AAA, MADD, and Waymo remind soccer fans to plan safe rides home during the World Cup tournament
WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (June 11, 2026) – As the world's top soccer teams compete across North and Central America this summer, millions of fans will travel to matches and gather for watch parties. AAA, MADD, and Waymo are teaming up to ensure celebrations remain safe, encouraging fans to make a game plan for a safe ride before kickoff, because getting everyone home safely is the ultimate win.


"Nearly one-third of all impaired-driving traffic fatalities occur during the summer months. Major sporting events, like the World Cup, can further contribute to that risk as fans gather at stadiums, bars, and watch parties across the country," said Doug Johnson, spokesperson for AAA Mountain West Group. "Impaired driving is 100% preventable, and choosing a safe ride home is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and others."


Teaming Up to Keep Our Roads Safe
Getting everyone to their destination is a shared goal for AAA and MADD, one that stretches beyond this summer's games. AAA and MADD have launched a five-year initiative to reduce impaired-driving fatalities by 20% by 2030. By combining education, advocacy and innovative solutions, AAA and MADD are working to save lives.


"The world's biggest soccer matches are a time to celebrate, but every fan needs a safe way home,” said Stacey D. Stewart, CEO of MADD. “We’re grateful to AAA for its leadership in road safety and to Waymo for making discount codes available to help fans make a plan to never drive impaired. Together we can prevent impaired driving, protect our communities and save lives.”


To help fans secure a safe ride home, Waymo is offering a $5 off ride discount for the first 2,500 redemptions with the code "GOAL2026”. * The discount  will be valid from June 11 through July 19, 2026 in all Waymo owned and operated markets including Phoenix and San Francisco, helping make the safe choice the easy choice for fans heading to matches, watch parties and celebrations.


"Soccer has a unique ability to bring people together, whether they're cheering from the stands or celebrating with friends at a watch party," said Heather Aijian, Waymo's head of public affairs. "Waymo is proud to partner with AAA and MADD to help fans make safe transportation choices and get home safely after the match. By making sober rides more accessible, we can help keep the focus on the excitement of the game."


Nearly 12,000 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in the United States in 2024. Impaired driving continues to impact families and communities across the country, but it is a challenge we can overcome together. Every fan has a role to play by planning ahead, choosing a safe ride and encouraging friends to do the same. Working as a team, we can save lives and help ensure the only thing fans remember about the night is the excitement of the match.


*Offer valid while supplies last. Promo code GOAL2026 is available to the first 2,500 eligible participants from June 11 through July 19, 2026. Limit of one discount per user. Additional terms and conditions may apply.

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About AAA Mountain West Group
AAA Mountain West Group is one of the most trusted membership organizations, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Montana, Nevada, Northern California, Utah, and Wyoming. Named one of Forbes’ Most Trusted Companies in America, AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,400 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.




About MADD   
Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) is a national nonprofit leading the movement to end impaired driving for good. Since 1980, MADD has helped reduce drunk driving deaths in America by more than 51%, saved nearly 500,000 lives, and served nearly one million victims and survivors. The organization is committed to leading prevention efforts with young adults, collaborating with law enforcement to keep our roads safe from impaired drivers, as well as advocating for stricter sentencing and stronger laws, including the HALT Drunk Driving Law that mandates anti-drunk driving technology in every new car. MADD continues to provide support services to victims and survivors of impaired driving at no charge through victim advocates and the 24-Hour Victim Help Line 1-877-MADD-HELP. For more information or to donate, visit https://madd.org/ and follow MADD on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.   


About Waymo   
Waymo is an autonomous driving technology company with the mission to be the most trusted driver. Since its start as the Google Self-Driving Car Project in 2009, Waymo has focused on building the Waymo Driver—The World's Most Experienced Driver™—to improve everyone's access to mobility while saving thousands of lives now lost to traffic crashes. Waymo’s fully autonomous ride-hailing service has served over 20 million trips to riders in 10 and counting cities, including the San Francisco Bay Area, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Austin, Atlanta, and Miami. The Waymo Driver has autonomously driven over 200 million miles on public roads and tens of billions in simulation across 15+ U.S. states.

PLACER COUNTY – Caltrans announced today that work is underway on two new projects along Interstate 80 in the Sierra Nevada that will improve safety and mobility along the corridor.


Combined, the $154.6 million Blue Canyon Pavement Rehabilitation and Alta Pavement Improvement projects will improve the infrastructure along a vital highway for both passenger vehicles and commercial truck traffic.
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“Interstate 80 provides thousands of travelers and truckers a critical corridor of state infrastructure to travel every day,” said Caltrans District 3 Director Sergio Aceves. “These improvements will not only extend the highway’s lifespan but also enhance travel reliability, reduce collisions and support efficient freight movement.”


The $116.7 million Blue Canyon Pavement Rehabilitation Project will be staged in three locations within Placer County between Crother Road and Nyack needed to improve safety, reliability and freight mobility. Improvements include a truck-climbing lane and pavement rehabilitation on the eastbound side. The project was funded in part by $14.9 million from Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017.


