Yesterday, U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt announced that more than 1,900 local governments around the country will receive $514.7 million in Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) funding for 2020.
“This year’s distribution of $514.7 million to more than 1,900 counties will help small towns pay for critical needs like emergency response, public safety, public schools, housing, social services, and infrastructure,” said Secretary Bernhardt.
PILT payments are made annually for tax-exempt Federal lands administered by U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) agencies including the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the National Park Service (NPS), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), for lands administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s U.S. Forest Service (USFS); and for Federal water projects and some military installations.
DOI collects more than $13.2 billion in revenue annually from commercial activities on public lands, such as oil and gas leasing, livestock grazing, and timber harvesting. A portion of these revenues are shared with States and counties. The balance is deposited in the U.S. Treasury, which in turn pays for a broad array of Federal activities, including PILT funding.
Payments and Acreage By State / County
Fiscal Year: 2020
State: California
   COUNTY                         PAYMENT     TOTAL ACRES
NEVADA COUNTY           $478,914            220,517
PLUMAS COUNTY           $675,225         1,178,166
SIERRA COUNTY             $245,958            434,341

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Wherever people choose to observe Independence Day, they can expect the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to be out in force for a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) from 6 p.m. on Friday, July 3, to midnight, Sunday, July 5. 
 
As California gradually reopens, many people will be eager to celebrate the holiday weekend with family and friends.  To help reduce the risk and slow the spread of COVID-19, the California Department of Public Health is urging the public to avoid traveling long distances for vacations or pleasure as much as possible.  However, if you decide to leave home, take steps to keep everyone safe like wearing face coverings, physical distancing, and washing hands frequently.
 
"Should the upcoming weekend include a road trip, stay safe and healthy with a few additional precautions," said CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley.  “Obeying speed limits, buckling up, and not driving impaired or distracted will be more important than ever.”
 
Traffic has been lighter on California roadways the past few months, which has resulted in an increase in citations for excessive speed.  Motorists are encouraged to take their time this holiday weekend and arrive safely at their destination.  During the recent Memorial Day MEP, CHP officers issued 458 citations for speeding in excess of 100 mph, which is a 173 percent increase from the same period in 2019.
 
The 2019 Independence Day MEP was 4 ¼ days, which was two days longer than the upcoming MEP.  During that 102-hour enforcement effort, 36 people lost their lives in traffic crashes, 21 within CHP jurisdiction.  Of those 21 individuals, 11 were not wearing seat belts.  Additionally, CHP officers made 1,317 arrests for driving under the influence.
 
“However you choose to celebrate the weekend, do it without putting yourself or others at risk,” added Commissioner Stanley.
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 
# # #
 
 

 
Qualified Applicants Encouraged to Apply by July 10, 2020 Deadline
 
 
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and The PG&E Corporation Foundation (The Foundation) are inviting applications to the Better Together STEM Scholarship Program. The Foundation will provide funding for a total of $250,000 to students pursuing a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) disciplines. The Program will award 20 scholarships of $10,000 each and 20 scholarships of $2,500 each.
 
“PG&E and The PG&E Corporation Foundation are committed to helping students interested in being part of California’s clean energy future, giving them opportunities to learn and succeed in higher education, and achieve their dreams,” said Stephanie Isaacson, Executive Director of The PG&E Corporation Foundation.
 
Applications are open to graduating high school seniors, current college students, veterans and adults returning to school who are PG&E customers at the time of application. Applicants must plan to enroll in full-time undergraduate study for the entire 2020-2021 academic year and be seeking their first undergraduate degree at an accredited four-year institution in California.
 
Scholarships will be awarded based on academic achievement, demonstrated participation and leadership in school and community activities, and financial need.
 
Interested applicants can learn more and apply here. Application deadline is July 10, 2020. Awards will be announced in August.
 
Since 2012, the Better Together STEM Scholarship Program has awarded more than $6 million to accomplished students based on a combined demonstration of community leadership, personal triumph, financial need and academic achievement.
 
In addition to the Better Together STEM Scholarship Program, PG&E’s 10 employee resource groups (ERGs) and two engineering networking groups (ENGs) award scholarships to help offset the cost of higher education. The funds are raised totally through employee donations, employee fundraising events and Campaign for the Community, the company’s employee giving program. Since 1989, more than $4.5 million ERG scholarships have been received by thousands of recipients.
 
About PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is one of the largest combined natural gas and electric energy companies in the United States. Based in San Francisco, with more than 23,000 employees, the company delivers some of the nation’s cleanest energy to 16 million people in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit www.pge.com andwww.pge.com/news.
 
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Plumas County Public Health received notification from the mass testing in Sierra County of a positive COVID-19 test result for a resident in Eastern Plumas County. The positive individual has symptoms and is currently self-isolating. An investigation is underway to determine if any other residents may have been exposed. Exposed residents identified during the investigation will be contacted by a member of the Public Health COVID-19 Response Team for further screening.

