks in tight shale formations and disposal of associated wastewater can both trigger earthquakes by weakening existing faults. In just the last three years, earthquakes have become five times more frequent in the mid-continental U.S., where wastewater wells are most common. In April, the California Democratic Party officially passed a resolution supporting an immediate moratorium on fracking in the state, although legislation for a moratorium has yet to be approved. Continued on page 21

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212 J Street Eureka, CA 95501 707-445-0784 www.yournec.org

Aug/Sept 2013

EcoNews

Hearing Scheduled for County Guiding Principles

Tunnels

Continued from page 4 Over $7 billion dollars in California water bonds are planned to fund this project. For every $1 billion in water bonds sold, debt service will require about $56 million annually from the General Fund through the life of the bond (usually 30 years). That is money that could otherwise be used for education, public safety, transportation and maintenance and repair of existing infrastructure. And that’s just the take from state coffers. Billions of dollars will come directly out of the U.S. treasury to fund this project. Water conservation, recycling, stormwater capture, desalinating groundwater and upgrading Delta levees all are much better—and cheaper —ways to improve California’s water supply reliability and protect Public Trust assets. In short, there is nothing Northern California can gain from the Twin Tunnels—environmentally or economically. We can only lose. Tom Stokely is Water Policy Analyst and Trinity River Advocate for the California Water Impact Network, www.c-win.org.

Explore Your Natural History Conifer Country

a natural history and hiking guide to the conifers of Klamath Mountain region

HSU Biodiversity Conference

2013

• Demonstrations • Exhibits & Displays • Workshops • Advocacy Tables Fri-Sun, October 4-6 HSU Native Forum w w w. h u m b o l d t . e d u / b i o d i v e r s i t y Humboldt State University will host the 3rd annual Biodiversity Conference this fall, October 4th, 5th, and 6th. Exploring the biological sciences and natural history, Bio Conf features something for all ages and levels of scientific savvy. Free of charge and open to the public! Learn more about the natural world, ways to get involved locally, and how each of us play important roles in the health of the ecosystems we are part of. Local educators, researchers, and representatives of environmental non-profit and government agencies will discuss how their respective fields of work explore and protect biodiversity. Klamath Basin Forum, fire-ecology demonstrations, live birds of prey, marine life touch tanks and microscopes, museum exhibits, bio-inspired art displays, tabling areas, workshops, panel discussions, guided tours of the greenhouse, and more! For more info, contact Sarah at (530) 306-9339 or email at srhawest@humboldt.edu

Read the fusion of the two documents as a more balanced set of Guiding Principles on our website: www.yournec.org/guidingprinciples.

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Aug/Sept 2013

On June 3, the day our last issue of EcoNews went to press, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted to approve a significantly altered set of Guiding Principles to the General Plan Update despite the fact that the public had just three days to review the changes. Even with many members of the public requesting more time for review, the Supervisors voted in a matter of hours to approve a suite of revised principles that removed reference to protecting forests and farmland, and inserted language that put landowners’ rights over the rights of non-land owners and the needs of wildlife and functioning ecosystems. (You can find a more thorough discussion on the changes in the June/ July 2013 issue of EcoNews.) While we are not necessarily opposed to some of the Board’s changes, we firmly disagree with the Board’s action to remove significant components of the original principles, particularly language that speaks to the importance of protecting Humboldt County’s vital resource lands and watersheds. Since the June 3rd hearing, numerous individuals have worked to weave together the original Guiding Principles with the Board’s recently revised ones. The melding of these two documents is hoped to more accurately reflect the needs and desires of our diverse community. At the Board’s July 22 meeting, much to their credit, the Supervisors decided to schedule another hearing on the contested Guiding Principles for Monday, September 23. We hope that the Board sincerely reconsiders their previous vote on the Guiding Principles, and that they incorporate changes that reflect a synthesis of the various perspectives within our County.

www.yournec.org

Action Alert! Restrict Rat Poison to Protect Wildlife

On July 19, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation released new regulations limiting the use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difenacoum and difethialone. These anticoagulants (blood-thinners) not only are fatal to targeted animals, they can severely harm or kill non-target wildlife and pets that prey on target species. The toxins persist in animals for months, causing internal bleeding and oftentimes leading to a slow, painful death. Public comments on the new regulations will be accepted until Tuesday, September 3. The new regulations will limit the use of these long-lasting poisons to licensed pest control companies for use within 50 feet of a structure, with limited exceptions. They will not be sold in retail outlets for home use. First generation rodenticides will still be available to non-licensed consumers since they are considered less likely to cause secondary poisoning of non-target species. The new regulations were developed in response to research documenting the poisonings and deaths of at least 25 wildlife species in California, including raptors and mammals. Earlier this year, the Center for Biological Diversity took legal action calling for the state to protect wildlife from these powerful and insidious poisons. Of particular concern are impacts to threatened and endangered species such as the Pacific fisher, Northern spotted owl, and San Joaquin kit fox. Other impacted species include eagles, owls, hawks, bobcat, marten, and mountain lion. These potent rodenticides can also harm or kill household pets that eat poisoned rodents. Researchers at the University of California

found second-generation anticoagulants in 70 percent of mammals and 68 percent of the birds they examined. Secondary poisoning of predators that eat poisoned rodents has been documented throughout the state in a variety of animals in urban, rural, and wilderness settings. Research in remote areas of Northern California revealed high levels of anticoagulants in 75% of Pacific fishers, an endangered forest predator in the weasel family. In such remote settings, the use of these poisons is thought to be associated with large “trespass” marijuana-growing operations on public lands. Since 1999 the California Department of Fish & Wildlife has continually recommended that the state ban second-generation rodenticides from retail sales and limit their use to licensed pesticide applicators. In 2008, the U.S. EPA banned retail sales of these rodenticides, but the restriction was

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reversed after pesticide manufacturers sued to government. Safe and effective alternatives to address rodents in homes and rural areas include rodent-proofing by sealing cracks and crevices, eliminating food sources and shelter such as wood piles, providing owl boxes to encourage natural predation, and use of rodent traps. Tell the Department of Pesticide Regulation that it’s time to finally protect wildlife, particularly threatened and endangered species, from secondgeneration anticoagulants. Threats to the recovery of imperiled species like the Pacific fisher and Northern spotted owl were not adequately assessed when these poisons were registered for retail sales. Restricting the use of these potent poisons to only licensed applicators will significantly reduce unintended exposures to non-target wildlife and pets. Currently, approximately 40% of these powerful poisons are used by licensed pesticide applicators, so banning retail sales won't entirely solve the problem, but it is a critical step in the right direction.

Submit comments on DPR Regulation No. 13-002, “Designating Brodifacoum, Bromadiolone, Difenacoum, and Difethialone as Restricted Materials (Second Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticide Products)” by 5pm on Tuesday, September 3. by e-mail: Linda Irokawa-Otani, dpr13002@cdpr.ca.gov by U.S. mail: Linda Irokawa-Otani, Regulations Coordinator Department of Pesticide Regulation 1001 I Street, P.O. Box 4015 Sacramento, California 95812-4015

Aug/Sept 2013

EcoNews

While the House of Representatives continues to consider bills that would undermine many existing conservation laws and regulations if they were to pass, the U.S. Senate has also been active in the area of conservation.

“Over Allocation” Defined by the Klamath River Basin Water Situation

Oregon’s Senator Wyden initiated a special hearing in Washington, D.C. to look at the increasingly dire water situation in the Klamath River Basin—no doubt spurred on by the double whammy of the current drought situation in the region, as well as the court decision reiterating tribal water rights. The meeting was attended by Humboldt Supervisor, Mark Lovelace, representatives of the Yurok tribe, and many other groups. “Over Allocation” is the best word to describe the situation. Imagine what would happen if you signed up for several automatic monthly bills payments like rent, water, phone, etc. only to find you do not have enough monthly income to cover all those bills. That is what is going on in the Klamath Basin. Reducing these allocations to protect fish, wetland and riverine ecosystems, and community water needs (including tribes), would seem an obvious goal, but sadly the discussion seemed to focus more on getting the economic cost down than on the water needs of salmon. Some felt the needs of some downriver tribes and resources in Redwood National Park where the Klamath empties into the ocean seemed to be at the bottom of the priority list in the hearing. The 2010 Klamath River Basin Agreements (KBRA) and a companion water allocation agreement were designed to provide a new framework for allocation of water among

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Now it will be up to the House to follow through—a less promising possibility. Of local interest on the U.S. House side was the passage of Representative Huffman’s bill to add important areas in Mendocino to the California Coastal National Monument in Mendocino County. Hats off to Rep. Huffman for progress on the first bill he authored. At the same time, the Senate has been full of high drama as Nev. Senator Reid threatened to change the rules for Senate procedures to get around the Republican blockage of important nominees such as EPA Director Nominee, Gina McCarthy. Having worked for the EPA under both Democratic and Republican administrations, she was viewed as bipartisan, but her nomination became a symbol of the stalemate on the Obama conservation agenda. She was finally confirmed on July 18.

Washington farmers, tribes and conservation interests. These existing agreements were the primary discussion point during the hearing. As farmers and the local National Wildlife Refuge receive notices of water being shut off, legislators and stakeholders are becoming more receptive to the idea of resolution. Oregon has announced regular meetings with some stakeholders as the consequences of over allocation are increasingly felt. In the meantime, many fear a large salmon fish kill, similar to the one dramatically caught on film by former NEC Executive Director Tim McKay in 2002, as increasingly possible in the near future.

Passing some Bills but Blocking Nominations

Late on a June evening the typically donothing Senate passed several bills in one session, including S. 352 by Wyden (D-Oregon)—which would designate more than 30,000 acres of wilderness in old-growth forests in Oregon’s Coast Range. This region survived prior logging threats primarily due the forest inaccessibility. The same evening the Senate also passed S. 112, by Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.), which adds more than 20,000 acres to the Alpine Lakes wilderness area in her home state, as well as adding 10 miles of the Pratt River and nearly 30 miles of the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River to the National Wild and Scenic River System.

President Obama Attempts to Get in Front of Climate Change President Obama has been vocal in his frustration with partisan blockage of his conservation and climate change agenda. In June, the President announced he would begin use his Executive powers to allow agencies to plan for climate change and the effects they are beginning to observe. Some observers thought Obama would also use his new push as an opportunity to announce a final decision on the Keystone XL Pipeline from Canada to Texas, but as the EcoNews goes to print, that decision has not yet been announced. Congress goes into recess in August and when they return in September, the battles for final passage of legislation begin—promising a very busy autumn and winter. Dan Sealy is the NEC’s Legislative Analyst in D.C.

