Firefighters on the Plumas National Forest Beckwourth Ranger District plan to continue pile burning operations in Mohawk Valley west-southwest of Graeagle, near Johnsville and Plumas Pines, starting tomorrow, conditions permitting.
 
Firefighters plan to treat approximately 5 acres of piles total in the same project area they were working in last week.
 
Smoke is expected to be visible in the area but not have significant long-term impacts to nearby communities, including Mohawk, Johnsville, Plumas Pines, Graeagle, Blairsden and the surrounding areas.  Drivers on westbound California State Highway 70 will likely see smoke.
 
There will also be increased firefighting equipment traffic in the area and traveling on Highways 70 and 89, particularly in the morning and evening hours.  Drivers in the area should use caution, watch for fire equipment exiting and entering area roadways, and possible slow traffic.
 
If weather conditions become unfavorable, including increased or gusty winds in the area, burning will stop until conditions improve.  Firefighters will be monitoring conditions throughout operations.
 

Treated forest within the Smithneck Wildland Urban Interface Fuels Reduction Project (source: sierravalley-rcd.org)

In September 2024, the importance of forest-thinning projects was illustrated when the Bear Fire ignited on the east side of the Tahoe National Forest. It was early fall but unseasonably hot, dry, and windy. With conditions ripe for a disaster, the blaze immediately threatened the community of Sierra Brooks.
While significant air and ground resources were deployed, the fire raged until it hit the Smithneck Wildland Urban Interface Fuels Reduction Project. Completed between 2022 and 2023, the project removed dense small trees, brush, and grass from over 723 acres surrounding the town. As the rapidly growing wildfire entered this treated area, its energy and intensity dropped, allowing firefighters to stop its forward progression.
Stories like this put the value of forest rehabilitation projects into keen focus, as wildfires are a growing threat to many Tahoe National Forest communities. While the visual impact of prescribed burning may seem drastic at first, addressing unnaturally dense and diseased vegetation is essential to protect both the communities and forested headwaters of the Truckee River.
Most people don't think of forests as critical water infrastructure. Yet, a healthy forest is a powerful, nature-based system providing water quality, groundwater recharge, flood control ,and landscape stabilization. Mitigating wildfire risk for communities and water supplies is a primary driver for the Middle Truckee River Watershed Forest Partnership (MTRWFP).

After the Containment: Capturing the Cost of WildfireThe following examples show how dense tree canopies and alpine fuels can quickly escalate wildfire outbreaks that can take years to recover from:

Rocky Mountains: Within an 8-year span, the Hayman Fire (2002) and Buffalo Creek Fire (1996) collectively cost Denver Water over $26 million in initial cleanup, erosion control, sediment removal, and water quality treatment to address sediment flows into the Strontia Springs Reservoir.
Sierra Nevada: The disastrous 2018 Camp Fire mitigation efforts totaled over $10.8 million for the Paradise Irrigation District in the three years following the fire. The estimated total cost for main line replacement, leak repairs, and hazard mitigation is over $66 millionacross the original FEMA assessment project phases.

The Case for Cost AvoidanceThe biggest return on forest health investment comes from the costs avoided.  Every dollar spent on fuel reduction (thinning, clearing, prescribed fire, etc.) acts as a barrier against multi-million-dollar disasters that can take years and even decades to recover from.

Clean Water: A healthy forest is the cheapest, most efficient water filter available, helping to moderate the need for chemicals during the water system treatment process.
Flood Events: Healthy forest soils and vegetation cover absorb and slow surface runoff, reducing the intensity of rapid runoff during heavy precipitation events.
Private & Community Infrastructure: For communities within the WUI, wildfire fuels mitigation can help protect homes, roads and basic service infrastructures (i.e., water, power, communication).
Outdoor Recreation & the Related Economy: Wildfires can profoundly impact outdoor recreation and the region’s primary economic industry through closures, smoke and long-term damages to trail networks and campgrounds.
All MTRWFP projects have been prioritized to protect the communities, headwaters, reservoirs, and primary stem of the middle Truckee River Watershed.  To see the analysis that guided this process, go to the 10-Year Vegetation Management Plan.

When You See Smoke: Understanding Wildfire
Where there’s smoke, there’s fire, and seeing a plume rising above a ridgeline elicits concern and a desire to get more information. Within the Tahoe National Forest, the public can stay informed about active fires and prescribed burns on the USFS Alerts page.
The following chart helps categorize fire types by behavior and impact. At times, the MTRWFP may use prescribed burns to remove debris and vegetation on the forest floor. This controlled management tactic usually deployed when cooler, calmer days in the fall and spring are forecasted.

Low-IntensityBehavior and Intensity: Surface Fire — Burns slowly along the ground, consuming needles, leaves, and small brush.
Forest Impact: Beneficial — Burns dead vegetation, releases nutrients into the soil and reduces "ladder fuels" into trees.
Management Goal: Achieve this type of fire through prescribed burning and forest thinning.

Moderate-IntensityBehavior and Intensity: Passive Crown Fire — Burns hotter, with flames reaching into the lower branches of trees, scorching needles and smaller limbs.
Forest Impact: Mixed — Kills some small trees and stresses mature trees, but overall forest may survive. Creates a patchy burn mosaic.
Management Goal: Limit moderate-intensity fires near communities through fuels reduction.

High-IntensityBehavior and Intensity: Active Crown Fire — Burns extremely hot through the entire canopy. Flame lengths are often over 30 feet.
Forest Impact: Catastrophic — Kills virtually all trees, incinerates seeds, creates water-repellent (hydrophobic) soil, and causes massive erosion for years.
Management Goal: Prevent at all costs using mitigation and fuel breaks

Download Your Flyer Today!MTRWFP Active Projects to post, share and distribute!
As MTRWFP projects begin, informational flyers will be made available at truckeeforests.org/project-updates. The notices are meant to be shared and are easy to print for posting in public locations.
Information includes an overview map, estimated project duration and QR codes that link to more information about the project.
Click on the image to download the flyer and bookmark truckeeforests.org/project-updates to source other flyers on active projects to post and share.

​

Implementation Projects – 2025This page provides brief updates on project implementation progress and impacts to recreation and traffic.
Five Creeks – Cabin Creek
Updated: 5/16/25

• Area closure effective May 1, 2025, through January 31, 2026 for public safety. Closure Notice and Closure Map.
• No camping, recreation, or other activities within the closure are permitted.
• Recreation Impacts: Donkey Town Trail (previously known as Jackass) and El Burro Trail (previously known as A1) are reopened for mountain biking. Please be aware that the Forest Service Road typically ridden up to access these trails is partially in the closure area due to logging trucks utilizing the road. Please ride up El Burro to avoid the closure and logging trucks. Please park along highway 89 when biking/recreating in this area to avoid the closure area.

Five Creeks – Big Chief
Updated: 5/16/25

• Area closure will be in effect once project starts implementation. Project anticipated to start implementation August 2025.
• No camping, recreation, or other activities within the closure are permitted.
• Recreation Impacts: The Big Chief Trail will be closed where it crosses through the project area. The Big Chief climbing area, trail to the Big Chief Climbing Area and parking areas will be closed.

Alder 89 WUI Fuels and Timber Sale
Updated: 5/16/25

• Area closure will be in effect once project starts implementation. Project anticipated to start implementation July/August 2025.
• No camping, recreation, or other activities within the closure are permitted.
• Recreation: Numerous trails will be impacted by the closure that cross through the project area. There are anticipated to include trails around Alder Creek Rd. and Carpenter Valley Rd. Please check back for exact trail impacts once project implementation has started.

Alpine Meadows and Olympic Valley Fire Protection Project
Updated: 5/16/25

• Area closure will be in effect once project starts implementation. Project anticipated to start implementation August 2025.
• No camping, recreation, or other activities within the closure are permitted.
• Trails: Numerous trails are impacted by the closure that cross through the project area. Please check back for exact trail impacts once project implementation has started.

Ladybug Forest Health and Fuels Reduction Project
Updated: 5/16/25

• Some minor project work continues in this area this season. Please be heads up and pay attention to signs if in the area

If there is one flower that manages to steal the show with an almost tropical look, it’s the amaryllis. Although we’re quite familiar with this bulb as an indoor blooming winter wonder, there is also a hardy outdoor variety: the garden amaryllis. This amaryllis will provide an impressive floral display in late spring.