Meanwhile, the $37.9 million Alta Pavement Improvement Project between Colfax and Alta will extend the service life of existing pavement, rehabilitate drainage systems and upgrade guardrails, signs and Transportation Management System elements. This project was funded in part by $5.5 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and $3.75 million from SB 1.


Work started earlier this month on both projects. Motorists will notice traffic shifts and temporary barrier placements between Applegate and Weimar and between Blue Canyon and Nyack, as well as erosion control and drainage work on the lower Alta section.
 
The Blue Canyon project, expected to conclude in 2029, is a joint venture between Flatiron and Teichert construction companies. Teichert is the primary contractor on the Alta project, which should be completed by the end of this year.


California has received an annual investment of approximately $16.7 billion in infrastructure funding since IIJA’s passage. That includes investments to upgrade the state’s roads, bridges, rail, public transit, airports, electric vehicle charging network, ports and waterways.


SB 1 provides $5 billion in transportation funding annually that is shared equally between state and local agencies. Road projects progress through construction phases more quickly based on the availability of SB 1 funds, including projects that are partially funded by SB 1. Visit build.ca.gov/ to learn more about transformative infrastructure projects happening in communities throughout the state.  


Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. Caltrans reminds motorists to “Be Work Zone Alert” and slow in construction zones for the safety of travelers and crews performing these improvements.
 

 
 
With summer, we have some of our most nostalgic memories: pool parties, barbecues or family gatherings. In the excitement, it can be easy to forget about heat safety — but preparation and education are key to keeping safe.

Here are a few quick heat safety tips to get started:

• Stay hydrated: Drink a cup of water every 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
• Stay cool: Spend time in air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library or cooling center.
• Stay connected: Check in twice a day on those who are older, have health problems or live alone. Never leave a child or pet alone inside a parked car, and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

Dr. Glenn Mollette 


Summer arrives slowly and disappears quickly. This all depends on where you live of course. If you are in Southern Florida, Texas, Arizona or California then warm and very hot days are almost always a part of life. For those of us a little further north, we know about long winters and the wet chilly months of April and early May. The anticipation of summer is exciting and very welcome. 


Sadly, it only takes about two or three really hot days for folks to start growling and complaining about the hot weather. In these parts, we really only have two seasons, very cold weather and very hot weather. We will have a few days of Spring and sometimes two or three weeks of nice Fall weather, but that’s about it. After that, it’s time for heavy coats or shorts and tank tops. 


Summer is finally here and typically hot for the next three to four months.  Let’s enjoy the season. Remember that big snowfall just a few months ago?  You couldn’t get out of the house some days because it was dangerous. You can go outside now. On hot days just go early. Go walking, to the grocery store or whatever outside activity you choose. 


Stay hydrated. Dehydration is a risk especially when mowing grass, playing sports, or gardening. Take time to cool down and hydrate. Every summer brings tragic news of football players dying during summer camp due to the heat. Coaches and schools must utilize all cautions to take care of their athletes. Parents must speak up about practices on extremely hot days. You have a voice. Speak up and let the coach know it’s seriously too hot for practice. 


Reacquaint yourself with neighbors and friends. Take time to visit with those who have been inside most of the year. Take walks and slow down enough to engage in a conversation. 


Most Americans have spent a lot of time this year watching television or staring at their computers. You can do this when November rolls back around. Utilize this time to be outside as much as possible. Wash your car, mow grass, plant flowers, play sports, swim, take long drives or visit state parks. Most anything outside will do. 


The nice long days of summer are now here. When December comes back it will be dark by 5:30 p.m. and even 4:30 p.m. for most of the country. Currently it’s staying daylight until 8:00, 9:00 or even later. Soak in every minute of doing safe outside activities. When I was a child we would shoot basketball until 9:00 or 9:30 in the evening. We swam, camped out and played outside as much as possible. Those were great days and they were rarely boring. Today, many Americans have a hundred different television stations, movie channels and numerous social media accounts and still end up depressed. 


It's summertime. Don’t miss this glorious season. Do what you can do, all you can do and do it when you can...which is now. You don’t have the guarantee of next summer. We have this summer. Let’s enjoy this season to the max. 




Dr. Mollette is the author of a new book titled Rambling Man With A Shaky Hand. Available via Kindle, Amazon Hard Back and other book sellers. 


​SIERRA COUNTY HEALTH UPDATE & COMMUNITY HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PLAN (CHIP) was presented during the Board of Supervisors’ meeting held May 21st in Loyalton. Tina Slowan-Pomeroy, the county’s Epidemiologist, has been leading the CHIP process. She explained CHIP is a multi-year plan for improving health and wellbeing in the county. A Community Health Assessment was done in 2023 and the Plan was built with data and community input to come up with priority areas in order to make a meaningful impact. Data shows demographics for Sierra County as 1/3 aged 65 and older. They are working to support aging safely and independently and developed a senior outreach program targeted to residents 65 and older. The idea is to support social connections, provide access to services and have community engagement. Data also shows leading causes of death are cancer, coronary heart disease, COPD, stroke and accidents, which is not surprising due to the aging community. Community input showed the need for better communication, food access, local activities and opportunities for community engagement. CHIP work is driven through groups to strengthen partnerships. Tina reported they have had progress in the communication action with 211 planning and Sierra County’s Outreach Van. The Outreach Van delivers food and weekly presence to remote communities, provides connection, materials and immunizations. Since the van began, it has made 42 trips and provided 260 Vaccinations.
211 is a free telephone number providing access to local community services, and would be a way to get information out and support residents without internet.  Tina stated CHIP improves access, improves trust and coordination with organizations, supports sustainable improvements, and it also helps the county position for future funding. Supervisor Sharon Dryden said the Board has approved 211 to be used during emergencies, but hoped to continue to work toward a more robust program. 