In order to continue to protect the health of our community it is critical that everyone follow the executive order by staying home and avoiding travel when possible, practice physical distancing, wear a face covering while in public, and continue to use universal precautions; including washing hands and covering mouths with an elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Exposure to COVID-19 can be minimized if all precautions are practiced by all residents.
If you have any questions please contact the Plumas County COVID-19 informational phone line 530- 283-6400 or send an e-mail to COVID19@countyofplumas.com or visit our website at www.plumascounty.us 

​

 
SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond is reaching out to more than 100 of California’s top private industry partners, businesses, and donors with a new call to action: contribute to a $500 million initiative that would provide computing and connectivity devices to all of California’s public school students in need.
The $500 million estimate targets computing devices and internet hotspots. Thurmond estimates it could cost an additional $6 billion to expand and improve broadband infrastructure to all Californians in need.
“While we have made good progress in our efforts to close the digital divide, hundreds of thousands of our most vulnerable students and families still lack access to the basic tools needed to connect to their learning. In today’s world,technology is as important as electricity,” Thurmond said. “I am calling on our private industry partners to make this investment in students now, as it will yield countless dividends in the years ahead. Our students are the future innovators and leaders of one of the world’s largest, most diverse, and forward-thinking economies.”
            According to Thurmond, out of California’s 6.2 million students, more than 700,000 do not have a computing device at home. Additionally, more than 300,000 lack access to the internet. When physical school campuses closed statewide due to COVID-19 in March, almost a fifth of California’s students could not participate in digital distance learning, which also means they could not access tutoring, guidance counselors, school nurses, librarians, administrators, and parent/family resource centers.
            In April, Thurmond launched the Closing the Digital Divide Task Force with a goal of forging new public-private partnerships with legislators, state agencies, internet service providers, technology companies, education entities, and more. Along with expanding access to computing devices and internet hotspots, the task force is also exploring solutions to providing high-speed internet access to every public school student in the state.
The task force, co-chaired by Senator Connie Leyva (D-Chino), has held multiple hearings and asked that internet service providers expand free or low-cost service to households in need. Meetings of the task force are archived online on the California Department of Education Facebook page.
Businesses or individuals that are considering making a tax-deductible contribution to help close the digital divide in California are invited to email donatetech@cde.ca.gov.
#####
The California Department of Education is a state agency led by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. For more information, please visit the California Department of Education’s website. You may also follow Superintendent Thurmond on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
 

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CAL FIRE Offers Safety Tips this Fourth of July

Butte County- With the Independence Day holiday rapidly approaching, CAL FIRE/Butte County Fire Department is reminding all Butte County residents and visitors to do their part to prevent fires caused by illegal fireworks or the misuse of “Safe and Sane” fireworks. On Sunday, June 28 “Safe and Sane” Fireworks will go on sale in the city limits of Oroville and Gridley, as well as approximately 300 other communities throughout California. Although fireworks are a symbolic display of patriotism during this time of celebration, they can be dangerous when handled incorrectly or used in the wrong environment.
“As we move into dryer, warmer months, wildfire activity is quickly picking up," said Chief Thom Porter, CAL FIRE Director. "Residents need to understand the dangers associated with the use of illegal fireworks or misuse of legal fireworks. In California, we have zero tolerance for the use and sale of illegal fireworks. Any person who causes a fire can be held liable for the costs of its suppression and associated property damage. Often these costs are in the hundreds of thousands and sometimes millions of dollars.”
There are also legal ramifications when it comes to certain types of fireworks. Possession or transportation of illegal fireworks such as sky rockets, bottle rockets, roman candles, aerial shells, firecrackers and other types that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner can lead to a possible fine of up to $50,000 as well as prison time or jail for up to one year. Even “Safe and Sane” Fireworks taken into a city or county where they are banned are considered illegal.
“With more families and friends spending time together at home during the holiday, we want to remind everyone that only “Safe and Sane” fireworks are allowed in California and make sure to check your local laws regarding their use,” said Mike Richwine, State Fire Marshal. “Only use legal fireworks and only in a safe manner. Use of illegal fireworks or use of any firework in an unsafe manner will quickly ruin a celebration and you could be fined and charged for resulting damages.”
“Safe and Sane” fireworks are allowed for use in within the city limits of Oroville and Gridley; however, they are not approved anywhere else in Butte County. Before purchasing these types of fireworks, be sure to check your local ordinances and follow the instructions to avoid accidents and injuries.
Fireworks Guidelines:

•   First check that fireworks are allowed in the area of use
  
•   Make sure the firework has the State Fire Marshal “Safe and Sane” seal
  

o Counterfeitlabelsdoexist,onlymakepurchasesfromtrustworthyvendors.

•   Purchase only from legitimate organizations authorized to sell within California
  
•   Have a bucket of water, sand or garden hose available at firing site
  
•   Read all instructions before use
  
•   Never alter, modify or enhance fireworks – use only in the manner intended
  
•   Make sure fireworks have proper clearance from flammable materials including dry grass and brush
  For a full fireworks safety guide visit https://www.readyforwildfire.org/more/fireworks-safety/ or watch this short video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G38xe9gjzi8.
  ### 
  

​

 
June 23, 2020

 
Energy Saving Tools Reduce Usage and Save Money Without Sacrificing Comfort
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Although it’s the first week of summer, hotter temperatures arrived in California weeks ago. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) encourages customers to follow simple steps and utilize free tools and programs to minimize the impact of summer heat on energy bills.