Exotic spring gardenYou will often see the classic amaryllis blooming on windowsills around Christmastime, but the exact opposite applies to this garden variety. Plant the amaryllis bulbs after the frost and they grow into an exotic surprise in late spring with large, richly-colored flowers in shades ranging from deep red, salmon pink, and soft yellow to white or with an enchanting pattern.
 Planting tips for the garden amaryllisTake care when planting: the amaryllis bulb cannot withstand frost, so you should preferably plant it after the last frost in March or April. Want to get started earlier? Then put the bulbs in a pot first and protect them during cold weather by keeping them indoors or in a frost-free location.

• Choose a sheltered, sunny spot with well-drained soil.
• Plant the bulb with the roots down, leaving about a third of the bulb above the soil.
• Maintain a planting distance of about 12 inches to give the flowers enough space.
• Immediately water the soil a bit after planting but do not pour it on the bulb itself.

Pot or border? Either one is fine!Whether you have a garden or a balcony, the garden amaryllis fits in everywhere. In borders, it combines well with allium or perennials such as salvia (ornamental sage) and lady's mantle. In pots, it’s a real eye-catcher for your terrace or by the front door. Use a spacious flowerpot or planter with drainage holes to keep the soil well-drained.

Be sure to place the pots in a warm, sunny spot and protect them at night in case of late cold weather. It takes a while for the flowers to appear after planting but you’ll enjoy a fantastic floral display from May or June onwards.
Exotic and easyThe garden amaryllis is an eye-catcher in the garden and surprisingly easy to maintain. Give it a little water during dry spells and some food every once in a while and you’ll enjoy it for weeks. After flowering, you can let the leaves die off and the bulb will then go dormant. That’s the time to remove the bulb from the ground and store it in a cool, dry place for another season.

For more information, visit www.flowerbulbs.com.

A new study reveals that California has the fourth-highest rate of hit-and-run cyclist deaths in the United States.

A new study by Arizona-based Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group analyzed hit-and-run pedalcyclist fatality data using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) across all 50 U.S. states between 2019 and 2023. Using official population estimates and federal safety data, researchers calculated the average number of fatal hit-and-run cyclist crashes per million residents to identify where cyclists face the greatest risk on American roads.

California ranks fourth, with 1.02 cyclist deaths per million residents, 96% higher than the national average of 0.52. With a population of 39,249,559, the Golden State recorded an average of 40 fatalities annually from 2019 to 2023. The highest total occurred in 2023 with 47 deaths, while the lowest was reported in 2020 with 37.

Looking at the study, a spokesperson for Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group commented:

“Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, and when drivers flee the scene, the results are often catastrophic. The findings show that states like California experience hit-and-run cyclist deaths far above the national average.

“These numbers highlight the urgent need for stronger accountability, public awareness campaigns, and safer infrastructure to protect cyclists and prevent needless loss of life.”

Table for Extended Results:


The study was conducted by Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group, an Arizona-based firm devoted to representing injured cyclists. From bike-vs-vehicle collisions to spinal injuries, hit-and-runs, and product defects, their cyclist-led team handles coast-to-coast cases and fights for full compensation and justice on behalf of riders.

 https://bicycleaccidentlawyers.com/ 

Methodology
The research analyzed hit-and-run pedalcyclist fatality data using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) across all 50 U.S. states between 2019 and 2023. Using official population estimates and federal safety data, researchers calculated the average number of fatal hit-and-run cyclist crashes per million residents to identify where cyclists face the greatest risk on American roads.

Data Sources:
Bicycle Crash Data → https://cdan.dot.gov/query
Research Dataset → https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/105whdx4hOWMLg1BmawQng5z5rurrVxC6OpmjKoFBMSQ/edit?gid=0#gid=0 

Research by → https://bicycleaccidentlawyers.com/ 

 
 With the busy holiday travel season fast approaching and millions of Americans preparing to hit airports, shopping districts, and festive markets, new data reveals a sharp rise in pickpocketing across the U.S. 
Compare the Market Australia has analyzed the latest FBI figures to reveal which U.S. states have seen the biggest spikes in pickpocketing incidents, with some seeing increases of more than 1,000%. 
The analysis of data from the FBI Crime Data Explorer shows that New York has become America’s pickpocket capital, recording a 1,518% surge in reports between 2021 and 2024. Incidents in the Empire State have skyrocketed from just 168 reports per 100k in 2021 to nearly 3,000 per 100k in 2024. 
California ranks second, with pickpocketing offences rising 905%, while West Virginia (+800%), North Dakota (+500%), and New Jersey (+420%) also saw some of the steepest state-level increases. 
According to the report, states such as Louisiana (-91%), New Mexico (-48%), and Vermont (-100%) recorded the sharpest declines in pickpocketing reports over the same period. 
 
How to Protect Yourself from Pickpockets 
 
To help travellers stay safe while exploring busy areas this Holiday season, Compare the Market Australia shared their top safety tips for avoiding theft on the move: 
 

1. Let people know where you are. Always share your plans with family, friends, or your accommodation host. 
   

1. Pay for secure accommodation. Choose hotels or hostels that offer lockers and secure luggage storage. 
   

1. Stay aware. Keep your phone away and stay alert — distracted tourists are prime targets. 
   

1. Don’t flash valuables. Avoid showing expensive jewellery, watches, or large amounts of cash. 
   

1. Don’t take risks. If something feels off, move to a safe, well-lit, and busy area. 
   

 
Adrian Taylor, Executive General Manager at Compare the Market, said:  
 
“While exploring iconic destinations is part of the adventure, travellers must also be prepared for the risks that come with these popular attractions. Staying vigilant and securing your belongings is key to enjoying a safe and memorable trip. Travel insurance, including coverage for lost items or theft, is a must to ensure peace of mind.”  
 
More information on the impact of global pickpocket, please see the full rankings and data on all destinations on site:  https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/travel-insurance/features/pickpocketing-and-scam-hotspots/ 
 ​
​

LOYALTON CITY COUNCIL met in regular session October 21st. Mayor Joy Markum announced the water line was completed and the boil water restriction was lifted, stating, “We’re clean and good to go,” then it was added two houses on Main Street  were not clear for water due to replacement of a fire hydrant.
Under Public Works, Joy stated the roofing company would start the next week and it would take at least two weeks to do roofing repairs.
Joy stated the Taylor Street leak was fixed and they’d ordered 56 bags, a pallet of cold patch from Sierra Valley Home Center for $1,250. She figured they’d use 20-25 bags on Taylor and “get the big pot holes in town.” She added, “Make sure it gets used,” and told the history of wasted cold patch. Council member Sue McIlravy told the need of part-time help.

WATER METERS
The Council voted unanimously to reaffirm the City’s State of Emergency Water Distribution System. Concerning Town Hall meetings, discussion centered around water meters.  Council member Joe Dines stated the City has meters and City Clerk Kathy LeBlanc called them obsolete and Joy stated they’d need to find the wand. Member Bill Mertton stated meters weren’t on every home and would be about $500 per house to install with the need to “satisfy the State.” Kathy has a list, and stated a first bill on meters would be “informational.” Joy felt the need to investigate.

Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Procedures
The Council was unanimous on authorizing Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Procedures which would help do projects under $200,000 like the roof without a bid package.

NEW WELL PERMIT
Regarding a new well water permit, the Council voted in favor of writing a letter to Sierra Valley Water Management District concerning the well at the former trailer park. Doug Lawler, Managing Partner of 49 Partners, has offered to put the well in on City lots and donate the well to the City. Bill commented this was “a way they have to help us and we help them.”