SIERRA COUNTY ROAD DEPARTMENT had two equipment incidents on Tuesday, May 26th. A backhoe caught fire on Highway 89 near Calpine for a total loss, and a grader being operated on Galloway Road near Downieville tipped over onto its side. 

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Ten (10) computers and four (4) printers to the Sierra County Friends of Library Association to promote digital literacy and advance Internet accessibility for residents under the California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF) and California Advanced Services Fund Adoption Account (CASF) grants previously awarded to the County.

2026 AAA Car Guide Winners Announced
WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (June 4, 2026) - The new AAA Car Guide reveals electric and hybrid vehicles top the list of 2026 winners, dominating every single category of the AAA car guide rankings. While drivers grapple with historically high gas prices and reexamine what vehicle they drive, AAA provides expert research and analysis to help consumers navigate the car buying industry. 

“Higher gas prices may increase consumer interest nationwide in making the switch to EVs,” said Doug Johnson, spokesperson for AAA Mountain West Group. “The 2026 AAA Car Guide helps drivers across the country navigate the evolving automobile marketplace by comparing vehicles with comprehensive information spanning eight vehicle categories.”  

Key Winners     
The AAA Car Guide winners feature multiple advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking (AEB), reverse automatic emergency braking (RAEB), and lane-keeping assistance (LKA).
The 2026 Lucid Gravity Touring, which was crowned the overall 2026 AAA Car Guide winner and selected as the top vehicle in the midsize SUV category, debuted last year and made its first entry into the AAA Car Guide. SUVs are often popular amongst consumers because of their versatility, safety, and comfort.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro S Plus won the top spot in the minivan category. This minivan is a reimagined version of the beloved VW Bus and seats up to 6 or 7, depending on the configuration.
The only hybrid winner this year was in the small car category: the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring.


Scoring Ranked by Category and Vehicle:  

• Overall: Lucid Gravity Touring (Electric)
  
• Small Car: Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring (Hybrid)
  
• Midsize Car: BMW i4 eDrive40 Gran Coupe (Electric)
  
• Large Car: Lucid Air Pure (Electric)
  
• Pickup: Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Extended Range (Electric)
  
• Minivan: Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro S Plus (Electric)
  
• Small SUV: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N (Electric)
  
• Midsize SUV: Lucid Gravity Touring (Electric)
  
• Large SUV: Hyundai Ioniq 9 Performance Limited (Electric)
  

 
AAA EV Resources    

• AAA Car Guide Website: For those in the market for newer used EVs, the online resources also contain links to prior editions of the guide.
  

• Your Driving Costs calculator: Consumers should consider estimates of the cost of owning a vehicle based on financing it, owning and driving it for five years, and trading it in at the end of those five years.
  

• AAA Your Driving Costs revealed that as of September 2025, the annual cost to own and operate a new vehicle was $11,577, or $965 per month, which was a drop of $719 from 2024. That figure may be higher this year for gas-powered vehicles given higher pump prices, if they last.
  

• Car Care Electric Vehicles – Low Maintenance – No Problem: AAA series for young adults providing helpful tips, advice and life hacks on all things.
  

• Mobile EV Charging Pilot & AAA EV Member Benefits: Available in select cities, including San Francisco, this service is now part of our roadside assistance and will get EV owners back on the go if they run out of charge. That’s just one of the many benefits and services we offer our EV members.
  

Overall winners, detailed evaluation criteria, vehicle reviews, and an in-depth analysis of ADAS technology can be found at AAA.com/CarGuide.

About AAA Mountain West Group
AAA Mountain West Group is one of the most trusted membership organizations, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Montana, Nevada, Northern California, Utah, and Wyoming. Named one of Forbes’ Most Trusted Companies in America, AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,400 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.

 
A fun, educational and family-friendly event to address the wildfire threat in Sierra County
 
Sierraville, CA. May 4, 2026  — Fire Safe Sierra County will be bringing back a popular event on June 6th to the Sierraville Schoolhouse. “Firepalooza” is a free, fun, family-friendly event designed to provide citizens information critical to helping them address the threat of wildfire in our area. There will be displays of firefighting and fuel suppression equipment from CalFIRE, the USFS, Sierra County Firesafe, and private contractors. A full slate of speakers will be on site discussing topics such as evacuation protocols for large animals (including humans!), fuels reduction projects, mapping innovations to assist in predicting fire behavior, and programs to help homeowners in creating a more defendable space.  Additionally, there will be a FREE barbeque lunch, and a number of area Firewise communities will be on had to discuss their specific projects.
 