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EcoNews

Aug/Sept 2013

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Get Ready for Coastal Cleanup Day 2013! Greetings fellow lovers of the North Coast! 3) We are also seeking more sponsors for Although there have been many amazing beach this year’s Coastal Cleanup. This is a great way cleanups and tsunami debris monitoring events to both support local cleanup efforts and get so far in 2013, they may not be able to compare your business’ or organization’s name out in the with the sheer scope and size of the upcoming community. We will have posters throughout the Coastal Cleanup Day on Saturday, September county, and banners in Arcata and Eureka. To 21 from 9am-noon. This event will mark find out more, contact dan@yournec.org. the 29th year for the statewide day of action sponsored by the California Coastal Commission, and the 28th annual International Coastal Cleanup organized by the Ocean Conservancy. For Humboldt County beach cleaner-uppers, this will be our 37th year! This year’s Coastal Cleanup Day promises to be even farther reaching than the last. We have maintained our networks, the supplies are ordered, and we are almost ready to hit the beaches. We 9am -noon! could, however, use a bit more help before we venture out:

4) Help spread the word about this event! Whether you plan to hit the beaches or otherwise lend your support, you can make a big difference by passing this on to colleagues, friends, family, school teachers, and civic minded groups. The more hands we have on deck, the more impact we can make!

mark your calendar!

Saturday Sept. 21

29th annual Coastal Cleanup Day

1) We are looking for more site captains so we can cover even more sites than last year. The site captain’s tasks are pretty simple. They are the main points of contact for the cleanup teams at each site. Each site captain is responsible for working with the NEC’s Cleanup Coordinator, recruiting teammates, gathering supplies, overseeing the successful cleanup of their site and reporting cleanup data back to the NEC. Check the NEC’s website at yournec.org for a list of available beaches. 2) If you’d like to join in the cleanup but do not necessarily want to be a site captain, you can join a team at a site of your choice. In addition to the many land-based cleanups that are planned, this year we do have one special opportunity for folks wanting to take part in an on-the-water cleanup. Although space is limited, the Aquatic Center is generously offering their leadership and some of their kayaks to put together a roving flotilla to clean sites inaccessible on foot. For more info on this or other opportunities, get in touch by calling the NEC office or emailing coastalcleanup@yournec.org.

For a list of locations, and more cleanup photos, please visit our website:

www.yournec.org/coastalcleanup Wanna talk trash and learn about tsunamis?

Come on out to the Humboldt County Fair from August 14-25 and learn about trash and the ways we can all pitch in for a trash-free planet. The Northcoast Environmental Center is a proud co-sponsor of this year’s “Talking Trash” display at the Humboldt County Fairgrounds in Ferndale. Learn more from our friends next door at the Earthquake and Tsunami Room - sponsored by the Redwood Coast Tsunami Work Group.

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5) And last but not least— Stand together to put a stop to trash! If a product can’t be reused, repaired, rebuilt, refurbished, refinished, resold, recycled, or composted, then it should be restricted, redesigned, or removed from production. After the cleanup all are welcome stop by the NEC’s booth at the North Country Fair. Join us Sunday the 22nd for the All Species Parade! Whether on the beach, on the plaza, or in the parade, we look forward to seeing everybody out and about on the weekend of September 21st and 22nd!

In related beach news, the NEC won Staff Pick at this year’s Sand Sculpture Festival! On June 29, the NEC again participated in Friends of the Dunes’ Annual Sand Sculpture Festival, this time winning the Staff Pick Award! Our sculpture was titled “Like a Sturgeon (on the beach for the very first time)”—clever, no? As always, we had a great time digging in the sand. Thanks to Friends of the Dunes and everyone who participated!

Aug/Sept 2013

EcoNews

The

andpiper

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013

Redwood Region Audubon Society www.rras.org FIELD TRIPS

Every Saturday: Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary. These are our famous rain-or-shine, docent-led ﬁeld trips at the Marsh. Bring your binocular(s) and have a great morning birding! Meet in the parking lot at the end of South I Street (Klopp Lake) in Arcata at 8:30 a.m. Trips end around 11 a.m. August leaders: 3rd: Cindy Moyer; 10th: Pat Bitton; 17th: David Fix; 24th: Rob Fowler; 31st: Tony Kurz.

lead this monthly walk. All ages and experience levels are encouraged to participate and revel in the beauty of the park and its avian inhabitants on this easy 2- to 3-hour walk. Binoculars are not provided, and dogs are not allowed. Field guides are usually available, but please provide your own if possible. Steady rain cancels. Meet at 8:00 a.m., parking by the kiosk near the farmhouse in the main entrance.

Sunday, August 11: Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This is a wonderful 2- to 3-hour trip for people wanting to learn the birds of the Humboldt Bay area. It takes a leisurely pace with emphasis on enjoying the birds! Beginners are more than welcome. Meet at the Refuge Visitor Center at 9:00 a.m. Call Jude Power or David Fix (707-822-3613) for more information.

Sunday, August 18: Hikshari’ Trail, Eureka. Due to safety concerns, the Palco Marsh Walk that happened every 3rd Sunday has been changed for the time being. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the foot of W. Del Norte St., Eureka, where we will scope for birds from the public pier until everyone assembles. We will then drive to the base of the Hikshari’ Trail at Truesdale St. and bird along the trail to the Elk River Wildlife Area. Leader: Ralph Bucher (707- 499-1247; thebook@reninet.com).

Saturday, August 17: eBird Site Survey–Shay Park. Join Rob Fowler (707-616-9841) as we survey the extent of Shay Park in Arcata for 1 to 3 hours and count every species present. For more info on the eBird Site Survey, visit http:// ebird.org/content/ebird/about/eBird_Site_Survey. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Shay Park parking lot located at the eastern end of Foster Avenue. Waterproof shoes are recommended as we typically walk through a grassy ﬁeld off-trail. Sunday, August 18: Southern Humboldt Community Park. Jay Sooter (707-444-8001), and/or John Gafﬁn will

Saturday, August 24: Fall Shorebirds. We will meet at noon for a picnic lunch at Klopp Lake (parking lot at I Street, Arcata), then carpool/caravan south, stopping at various points along Humboldt Bay and Ocean Ranch (Eel River Wildlife Area), and ending up at Centerville Beach. Plan to be back in Arcata by 6 p.m. Contact leader Ken Burton (707-499-1146) with questions or to carpool or arrange alternate meeting locations.

August Program

F R I DAY, A u g u s t 9 T H The California Environmental Legacy Project The California Environmental Legacy Project, a series of films produced and directed by David Scheerer, Humboldt State University film instructor, was undertaken to connect Californians with the natural environment. These films, narrated by Jane Fonda with an original score by Pat Metheny, will be shown at visitor centers of major national and state parks around the state. Join us at this free program to learn more about this fascinating project.

David Scheerer with Director of Photography Brian Wilcox while setting up a shot in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Programs start at 7:30

Saturday, Sept. 21: Pelagic Trip. Rob Fowler (707-6169841) and Todd Easterla will lead a foray on the open ocean to Trinidad canyon aboard the Shenandoah in search of tubenoses, jaegers, alcids, cetaceans, and other pelagic specialties. Meet at 7:00 a.m. at the Trinidad wharf to depart at 7:30. We will return around 3:30 p.m. To reserve 1 of 12 spaces available, call or e-mail Rob (migratoriusfwlr@ gmail.com). The Shenandoah has ﬁnally raised their cost per hour due to rising fuel costs, so the new prices are $110 per person and $85 for full-time HSU or CR students. There is a slight chance that this trip will depart from Eureka, so consider that when reserving a spot on this boat. Sunday, September 8: Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge. See August 11. Saturday, September 14: eBird Site Survey–Shay Park. See August 17. Sunday, September 15: Southern Humboldt Community Park. See August 18. Meeting time changes to 8:30 a.m. Sunday, September 15: Hikshari’ Trail, Eureka. See August 18.

September Program

F R I DAY, S e p t e m b e r 1 3 T H Birding the I-5 Corridor

What birds can you ﬁnd between San Francisco and Seattle? When and where can you ﬁnd them? Harry Fuller, formerly of San Francisco and now in Ashland, Oregon, will present his book of the same title. This book covers birding spots large and small between the Golden Gate Bridge and downtown Seattle along I-5 and its connector routes. From Nuttall’s to Pileated Woodpeckers, from Red-shouldered to Ferruginous Hawks, from Short-eared to Great Gray Owls, I-5 offers a birding smorgasbord just outside your car door.

p.m. at the Humboldt County Ofﬁce of Education

near the Burre Center at Myrtle and West in Eureka. Bring a mug to enjoy shade-grown coffee, and come fragrance free.

Great Gray Owl, photo by Peter Thiemann

CHAPTER LEADERS OFFICERS President— Jim Clark ….........................… 707-445-8311 Vice President — Chet Ogan …..............… 707-442-9353 Secretary—Adam Brown............................. 707-826-0319 Treasurer—Syn-dee Noel............................. 707-442-8862

DIRECTORS AT LARGE Ralph Bucher …........................................ 707-443-6944 Joe Ceriani …............................................. 707-476-9127 Hal Genger ………………..............…….. 707-443-7147 Harriet Hill………………………………. 707-267-4055 Lew Norton.....................................……… 707-445-1791 Susan Penn..................................…......…. 707-443-9660 C.J. Ralph ............................................….. 707-822-2015 OTHER CHAPTER LEADERS Conservation — Chet Ogan ...............….. 707-442-9353 Education/Scholarships — Vacant eBird Liaison — Rob Fowler …………... 707-839-3493 Field Notes — Daryl Coldren...........…..... 916-384-8089 Field Trips— Rob Fowler ……….......….. 707-839-3493 Finance: Syn-dee Noel ...............................707-442-8862 Historian — John Hewston ...................... 707-822-5288 Membership — Lew & Judie Norton....... 707-445-1791 NEC Representative — C.J. Ralph.......... 707-822-2015 Nominating – Jim Clark …....................... 707-445-8311 Programs — Ken Burton ..........................707-499-1146 Publications — C.J. Ralph..................….. 707-822-2015 Publicity — Harriet Hill............................ 707-267-4055

Conserving, Preserving, and Enhancing Our Birding Habitat By Jim Clark How does conserving, preserving, and enhancing (CPE) birding habitat differ from CPE of bird habitat? It adds access and sustainability. Looking at CPE from a birder’s as opposed to a biologist’s perspective might provide insight into ways to accomplish the goal of CPE of many habitats, including our own. I am not proposing a birdercentric and selﬁsh approach to habitat CPE because improving habitat for birders, by necessity, is CPE for bird habitat. To simplify things, let’s not differentiate between birders and bird watchers. “Birder” is shorter and includes everyone from a 5-year-old discovering the joys of birds to the international birder proud of recording the 1,000th bird on his or her life list. The last Fish and Wildlife Service analysis of wildliferelated activities indicates that, for the whole birding population, birding time decreases according to distance from home. Birding festivals and trails are a way for communities to attract people from other areas to spend birding time and money locally. Like politics, all birding and habitat CPE is local. The main difference between bird and birder habitat CPE is that birder CPE requires access to bird habitat. Access to bird habitat requires planning to prevent conﬂict between birds and birders, which requires interaction among property owners, birding advocates, and wildlife and landuse agencies. The short term for this is “conservation.”