​NEW HEATER
The Council approved purchase from Sierra Air of an 88k Btu Upflow Lennox  Furnace for $8,161 for the office and back room. Joy stated they’re not spending any more money after the roof and heater. “We’re done,” she said. Sue thanked them all for all they’ve gotten accomplished with Joe commenting, “We make a good team!”
​

​PLUMAS-SIERRA COUNTY FARM BUREAU held its annual meeting on Saturday, October 25th at the home of Sheri and Paul Roen in Calpine.
After a delicious, barbecued steak dinner prepared by the Roen’s, President Dave Roberti led the evening with guest introductions which included 2nd Vice President of California Farm Bureau Ron Peterson. Ron is a dairy farmer in Stanislaus County. He stated, “It is a tough time in agriculture right now.” Two of his childhood friends’ dairies left California, relocating to other states, other dairymen have just quit due to rules, regulations and low prices. Peterson said bureaucrats outnumber us, outspend us and are going to regulate us out of business. He asked, “What are we going to do about it?” Peterson said California Farm Bureau is the voice of farmers and ranchers in this state. They are the organization that will push back. He thanked the Roberti’s for their role in keeping Plumas-Sierra Farm Bureau active here.
He talked about Prop 50, stating we need to stop this, or we won’t have a voice left. He stated the California Farm Bureau is pushing as hard as they can to protect rural counties.
Wolves were a big topic after the recent CDFW news. Peterson thanked Rancher and Sierra County Supervisor Paul Roen and his group for everything they’ve done. He said the California Farm Bureau started a working group to try and work toward getting the wolves delisted. Roen stated they forced CDFW’s Director Bonham’s hand and needed to continue to push to get to Phase 3 adding there are more wolves here than they want to admit. Roen could not say enough about the support they received from the feds and Regional Director Paul Souza.
Sierra County Sheriff Mike Fisher stated he has the unity of all sheriffs in the state wanting a mechanism in place for management. He hoped to get some movement on it, adding Phase 3 has lethal removal and stressed the need for local control. Fisher said the communication from CDFW was “horrendous” and will continue to try and improve it.
Roen stated through the Cattlemen’s Association they are creating a small working group to make a road map for how they got here to educate other counties. He said, “We were the test case and did it right.”
Rancher and Plumas County Supervisor Dwight Ceresola talked on taking the compensation program out of CDFW’s hands. They limit confirmed and non-confirmed and takes a lot of time to get reimbursement.
Roen said they’ve asked for an independent third party and federal protocols.
President Roberti thanked them for all the many hours they put in on this issue.
Peterson closed by thanking the attendees for their membership and stated, “Things are rough out there, but together we will make it better.”
The election of Board of Directors was as follows:
Greg Gatto
Einen Grandi
Rick Leonhardt
Dr. Tanya Morgan
Greg Ramelli
Benjamin Roberti
Dave Roberti
Jane Roberti
Paul Roen
Voting Delegates are Dave Roberti, President and Paul Roen. Alternates are Jane Roberti and Sheri Roen
Retired Directors: Dave Goicoechea, Russell Reed, Rick Roberti and Weston Roberti were thanked for their many years of service.
Plumas Bank was recognized for their generous contribution as well as Hunt & Sons who contributed several door prizes and gun oil who was represented by Don Harnach. 
The meeting concluded with many raffle prizes won.  

GREEN WASTE in Calpine was brought up during the Board of Supervisors meeting on November 4th. Supervisor Paul Roen stated he’s been getting questions on the burn pile and asked about the status.
Public Works Director Bryan Davey said they are going to start burning and just received their required Air Resources Permit. As soon as they are able to reduce the piles, they will start accepting green waste from residents for free at the transfer stations. 
He stated they were preparing to start burning at Ramshorn that day or the next and added residents can burn green waste at their homes right now.


CHRISTMAS ON MAIN STREET SPONSOR
Jessica Folchi, Host of Christmas on Main Street and Dana McAdams, Deputy Director, addressed the Council about sponsorship “to decorate a little more.” The family friendly 2nd annual event starts with the 24th annual Christmas Craft Fair at the Assembly of God Church Hall from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day includes “Sip & Stroll” with open house at businesses and the Christmas Market at Sierra Valley Home Center and Lombardi Mercantile. Loyalton Thrift Store, the Milton Gottardi Museum and the Loyalton Library will all be open! There’s a treasure hunt with a grand prize! Sue recommended they take $100 from the Transient Occupancy Tax Fund. That prompted members to each contribute; Jerry $100; Bill $100; Sue $100 and Joy and Joe each $50. Through discussion, it was decided  
individuals each donate $80 to make $400 and with the City’s $100, make a $500 donation which makes them a Gold Sponsor with featured post on social media and website, on the event map, a Treasure Hunt participant, free customization on merchandise, continued holiday advertisement post event, commemorative framed picture of the event, a free event merchandise item and made a Top Sponsor recognition across media.

A RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION honoring Garitt Cox for his long-standing career with United Parcel Service (UPS) and his exceptional dedication and service to the residents of western Sierra County was presented to him during the Board of Supervisors’ meeting in Downieville on November 4th.
The Resolution was read by Supervisor Lila Heuer and states in part:
Garitt Cox began his career with UPS in October 1990 and officially retired on September 1, 2025, after nearly 35 years of devoted service.
Garitt first began “relief driving” in Sierra County for Al McConnell in 1997, and in September 2020, following the retirement of Kevin Miller, his seniority allowed him to bid the Sierra County route and make it his home until his retirement.
Through his kindness, reliability, and genuine concern for the people he served, Garitt make a lasting impact on countless lives throughout the rural western communities of Sierra County.
Residents and businesses could always depend on Garitt, and his familiar brown UPS truck, to deliver essential medical supplies, critical repair parts, and other items that might otherwise have been beyond reach.
Rain, snow, steep grades, and winding roads were never an obstacle to Garitt’s commitment to serving his customers, and his hard work, friendly spirit, and dedication earned the respect and gratitude of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Everyone he encountered on a delivery has a “Garitt story” to tell, of a friendly smile, a kind word, and a dependable presence who brightened even the most remote doorsteps of Sierra County.
Garitt thanked everyone in western Sierra County which he called a very special area, where the whole community shows love. He said Sierra County is so much more than the beauty that people see. Unless you immerse yourself, you don’t feel the love and see Sierra County for what it truly is; a sense of community and family. He was very honored and blessed that he made Sierra County his final home. Garitt thanked them for accepting him and making him part of the family.

Due to the current Federal Shutdown, CalFresh benefits for the month of November have been suspended.  
Sierra County Social Services Director Lori McGee issued a statement read by Supervisor Sharon Dryden (shown below) during the Board of Supervisors’ meeting held Tuesday, November 4th.
The United States Department of Agriculture responded to a Temporary Restraining Order issued Friday, October 31, 2026 by a Rhode Island judge ordering the USDA to produce a plan for issuing SNAP benefits.  In their response, the USDA confirmed that it intends to issue partial benefits utilizing existing contingency funds available.
If this proposal is accepted by the courts, and once funds are made available by the federal government, it is anticipated that it will still take 1-3 weeks for benefits to be loaded onto cards in and likely staggered over a 10-day period of from the date issuance begins.
Here locally in Sierra County, 335 individuals receive food assistance.  Sierra County Social Services has sent out mailers to each of our families that are impacted, and are working closely with community based organizations, and other county departments to identify other resources that may to be available to these households to lessen the impact of the suspension of SNAP benefits.
Sierra County Social Services can be reached directly by those households impacted.  The County website has also been updated to provide information on our local food banks' locations and days of operation.
Supervisor Terry LeBlanc added Gonzo’s Litte Frosty in Loyalton has been handing out free hot dogs and quesadillas to those needing a meal.