“By all accounts, this summer is shaping up to be a potentially serious one in regard to wildfire threat”, according to Rodd Rummel, Firesafe Sierra County Executive Director. “The goal of Firepalooza is to create a more informed public. Arming folks with the knowledge of the simple things they can do around their homes to help mitigate wildfire risk helps them, and helps the firefighters tasked with trying to protect property. It is a win-win”.
 
Firepalooza will run from 10-2 on June 6th, and everyone is welcome.
 
For more information, please contact Fire Safe Sierra County at [email protected], or Paul Cueto at [email protected] or Mike Blide at (530) 320-5711.
 
Fire Safe Sierra County is a non-profit organization promoting wildfire resiliency throughout Sierra County, California.

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June 3, 2026  Taten Wiley, a junior at Hayfork High School in Trinity County, removes pieces of wood that have been trimmed off a plank during processing at the school’s newly constructed sawmill, which held its grand opening in May. 
Photo/Manola Secaira


By Manola Secaira
Morgan Rourke has always known logging. He grew up in Hayfork, a Trinity County town historically propped up by the region’s timber trade. 
His roots in the area run deep: He’s a fifth-generation rancher-farmer there and the third generation in his family to be an agricultural teacher for a high school in the county. He teaches at Hayfork High School, where he was once a student.
“My grandpa was my ag teacher here, in the same facility, and my dad was an ag teacher over the hill at Trinity High School,” Rourke said. “Now I have two of my four boys in our program.” 
Growing up, sawmills were commonplace, and many of his neighbors’ livelihoods revolved around timber. But the industry’s decline during the past few decades—driven in large part by changing environmental regulations—led many sawmills to shutter, affecting communities that had long depended on timber production. Today, only one commercial sawmill remains in Trinity County.
Yet the need for logging persists. State agencies such as Cal Fire have increasingly backed logging and forest-thinning projects as key strategies for reducing wildfire risk and improving forest health.
“There’s a lot of different treatments to make our forest healthy and resilient to fire,” Cal Fire forester Jason Butcher said. “That treatment can range from timber harvesting to fuels management to prescribed fire.”
However, Rourke said the sector still requires people who know how to do the work. That’s why he and other teachers worked to secure grants—including one from Cal Fire—that helped Hayfork High School begin construction on its own sawmill in 2024. 
The school held a grand opening in late May for the sawmill, which is now nearly complete. Rourke’s son, Ty Rourke, a junior enrolled in the high school’s agriculture program, spoke to guests at the event. 
“We have poured over 200 yards of new concrete, hooked up over a mile of electrical wiring and installed over a million dollars worth of equipment to reach this point today,” he said in a speech. “We have a bit left to go, but we are incredibly excited at what the future holds.”
Sparking interest in the fieldThe last two periods of the day at Hayfork High School can get loud. Students working at the school sawmill usher logs through a host of machinery that processes the wood into planks.
“We are limited on how many minutes in the day we can run, so we have a double period for that particular class,” said Noah Corp, an agricultural teacher at the school.
He described the mill as an industrial setup, allowing students to crank out about 1,000 board-feet of lumber in 90 minutes.
While it’s small—Morgan Rourke describes it as the nation’s first high school “micromill”—it still gives students a chance to be a part of each step in the lumber production process. 
Trenton Thompson, another teacher at the school, said he hopes the experiences stoke much-needed interest in the forestry field.

Hayfork High School Agricultural Teacher Morgan Rourke, right, showcases the school’s sawmill operation to visitors at its grand opening on May 20, 2026.
Photo/Manola Secaira“We’re starting to see that, potentially, some of the really important things like fire mitigation or ecosystem services are kind of falling to the wayside,” Thompson said, speaking generally about impacts of a shrinking timber sector. “And so, not only are we teaching students these technical skills, we’re teaching them why it’s important.”
Butcher, the Cal Fire forester, said the logging industry’s role in wildfire mitigation is a big reason the agency supported the project through a grant. He said the disappearance of sawmills in certain areas “leaves a hole in forest management,” creating a need for more people to carry out that work.
“You have a glut of supply and you have limited demand because there’s only so many mills that can take (logs),” Butcher said. 
A new generation in loggingTy Rourke said he knew he wanted to pursue an agriculture-related job, and the sawmill program exposed him to new possibilities. 
“Even if students aren’t going to go into that industry, it’s going to give them an understanding,” he said. “It’s very important to understand where your food, where your materials, where your raw resources come from.”
Lexus Yang, a junior at the school, said she never saw herself working at a sawmill. Before moving to Hayfork, she described herself as a city girl without any real agricultural experience. 
But working at the sawmill this past school year has surprised her. She’s joined two FFA groups—one for natural resources and another for forestry—and it’s given her new ideas for her future. 
“I’ve thought about being a forester lately because it’s what I’ve enjoyed,” Yang said. “It’s really giving me insight.” 
Morgan Rourke said he’s already seen graduates from the school enter the field. A former student, Ren Winters, now works as a forester for Trinity River Lumber Co. in Weaverville, the county’s last commercial mill. He initially worked as a firefighter for the U.S. Forest Service, an experience that influenced his decision to change course. 
Though fighting fires “is a great position,” he said, “I felt like it was putting a Band-Aid on a problem.
“I felt motivated to try to help prevent the forest fires that have been occurring,” he added. 
As a forester, Winters makes management decisions for timberlands, including determining when and how to conduct vegetation management and fuel pile burning. He said he’s seen how that work helps prevent wildfires, which is why he’s excited about the school’s sawmill. 
“It’s important to support logging through projects like this because our forests don’t stop growing,” Winters said. “We have not been good stewards of our public lands for decades, and programs like this will ensure a workforce for the future.” 
Manola Secaira is a staff writer for Ag Alert. She can be contacted at [email protected].