Sandpiper (Editor):Jan Andersen …....… 707-616-3888 Sandpiper (Layout): Gary Bloomﬁeld ......707-822-0210 Volunteer Coordinator — Vacant............................................. Website Gatekeeper — Vacant ......................................... Lake Earl Branch — Sue Calla................ 707-465-6191 RRAS Web Page...........................……..... www.rras.org Arcata Bird Alert .........707-822-LOON (707-822-5666) The Sandpiper is published six times each year by Redwood Region Audubon Society P.O. Box 1054, Eureka, CA 95502.

Redwood Region Audubon Society welcomes the following new members and subscribers: Arcata – Bette Berg, Sharon Sligh Berkeley – Dominick Palamenti Crescent City – Karen Nakashima, Cynthia Wells Eureka – Marianne Huber, Eva Smith Klamath – Tracy Naveira Kaufman Kneeland – Mark Adams McKinleyville – Antonia Dobrec, Scott Hagerty Redway – Ruth Frase, Karen Ralsten Salyer – Emely Wilson Samoa – Jeff James L. Wright Willow Creek – E. A. Parker

We look forward to seeing you on ﬁeld trips and at our monthly programs.

If you have not guessed by now, what I have described above is essentially ecotourism. The International Ecotourism Society’s (TIES) 6 requirements for ecotourism are (1) travel to natural destinations, (2) minimized impact, (3) increased environmental awareness, (4) direct financial benefits provided for conservation, (5) financial benefits and empowerment provided for local people, and (6) respect for local culture. Although these requirements were designed for typical international nature-based tourism, they can be applied locally. Many frequent visitors to the AMWS have met people from other countries there. When planning a birding or nature-based trip (outbound), using the TIES ecotourism requirements as a guide helps other local communities conserve, preserve, and enhance their local bird and birding habitat. Regardless of where we go to bird, it’s local to someone.

Fall Migrant Traps

Tom Leskiw and others are seeking help with maintaining trails at various birding migrant traps. If you are interested in helping out, contact him at tomleskiw@suddenlink.net with a list of dates you’d be available from mid-August to about September 10 (either weekends or weekdays). Tools can be provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own.

RRAS Cosponsors Arcata Camp

By Sue Leskiw

New Members

On a local level, the best example of good birder habitat is the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS). The recently developed trail along Eureka’s waterfront from the Elk River Access Area to the end of Truesdale Street (Hikshari’ Trail) could be another example. When good birder habitat is established and maintained, it attracts birds and birders alike, which helps make it socially, economically, and biologically sustainable. The money that out-of-area birders bring to our local area is important to the sustainability of the habitat, and the birding habitat is important to the health of our local community.

On July 11, RRAS joined with Friends of the Arcata Marsh (FOAM) to host a daylong camp for children ages 10 through 12 at the Arcata Marsh. The session was part of the Wildlife Biology Week of the Arcata Recreation Department’s Natural Resources Science Camp. This is the 6th year that RRAS and FOAM have collaborated on the camp. Twenty-one kids (our most ever!) went on a bird walk led by RRAS volunteers Tom Leskiw and Laurie Lawrence, plus George Ziminsky and Katy Allen from FOAM. (We made a special effort to have female leaders this year, as most of the campers were girls.) Some 28 avian species were spotted, with highlights being a Green Heron and displaying Anna’s Hummingbird. The campers then went on a low-tide “Mud Walk” in the bay. RRAS board member Harriet Hill helped FOAM volunteers Melinda Bailey and Betsy Elkinton set up the microscope stations and computer FlexCam to view the crabs, clams, worms, and other animals collected. As FOAM president, I was responsible for pulling together the schedule and volunteers, bringing lunch, and taking photos.

Volunteer Opportunity! Monthly Meeting Host

RRAS seeks a volunteer to be in charge of providing the coffee, tea, and snacks for our monthly member meetings. The host will have a budget for supplies, and if needed, a coffee-brewing lesson will be provided. Meetings are held the 2nd Friday of every month. Compensation: making new friends and being lavished with praise from board members and others. If interested, please notify President Jim Clark or any of the board members listed under Chapter Leaders.

Picnicking with the Sierra Club RRAS members are cordially invited to attend a picnic organized by the local Sierra Club entity, North Group. The event will be held on Saturday, September 28, at Patrick’s Point State Park in Trinidad. It will kick off at 10 a.m. with a bird walk led by Tom Leskiw, followed by a potluck picnic at noon. Bring a dish to share; North Group will provide place settings and drinks. The site rental includes 25 day-use entries to the park, so please rideshare to the event. Call Sue Leskiw at 707-442-5444 to obtain the information needed to get in at no charge.

5 Reasons Why Reporting a Rare Bird Only to eBird Is a Mistake Around 9 a.m. on May 31, 2013, I called the Arcata Birdbox. No new messages. Later that day, I logged onto my computer and read an [eBird Alert] ABA Rarities message that described the ﬁnding of a Redthroated Pipit the previous day in Eureka. Mountain Quail, © Rob Fowler, 8 June 2013 Horse Mountain, Humboldt County

Trip Report: Annual Audubon Horse Mountain Birding Trip On June 8, 2013, Rob Fowler, RRAS’s Field Trips coordinator, led his annual Audubon birding trip to Horse Mountain. Rob has posted on his blog a brief report and photos of that trip in which they had wonderful looks at Mountain Quail, Hammond’s Flycatcher, and many others. It’s worth checking out for the photos alone, but this site also has links to many other blogs of interest to birders: http.www.fowleropebirding.com/2/ post/2013/06/annual-audubon-horse-mountain-trip-8June-2013-trip.html.

Patrick’s Point Native Plant Celebration More than 50 people attended the 40th birthday celebration of the Patrick’s Point Native Plant Garden on June 1. The event was cosponsored by RRAS and organized by Tom Leskiw. Some visitors came by way of walks led by Gary Lester (RRAS) and Bill Knight (North Group Sierra Club), plus 2 tours were offered of the Sumeg Village (led by Nancy Jo Martin and Skip Lowry). Volunteers Carol Ralph, Virginia Waters, Jenny Hanson, Sylvia White, Donna Wildearth, Bev Zeman, and Tom Leskiw from the North Coast Chapter of the California Native Plant Society served as knowledgeable guides during the 5-hour event. Sue Leskiw staffed information tables for the sponsoring groups near the path to the garden.

Hmmm. Odd that this sighting wasn’t reported to the Rare Bird Alert [Birdbox], I muttered to myself. And the heart of Eureka’s downtown is a strange location for a Red-throated Pipit. This sighting—which appears to be a case of mistaken identification—highlights what some view as a disturbing trend. First, there is an established method for reporting birds that has worked reasonably well for 18 years. Namely, call the Arcata Birdbox at 707-822-LOON and press “1” to report your sighting. Thanks to the ongoing dedication of Elias Elias, Humboldt is blessed with a mechanism whereby you can report your sighting in real time, with no need to return home to your computer. If you’re reporting to eBird via smart phone, be aware that many birders would also appreciate a report to the Birdbox, which engenders a personal touch and helps to build community. Posting to nwcalbird is also appreciated. Need more incentive to call the Birdbox? There’s nothing quite like phoning in a report of a rare bird when its song or call is heard in the background, thereby furnishing instant audio documentation of the bird. Many avid birders have amazing memories; on the several occasions where this has occurred, the stories have entered local bird-lore, with the tales periodically retold. Second, birding thrives on the free exchange of information that is accessible to as many people as possible. While most birders carry cell phones into the field to call the Birdbox, not all of them are able to retrieve their e-mails from the field (or want to spend their time doing so). Therefore, reporting only to eBird can be exclusive, not egalitarian and inclusive. Those with internet providers whose service can and has been interrupted by weather or vandalism are left out of the loop.

Third, the Birdbox is an excellent platform for describing the bird’s location in real time; there’s no need to text or have access to a computer. A brief description of the subject bird is readily left as part of a message on the Birdbox and—for a mega-rarity— is a boon to those who’d like to chase your find. The rest of the birding community wants to share your joy upon finding a rare bird. Any and all info that you provide lays the foundation for others to confirm your sighting. Fourth, the Birdbox is of great benefit to travelers who may not have ready access to their e-mail while on the road. The presence of many timely reports confirms for out-of-towners that our area has an active, vibrant birding community. Thus, the Birdbox contributes to and is a key component of local ecotourism. By using it, you’re reaching “beyond the choir.” For instance, Arcata elected officials—for whom eBird isn’t a tangible tool—cite the Birdbox as proof of the role of birding in bolstering local ecotourism. RRAS cosponsors the Birdbox with the City of Arcata, which continues to pay for the phone line. This appreciation of ecotourism’s benefits encourages officials from the North Coast to make bird-friendly decisions on projects that enhance access for birders such as the Hikshari’ Trail or the impetus to protect open space. Finally, I realize that birding etiquette can be a touchy subject. No one enjoys being on the receiving end of a lecture. Put simply, it’s a case of quid pro quo: if you reap the benefits of an up-to-date Birdbox by retrieving info, then you should contribute to its value by reporting your finds to it, giving others the chance to chase your birds. Of course, the Birdbox also serves as a way to inform folks of the presence of a newly discovered breeding colony or interesting bird behavior. To the person who reported the Red-throated Pipit: my apologies if you’re chagrined about my using your report as an example. We hope that you’ll continue your exploration of the bird world and promptly report noteworthy finds to both the Birdbox and the amazing platform that is eBird. Tom Leskiw

Death of Mel McKinney

Donna Wildearth (left) and Carol Ralph (right) escort visitors through the garden. Photo by Tom Leskiw.