STEVE HILTON of Fox news fame and most recently, candidate for Governor of California, was guest speaker at Sierra Valley Grange Hall in Vinton on Saturday, October 25, hosted by Plumas County and Gold Nugget Republican Women Federated.
He seemed truly appreciative of the “magnificent landscape,” the “lovely feeling” of home, the work given the beautiful arrangements, table settings, and amazing food. Steve spoke fondly of his friend, the late Charlie Kirk and how he loved California. Steven entered his campaign the end of April and said he was “going to win it for Charlie.”
Steve told how the details of this meeting showed care, love, respect and pride and told the crowd, “This is what we need for California.”
Steve talked about how he’s very proud of being a U.S. citizen and how his family had fled communism in Hungary. He’d been raised with a work ethic of earning it and working hard. His step-father, at age 14, heard on the radio the Russians were coming and fled, being shot at, to the Austrian border.
He had been inspired by Margaret Thatcher in starting his own business and found how hard it is to make a change in government beaucracy.
In 2012 he moved to California with the opportunity at Fox News and The Next Revolution started. He told how California isn’t working. “The rich get richer and the working people get screwed.” From the audience, Kathleen Brazzo told how killing the timber industry “killed us.”
Steve agreed, adding the pain of driving 3-4 hours hammered by the highest gas prices. “It is crippling,” he stated. He told of getting rid of the ridiculous environmental rules and regulations, with the highest electricity rates in the country with wind and solar, lawsuits just for regular business, high unemployment, highest poverty,  worst 3rd grade reading in America, lowest home ownership, boys and girls sports “Unacceptable;” homelessness and the crime explosion with tens of thousands dangerous criminals released, “Totally avoidable,”along with healthcare for illegals.
Proud to be a U.S citizen, he stated he renounced his UK citizenship, having to pay for it to leave.
Having a show of hands of who had voted, he encouraged each to check in with ten others to defeat Prop. 50. He stated if everyone who voted for Trump, voted for him, he’ll win with 2,000 votes to spare.  He stated he’d restore spirit and reality.
Under question by Plumas County Supervisor Jeff Engel, about the wolves and Steve asked why ranchers, who know the land and environment, can’t be trusted. He questioned from where enforcement comes and told of the approach of appointing people who have common sense.
He talked about how California is the world leader in fruit & nuts, being unmatched with oldest, biggest and tallest trees and felt the “Land of Opportunity and Plenty” was worth fighting for. 
It matters, he said, as “California meant to America what America means to the world.” He added,”Make the dream a reality.”

WOLF ACTIVITIES were reported on by Supervisor Paul Roen during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting on November 4th in Downieville. Roen stated they were finally successful in seeking action and California Department of Fish and Wildlife in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lethally removed four gray wolves from the Beyem Seyo Pack as reported in a CDFW press release on October 24th. Roen said, since this action there has been significant improvement with only one depredation which was outside of the valley.

NEW PRELIMINARY FEMA FLOOD PLAIN MAPS and amendments for Sierra Valley were discussed during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting on November 4th in Downieville. 
According to FEMA, Flood maps show how likely it is for an area to flood. Any place with a 1% chance or higher chance of experiencing a flood each year is considered to have a high risk. Those areas have at least a one-in-four chance of flooding during a 30-year mortgage. Flood maps help mortgage lenders determine insurance requirements and help communities develop strategies for reducing their risk. 
Planning Director Brandon Pangman gave background on how numerous attempts have been done to get maps for Sierra County but concerns over the accuracy and issues have had FEMA restudy it. In 2023, FEMA restudied it again, with updated technology and ground surveys, but there were still more issues. Sierra County and City of Loyalton asked engineers to look at it and finally FEMA agreed there were still problems. 
The new maps were received recently. Pangman stated in his preliminary investigation of the maps they are better for Sierra Brooks and Sierraville but most of the City of Loyalton is going into the flood plain. Pangman said they would do a community meeting on the eastside and jointly with the City of Loyalton. He will try and get FEMA to attend to answer questions. He stressed that this was not a county project and doesn’t have control over changes, but can give comments. They are looking at 1 to 1-1/2 years before the maps become effective. 




  


Nichole Johnson, Editor
Sierra Booster Newspaper
[email protected]
(530) 277-0891

Hello,
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced this week (see below) that it no longer intends to issue a nationwide recovery plan for gray wolves. This is a disappointing and dangerous policy reversal by the Trump administration. My thoughts are below.
“I’m appalled that Trump wants to strip gray wolves of federal protections and turn their management over to states that are dead set on killing them,” said Collette Adkins, senior attorney and Carnivore Conservation director at the Center for Biological Diversity. “Courts have repeatedly made it clear that our country’s gray wolves have not recovered in places like the southern Rocky Mountains and West Coast. We’ll challenge the Trump administration’s unlawful decision to once again abandon wolf recovery, and we’ll win.”
This decision is unlawful because wolves remain protected under the Endangered Species Act in places like the southern Rockies, West Coast and Northeast. These wolves still need recovery plans under the law.
Please reach out with any questions.
Thank you,
Collette Adkins
Carnivore Conservation Director
Center for Biological Diversity
[email protected]
(651) 955-3821