NEVADA CITY, Calif., June 1, 2026—Work to improve forest health and reduce the risk of wildfire in the North Yuba River watershed is ongoing as part of efforts by the North Yuba Forest Partnership. Project work may potentially impact access to popular recreation locations and Forest Service lands within the Tahoe National Forest area near Camptonville, Downieville and surrounding communities. For public safety, access may be restricted to Forest Service roads, trails and lands as contractors engage in active implementation this field season.

The public should expect an increase in log trucks on the highway and roads designated as haul routes (see map). In addition, the public is encouraged to avoid project areas due to mechanical vegetation management work, which includes the use of heavy equipment, movement of haul trucks, tree-falling operations, mastication and piling. Log trucks and equipment may be present seven days a week at any time. 

The following vegetation management projects will be active as weather permits, starting in late May through the end of the year:

• Downieville: 3,350 acres east of downtown Downieville north of Hwy 49. Hand falling will begin August. 
• Downieville Ridgetop Fuel Break: Development of an approximately 460-acre fuel break north of downtown Downieville and north of Hwy 49. Heavy equipment will be moving in and out of the project area along Lavezzola and Saddleback Roads. 
• Eureka: Treatment of approximately 1,300 acres northwest of Downieville. There are no road closures in the area, but operations may impact travel along Forest Service Road 25-23 and 25. 
• Gauntlet: Treatment of approximately 1,373 acres northeast of Alleghany and adjacent to Forest City. Expect heavy equipment and log trucks on Ridge Road and Henness Pass Road. There will be trail closures on portions of Truckee Ditch, Sandusky and Mexican Mine trails within the project area. View the forest closure order here.
• Graveyard: Treatment of approximately 2,032 acres along Henness Pass Road east of Camptonville and west of Forest City. Expect heavy equipment and log trucks along Henness Pass Road. 
• Greene Acres: Fuels reduction work planned on approximately 1,200 acres just south of Bassetts and Hwy 49. Forest Service lands, roads and trails will not be closed to the public during project implementation. 
• New Bullards: Fuels reduction work planned on approximately 76 acres spread out along multiple tracts of forest service land. Treatment areas are spread in the Camptonville area west of Hwy 49. There are no planned traffic disruptions, but heavy equipment and trucks can be expected along Pendola Extension Road. 
• Packer Salmon: Meadow and aspen restoration work, including timber removal planned on approximately 263 acres northwest of Bassetts nestled between Packer Lake Road and Gold Lake Road. There are no planned traffic interruptions, but trucks and machinery should be expected traveling in and out of the project area.
• Sleighville: Timber and fuels reduction work planned on approximately 3,965 acres south of Hwy 49 and north of Pliocene Ridge Road. This project includes helicopter operations east of Camptonville through July 2026. Expect heavy equipment and log trucks along Henness Pass Road and route 34 (Joubert’s Road). 

View a map of active project areas here.

The North Yuba Forest Partnership was started in 2018 under the shared vision of prioritizing, planning and executing landscape-scale forest restoration and wildfire risk reduction across 275,000 acres of Sierra Nevada forests in the North Yuba River watershed. The partnership includes the U.S. Forest Service, The Nature Conservancy, South Yuba River Citizens League, Camptonville Community Partnership, Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribe, National Forest Foundation, Sierra County, Blue Forest and Yuba Water Agency.

View a map of all planned, active and complete projects led by the North Yuba Forest Partnership here.
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Solicitation to operate 35 Forest Service recreation areas 
NEVADA CITY, Calif., June 1, 2026 — Tahoe National Forest recently started the process for solicitation of proposals for a concession special use permit for recreation facilities on the American River, Sierraville, Truckee and Yuba River ranger districts with the publication of a prospectus.   
The offering includes 35 campgrounds, group campgrounds, boat launches and day use sites located throughout the forest. 
Prospective applicants can find detailed information on this business opportunity, Forest Service concession program and policies, the special use permit and the application process by reviewing the prospectus posted on SAM.gov. 
Applicants must submit the required processing fee and business plan evaluation fee with their proposal.  All prospective applicants are advised to read the prospectus carefully. Applicants must submit one hard copy and one electronic copy of their application package. Applications must be received by close of business (4:30 p.m. PST) Sept. 7, 2026.  
Following the process, it is expected a permit will be issued and operations to begin by Spring 2027.   
Site tours for prospective applicants are scheduled for June 23 and June 24, 2026. 
For questions, comments, or concerns regarding the opportunity, or to RSVP to the site tour, please contact Tahoe National Forest Recreation Program Manager Mary Sullivan at [email protected]. 