Long-time Humboldt Bay activist Melvin “Cappy” McKinney passed away in mid-June. He was a stalwart at RRAS Conservation Committee meetings and won the ﬁrst-ever RRAS Conservation Award in 2001. Nearly 50 people attended a celebration of his life on July 10 at the

Elk River Wildlife Sanctuary in Eureka, an area he fought hard to protect. An article by Sue Leskiw about Mel’s accomplishments can be found in the August/September issue of EcoNews and online at www.yournec.org.

Field Notes

By Daryl Coldren

S U M M A RY O F N O R T H W E S T E R N C A L I F O R N I A B I R D R E P O R T S

15 May to 17 July 2013 MOb) • Hooded Oriole: 1, Potowat Health Village, 4 Jun (CM) • Lawrence’s Goldﬁnch: 1, Alderpoint Rd/ Dyerville Loop Rd, 19 May (TK, GZ, MM).

Field Notes is a compilation of bird sighting reports for Del Norte, Humboldt, Trinity, and western Siskiyou counties. Sources include the RRAS Bird Box (707-822LOON), the online northwestern California birding and information exchange (nwcalbird@yahoogroups.com), eBird (http://ebird.org/content/klamathsiskiyou), and reports submitted directly to the compiler. Reports may be submitted to any of the sources mentioned above or to Daryl Coldren: (916) 384-8089; QuiAvisPetit@aol.com. FOS = first of season; HBBO = Humboldt Bay Bird Observatory; HBNWR = Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge; HO = holdover from previous period; LOS = last of season; MOb = many observers; NC = not confirmed/documented; UO = unknown observer. Blue-winged Teal: 2, Arcata Oxidation Ponds, 7 Jun (RF); 2, Arcata Bottoms, V Street loop, 8 Jun (TL) • Common Goldeneye: 1 m, Arcata Oxidation Ponds, 7 Jun+ (RF, MOb) • White-faced Ibis: 1, Loleta Pond, 13-14 Jun (CB, MD, MC, BE) • Pacific Golden Plover: 1, Eel River Wildlife Area-Ocean Ranch, 15-17 Jul (BE, KO, MD) • Ruddy Turnstone: 15, Eel River Wildlife Area-Ocean Ranch, 15 Jul (CR, KO) • Semipalmated Sandpiper: 1, Eel River Wildlife Area-Ocean Ranch, 13-16 Jul (TK, KB); 1, Mad River Estuary, 17 Jul (RF) • Wilson’s Phalarope: 2, Eel River Wildlife Area-Ocean Ranch, 10-14 Jul (BE, TK, MC, CB); 13-15, Eel River Wildlife Area-Ocean Ranch, 15-17 Jul (CR, RF, KO, KB, MD) • Tufted Puffin: 1, Trinidad Head, 11 Jun (TL) •

White-rumped Sandpiper, © Alan Barron Alexandre Dairy, Del Norte

Yellow-billed Cuckoo: 1-2, Ferndale Bottoms-Salt River, 31 May- 16 Jul (SM, TK, RF, MOb) • Flammulated Owl: 3, Groves Prairie, 5-6 Jun (KO, MD, CB); 1, Hoopa-Big Hill, 9 Jun (KO) • Common Nighthawk: 1, Arcata, 6 Jun (MC); 1, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, 6 Jun (SM); 1, Redwood Creek, 11 Jul (KO, MD) • Black Swift: 4, Potawot Health Village Restoration Area, 17 May (JO, RF, MOb); 3, Titlow Hill Rd/Horse Mt, 19 May (BE) • White-throated Swift: 3-4, Blue Lake, 15 May-19 Jun (SG, BE, TL); many reports from usual spots in SoHum (MOb) • Lewis’s Woodpecker: 1, Bald Hills Rd-Lyon Ranch, 2 Jul (MC) • Willow Flycatcher: 1-3 (possible breeding?), Blue Lake Fish Hatchery, 18 May22 Jun (SG, MOb); 1, Redwoods National Park, Davison

White-headed Woodpeckers, © Rob Fowler Horse Mountain, Humboldt

Road, 18 Jun (TL); 1-3 (possible breeding?), Blue Lake Fish Hatchery, 18 May-22 Jun (SG, BE, MOb); 1, Shay Park, 4 Jun (RF); 1, Warren Creek Rd, 4 Jun (KI); 1, Redwoods National Park, Davidson Road, 18 Jun (TL) ; 1, Blue Lake, 20 Jun (PL); 1, Vista Point Ponds, 24 Jun (RF) • Eastern Phoebe: 1, Bayside, 20 May (JP) • Bank Swallow: about 20, Vista Point, 24 Jun (RF); new colony of at least 45, Eel R. estuary SW of Cock Robin Island, 13 Jul (TL); • Red-eyed Vireo: 1, Alderpoint Rd, 13 Jun (TK) • Oak Titmouse: 1, Alderpoint, 19 May (MM); 1, Alderpoint, 5 Jul (KO) • Canyon Wren: 1, South Fork Trinity River, low-water bridge, 11 Jul (RF) • Northern Mockingbird: 1, Windsong Park, 29 May (CR, AT); 1, Mad River Fish Hatchery, 1 Jul (SB) • California Thrasher: 2, King Range-Horse Mt Ridge Trail, 15 Jun5 Jul (MC, KO) • American Redstart: 2 (nesting pair), Ferndale Bottoms-Salt River, 6-15 Jul (SM, RF, MOb) • Northern Parula: 1, Orick-Base of Bald Hills Rd, 10 Jun (GL); 1, Orick-Strawberry Creek, 27 Jun (GL) • Lark Sparrow (coastal reports): 1, Hansen/Hauck Riparian Area, 19 Jun (IG); 1, Ferndale Bottoms-Salt River, 14 Jul (CB) • Lark Bunting: 1, Old Briceland Rd, 21 Jun (RS) • White-throated Sparrow: 1, Arcata, 29 May (KO) • Rose-breasted Grosbeak: 1, Conklin Creek Rd, 24 May (HM); 1, Cutten, 6-7 Jun (TM) • Indigo Bunting: 1, Arcata Marsh, 6-30 Jun (RF, MC, MOb); 1, Fortuna River Walk, 15-16 Jun (IG, OH); 1, Titlow Hill Rd, 16 Jun (RF) • IndigoXLazuli Bunting Hybrid: 1, Arcata Marsh, 3-6 Jun (RF, MOb) • Yellow-headed Blackbird: 1 female, Mad River Mouth, 18 May (GL); 1 (adult male), McKinleyville Vista Pt Pond, 23 May (CR, AT) • Great-tailed Grackle: 1, Arcata Marsh, 29 Jun (TK, CB,

Indigo Bunting, © Rob Fowler Arcata Marsh, Humboldt

Del Norte County Harlequin Duck: 4, Crescent City, 6th St., 18 Jun (SL) • Crested Caracara: 1, Smith River Bottoms, HO- 8 Jul (MOb) • Sandhill Crane: 1, Alexandre Dairy, 6 Jun (LB) • Bar-tailed Godwit: 1, Crescent City Harbor, 17 Jul (LB, AB, SL, JL) • Pectoral Sandpiper: 1, Alexandre Dairy, 12 Jul (RF, GZ) • White-rumped Sandpiper: 3, Alexandre Dairy, 10-14 Jun (LB) • Wilson’s Phalarope: 1-13, Alexandre Dairy, 2 Jun-9 Jul (LB) • Costa’s Hummingbird: 1, Smith River Bottoms-Bailey Rd, 11 Jun (LB) • White-breasted Nuthatch: 2, Doctor Rock Trail, 7-14 Jun (LB) • Mountain Bluebird: 2-4, Doctor Rock Trail, 7 Jun-4 Jul (LB) • Rock Wren: 1-2, Doctor Rock Trail, 7 Jun-4 Jul (LB). • Northern Parula: 1, Cooper Avenue, Crescent City, 11 Jun (AB).

Cited Observers: Samantha Bacon, Alan Barron, Lucas Brug, Camden Bruner, Ken Burton, Mark Colwell, Mathew Delgado, Brad Elvert, Rob Fowler, Steve Gellman, Ian Gledhill, Owen Head, Tony Kurz, Tom Leskiw, Gary Lester, Sky Lloyd, Paul Lohse, Mark Magneson, Sean McAllister, Hugh McGee, Thomas McNally, Cindy Moyer, Kurt Ongman, Jude Power, Casey Ryan, Robert Sutherland, Anji Trujillo, George Ziminsky. Thanks to all who have submitted reports. Please remember to call the Bird Box as fall heats up.

Recycling Isn’t Enough - Choose to Reuse! Margaret Gainer Our purchasing habits have a far greater impact on the environment than our habits for handling the materials we discard. While recycling and composting are better than landfilling and incineration, waste prevention strategies actually conserve the natural resources and energy that go into the manufacture and distribution of products and packaging. Take the cup for example. It is estimated that Americans throw away an average of 25 billion paper cups each year. This annual consumption of paper cups requires 9.4 million trees and results in 363 million pounds of waste. According to Environmental Action Association, it takes 43 grams of wood, 4.1 grams of petroleum and 1.8 grams of chemicals to manufacture one cup. Every four paper cups manufactured equals one pound of CO2 emissions. The Starbucks Coffee Company/

Alliance for Environmental Innovation Joint Task Force (www.business.edf.org/sites/business.edf. org/files/starbucks-report-april2000.pdf ) is one of the most thorough studies of both environmental and economic impacts to businesses in switching to reusables. Zero Waste Humboldt recommends this report to Humboldt County businesses serving coffee and beverages. In fact, without equal commitment to waste prevention and materials reuse, recycling systems can simply serve to accommodate our wasteful habits. While many U. S. cities boast increasing public recycling participation rates and landfill

The answer is: Replace the single-use, disposable, throwaway products and packaging that you consume once, with durable and reusable products and packaging. For most individuals and workplaces, there are many: single use food and beverage containers, coffee and drink cups, shopping bags, baby diapers, work gloves and shoe covers, cameras, pens, toys, inter-office communications, brochures, printer cartridges, shipping boxes, wrapping paper, batteries, even furniture, just to name a few. Each one of these items can be re-designed for convenient reuse or replaced with a convenient, washable, durable and reusable alternative. Over the past three decades, industry marketeers have sold us a ‘bill of goods’ by convincing us that (1) a ‘modern’ consumer lifestyle is attractive and desirable; (2) the convenience of use-once-then-throw-away is worth the extra expense; and (3) we must rely on single use products to keep a sterile and diseasefree environment. (See The Solo Cup company’s mission statement and vision for a perfect example of these mindsets at www.solocup.com). This fall 2013, Zero Waste Humboldt will launch a “CHOOSE TO REUSE” public education campaign. To join this effort, go to contact@zerowastehumboldt.org .