Recovery Planning Exception Findings for the 44-State and Minnesota Listed Entities of Gray Wolves (Canis lupus)
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Headquarters Ecological Services Office Falls Church, Virginia
With major contributions from:
Pacific Region Southwest Region Midwest Region Northeast Region Mountain-Prairie Region Pacific Southwest Region
November 2025
1
PURPOSE AND DISCLAIMER
The gray wolf recovery planning exception findings present the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service) review of information regarding whether a recovery plan would promote the conservation of the species. As detailed below, we found that recovery plans would not promote the conservation of the gray wolf 44-State or Minnesota listed entities because listing these entities is no longer appropriate under 4(a)(1) of the Endangered Species Act (Act) and measures provided pursuant to the Act are no longer necessary. A consequence of our findings that a recovery plan would not promote the conservation of the two gray wolf listed entities is that recovery plans are no longer statutorily required under the Act and the Service will not develop recovery plans for them. However, these findings do not affect any other provisions of the Act. All other provisions of the Act still apply while the two entities remain listed, including sections 7, 9, and 10 of the Act, consistent with any designated critical habitat, and any regulations issued under sections 4(d) and 10(j) of the Act.
If circumstances for gray wolves change in the United States and new information becomes available indicating a recovery planning exception is no longer appropriate, the Service at that time, could consider whether to engage in recovery planning.
1. BACKGROUND
The gray wolf (Canis lupus) is currently listed as: (1) an endangered species in all or portions of 44 of the contiguous United States and Mexico (44-State entity); and (2) a threatened species in Minnesota (MN entity). The findings address recovery planning for these two gray wolf entities as they appear on the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife at 50 CFR 17.11.
The geographic scope of current gray wolf entities listed under the Act at 50 CFR 17.11 are: • Endangered species in 44 States within the contiguous United States, and Mexico:
2
ο All of AL, AR, CA, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IN, IL, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, and WV; and portions of AZ, NM, OR, UT, and WA as follows:
(1) Northern AZ (that portion north of the centerline of Interstate Highway 40); (2) Northern NM (that portion north of the centerline of Interstate Highway 40);
(3) Western OR (that portion of OR west of the centerline of Highway 395 and Highway 78 north of Burns Junction and that portion of OR west of the centerline of Highway 95 south of Burns Junction);
(4) Most of UT (that portion of UT south and west of the centerline of Interstate Highway 84 and that portion of UT south of Interstate Highway 80 from Echo to the UT/WY Stateline); and
(5) Western WA (that portion of WA west of the centerline of Highway 97 and Highway 17 north of Mesa and that portion of WA west of the centerline of Highway 395 south of Mesa); and
(6) Mexico.
A complete discussion of gray wolf biology and ecology, as well as a history of regulatory actions and recovery planning for the gray wolf can be found at 85 FR 69778; November 3, 2020.
ESA Recovery Planning Requirements
Section 4(f)(l) of the Act directs the Service to develop and implement recovery plans for the conservation and survival of endangered and threatened species, “unless [the Service] finds that such a plan will not promote the conservation of the species.” Conservation is defined in Section 3(3) of the Act as “... the use of all methods and procedures which are necessary to bring any endangered species or threatened species to the point at which the measures provided pursuant to this Act are no longer necessary.” The definition of conservation is further supported by the Service’s regulatory definition of recovery meaning “improvement in the status of listed species to the point at which listing is no longer appropriate under the criteria set out in section 4(a)(1) of the Act” (50 CFR 402.02). In the context of recovery planning this means that the Service includes in recovery plans all methods necessary to bring a listed species to the point at which protection under the Act is no longer necessary. Thus, per the statutory and regulatory language above, we can only decline to develop a recovery plan when it would not benefit the species through contributing to its recovery.
2. RECOVERY PLANNING EXCEPTION FINDINGS
The Service’s most recent status reviews for listed gray wolves determined that neither listed entity (44-State or MN entities) meet the definitions of a threatened species or endangered species under the Act according to the best scientific and commercial data available (85 FR
ο CO (nonessential experimental population)
• Threatened species in the state of Minnesota.
3
69778, November 3, 2020).1 With these determinations, we conclude that listing is no longer appropriate under 4(a)(1) of the Act and measures provided pursuant to the Act are no longer necessary. Both listed gray wolf entities are no longer in need of conservation under the Act due to recovery. We therefore conclude that recovery plans for these two entities would not promote their conservation.
We base these conclusions on our 2020 status reviews for gray wolves in the 44-State and MN entities. We also reviewed subsequent analyses for information or conclusions that could cause us to reconsider these conclusions. We summarize our 2020 status review and subsequent analyses below.
Summary of 2020 Status Review and Determinations
In our 2020 status review (85 FR 69778, November 3, 2020), for each listed gray wolf entity, we evaluated human-caused mortality (Factor C); habitat and prey availability (Factor A); disease and parasites (Factor C); genetic diversity and inbreeding (Factor E); commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational uses (Factor B); climate change (Factor E); and other threats singly and in combination. We also evaluated state, Tribal, and federal agency wolf management and regulatory mechanisms that will be in place following delisting.
Based on our analysis, we concluded that Minnesota will maintain an abundant and well- distributed wolf population that will remain above recovery levels for the foreseeable future (85 FR 69881), and that the primary threat of human caused mortality has been sufficiently addressed. Minnesota’s wolf management laws, plans, and regulations adequately regulate human-caused mortality (85 FR 69881).
We also concluded that Wisconsin and Michigan will maintain an abundant and well distributed wolf population in their states above recovery levels for the foreseeable future (85 FR 69883), and that the threat of human-caused mortality has been sufficiently reduced (85 FR 69883). Both states have wolf-management laws, plans, and regulations that adequately regulate human- caused mortality (85 FR 69883). Further, while relatively few wolves occurred in the west coast portion of the 44-State entity at the time of the status review, the state wolf-management plans for California, Washington, and Oregon include recovery objectives intended to ensure the reestablishment of self-sustaining populations in these states (85 FR 69883). In addition, we expected wolves in the delisted Northern Rocky Mountain Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and western Canada to continue to expand into unoccupied suitable habitats in the Western United States, as envisioned in state wolf conservation and management plans (85 FR 69883).
1 Our 2020 delisting rule was vacated and remanded by a district court in Defs. of Wildlife v. FWS, 584 F. Supp. 3d 812 (N.D. Cal. Feb. 10, 2022). We are appealing the district court’s decision to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.
The Appellate court has not yet ruled on our appeal (and has not yet scheduled oral argument; briefing was completed in the spring of 2025). However, in Center for Biological Diversity v. Halaand, 2023 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 139815 (D.D.C. Aug. 11, 2023), the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia acknowledged that although the 2020 delisting rule had been vacated by the Northern District of California, the vacatur did not change the fact that the Service had conducted 5-year status reviews for the two listed gray wolf entities (44-state and MN entities) as part of that rule.
4
We determined that none of the factors we evaluated are of sufficient imminence, intensity, or magnitude to indicate that the 44-State or MN entities are in danger of extinction or likely to become so within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of their ranges. We also determined that recovery efforts resulted in a significant expansion of wolves in the listed entities over the past decades. We also determined that state, Tribal, and federal agency wolf management and regulatory mechanisms that will be in place following delisting will be adequate to ensure the conservation of wolves in the 44-State and MN entities (85 FR 69881; 85 FR 69884).
Thus, our November 3, 2020, status review included the following determinations:
44-State Entity: Final Determination
“After a thorough review of all available information and an evaluation of the five factors specified in section 4(a)(1) of the Act, as well as consideration of the definitions of ‘threatened species’ and ‘endangered species’ contained in the Act and the reasons for delisting as specified at 50 CFR 424.11(e), we conclude that removing the 44-State entity of the gray wolf (Canis lupus) from the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (50 CFR 17.11) is appropriate. Although this entity is not a species as defined under the Act, we have collectively evaluated the current and potential threats to gray wolves in the 44- State entity, including those that result from past loss of historical range. Wolves in the 44-State entity do not meet the definition of a threatened species or an endangered species as a result of the reduction of threats as described in the analysis of threats and are neither currently in danger of extinction, nor likely to become so in the foreseeable future, throughout all or a significant portion of their range.
Although substantial contraction of gray wolf historical range occurred within the 44- State entity since European settlement, the range of the gray wolf has expanded significantly since its original listing in 1978, and the impacts of lost historical range are no longer manifesting in a way that threatens the viability of the species. The causes of the previous contraction (for example, targeted extermination efforts), and the effects of that contraction (for example, reduced numbers of individuals and populations, and restricted gene flow), in addition to the effects of all other threats, have been ameliorated or reduced such that the 44-State entity no longer meets the Act's definitions of ‘threatened species’ or ‘endangered species (85 FR 69885).’”
MN Entity: Final Determination
“After a thorough review of all available information and an evaluation of the five factors specified in section 4(a)(1) of the Act, as well as consideration of the definitions of ‘threatened species’ and ‘endangered species’ contained in the Act and the reasons for delisting as specified at 50 CFR 424.11(e), we conclude that removing the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in Minnesota from the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (50 CFR 17.11) is appropriate. Although this entity is not a species as defined under the Act, we have collectively evaluated the current and potential threats to gray wolves in Minnesota, including those that result from past loss of historical range. Wolves in Minnesota do not meet the definition of a threatened species or an endangered species as
5
a result of the reduction of threats as described in the analysis of threats and are neither currently in danger of extinction, nor likely to become so in the foreseeable future, throughout all or a significant portion of their range within the State (85 FR 69882).”
Analysis & Determinations Conducted Since Our 2020 Status Determinations
The Service has also considered additional analyses and determinations conducted since our 2020 status determinations that provide further information on aspects of the current gray wolf listed entities. Specifically, we considered two species status assessments (SSAs), one for gray wolves in the Western United States and one for gray wolves in the Eastern United States, and our 2024 12-month finding for wolves in the Northern Rocky Mountains and the Western United States. We summarize each of these below.