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Jun 01, 2026Trump Administration Highlights Affordable Pathways to Homeownership in Rural America(Washington, D.C. June 1, 2026) – Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Acting Under Secretary Todd Lindsey kicked off National Homeownership Month by highlighting the Trump Administration’s commitment to expanding access to housing and helping more Americans, especially first-time homebuyers, realize the dream of homeownership.
“Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and the Administration is focused on growing first time homeownership, making home borrowing more accessible by cutting barriers, helping families build equity and long-term financial security,” said Lindsey. “USDA Rural Development is playing a key role by delivering real solutions for rural communities across the country.”
Homeownership remains one of the most effective ways for families to build wealth and a stronger financial future. Throughout the month of June, USDA is showcasing programs that make it easier for individuals and families to buy, build, or repair homes in rural areas.
USDA Rural Development’s single-family housing programs are designed to support first-time homebuyers, working families, and those looking to invest in their rural communities. USDA RD’s programs include:

• Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program enables USDA to partner with private lending institutions, backing their loans to help families and individuals buy homes in rural areas.
• Home Repair Loan and Grant Program provides loans and grants to help families and individuals repair their homes to make them safer, healthier places to live.
• Mutual Self-Help Housing Grant Program provides grants to qualified organizations to help them carry out local self-help housing construction projects.
• Single Family Housing Direct Home Loan Program provides loans directly to families and individuals so they can buy or build homes in rural America.  

USDA is also working closely with lenders, builders, and community partners to streamline processes, reduce regulatory burdens, and expand awareness of available programs. Throughout National Homeownership Month, USDA will host events nationwide to connect rural Americans with resources and opportunities that make homeownership more attainable.
USDA Rural Development programs support not only housing, but also the broader economic foundation of rural America by investing in infrastructure, community facilities, and local economies to ensure rural communities remain strong, self-sufficient, and positioned for long-term growth and stability.
To learn more about USDA Rural Development housing programs, visit www.rd.usda.gov or contact a Rural Development State Office.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Get ready for the races! Registration is open for all three of SBTS’ race weekends: Lost and Found Gravel Festival, the Downieville Classic and Mountains to Meadows Endurofest, featuring Grinduro and the Mt. Hough Enduro. First up is Lost and Found on June 13 in Portola! These mountain weekends are packed full of fun with friends, camping, competition, revelry and good food, all in support of the Stewardship’s efforts to shine a spotlight on our host communities of Portola, Downieville and Quincy—and all race proceeds go directly back into the trails by funding our Pro Trail Crews. Lost and Found and Mountains to Meadows are particularly perfect for newer races, with a wide range of distances and categories available. We also offer a Buddy Package for those races, which gives $25 off entry fees for up to five racers who register together. Rally your crew for an awesome weekend in the Sierra! Sign up to race or get involved as a volunteer and get free camping, swag, meals, beverage and guaranteed good times.

As Nevada faces unprecedented growth in electricity demand, national nonprofit SUN urges the state to make full use of rooftop solar, batteries, and other tools that customers are already investing in.

LAS VEGAS, NV — NV Energy filed its 2026 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) with the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN) last week, kicking off one of the most important energy planning processes in recent state history. As electricity demand climbs sharply and Nevada's grid faces pressures it has never seen before, Solar United Neighbors (SUN) sees this filing as a pivotal opportunity to put every available tool to work, especially the rooftop solar and battery storage that Nevadans are already investing in across the state. SUN will be intervening in the IRP advocating for unleashing the potential of distributed resources like rooftop solar.
The IRP is filed every three years and is the central planning document the PUCN uses to evaluate how NV Energy will meet customer demand over the next two decades. NV Energy filed this IRP a year early, citing a dramatic increase in projected demand driven largely by new large-scale customers like data centers. The utility now expects to need 47 percent more energy than it forecast just two years ago.
"This is a moment that calls for every option on the table, and harnessing distributed resources like rooftop solar and storage," said Julia Hubbard, Nevada Program Director at Solar United Neighbors. "Nevadans have spent their own money putting solar on their roofs and batteries in their garages. That equates to real value for everyone, and it deserves a real seat at the planning table. It’s time for Nevada to deploy virtual power plants, in which networks of customer resources can work together to meet grid needs. The decisions made in this IRP will shape Nevadans' bills, their reliability, and their energy choices for years to come."
Nevada has roughly 1,200 megawatts of rooftop residential solar installed across the state, the equivalent of over 140,000 homes generating about four percent of Nevada's electricity. That capacity, built one home at a time by Nevadans investing in their own energy, can be deployed quickly, reduce strain on the grid during peak hours, and help moderate costs for all ratepayers, including those who don't have solar themselves.
As the PUCN reviews the filing in the months ahead, Solar United Neighbors will engage in the proceeding to advocate for:

• Integrating rooftop solar and battery storage into the utility’s planning process as grid resources to optimize their full value and compare them side by side with other potential resources.

• Investment in programs that help Nevadans cut their energy use and power their own homes, including energy efficiency upgrades, rooftop solar, and battery storage.
• Enabling customer access to data produced by smart meters in real time, so they can make informed decisions about how and when they use power.
• Create a robust virtual power plant (VPP) program that harnesses customer energy resources (e.g. rooftop solar, battery, EVs, smart appliances) to meet peak demand by compensating customers for the energy they share with the grid.
• Create a competitive market rather than giving utilities exclusive control over how these customer resources are used. 