To get to the core of this issue, we have to start by asking the right question—and it is NOT, “Is this single-use item recyclable or compostable?” diversion tonnages, almost no one is pointing out that our pounds of waste generated per person, per day also continues to increase. To get to the core of this issue, we have to start by asking the right question—and it is NOT, “Is this single-use item recyclable or compostable?”

The big question is: What are the best habits and systems that will have the greatest impact to both conserve natural resources, and prevent and reduce waste?

Humboldt’s Advocate for Transportation Choices

www.green-wheels.org

EcoNews

Aug/Sept 2013

www.yournec.org

Friends of the Eel River

Coastal Commission to Caltrans: No Interchange at Indianola

Jennifer Kalt On June 28, the Coastal Commission released its staff report recommending against the proposed 101 Corridor Safety Improvement Project, including the proposed interchange at Indianola Cutoff. A final decision on the project will be made by the Coastal Commission at its September meeting in Eureka. (date TBD, either Sept. 10, 11, or 12). Humboldt Baykeeper considers the project short-sighted and poorly planned. This stretch of Highway 101 is already at risk of flooding during high tide and major storm events, and that risk will

California Toxics Rule Fails to Protect California Wildlife Jessica Hall Despite many improvements in the regulation of pollutants into California waterways, wildlife remain vulnerable to toxic exposure due to the EPA’s failure to adopt U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) recommendations for water quality standards under the California Toxics Rule (CTR). CTR establishes water quality standards for 126 toxic pollutants which serve as the basis for Clean Water Act discharge limits applied by the State Water Resources Control Board and Regional Water Quality Control Board. The California Toxics Rule was established in 2000. While developing the standards, USFWS discussed reasonable and prudent alternatives to the standards, such as acceptable criteria for selenium, mercury, pentachlorophenol, and cadmium, as well as appropriate formulas for calculating standards for several metals. While USFWS expected this to happen by 2003, EPA has failed to follow through. Some of these toxics bioaccumulate in wildlife, causing declines in reproduction, reduced growth, weakened immune responses, and loss of motor control. Threatened and Endangered species such as least tern, clapper rail, coho and Chinook salmon and steelhead trout are among the species vulnerable without these higher standards advised by U.S. Fish & Wildlife. For more information, our website provides a more detailed fact sheet on the subject: www.humboldtbaykeeper.org/images/PDF/ epa%20inaction.pdf

only increase as sea level rises. We believe that the Highway 101 improvements and the Coastal Trail should be planned together to develop a long-term solution that addresses sea level rise projections. Safe bicycle-pedestrian access also needs to be incorporated into this project before the speed limit is increased. The 8-mile stretch of highway that follows the Humboldt Bay shoreline is a designated section of the Pacific Coast Bike Route. The top priority for completing the California Coastal Trail in Humboldt County follows the railroad right-ofway adjacent to the highway. The Humboldt County Association of Governments (HCAOG) allocated funding for the project in 2011, with opposition from Arcata and Fortuna, two of the three largest cities in the County. The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 in favor after a special session with nearly 4 hours of public testimony. Many elected officials and their constituents object to allocating so much money to this project at the expense of high-priority local road projects. The project was proposed to address safety problems at the Indianola Cutoff and Mid-City Motor World intersections. However, many community members are opposed to the expenditure of significant public funds without planning for sea level rise or safe bicycle-pedestrian access. Many people also worry that the proposed interchange and closure of the Bayside Cutoff media will increase traffic along Old Arcata Road, resulting in safety impacts to residents of Bayside and adjoining neighborhoods. We hope that Caltrans will go back to the drawing board and come up with something that will address sea level rise and protect coastal resources while improving safety and bicycle-pedestrian access along the 101 Corridor and alleviating impacts to residents along Old Arcata Road and Highway 255. Stay tuned for updates! To sign up for action alerts, email us at volunteer@humboldtbaykeeper.org. To download the Coastal Commission staff report, go to www.documents.coastal.ca.gov/ reports/2013/7/W12b-7-2013.pdf

Join us for

Coastal Currents every Wednesday at noon on KHUM, 104.3 and 104.7

www.yournec.org

Arcata Considers Reuseable Bag Ordinance On July 24, the City of Arcata held its first hearing to discuss a draft Reusable Bag Ordinance, which would eliminate single-use plastic bags in many grocery and retail stores. It would also require stores to charge a 10-cent fee for paper bags to encourage the use of reusable bags. Customers participating in the California Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children and the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program are to be given a recyclable paper bag at no cost. Surveys before and after San Jose’s bag ordinance demonstrated a reduction in bag litter of 89% in the storm drain system, 60% in creeks and rivers, and 59% in streets and neighborhoods. There are now 77 municipalities covered by plastic bag ordinances in California, but the state legislature failed yet again last September to adopt a statewide bag ban. Arcata’s draft ordinance was developed based on model ordinances from larger cities in California. The initial proposal would apply to supermarkets and other retail stores over 10,000 square feet. Mayor Shane Brinton and Councilmember Michael Winkler asked City staff to bring back more information on what size stores to include, with the hope of applying it to some smaller stores. Humboldt Baykeeper, NEC, Zero Waste Humboldt, and Surfrider were all recognized for their efforts to encourage plastic bag bans to reduce pollution on our beaches, creeks, and stormwater drains to protect our environment and reduce the cost of trash cleanup. The City expects to review the draft ordinance again at its next meeting, currently scheduled for August 7. Once the details are settled, the City will circulate its environmental review documents for 30 days to receive comments. To receive updates on this public comment period and other ways to get involved in protecting Humboldt Bay and coastal resources, send an email to volunteer@ humboldtbaykeeper.org. You can also “like” our Facebook page or check our website at www.humboldtbaykeeper.org for updates.

Aug/Sept 2013

EcoNews

Friends

of the Eel River

Water Diversions Compound Drought Conditions After two good falls, a disastrous summer for fish.

Restoration Federation (SRF) convened a Water Rights Forum in Briceland on Thursday, July 11. We brought together key spokespeople from This year presents a deadly challenge for fish California Department of Water Resources, in the Eel River. A very dry winter, little relieved by Department of Fish and Wildlife, the regional water sparse, late rains, yielded low flows even in spring. quality control board, and Tasha McKee, who has Flows were very low even before summer brought led an important effort through Sanctuary Forest very high temperatures inland. to promote water storage and legal compliance in These facts alone raise concerns for what was the upper Mattole River, just west of the affected hoped to be a bumper crop of juvenile coho and reaches of the South Fork Eel. More than 150 steelhead. Both spend their first year in fresh people from local watersheds attended, and the water. They need cold, clean water to survive—in a event was broadcast live on KMUD. It is currently landscape where this year there may be very little available on the station’s website at water left in the creeks at all. www.kmud.org. By late summer of 2012, a year with It is possible to do the right thing much better rainfall, there was little (store winter water and halt diversions) water left in many tributaries of the Eel. while also complying with legal In the Eel watershed, as across the region, requirements. For the vast majority concerns over low flows and stream of small landowners, reporting their conditions have risen sharply, in parallel water diversions, securing water rights for their with a striking increase in the size and number of DWR’s enforcement letters generated water storage, and ensuring their diversions and marijuana farming operations. Credible estimates ripples of concern far beyond the initial group of storage are safe for fish and wildlife are relatively suggest the industry has nearly doubled in size in landowners. As the relative paucity of water rights straightforward, inexpensive steps that will help each of the last several years. filings indicates, most people in the area have to secure their land’s value and productivity. How do agencies enforce environmental and been generally unaware of the legal requirements Keeping track of cumulative diversions is public health laws and regulations when most around water diversion and storage in California. essential to mitigating and managing impacts on growers do their best to avoid the law? To help landowners and residents understand fish and aquatic systems, but it’s only possible The response of agencies and the community what the agencies want, FOER and the Salmon if they are accurately reported. to a fish kill caused by illegal Details matter: the rate of diversion, water diversion in China Creek, a size of the pipe, construction of tributary of Southern Humboldt’s the intake manifold, and pumping Redwood Creek, offers some schedule can all be critical instructive examples: how variables. Similarly, close attention poor practices’ serious impacts to the integrity of the water system triggered an enforcement sweep; (connections!) as well as to the what the state agencies actually details of application can make want from landowners; and how a a huge difference in how much community can come together— water we use. not just to avoid regulators’ fines— To paraphrase one community but to seek to do the right thing for member’s statement at the water the fishes’ sake. rights forum, it’s plain to many people that a key part of the challenge is lots more people growing lots more weed. But the China Creek is one of several combination of increased demand tributaries of Redwood Creek and a year likely to turn out as which shelter some or all of the dry as any in memory means three protected salmonids in that even longtime residents are the Eel River watershed (coho, having to make changes to keep chinook, and steelhead). FOER and SRF hosted a water rights forum at the Beginnings octagon in Briceland on Thursday, A California Department of July 11, to help Southern Humboldt residents understand and respond to state agencies’ stepped- the water in the creek and the fish right-side up. Fish and Wildlife warden found up enforcement of water laws. Photo: Scott Greacen. Scott Greacen

a dead juvenile coho in a dewatered reach of China Creek in October of 2012. DFW reported the kill to federal prosecutors because ‘take’ of species listed under the Endangered Species Act is a federal crime. Investigation pointed to a dam illegally placed at the headwaters of the creek. However, the investigation also revealed more than two dozen unreported diversions. Some 27 landowners received formal letters from the state water board’s Division of Water Rights, warning of fines of up to $1000 and $500/day for continued unreported diversions.

How can communities come together—not just to avoid regulators’ fines—but to seek to do the right thing for the fishes’ sake?