Species Status Assessment for the Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) in the Western United States (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2023): The geographic scope of the analysis in the SSA includes the states of: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Within this 11-state geographic scope, gray wolves are delisted in the Northern Rocky Mountain Distinct Population Segment (NRM DPS), which includes all of Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, and portions of eastern Washington, eastern Oregon, and north central Utah. Gray wolves in the remaining states in the analysis area (California, Colorado, and Nevada, northern Arizona, northern New Mexico, western Oregon, western Washington, and most of Utah) make up a portion of the 44-State entity that is listed as an endangered species.
The stressors that we evaluated for wolves in the Western United States included: human-caused mortality, disease and parasites, inbreeding depression, climate change, disease in prey species, and other sources of habitat modification. We also evaluated the state, Tribal, and federal management that provide for the conservation of wolves in the Western United States by reducing the influence of stressors, improving the condition of wolf habitat, or improving wolf demographic factors. In the Western United States, the primary stressor influencing wolf populations is human caused mortality. Within current wolf range, most states, Tribal Nations, and federal agencies have management protocols and regulations that govern conservation and take of wolves.
In the SSA, we concluded that habitat and prey for wolves are abundant and well distributed in the Western United States. This, in conjunction with the high reproductive potential of wolves and their innate behavior to disperse and locate social openings or vacant suitable habitats, has allowed wolf populations to withstand relatively high rates of human-caused mortality (Service 2020, pp. 8–9). Our analysis of the current condition of gray wolves in the Western United States demonstrates that, despite current levels of regulated harvest, lethal control, and episodic disease outbreaks, wolf abundance in the Western United States has generally continued to increase and occupied range has continued to expand since reintroduction in the 1990s. This large population size and broad distribution contributes to the resiliency and redundancy of wolves in the Western United States. Moreover, wolves in the Western United States currently have high levels of genetic diversity and connectivity, further supporting the resiliency of wolves throughout the
6
West. Finally, based on several metrics for assessing adaptive capacity, wolves in the Western United States currently retain the ability to adapt to changes in their environment.
In the Western SSA, we also modeled projections of future wolf populations. Based on our stated assumptions and accounting for uncertainty, our model projections indicate that wolves will avoid extirpation in the Northern Rocky Mountains (NRM) and Western United States over the next 100 years. More generally, gray wolves in the NRM and the Western metapopulation will retain the ability to withstand stochastic and catastrophic events in the future (resiliency and redundancy). We also expect the population size to remain large enough, with sufficient connectivity and genetic diversity, to avoid consequential levels of inbreeding or inbreeding depression in the future. Given this maintained connectivity, combined with wolves’ adaptable life history characteristics, we expect wolf populations in the NRM and Western United States will be able to maintain their evolutionary potential and adapt to future change (representation). The likelihood of additional wolves in California and Colorado (and possibly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah in the long term), the continued recolonization of Western Oregon and Washington, and the availability of suitable wolf habitat and prey further support the continued viability of the gray wolf in the NRM and the Western metapopulation under the existing management commitments, albeit at potentially reduced population sizes compared to current numbers.
Species Status Assessment for the Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) in the Eastern United States (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2025): The geographic scope of the analysis in this SSA includes the states of: Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Vermont, and Wisconsin. These 23 states encompass the current range and the potential historical range for gray wolf in the Eastern United States. Within this analysis area, the gray wolf is listed as a threatened species in Minnesota. The remaining 22 states within the geographic scope of our analysis are part of the 44-State entity that is listed as an endangered species.
The stressors that we evaluated for gray wolves in the Eastern United States included: human- caused mortality, disease and parasites, inbreeding depression, hybridization, climate change, disease in prey species, and other sources of habitat modification. We also evaluated the state, Tribal, and federal management that provide for the conservation of gray wolves in the Eastern United States by reducing the influence of a stressor, improving the condition of gray wolf habitat, or improving gray wolf demographic factors. All states and some Tribal Nations within the current range of gray wolves have statutes, regulations, and management plans that govern conservation and take of gray wolves. Federal agencies also have rules and regulations in place to minimize disturbance to gray wolves, when necessary. In the Eastern United States, gray wolves occur in one large metapopulation in the Western Great Lakes, distributed across the states of Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. To date, the best available science indicates that current levels of human-caused mortality have not caused significant reductions in gray wolf abundance throughout the Western Great Lakes.
7
Despite past harvest seasons, ongoing lethal depredation control, and periodic disease outbreaks, the population in the Western Great Lakes has maintained a large population size and broad distribution. The wolves in the Western Great Lakes States occupy areas of high-quality habitat with abundant prey. The Western Great Lakes’ metapopulation’s large size, the metapopulation’s broad pack distribution, the metapopulation’s high levels of genetic diversity and connectivity, gray wolves’ high reproductive potential, and gray wolves’ innate behavior to disperse into vacant suitable habitats contribute to the species’ current ability to withstand stochastic and catastrophic events within the Western Great Lakes. Finally, based on multiple contributing factors to adaptive capacity, wolves in the Western Great Lakes currently retain the ability to adapt to changes in their environment. In sum, while the gray wolf currently occupies only a portion of its historical range in the Eastern United States, within its current range (i.e., within the Western Great Lakes), the gray wolf currently retains the ability to withstand stochastic and catastrophic events and adapt to changes in its environment.
We also modeled projections of the future gray wolf population in the Western Great Lakes under scenarios with varying levels of mortality from lethal depredation control, harvest, and disease. While projected population sizes represent a decrease relative to the metapopulation’s current size due to these stressors, after this initial decline the population stabilizes around a large equilibrium population size and does not fall to a level that indicates risk of quasi- extinction or inbreeding, demonstrating the population’s ability to withstand the sustained human-caused mortality and disease rates we model (both stochastic events (resiliency) and catastrophic events (redundancy)). The continued availability of suitable habitat and prey further support the Western Great Lakes metapopulation’s resiliency into the future. Moreover, the metapopulation’s currently high levels of genetic diversity are unlikely to decrease in the future, given maintained connectivity within the metapopulation and with the larger gray wolf population in Canada. This sustained genetic diversity and connectivity also contribute to the species’ continued ability to withstand stochastic events (resiliency) into the future within the Western Great Lakes (the extant metapopulation in the Eastern United States).
Finally, given this maintained genetic diversity, and gray wolves’ innate characteristics that contribute to the species’ ability to live in and disperse to multiple different habitat types, the adaptive capacity of the species (representation) within the Western Great Lakes is unlikely to decrease in the future relative to current condition. Due to the risk of human-caused mortality, gray wolves are unlikely to recolonize areas outside of the Western Great Lakes within the Eastern United States in the future, which means redundancy and representation is unlikely to increase in the future. However, based on our analysis, the gray wolf in the Western Great Lakes will likely retain sufficient resiliency, redundancy, and representation to avoid extirpation for the next 100 years, meaning that, even without this recolonization, the gray wolf will successfully maintain populations in the wild in the Eastern United States into the future, despite the continued occurrence or introduction of various stressors.
8
12-month finding for gray wolf in the Northern Rocky Mountains and Western United States (89 FR 8392, February 7, 2024): The geographic scope of the analysis in this finding is the same as for the SSA for gray wolf in the Western United States and includes the states of: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. The finding, which was informed by analyses in the SSA for gray wolf in the Western United States, addressed petitions to list the delisted NRM DPS of gray wolf or a gray wolf DPS in the Western United States. A gray wolf DPS in the Western United States would include a portion of the 44-State entity that is listed as an endangered species.
Based on the analyses in the SSA for gray wolf in the Western United States, which is summarized above, we found that gray wolves throughout the Northern Rocky Mountains and Western United States do not meet the definitions of an endangered species or threatened species and therefore do not warrant protections of the Act (89 FR 8392, February 7, 2024).2
Summary of review of analyses conducted since our 2020 status review: While these analyses and determinations were conducted for gray wolf metapopulations in the contiguous United States that do not align perfectly with the current gray wolf listed entities (44-State and MN entities), together their evaluations comprehensively encompass all the currently listed gray wolf entities. None of the new information or analyses provided in these documents cause us to reconsider our 2020 status determinations. These analyses, which take into account state management plans, generally conclude that the wolf metapopulations that make up the currently listed entities will retain the ability to withstand stochastic and catastrophic events in the future (resiliency and redundancy) under future scenarios. We also expect the population sizes to remain large enough, with sufficient connectivity and genetic diversity, to avoid consequential levels of inbreeding or inbreeding depression in the future. Given this maintained connectivity, combined with wolves’ adaptable life history characteristics, we expect wolf populations in the contiguous United States will be able to maintain their evolutionary potential and adapt to future change (representation). These analyses and conclusions are consistent with our 2020 status review determinations that neither gray wolves in the 44-State entity nor the MN entity meet the definitions of a threatened or endangered species.
2 The District Court of the District of Montana in Ctr. for Biological Diversity v. FWS, 2025 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 150500 (D. Mont., Aug 5, 2025) vacated in part and remanded our 2024 “not warranted” finding for the Gray Wolf in the Northern Rocky Mountains and the Western United States. This court opinion is not at issue in the appeal of the 2020 delisting rule. This court’s opinion did not disagree with our finding that the gray wolf population for the western United States has recovered under the Act.
9
Summary of the Recovery Planning Exception Findings
Based on our 2020 status review for gray wolves in the 44-State and MN entities, and our review of subsequent analyses for other populations of gray wolves in the United States that include all or portions of the 44-State and MN entities, we find that a recovery plan for the listed gray wolf entities would not promote their conservation because listing is no longer appropriate under 4(a)(1) of the Act, and measures provided pursuant to the Act are no longer necessary.
APPROVED BY: __________________________ DATE: November 3rd, 2025 Acting Assistant Director, Headquarters Ecological Services Program 