"Nevada has more than 300 sunny days a year," Hubbard added. "We have an enormous resource right above us, and Nevadans are ready to help build a stronger grid together. The IRP is our chance to make sure that potential is part of the plan."
Solar United Neighbors represents more than 25,000 Nevada solar owners and supporters and will continue to share updates and opportunities for public comment as the IRP proceeding moves forward.
About Solar United Neighbors
Solar United Neighbors is a nonprofit organization that works in Nevada and nationwide to represent the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. Solar co-ops are part of the organization’s mission to create a new energy system with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. Solar United Neighbors holds events and education programs to help people become informed solar consumers, maximize the value of their solar investment, and advocate for fair solar policies.

THE 2026-27 GRAND JURY REPORT  paints a clear picture of what ails the City of Loyalton. It describes the City and County of Sierra’s relationship as “strained,” and how past costly management decisions have negatively affected desirable interagency partnerships.
According to the report, “The city’s budget floats just over $1 million dollars a year, compared to the $67 million that Sierra County uses to operate.” 
It points out, “There are few revenue sources that the city can tap into with such a small population.
“Because of this, the city relies on grants or low interest loans to obtain funding for improvements throughout the city. The city’s small budget does not allow for the addition of key staff, nor does it allow for competitive compensation and benefits that similar positions in the county and surrounding area afford. Full time employees are not offered health benefits, PERS retirement or paid time off.
​“An unstable water supply’s biggest impact is to the 406 users that the city serves. Besides the residents and businesses that make up these users, the Sierra-Plumas Joint School District has 369 students that attend school inside the City of Loyalton, along with the District Office. The number represents an astonishing 89% of students in the school district. Sierra County occupies many offices in Loyalton as well, including Health and Human Services, Probation Office, Behavioral Health Advisory Board, Office of Education, and Social Services. In addition to these offices, Eastern Plumas Health Care maintains the Loyalton Medical Clinic, the ALS Ambulance station, and the Skilled Nursing Care Facility that houses 35 patients.
“These services that are provided in Loyalton are vital to the health, safety and well-being of the residents of Sierra and adjacent Plumas Counties.”
On Disincorporation, the report states, “disincorporation is a complicated process, pointing out the need to meet with the county, hold a special election, meet with LAFCO, form a water and sewer district, and consider the pensions of previous employees. It is noted that after consulting our own legal counsel, that the price of disincorporation could reach 1 million dollars and can take a year or more to complete.
“Disincorporation would also mean that the City of Loyalton would lose its ability to obtain and remain eligible for grants, including the current grant that the city is utilizing for water infrastructure projects. It would also lose eligibility for law enforcement funding, meaning the county would lose out on roughly $100,000 of revenue a year.”
Loyalton’s roads are well covered: “The total budget for the town is $1.2 million, with roads receiving a budget nearing $33,000...... The roads budget within the City of Loyalton is extremely small, and not adequate for the extensive repairs that the city’s streets need.”
Recommendations require the County and City work together: “The Sierra County Director of Public Works and The City of Loyalton develop and deploy a user friendly, effective citizen complaint policy;
“Sierra County Director of Public Works shall adopt and enact formal snow removal training for snow removal equipment operators;
“Sierra County and City of Loyalton develop and implement a plan to address the maintenance of neglected road intersection safety ‘STOP’ and other markings;
“work collaboratively to formalize that road safety issues receive the highest priority above and before optional projects and expansions.;
“The Sierra County Director of Public Works develop a map to display to the public that clearly shows which roads are county roads, state highways and private roads to improve public communication about road responsibility by the end of November 2026;
“The Sierra County Director of Public Works shall develop a written document that explains how road maintenance is prioritized, to help residents understand why some roads are fixed before others by the end of 2026.”