China Creek

EcoNews

Aug/Sept 2013

www.yournec.org

The Environmental Protection Information Center

Severe Drought Leaves Klamath’s Salmon Thirsty for Water Amber Shelton

Healthy wild salmon populations are a significant life source for our bioregion. They are a crucial part of the food chain that many other species depend on. Salmon populations up and down the North Coast are just shadows of their historic abundance, but one species is of particular concern. Wild Coho salmon have been listed as threatened since 1997. Still, more than 15 years later these fish are experiencing pressures on many fronts: drought conditions, competition from hatchery fish, disease, road development, an explosion in unpermitted water use throughout the bioregion, and major dam infrastructures that are used to store and divert water for hydroelectric generation and agricultural irrigation. Temperatures are up and water levels are dropping as the summer progresses into fall. This year has been particularly hot and dry, and has been identified as California’s driest January through June on record. According to experts at the National Marine Fisheries Service, it is estimated that 272,000 salmon will be swimming up the Klamath River to spawn this year. This is about 100,000 more fish packed into the river than in 2002 when the Klamath fish kill took place, leaving over 30,000 fish dead before they could lay eggs and reproduce. Klamath Trinity water wars have been taking place for decades. During dry summer months, water becomes scarce, and the battle begins. Farmers and ranchers want water for their crops and livestock, Pacificorp wants to use water for making electricity, tribes want to continue to sustain themselves as they have in the Klamath Basin for over 7,000 years, fishermen want healthy

Photo: Trinity Dam, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation

Photo: USFWS Klamath River Fish Die off September 2002 Report

fish populations so they can make a living and feed their families, and environmentalists want to preserve wild fish populations and protect wildlife refuges crucial to migratory birds. The Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement (KBRA) is a controversial framework that would remove four antiquated dams from the Klamath River, but it would also lock in what some would consider unsustainable water rights for irrigators. If the KBRA were in effect this year, according to Michael Connor, Commissioner for the Bureau of Reclamation, 353,000 acrefeet instead of the current projected 319,125 acre-feet would be allocated to Klamath Project irrigators. Meaning even more water would have come out of the river to be given to irrigators. Regina Chichizola, Rivers Communications Coordinator at Hoopa Valley Tribe, has “received reports that a couple thousand juvenile and at least 100 adult fish are pooled up in the refuge areas at the mouth of Blue Creek because the Klamath River is so hot.” People are encouraged to take photos of and report the location of any pooled fish or fish kills to the California Department of Fish and Game’s CalTIP number (888) 3342258. Reports will be forwarded to the Klamath Fish Health Assessment Team who is tasked with responding to imminent or active fish kills. This year, in an effort to reduce the likelihood of large-scale fish die-offs, the Bureau of Reclamation has proposed to release 62,000 acre feet of water into the Trinity and Lower Klamath Rivers from the Trinity and Lewiston Reservoirs between August 15th and September 21st. EPIC submitted www.yournec.org

a letter that highlighted the complex challenges faced by salmon and aquatic ecosystems in the Trinity and Klamath Rivers, and that explicitly supports the BOR plan to release more water down the Trinity to attempt to supplement flows in the Lower Klamath River. In contrast, the San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority has threatened to sue the Bureau if it approves its plan to release water down the Trinity River. The proposed Trinity River flow augmentation is a step in the right direction, but as outlined in the Trinity River Division Act, “not less than 50,000 acre-feet of water shall be released from the Trinity Reservoir and made available to Humboldt County and downstream water users.” To date, this allocation has not been honored, and now with current drought conditions and the Twin Tunnels - Bay Delta Conservation Plan looming in the background, the Trinity River’s water is more coveted than ever. EPIC is calling on you to ask the Department of Interior Secretary Sally Jewell to release this additional water as guaranteed under the 1955 Act. The Environmental Protection Information Center has advocated for the recovery of wild Coho salmon populations for decades. EPIC has defended headwaters and forests that provide clean cold water and valuable habitat for wild fish, protected Coho under the Endangered Species Act and demanded that hatcheries apply the best available science to protect wild fish populations from hatchery fish that compete with, prey upon, and interbreed with wild salmon. EPIC will continue to advocate for keeping cold and clean Trinity and Klamath water flowing in the rivers.

TAKE ACTION! Please scan the barcode below to take action and call on the Department of the Interior to release more Trinity water and prevent another disastrous fish kill.

Aug/Sept 2013

EcoNews

Common Birds of Northwest California: Del Norte, Humboldt, & Trinity Counties A new birding guide by Kenneth M. Burton & Leslie Scopes Anderson. “Such a project in less-competent hands might have produced an amalgamation of tired clichés, over-reliance on hackneyed song and ID mnemonics, mediocre photos, and a busy layout that challenges the reader. Instead, the end result reﬂects two professionals at the top of their game: Ken’s music and birding background and Leslie’s sumptuous p h o t o g ra p hy and graphics.” - Tom Leskiw Read Tom’s full review on our website, at www.yournec.org/ bookreview/commonbirds-nwca.

Volunteers Restore Meadows in the King Range

by ourselves and the other groups that will continue throughout the summer. Among other projects, our staff and volunteers will be spearheading collection of native grass seeds to help restore essential grassland and riparian habitat. Along with being an important source of inspiration for our work, the King Range is also an important stronghold for native grasses. The remnant grasslands in the King Range give us a starting point in an effort to protect and restore prairies throughout the conservation area and the Mattole watershed. The Mattole Restoration MRC staff, partners, and volunteers prepare for a rewarding day of working on trails. Council, Lost Coast Hezekiah Allen Interpretive Association, On July 1, MRC partnered with our friends and Sanctuary Forest are all part of the Friends from the Lost Coast Interpretive Association and Grassroots Network, a network of organizations that Sanctuary Forest to join a crew of young adults work with the Conservation Lands Foundation (CLF) with American Conservation Experience (ACE) to support the land management and conservation and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to work of the BLM on the National Conservation build new trails and restore meadow habitat in Lands. In California, the National Conservation the King Range National Conservation Area. The Lands include nearly five million acres including King Range National Conservation Area is part national monuments, national conservation areas, of the National Conservation Lands—protected wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers and national public lands and waterways managed by the BLM scenic and historic trails. that have joined the ranks of our national parks We are proud to partner with the Conservation and wildlife refuges as special places that preserve Lands Foundation, the BLM, and local communityour natural, historical and scientific treasures. based organizations to ensure that our public The July 1 King Range volunteer workday lands are protected and preserved for future marked the launch of extensive volunteer work generations to come.

Thursday September 26 A benefit for

The Environmental Protection Information Center

Arcata Theatre Lounge Doors open 6pm

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Aug/Sept 2013

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NORTH GROUP REDWOOD CHAPTER Aug/Sep North Group Outings

Wyden Holds Senate Hearing on Klamath Water Issues Felice Pace On June 20th, in the midst of drought and the dewatering of Lower Klamath and Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs), Oregon Senator Ron Wyden held a hearing on Klamath River Basin water issues. The Sierra Club weighed in—along with Oregon Wild, Portland Audubon, Salem Audubon and the Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center—with a letter for the hearing record. The letter asks Senator Wyden and Congress to ensure that basic survival water levels are maintained for the refuges, recommends phasing out commercial agriculture on the two refuges, and supports purchase and retirement of water rights from willing sellers in order to bring demand for water in the Klamath River Water Basin into balance with available supply. Currently, irrigated agriculture consumes over 80% of the water diverted from the Klamath River and its tributaries. As a result, flows in the Upper Basin, Shasta and Scott River Valleys are inadequate to support salmon and the aquatic ecosystems on which they depend. The two dewatered refuges—Lower Klamath and Tule Lake NWRs—are located in California, as are three of PacifiCorp’s dams and most of the Klamath River. Yet the Klamath has often been treated by politicians as if it were wholly an Oregon river. This must change! Please contact Senator Boxer and Senator Feinstein and urge them to join with Senator Wyden in working for just and equitable Klamath solutions. Remind our California senators that Tule Lake and Lower Klamath NWRs are located in California and that we need their help to assure that the refuges get a fair share of available water and that flows sufficient to protect and restore Klamath Salmon are provided in the Klamath River. Read or download the Sierra Club’s letter to Senator Wyden on line at this link: w w w. o r e g o n w i l d . o r g / w a t e r s / k l a m a t h / refuges/Coalition_Committee_Klamath_ Letter_to_Sen_Wyden_061913.pdf/view Contact Senators Boxer via the web at w w w. b o x e r. s e n a t e . g o v / e n / c o n t a c t / policycomments.cfm or call her DC office: 202-224-3553.

Saturday, Aug. 17—North Group Ma-le’l Dunes Cooperative Management Area, Ledik Trail to Du’k Loop Trail. Come with your kids and explore this BLM and Fish & Wildlife Service Cooperative Management Area and experience a biologically diverse dune community, one of the most pristine in the Pacific Northwest. We will see a coastal forest, sand dunes and the beach. Wear sturdy shoes and bring liquids and lunch. No strollers. Class: E-1.5-A. Meet 10 a.m. Male’l Dunes South parking area, turning off Samoa Blvd (Hwy 255) onto Young Lane, make a left and follow sign to parking lot (park near restroom). Leader Allison 707-268-8767. Rain cancels. Dewatered Marsh at Klamath Wildlife Refuge. Photo: Felice Pace.

Volunteer Opportunities

North Group needs a few good volunteers. Please make plans to attend a North Group Executive Committee meeting on the second Tuesday of each month, 6:45 p.m. at the Adorni Center in Eureka. Contact Ned or Gregg for details.

Picknicking with Audubon September 28

North Group (NG) members are invited to mix and mingle with members of the local Audubon chapter, Redwood Region Audubon, at a picnic organized by NG. The event will be held on Saturday, September 28, at Patrick’s Point State Park in Trinidad. It will kick off at 10 a.m. with a bird walk led by Tom Leskiw, followed by a potluck picnic at noon. Bring a dish to share; NG will provide place settings and drinks. There are facilities to grill. The site rental includes 25 dayuse entries to the park, so please rideshare to the event. Call Sue Leskiw at 707-442-5444 to obtain the information needed to get in at no charge (otherwise, there is an $8 per car day-use fee).

Mourning Mel McKinney

Members of the north group are mourning the loss of long time activist and Executive Committee member Mel McKinney. To learn about Mel’s life and work, see Kin to the Earth tribute by Sue Leskiw on page 5. Good sailing, Cap!

Contact Senator Feinstein via the web at www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/ e-mail-me or call her DC office: 202-224-3841.