SACRAMENTO, CA -- Today, a citizens' initiative was filed with the California Attorney General to reinstate the California Citizens Redistricting Commission's Congressional Districts in 2028.  The “Fair, Independent, and Nonpartisan Redistricting Act” (FAIR) will appear on the November 2026 ballot if enough signatures are gathered.



“Under our constitutional amendment, the gerrymandered districts drawn by the State Legislature will be used for one election cycle then go away, as was promised,” said James V. Lacy, the measure's lead proponent.  “The districts that were drawn by the California Citizens Redistricting Commission after the last census will be restored for the remainder of the decade.”


While Prop. 50 was approved yesterday, polls clearly show that Californians oppose gerrymandering and want districts to be drawn by the independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, not be Sacramento politicians.


"Gavin Newsom sold Prop. 50 to voters on the promise it would be temporary. This initiative is the insurance that his promise is kept,” said political consultant Dave Gilliard. 


In order to qualify for the November 2026 ballot, 874,641 valid signatures will have to be collected and filed with county election offices.


The measure’s lead proponent, Orange County attorney James V. Lacy,  is the author of “Taxifornia“ and a frequent media commentator.  Lacy has been lead counsel in federal and state court litigation on First Amendment public policy issues. Lacy was appointed by the Board of Governors of the California State Bar to the Committee on Federal Courts (1995-98). He has also served as a Member of the Administrative Conference of the United States.  Previously, Lacy served in the Administration of President George H.W. Bush as Chief Counsel for Technology at the U.S. Department of Commerce from 1989-91 and served in the Reagan Administration as General Counsel to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (1987-89). In 1978,  Lacy was a co-founding director of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, with California’s Proposition 13 author, the late Howard Jarvis.
 
###  

by Melinda Myers
Add a bit of life to your holiday gatherings with the help of succulents. You and your guests will enjoy the easy-care beauty of succulents.  Their subtle colors and dramatic form make them great gifts and decorations now and throughout the year.

Small-scale succulents provide a multitude of opportunities for incorporating them into your holiday celebrations. Just select containers that complement, but don’t overpower their charm. 

Create a succulent garden to use as a centerpiece for the table. A shallow container filled with a variety of succulents with different shapes and colors is sure to capture everyone’s attention. Set the container on a saucer to protect the table and add a complementary table runner for even greater impact.

Consider using succulents as party favors for guests to take home and enjoy for years to come. But first, use them to decorate the table by making them into place cards for your guests. Simply add a name to the decorative pot.

Or display them all together in a tray, terra cotta saucer or other shallow container to use as a centerpiece throughout the evening. When the party is over, each guest can pick their own plant to take home.

Add a unique flair to the table by placing cocktail glasses filled with succulents next to each guest’s place setting. This makes a unique table decoration and party favor for guests to take home as a reminder of your fun gathering. Use a few planted cocktail glasses to decorate the beverage table or bar.

Grow these plants in a cacti and succulent potting mix. These fast-draining mixes help reduce the risk of overwatering. Further reduce this risk by using containers with drainage holes that are only slightly larger than the succulents' root system. Growing them in too large of a container for the plant size will retain moisture longer that can lead to root rot, decline, and even the death of your plants.

After the party continue to provide proper care so your centerpiece will be ready for your next event. Move the succulent planter to a cool, draft-free location near an unobstructed south-, west- or east-facing window. If light is limited, consider adding artificial lights.

Water thoroughly but only when the top few inches of soil are dry and just often enough to keep the plants from shriveling. These winter-growing conditions often encourage a spring display of colorful and unique flowers.

Share these directions with your guest and if possible, the name of the succulent. This helps your guest keep the plants alive to enjoy for years to come.

With a trip to your favorite garden center and your imagination you can create fun holiday décor and party favors. You and your guests will enjoy their beauty throughout the holidays and beyond.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her website is www.MelindaMyers.com. 

​Sierra County Veterans Committee invites you to join its annual Veterans Day celebration on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, for a day of tribute, community, and remembrance, centered in the historic town of Downieville.
The observance will feature the traditional salute, a community parade, and a complimentary luncheon, honoring all who have served in the United States Armed Forces, with special recognition for Sierra County Veterans.
Program Highlights and Schedule.
The day’s activities will take place primarily in Downieville and are structured as follows:
11:30 AM: Veterans Day Salute: The ceremony begins at the Downieville Bell Tower with a formal salute to all service members.
12:00 PM: Flag Ceremony: A salute to the U.S. Flag, the singing of the National Anthem and the formal recognition of Sierra County Veterans.
Speakers: Distinguished guests will include Carey L. Russell, Sierra County & Veteran Services Officer; Navy Veteran Don Yegge.
Parade & March: Following the Bell Tower ceremony, attendees will participate in a community march to the Downieville Community Hall.
Community Luncheon: A special luncheon will be held at the Community Hall, FREE for all Veterans and $15.00 for non-veterans.
Focus on Remembrance and Future Action
The luncheon will also include an open-forum Veterans Roundtable where service members are invited to share their stories and experiences. Additionally, a discussion will be held regarding plans to refurbish the Veterans Memorial at the Bell Tower.
Complimentary Lodging for Veterans coming from other parts of Sierra County: Riverside Mountain Lodge is generously providing complementary lodging for the night of the event! To book your room, please call 530-289-1000.
Rooms are First Come, First Served!
RSVP is required for the luncheon to ensure adequate catering. Veterans and community members planning to attend are asked to RSVP to Sonya at [email protected]
 
The Sierra County community looks forward to uniting to express its profound gratitude to those who have defended our freedoms.

 





Dr. Glenn Mollette 

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (“SNAP”) is a government program that helps low-income individuals and families buy the food they need. Here are some key things to know about SNAP.


SNAP is administered by the US Department of Agriculture and is available in all states The program helps people with limited incomes buy food and maintain good nutrition. Eligibility is based on income and family size. Benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card each month. The card can be used to buy food at authorized stores, farmers markets, and online retailers.


As of November 2025, about 41.2 million Americans are receiving SNAP benefits each month, which is roughly 12.3% of the U.S. population. 
To qualify for SNAP, your income must be below a certain amount. The income limits are based on the size of your household. Here are the limits for 2026:
1 person: $1,305/month, 2 people: $1,763/month, 3 people: $2,221/month, 4 people: $2,680/month, 5 people: $3,13month, 6 people: $3,596/month, 7 people: $4,055/month, 8 people: $4,513/month.


Keep in mind that these limits may be higher if someone in your household is 60 or older, or has a disability. 


SNAP recipients can buy a wide variety of food items, including: 
* Fresh produce (fruits, vegetables, herbs) 
* Meat, poultry, fish, and seafood
* Dairy products (milk, cheese, eggs) 
* Breads and grains (bread, rice, pasta, cereals) 
* Pantry items (canned goods, oils, spices) 
* Snacks (nuts, seeds, dried fruit) 
* Beverages (juice, milk, coffee, tea) 
* Infant formula and baby food 
* Seeds and plants to grow your own food 
Recipients can also buy prepared meals from certain retailers in some states.


California has the most SNAP recipients, with about 5,496,920 people receiving benefits.  Wyoming has the least, with about 5.0% of its population participating in SNAP, or 11,890 people.
Many people who receive SNAP benefits also qualify for other programs, including: 
* Medicaid or CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) 
* TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) 
* WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program 
* Free or reduced-price school meals 
*Low-cost phone or internet service 
* Housing assistance 
* Energy assistance 
* Veterans' benefits 


Some states also offer additional benefits, such as: 
* Summer EBT programs for children 
* SNAP match programs at farmers' markets 
* Discounts on museum or zoo visits 


The government shutdown is affecting SNAP recipients in several ways. 
* November SNAP benefits will be delayed due to the shutdown, but a court has ruled they must be paid.


* Some states are providing emergency funds to help with the delay.
* SNAP recipients can still use their EBT cards and apply for benefits during the shutdown.
* Food banks are preparing for an increase in demand.
* Some businesses are offering discounted meals and other resources to help.