(Quincy, CA, May 29, 2026) — After kicking off the summer recreation season Memorial Day weekend with summerlike weather, conditions this week returned to cold, wet and even snowy on the Plumas National Forest and aren’t expected to warm until after the weekend. 
With the return to spring weather, Forest visitors should be prepared for changing conditions, cooler temperatures and the possibility of thunderstorms.
Nearly all recreation sites on the Forest are now open for the season, including at Antelope Lake, Bucks Lake, Frenchman Lake, Gold Lake, Lakes Basin and Lake Davis.  Recreation sites could be accessed earlier than usual this year due to periods of hot weather and melted snowpack.  This is allowing many to open for the summer season ahead of schedule.
Gold Lake 4x4 Camp and Hutchins Group Camp open for the season June 6.  Reservations are required for both locations at www.Recreation.gov.
Reservations can be made online or by calling 877-444-6777.  The reservation phone number is staffed daily 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT.  Approximately 40 campgrounds on the Plumas National Forest have reservations available through www.Recreation.gov.
At Little Grass Valley Reservoir near La Porte, Wyandotte, Peninsula Tent Camp and Tooms campgrounds on the peninsula opened for the season yesterday, as well as Horse Camp on the northeast side of the lake.  Typically these sites don’t open until mid-June or early July due to snow.
Red Feather Campground at Little Grass Valley Reservoir Recreation Area is being operated by concessionaire Royal Elk Park Management again this year.  The campground is scheduled to open June 26 with reservations available on www.Recreation.gov.
Also on the Feather River Ranger District, Sly Creek Campground opened for the season last weekend, earlier than scheduled.  There is not an estimated date for Strawberry Campground.
The Plumas National Forest has already had reports of a few small wildfires this season as fuels are drying.  Area residents and visitors are asked to use caution with anything that can spark a wildfire.
There are currently no fire restrictions in place.  But campfires should never be left unattended and should be dead-out and cold to the touch before leaving.
Trailer chains should be secured and not dragging, and spark arresters should be functioning properly on motorized equipment, including off-highway vehicles, generators and chainsaws.
The recent cold, wet weather over the forest created conditions which may affect access.  Drivers need to be aware that they may still encounter icy or muddy conditions, especially on roads and trails on the northern sides of mountains and in shaded areas. 
These areas increase the risk of getting stuck, as well as potentially damaging roads.  If tread tracks are visible in the rearview mirror, drivers are asked to park and walk or turn around and find another area to visit.
Hikers should be aware of these same conditions on area trails and are encouraged to avoid hiking on muddy trails.
Early season weather can be widely varied, ranging from warm and sunny during the day to cold at night.  Late spring storms can come on suddenly.  Being prepared with layered clothing, plenty of food and water, good footwear and the right gear is highly recommended.
It’s always good for any forest adventure to make sure in addition to the right supplies that you let someone know where you are going, when you plan to be back and start with a full tank of gas.
For more information on the Plumas National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/r05/plumas or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas.
About the Forest Service: The USDA Forest Service has, for more than 100 years, brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation. Grounded in worldclass science and technology and rooted in communities, the Forest Service connects people to nature and to each other. The Forest Service cares for shared natural resources in ways that promote lasting economic, ecological and social vitality. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. The Forest Service also has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 900 million forested acres within the U.S., of which over 130 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.
 
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
 

Schools and Local Communities to Receive $2.9 Billion 
What You Need to Know: The California State Board of Equalization adopted $170.8 billion in state-assessed property values for fiscal year 2026-27, a 2.3% increase over the prior year. These values are expected to generate approximately $2.9 billion in property tax revenue to support schools and local communities throughout California.
 
Sacramento — Today, the California State Board of Equalization (BOE) unanimously adopted $170.8 billion in state-assessed property values for the primary operations of 374 companies in California, including telephone, gas and electric companies, independent power producers, regulated railroads, and intercounty pipelines. The property items owned or leased by a state assessee used in their primary operation are also referred to as their unitary property (PDF).
 
The values adopted by the BOE for fiscal year 2026-27 are expected to generate approximately $2.9 billion in property tax revenue supporting schools and local communities statewide. County governments will use the final values sent by the BOE in July, including adjustments and the addition of non-unitary properties (such as vacant land), to levy local property taxes.
 
“Most Californians will never see this process firsthand, but they benefit from it every day through the schools, public-safety services, and local community programs that property taxes help support. As the state’s only value-setting agency with a statewide perspective, the Board has a unique constitutional responsibility to assess these complex properties fairly and consistently — helping ensure schools and local governments receive the property tax revenues they rely on.”
BOE Chair Sally J. Lieber (2nd District)
 

 
For fiscal year 2026-27, the total state-assessed value increased by $3.8 billion, or 2.3% over the prior year, which will generate approximately $64 million in additional property tax revenue.
 
This year’s total also includes 61 new Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) companies added to BOE’s assessment jurisdiction as of the January 1 lien date.
 
While most property in California is assessed by County Assessors, the California Constitution requires the BOE to directly assess certain public utilities, regulated railroads, and intercounty pipelines throughout the state.
 
Unlike most locally assessed property, state-assessed property is not subject to Proposition 13. Each year, the BOE determines the fair market value of these properties by considering factors including market conditions, income generated by the property, replacement costs, investments in infrastructure, depreciation, and the regulatory environment as of the January 1 lien date.
 
Additional information, including the complete list of state-assessed property values, is available through the BOE’s State-Assessed Properties Program.
 


The California State Board of Equalization (BOE) is the nation’s only elected tax board. It includes four elected Board Members who represent equalization districts and the State Controller. Since 1879, the BOE has carried out its constitutional and statutory duties to support fair and equitable property tax administration in California. The BOE oversees the work of the state’s 58 County Assessors to help ensure assessment practices are uniform statewide. The BOE also directly assesses the property of regulated railroads and certain public utilities. In addition, the BOE collects the Private Railroad Car Tax, and administers the Alcoholic Beverage Tax and Tax on Insurers programs. BOE's critical role in California’s property tax system helps protect the tax revenues that schools, local communities, and the State depend on every day.
 
Board Members
Ted Gaines
First District
Sacramento
Sally J. Lieber
Second District
San Francisco
Antonio Vazquez
Third District
Santa Monica
Mike Schaefer
Fourth District
San Diego
Malia M. Cohen
State Controller
Yvette M. Stowers
Executive Director