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Sunday, Aug. 25—North Group Humboldt Redwoods State Park River Trail. Starting in spectacular Rockefeller Forest, we’ll travel south through a mixed redwood forest to the Park Visitor Center for lunch before returning along the same route. Highlights include Decker Creek, the ruins of Forest Lodge, and a redwood stump house. Bring lunch, sturdy shoes and plenty of water. No dogs. Class M-9-A. Carpools: Meet 9:30 a.m. Herrick Road Park and Ride. 10:30 a.m. Rockefeller Loop trailhead (off Mattole Road, 1.4 miles west of Hwy. 101). Leader Bill 707-839-5971. Saturday, Sept. 7—North Group Redwood Creek Levee, Orick. Blackberries and the beach; hike from Orick to the ocean along the Redwood Creek Levee, then north along the beach towards Mussel Point before returning. Bring water and lunch. Fit, well-socialized dogs with leash and adequate water are welcome. Class M-8-A. Carpools: Meet 10 a.m. McKinleyville Safeway Parking Lot. 11 a.m. in Orick on Hwy. 101 bridge over Redwood Creek. Leader Bill 707-839-5971. Sunday, Sept. 29—North Group Redwood National Park, Former Coastal Drive Hike. Follow the old Coastal Drive roadway along high, wooded bluffs, with several openings affording fine views of the ocean, to High Bluffs Overlook. Only a very few, brief steep grades. At High Bluffs Overlook, we will enjoy a leisurely break to enjoy the view and picnic facilities. Return by the same route. You may arrange to be dropped at the trailhead and joined at the Overlook by a companion with vehicle and picnic. Class E-6-A. No dogs on hike (OK at Overlook). Carpools: Meet 9 a.m. Valley West Shopping Center. 10:15 a.m. trailhead, the Coastal Drive gate closure about 1.4 mile north of intersection with Newton B Drury Parkway. Leader Melinda 707-668-4275 or mgroomster@gmail.com. Rain cancels.

Aug/Sept 2013

EcoNews

NORTHCOAST CHAPTER Beginners and experts, non-members and members are all welcome at our programs and on our outings. Almost all of our events are free. All of our events are made possible by volunteer effort.

Fall Native Plant Sale

October 5, Saturday. Fall Native Plant Sale: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Bayside Grange, 2297 Jacoby Creek Rd.. Fall is planting time! Be ready for the fall rains! Find a selection of beautiful, hardy, wildlifefriendly native plants for your yard. Luxuriant ferns, varied ground covers, cheerful perennials, dense shrubs and trees, and graceful grasses from local forests, meadows, dunes, and wetlands, as well as favorite species from greater California, will be available. We offer the “basics,” like Kinnickkinnick and California Beeplant, the favorites, like Pacific Bleeding Heart and Red Columbine, and the “specials,” like Wavy-leaf Soap Plant. This amazing selection of species is made possible by the cooperation of our many volunteer growers and four local nurseries (Samara Restoration Nursery, Humboldt Fish Action Council Nursery, Lost Foods Native Nursery, and Freshwater Farms). Experienced gardeners will be on hand to help you select. Cash or check accepted. Proceeds benefit the North Coast Chapter of CNPS. 707-826-0259

Evening Programs

Second Wednesday evening, September through May. Refreshments at 7 p.m.; program at 7:30 p.m. at the Six Rivers Masonic Lodge, 251 Bayside Road, near 7th and Union, Arcata. Botanical FAQ’s: At 7:15 p.m. Pete Haggard (or another presenter) shares a brief, hands-on demonstration and discussion of a botanical topic. September 11, Wednesday. 7:30 p.m. “Botanical Exploration in California.” Dr. James P. Smith, professor emeritus of botany at Humboldt State University, will recount the efforts of early naturalists in California, compare our five “official state floras,” and review the accomplishments of several of the major botanists who contributed so much to our knowledge of California’s diverse flora. These men and women were the giants whose discoveries and writings form the basis of California floristic botany.

Field Trips and Plant Walks

Note: Unless stated otherwise, for further information and to let the leader know if you might or will attend, please call Carol Ralph 707-822-2015. August 24, Saturday. Oregon Fireweed Rare Plant Treasure Hunt. (Organized by Six Rivers National

EcoNews

Aug/Sept 2013

Forest) The small, pink flower of Oregon fireweed (Epilobium oreganum) is easy to mis-identify but important to look for. Any new finding of this rare species would be a significant contribution and would allow Six Rivers National Forest to protect it. Visit a known occurrence in the Underwood Mt. Rd. and South Fork Trinity area and search nearby sites at about 3,000 ft. elevation. 4WD or AWD vehicles are needed. Meet at Pacific Union School (3001 Janes Rd., Arcata) at 9:00 a.m. or at Burnt Ranch Store between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m. to carpool. Camping Friday night and/or Saturday nights is a possibility. Contact John McRae at 707-441-3513 weekdays. September 28, Saturday. Horse Mountain Day Hike. Harsh, serpentine soils and their special flora are part of the treat offered by this easily accessed, montane part of Six Rivers National Forest. We will hike 2 to 4 miles on rough trails somewhere in the Horse Mountain-Grouse Mountain corridor (Titlow Hill Rd off of Highway 299.; Forest Highway 1), enjoying vistas while observing the diverse shrubs and trees, alert for a late-blooming treat.

Bring lunch and plenty of water. Dress in layers for all kinds of weather—summer to winter (yes, even gloves). At 4,000 ft. elevation anything is possible. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Pacific Union School or arrange another place. Return about 5 p.m. Please tell Carol you are coming, in case plans change (707-8222015; theralphs@humboldt1.com).

Special Interest Happening

September 6-8, Friday-Sunday. CNPS State Board and Chapter Council meet in Arcata and Trinidad. Interested public are invited to attend the Saturday meeting covering conservation topics, in the Trinidad Town Hall, and the Sunday field trips. See our web site for topics and destinations, as they develop. 707-822-7190. Please watch for later additions online at

WWW.NORTHCOASTCNPS.ORG

Northcoast_CNPS-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

What’s So Important About Native Plants?

Jennifer Kalt Botanists are often asked, “how do you know which plants are ‘native?’” While the precise definition of the word can be subject to debate, plants are considered native if they became established in an area without modern human intervention. California natives are those plants that were present here before the arrival of Euro-American settlers, who brought European grasses and other seeds, intentionally or inadvertently (for example, in livestock feed). The records of early expeditions to the western United States is one source of information on native plants. Many of North America’s earliest explorers, including Alexander von Humboldt and Meriwether Lewis, collected specimens of North American plants for botanists to name and classify. They also kept journals with copious notes on the plants, animals, landscapes, and people they encountered, including notes on plants used for food and medicine. Native American plant knowledge is another source of information on which plants are native. Native people have a long history of using plants for food, medicine, basketweaving and ceremonial purposes. Much of this knowledge was documented by early anthropologists and ethnographers before non-native plants became widespread. Some of the first non-natives introduced to California were yellow dock (Rumex crispus), wild oats (Avena sativa), and cranesbill (Erodium spp.). Since then, many other non-native plants have naturalized (grow in the wild) including Queen Anne’s lace, Himalaya berry, sheep sorrel, and many grass species. Some California natives have become

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invasive weeds elsewhere: the California poppy, for example, has become widely naturalized in South Africa, Australia, Chile, and Argentina.

Why does it matter?

Native plants have co-evolved with animals, fungi, and microbes to form the foundation of native ecosystems. They provide sources of food for birds, pollinating insects, mammals, and other critters. Some non-native plants do as well, but others become invasive, displacing native plants and the animals that rely on them.

Gardening with Native Plants

Many locally-native plants are good choices for landscaping for various reasons. In general, natives require less watering, less fertilizer, and less overall care than horticultural plants. Native plants provide food and nesting habitat for birds, mammals, bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects, and thus are the best choices for landscaping near natural areas. Many native plants are fast-growing and produce showy flowers and berries that attract birds and native pollinators. Many species of local native plants will be for sale at the North Coast Chapter’s fall plant sale, Saturday, October 5, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Bayside Grange. For more info on native plants suited to local gardens, visit the Gardening section of the North Coast Chapter’s website at www.northcoastcnps. org. For additional info, visit the Growing Natives section of the California Native Plant Society’s home website at www.cnps.org.

California Condor Gymnogyps californianus Brandon Drucker On thermal winds above California’s rugged coast and the Southwest’s deep canyons circles the truly awe-inspiring California condor. With a 9.5 foot wingspan, the largest of any bird in North America, the condor casts a sizable shadow over all other endangered species. Condors sport dark plumage with silverywhite markings along the underside of each wing, clearly distinguishing them from other soaring birds. Similar to vultures, a condor’s head is pink and bald. A lack of feathers on the head and neck helps to keep the bird sanitary while feeding on rotting meat. Males and females appear nearly identical, both weighing between 15 and 30 pounds. After reaching sexual maturity at age six, the birds mate for life and lay one single egg per year on tall cliffs or snags. The condor is culturally significant to many indenous peoples living within its range, including the Yurok Tribe of the North Coast. The highflying bids are believed to hold a close connection to the heavens above, and condor feathers are used in many dances and rituals. Condors are also revered for their role in ecological renewal. As powerful scavengers, condors change death and decay into sustenance,and eventual rebirth. While other scavengers such as coyotes play an integral part in this cycle, the condor’s sharp beak, strong stomach, and long naked head and neck allow it to fill a unique niche. This niche was left empty across Photo: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. the Western United

California condor in flight near the Grand Canyon. Photo: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

40th Anniverary of the Endangered Species Act Series - Featuring Endangered Species of our Bioregion States when the majestic condor nearly met its end by the 1980’s, as a consequence of a naturally low reproductive rate coupled with devastating human activity. The greatest threat to the condor was poisoning from lead bullet fragments left behind in gut piles by hunters. Additionally, DDT and other pesticides that persist in the environment for decades after use both directly poisoned condors and also caused them to produce eggs with shells too thin to protect their unborn chicks. Food source depletion via whaling and sealing, poaching, habitat fragmentation, and changes in habitat due to fire suppression all took additional tolls. The condor was officially listed on the Federal Endangered Species Preservation Act in 1967, but to little effect. By 1982, there were just 22 condors gripping to life on an isolated stretch of California’s Central Coast. The species was perilously close to extinction. Fortunately, the plight of the condor was finally recognized at this time, along with that of the bald eagle, peregrine falcon, and other raptors severely imperiled by human activities. The 22 surviving condors were captured and placed in a breeding program run by the Los Angeles Zoo and the San Diego Wild Animal Park. Expert wildlife biologists set to work, and by 1991 enough birds had been hatched to begin reintroduction. To date, both wild and captive bird populations have continued to breed and grow in numbers. The California Condor Recovery Plan is a slow but steady success. In 2012, the total condor population was counted at 409, with 232 of those in the wild. The

wild condors are split between three locations: the Big Sur coast of Central California, the south rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and an area of northern Baja California, Mexico. While the bird’s historic range stretches from Baja to B.C., current populations are limited to just the three aforementioned sites. So what of the California condor on the North Coast? Local tribes, specifically the Yurok, carry evidence of the condor’s past prominence through their traditions to this day. In 2010, the Yurok Tribe began exploring the exciting possibility of returning the California condor to the North Coast. Funded by a $200,000 grant from US Fish & Wildlife, the Yurok’s program set out to determine whether or not their tribal lands and surrounding country would make for suitable habitat. Since then, research has been ongoing, and has yielded promising results based on findings shared by lead wildlife biologist, Chris West, this July. West explained that the largest mortality factor for the California condor is still lead poisoning, and determining the level of lead in the local environment has been central to the program. Condors are only one species on a long list of birds affected by lead poisoning, which is unfortunate, but has also provided an opportunity to draw confident conclusions studying common ravens and turkey vultures – fellow scavengers and cousins to the condor. In their surveys, researchers have found lead present in both captured bird species. However, West explains that.. Continued on page 21

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Eco-Mania

BANDITS BEWARE: Solar-powered smartphones hanging from trees to listen for the sounds of chainsaws could help stop illegal logging. That’s the vision of Topher White of San Francisco’s Rainforest Connection, which is launching a project this month in the forests of Indonesia that uses modified Android smartphones to record and identify the sound-signatures of chainsaws. Indonesia’s rainforest is the third largest in the world, and more than half of it has been cleared since the 1960s. “We want to make people feel like they are taking part in the dramatic events on the front lines of environmental protection,” White said.