Americans should support their local food banks as well as church and non-profits who are trying to provide food during this difficult time. 
       Sources: www.fns.usda.gov/snap       www.nutrition.gov

 





WALNUT CREEK, Calif (October 30, 2025) - As October ends, drivers are paying less than they were when the month began. California drivers will see gas price averages of $4.57 across the state, a 3 cent drop at the pump from last week. Heading into November, drivers may see gas prices continue to fall and perhaps stay low over the busy Thanksgiving holiday travel period. 
Nationwide gas prices are averaging $3.03, once again creeping closer to dropping below the $3.00 mark. Gas prices have been cruising this month, as crude oil prices have remained relatively low due to higher supply and lower demand. In California the average price at the pump is $4.57, a 3 cent drop from last week.
Fuel Prices Around the State: 
San Francisco: $4.66
Oakland: $4.57
San Jose: $4.52
Sacramento: $4.52
Fresno: $4.50
Stockton: $4.38According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline demand increased from 8.45 million b/d last week to 8.92 million. Total domestic gasoline supply decreased from 216.7 million barrels to 210.7 million. Gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.6 million barrels per day.
Oil Market Dynamics
At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI rose 33 cents to settle at $60.48 a barrel. The EIA reports crude oil inventories decreased by 6.9 million barrels from the previous week. At 416.0 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 6% below the five-year average for this time of year.
EV Charging
The national average per kilowatt hour of electricity at a public EV charging station went up by 2 cents this past week to 38 cents. In California it is 42 cents.
State Stats
Gas
The nation’s top 10 most expensive gasoline markets are California ($4.57), Hawaii ($4.48), Washington ($4.30), Oregon ($3.91), Alaska ($3.82), Nevada ($3.79), Idaho ($3.37), Arizona ($3.32), Utah ($3.23), and Illinois ($3.22).
The nation's top 10 least expensive gasoline markets are Texas ($2.59), Oklahoma ($2.59), Mississippi ($2.60), Arkansas ($2.62), Louisiana ($2.63), Tennessee ($2.66), Alabama ($2.67), Missouri ($2.69), Kentucky ($2.69), and Kansas ($2.71).
Electric
The nation’s top 10 most expensive states for public charging per kilowatt hour are West Virginia (51 cents), Alaska (50 cents), Hawaii (48 cents), South Carolina (44 cents), Louisiana (44 cents), New Hampshire (43 cents), Tennessee (43 cents), New Jersey (42 cents), Alabama (42 cents), and California (42 cents).
The nation’s top 10 least expensive states for public charging per kilowatt hour are Wyoming (19 cents), Kansas (26 cents), Missouri (27 cents), Nebraska (29 cents), Utah (30 cents), Vermont (31 cents), Iowa (32 cents), Maryland (32 cents), Delaware (33 cents), and New Mexico (33 cents).
Drivers can find current gas and electric charging prices along their route using the AAA Mobile App, now available on CarPlay.
Find current fuel prices at GasPrices.AAA.com. Find local news releases at mwg.aaa.com/news/press-release. 
About AAA Mountain West Group
AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Northern California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, and Alaska. 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 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.










This email was sent to [email protected]
why did I get this?    unsubscribe from this list    update subscription preferences
AAA Northern California · 1277 Treat Boulevard · STE 1000 · Walnut Creek, Ca 94597 · USA

 
Reno, NV, October 29, 2025—The Food Bank of Northern Nevada announced that they are working with Catholic Charities, one of their largest partner agencies, to offer four special distributions on Saturday, November 1 from 9 am – 1 pm. to aid those who may be affected by the Federal Shutdown.  The locations and details for the distributions are: 
Food Bank of Northern Nevada
Oddie Location:  1305 Sullivan Ln. (Next to Jiffy Lube)
Drive thru distribution (there will be a walk up option for those without vehicles)
 
Catholic Charities
Moana Neighborhood Center
480 E. Moana Ln
 
Catholic Charities
Sun Valley Neighborhood Center
130 West Gepford Pkwy
 
Catholic Charities
St. Rose of Lima Church
100 Bishop Manogue Dr.
 
The Food Bank of Northern Nevada understands that even one missed paycheck can leave a family or individual with the uncertainly of where their next meal is coming from.  With many federal employees and contractors without pay and the reality that SNAP benefits will not be funded in November nationwide, the Food Bank of Northern Nevada is working with their partners to help alleviate that stress for families and individuals. 
These distributions are open to all people in our community.    Additional distributions and times for the Food Bank and their network of partner agencies can be found at fbnn.org. 
 
 
 
 

www.tfhd.com


(Tahoe/Truckee, Calif.) – Tahoe Forest Health System (TFHS), in coordination with Nevada County Public Health, has identified a confirmed case of active tuberculosis (TB) in a patient who received care at our facilities between May 1, 2025 and October 25, 2025.
Upon confirmation, TFHS immediately implemented infection-control precautions and began working with Public Health officials to identify and notify any individuals who may have been exposed. All known patients who meet the exposure criteria have been identified and contacted directly. TFHS and Public Health are now working to identify and reach out to any visitors or guests who may have accompanied those patients during the potential exposure period.
The patient received on-going care at TFHS over a period of several months prior to being diagnosed with TB. Records indicate that as many as 400 patients and staff may have been in proximity to the individual during that time.
“The good news is that we generally know where the patient was within our facilities, and who else was present at the same time,” said Dr. Brian Evans, Chief Medical Officer for TFHS. “The risk of infection from casual contact is very low. TB is treatable and curable with medicine, especially when caught early. We encourage you to get tested if you show any signs or symptoms of TB.”
This potential exposure may have occurred in Primary Care, Urgent Care, the Cancer Center, Palliative Care, Outpatient Physical Therapy, the Emergency Department, and Ambulatory Surgery. Anyone who has not received a notification but believes they may have been exposed is encouraged to contact Tahoe Forest Health System’s Quality Department at (530) 582-6654 for more information.
Symptoms of active TB can include a persistent cough, fever, unexpected weight loss, night sweats and fatigue.
TB bacteria can live inside a person for months or years without causing symptoms. It can spread when a person who has developed symptoms coughs or breathes out droplets containing the bacteria, particularly in an enclosed space over a long period of time, such as several hours.
Testing is the only way to know if someone was infected after a TB exposure. While the risk of contracting TB is very low, the testing is being advised for individuals that meet both criteria:
·       Those who were potentially in contact with the patient for several hours while on TFHS premises, AND
·       Individuals considered at higher risk for infection (e.g. very young < 5 years old, elderly, or have compromised immune system)
TFHS is working closely with Nevada County Public Health to ensure that appropriate testing and follow-up are completed.
For more information about tuberculosis, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at www.cdc.gov/tb.
 
#####
About Tahoe Forest Health System
Tahoe Forest Health System, which includes Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee, CA, and Incline Village Community Hospital in Incline Village, NV, offers 24-hour emergency care, a Level III trauma center, three urgent care clinics, and primary and specialty care clinics throughout Truckee and North Lake Tahoe, including Tahoe Forest Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, and the Joseph Family Center for Women and Newborn Care. With a strong focus on high-quality patient care, community collaboration, clinical excellence, and technical innovation, Tahoe Forest Health System strives to be the health system of choice in our region and the best mountain health system in the nation. For a complete list of physician specialties and services, visit www.tfhd.com.
 

 
Eastern Plumas Health Care has partnered with Senior Life Solutions to help older adults who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental challenges often associated with aging. The new Senior Life Solutions program is located in the Portola Medical Clinic at 500 1st Avenue, Portola, Ca 96122.
 Senior Life Solutions provides outpatient services designed to meet the unique needs of individuals (typically 65 and older) who could benefit from coping and communication skills to improve their mental health. The program offers group and individual therapy, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management. The Senior Life Solutions team includes a board-certified psychiatrist, licensed therapists, a registered nurse, and other professionals dedicated to the emotional well-being of the older adults in our community.
“The Senior Life Solutions program provides our community with an evidence- and outcomes-based treatment proven to significantly improve the mental health of older adults,” said Kathleen McCoy, Senior Life Solutions Program Director. “Many people over the age of 60 believe depression is just a part of getting old. It’s not. This is a program that can help you live a happier, healthier life.” 
Individuals may benefit from Eastern Plumas Health Care’s Senior Life Solutions program if they are experiencing any of the following common indicators or triggers of depression and anxiety:  
·       Anxiety
·       Changes in appetite
·       Depression
·       Difficulty sleeping
·       Feelings of sadness or grief lasting more than two weeks
·       Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
·       Loss of a spouse or close family member
·       Loss of energy
·       Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
·       Recently experienced a traumatic event
Following an individual assessment, participants meet up to three times per week in a supportive, encouraging group setting. Individual therapy sessions are also offered, along with medication management and regular check-ins. The program also offers teletherapy services, allowing patients to get the mental health support they need from the comfort of their homes using a telephone, computer, or tablet device. 
Anyone can refer a patient to the program, including a healthcare professional, family member, or friend. The Senior Life Solutions program anticipates opening for services this fall. For more information, call the Eastern Plumas Health Care’s Senior Life Solutions  program at 530-832-6780.