A merry melange: salient or silly.

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT: As much as half of the food produced around the world—about two billion tons—doesn’t make it to the plate, according to Britain’s Institution of Mechanical Engineers. This staggering amount also means that huge quantities of water are wasted globally in growing crops that never reach the consumer. The Institution blames unnecessarily strict sell-by dates, consumer demand for cosmetically perfect food, poor storage and bad farming practices. DISAPPEARING: The world’s only freshwater porpoise is in serious danger of extinction. The conservation status of the Yangtze finless porpoise has been declared critically endangered. Only six years ago, the Yangtze river dolphin was declared extinct, the first cetacean to disappear thanks to human activity. It seems the porpoise might not be far behind.

COLORFUL HONEY: The reason bees in northeastern France began producing honey in shades of blue and green: M&M candy. Instead of collecting nectar from flowers, the bees were feeding on remnants of colored M&M candy shells being used by a waste-processing plant. Workers cleaned any outdoor or uncovered containers, and the M&M waste will now be stored in a covered hall. FORMERLY FROZEN: Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson believes most people are disconnected from the effects of climate change because they can’t physically see it. So he transported ice from Europe’s largest glacier ice to a museum in Queens, which turned one of its main galleries into a walk-in freezer. At the end of the exhibition in September, the glaciers will do what glaciers are doing everywhere— they will melt.

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Aug/Sept 2013

“WHAT?” HE ROARED: No word yet if his hearing is any better after a 10-year-old tiger called Pedang was given acupuncture. The tiger lives in Israel’s Ramat Gan Safari park and suffers from a chronic ear infection. Acupuncture under a general anesthetic was performed on the animal so that it will increase his susceptibility to treatment.

WHY A DUCK: Kind-hearted cops brought a busy German highway to a standstill to rescue days-old ducklings who were orphaned when their mother was run over by a truck. The police stopped all the cars, and one of them carried the ducklings away in his cap, brought them home for a bath and then found them a new home at a waterfowl refuge.

OCEAN-GOING DANGER: An estimated seven billion tons of ballast water is crossing the oceans, almost all of it carrying seeds and spores native to wherever the water was loaded—probably the top cause of alien invasions. These biological time bombs were supposedly defused by a 2004 U.N. treaty requiring big ships to filter and disinfect the ballast water before dumping, but not enough nations have ratified the treaty yet.

PIGS WITH MUNCHIES: Farmers in Washington have found a way to deal with stems and leaves from their marijuana plants: they turn weed waste into pig food. They also found that pot’s appetite-enhancing properties made their pigs 20 to 30 pounds heavier than pigs from the same litter which didn’t get the potent plant leavings. Washington last November legalized the recreational use of marijuana, and draft rules say that mixing pot with food waste is acceptable.

SOME LIKE IT NOT SO HOT: A temperature rise of around just one degree centigrade is all it would take for painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) to become 100 per cent female--and thus earmarked for extinction. Painted turtles are one of many reptiles whose sex is determined by temperature. Eggs in warm nests are likely to hatch as females, while males hatch in cooler nests. Evolutionary biologists say the findings may apply to many species where sex is dependent on temperature—all crocodiles, a smattering of turtles and lizards, plus some fishes. www.yournec.org

REPLACEMENT FOR OIL: When modified E. coli bacteria were fed glucose, the enzymes they produced converted the sugar into fatty acids and then turned these into hydrocarbons that were chemically and structurally identical to those found in commercial fuel. “We are biologically producing the fuel that the oil industry makes and sells,” says Robert Love of England’s Exeter University, whose team now needs to scale-up the project to allow the bacteria to feed on straw or animal manure. This would mean that land wouldn’t be needed to grow the feedstock that would be used for food crops—one criticism of biofuels.

Condor

Fracking

...this is not bad news in relative terms. The average level of lead measured on the North Coast is lower than anywhere else in California, and also lower than measurements taken recently in both Oregon and Washington. Though there is no truly safe level of lead in the environment, if condors are surviving on the Central Coast of California under more toxic conditions, it bodes well for a potential North Coast population. For the reintroduction program, the last few pieces of the puzzle involve condor dotes over its six week old chick in a cliffside nest. Note determining how condors will utilize unique AtheCalifornia condor’s white legs, which are covered with excrement to protect from terrain of the North Coast, and acquiring bacteria while scavenging. Photo: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. funding for the final, very expensive, stages The bottom line for the condor, as described of the program. Radio tagging a single condor for by Chris West, is that the window for risk of lead tracking purposes runs $5,000-$6,000 minimum poisoning is smaller on the North Coast than according to West. If financial support can be anywhere else in California, which makes it the secured, the tribe seeks to reintroduce the condor natural choice for any future reintroductions. With at sites moving outward from their tribal territory. adequate funding, the hope is that the California Potential areas for reintroduction have been condor will soon return to the skies of the North identified just north of the Klamath River, and in the Coast. Bald Hills of Redwood National Park.

Also in April, a federal judge ruled that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) had violated the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) and failed to adequately consider the risks of fracking when issuing oil and gas leases on federal lands in California, citing issues such as contaminated drinking water and polluted air, degradation of local waterways, and decreased property values. Nearly a dozen fracking-related bills were introduced in the California legislature this year. Senate bill SB-4, introduced by Senator Fran Pavley, (D-Agoura Hills), is one that currently appears to have a chance of survival. The bill, passed by the Senate and now in the Assembly, includes regulations for acidization as well as hydraulic fracturing techniques, and would require disclosure of many fracking chemicals, monitor groundwater, and study induced seismic activity. However, some environmentalists question whether these regulations would be strong enough, or would be adequately enforced. (A 2011 EPA audit, for example, found that California regulators were not adequately protecting drinking water in the state). Others would prefer to see California stop a dangerous industry that exacerbates climate change altogether, rather than just attempting to regulate and mitigate the consequences. The question remains—is fracking worth the increased risk of groundwater contamination, earthquakes, and climate change? It’s time to decide, California.

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Continued from page 7

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Aug/Sept 2013

EcoNews

the Kids’ Page: Caddisflies Carry

Their Homes

Did you know

Did you know that snails and hermit crabs aren’t the only animals that carry their house around with them? Some types of caddisflies also build mobile homes. Caddisflies are like most insects and spend their first phase of life in the water. There are about 12,000 types of caddisflies in the world. Eggs are laid in healthy streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, and seasonal pools (also called vernal pools). The young larvae build their homes (called a case) using the cement-like silk they make. They use the surrounding pebbles, sand, wood, or other plant debris as the building material in order to protect their soft bodies. Some caddisfly larvae make a net in the water with their silk, while others are homeless altogether. You may have seen caddisfly larva crawling on rocks in the river when you go swimming. The cased larva makes a tube-like home. The front half of the larva’s body sticks out of the front. The tail end is hidden inside the tube. They scrape algae off rocks to eat and are also filter feeders, which means they collect small pieces of food in the flowing water. What they don’t use flows out of the back end of the case. S A T U When most caddisfly F M G C larvae are ready to become adults, they make a cocoon X N A R like a butterfly makes a L S B E chrysalis, and attach the E E O A cocoon onto a rock. When D Z R U it’s ready, the insect cuts the cocoon away, emerges as an adult flying caddisfly, and takes off. Others go to the edge of V S R T the water and shed their larval skin and fly off. Caddisflies S Q U A usually emerge all around the same time and it’s called a E O K T “hatch”. Adults have mouthparts, but they only sometimes use them to feed on nectar, like a butterfly. The adults only M O E A live 1—2 months, and are less than an inch long with wings U S Q V that fold like a tent. The adult lays eggs in the water, and K D E O the cycle continues. N A R Z Fish are the main predators of caddisflies. The flies are a good indicator species because they are mostly found in healthy S W E N waters. Scientists will often go in bodies of water in order to T S C P count the number of indicator species to better understand the health of that ecosystem. CADDISFLY Next time you’re at the river, look for caddisfly larvae and CASE see the different types of homes they’ve built.

Above: Decorative caddisfly cases. Photo: insect safari -flickr.com CC. Left: Larvae inside its case. Photo: henricksrobert flickr.com CC.

Word Search

by Sarah Marnick

Watch a neat video about caddisflies and fancy jewelry houses they’ve built by visiting this link on the internet: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jID1_GwxiE0

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Aug/Sept 2013

COCOON DEBRIS ECONEWS

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FILTERFEEDER HATCH LAKES LARVAE MOUTHPARTS NECTAR

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Nuclear Tourism? Come for the nuclear reactor, stay for the karaoke and the beach. That’s the possible pitch by the Bataan nuclear power plant in the Philippines, built nearly 30 years ago but never used. Now it’s being promoted as a tourist attraction. Visitors can tour the plant, then stay the night at an adjacent beach, home to a turtle sanctuary. “This will be the only tourist-friendly nuclear power plant in this part of the world,” a spokesman said. “I think for most people it would be very thrilling.” Here at the NEC, we’re not thrilled by the Humboldt nuclear power plant, which is only miles away from our office and built on shaky ground. That’s why we fought to shut it—and keep it shut. It is just one of many environmental disasters that the NEC helped to prevent. We couldn’t have done it for the last 40 years without your support, physically and financially. We’re still battling the forces that favor nuclear power, fracking, mountaintop removal, transcontinental pipelines—and we still need your help. The fight is not over, and probably never will be. So please give, time or money (or both). Keep reactors non-functioning tourist attractions. Thank you.

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Coastal Cleanup Day for more information: call 707-822-6918 or visit www.yournec.org/coastalcleanup