We understand that higher-than-expected bills are frustrating, and PG&E is here to help customers understand rate plan changes and take control of their energy costs.

“With more customers staying at and working from home, small changes can result in big savings. The cooling system accounts for more than half of the energy usage in the average home or business. These customer tools and programs help make it easier for the system to work efficiently, which can help customers save on energy bills,” said Laurie Giammona, PG&E Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer.

Simple Ways to Save

• Raise the thermostat and turn it up when leaving. Customers can save on annual cooling costs for each degree the temperature is increased in their home during the hot summer months. Set the thermostat to 78 degrees when at home, health permitting. Turn it up to 85 degrees when not at home.
• Check air filters once a month. Dirty filters cause your system to work harder to keep the area cool, wasting energy and money.
• Maintain air conditioner: Customers can lower their monthly energy bill by keeping air conditioning equipment working at peak efficiency. Schedule regular maintenance for cooling equipment.

Saving Made Easy

To take advantage of additional programs, tools and savings opportunities, PG&E recommends customers become more familiar with:

• Online tool to determine the best rate: Customers can access detailed energy cost and usage information down to the day, see a personalized rate comparison to determine if they are on the best rate and more. Customers can sign up for an online account at www.pge.com.
• PG&E Marketplace: Compare and shop for energy-efficient appliances and electronics to reduce your electricity costs and find the model that is right for you. You can also read product reviews and get linked directly to retailers. https://marketplace.pge.com/

 

• Home Energy Checkup: In less than five minutes, customers can find how much of their home energy use goes to cooling, heating hot water, appliances, lighting and other uses. The results enable customers to make customized changes to enhance their home's energy efficiency, along with estimates of how much money can be saved. www.pge.com/home-energy-checkup
• Budget Billing: This program averages customers’ monthly energy costs to help monthly payment amounts remain more consistent, even if energy use changes significantly from season to season. www.pge.com/budgetbilling
• Financial assistance programs for income-qualifying customers: Our assistance programs include California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE), the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program, Energy Saving Assistance Program and payment plans. With rising unemployment due to the pandemic, many customers who would not have qualified for CARE and other programs may now qualify. Customers who recently applied for unemployment may still be eligible for the program.

For more tips on how to save this summer, visit www.pge.com/summer.
 
About PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is one of the largest combined natural gas and electric energy companies in the United States. Based in San Francisco, with more than 23,000 employees, the company delivers some of the nation’s cleanest energy to nearly 16 million people in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.
 
 
 
 
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
 June 25, 2020

WASHINGTON, D.C. —With the Fourth of July approaching and communities across the country still battling COVID-19, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) urges everyone to stay safe and take precautions with large gatherings and firework celebrations, but not to hesitate to go to the ER if you have an emergency.
There are more than 9,000 firework-related emergencies annually and more than a third (36 percent) of those involve children under the age of 15. It’s no surprise that about two-thirds of firework injuries happen around this time of year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
“Each year, emergency physicians see an influx of people coming into the ER with avoidable fireworks injuries,” said William Jaquis, MD, FACEP, president of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). “When it comes to using fireworks to cap off your Independence Celebration, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.”
If you are using your own fireworks, ACEP encourages you to follow these firework safety tips to limit your risk of serious burn or injury:

• Make sure you buy fireworks, sparklers or other flammable items from reputable, legal sellers.
• Keep a fire extinguisher and large bucket of water or hose nearby.
• Light one at a time and keep everything flammable away from children. This includes sparklers, which can burn hot enough to melt metal and cause serious burns or injuries.
• Never try to re-light or handle fireworks that malfunction or don’t go off.
• Do not ignite fireworks in containers, that could create dangerous shrapnel.
• Avoid horseplay with or near fireworks, torches, candles or any flammable items; don’t point fireworks at people or launch them toward anyone.
• When lighting a firework do not stand directly over it. Back up immediately after it is lit.
• After use, spray fireworks with water until soaked. Placing dry fireworks in a trash can creates a fire hazard.

The ongoing pandemic adds another layer of concern to this year’s celebrations. Given that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still urges people to social distance with six feet or more between people, it’s prudent to choose outdoor activities with small groups rather than indoor gatherings with larger crowds. You may want to rethink typical summer activities like potlucks and cookouts to limit the number of people handling or serving food. You should also continue to wear a mask when in public space, and wash your hands frequently throughout the day.
“The pandemic continues to create a ‘new normal’ for all of us,” said Dr. Jaquis. “Your Fourth of July festivities might look a little different this year, but we can’t ignore the very real threat that the virus still poses.”
Whether you are concerned you have COVID-19 or are having another medical emergency, emergency physicians stand ready—any day, any time—to provide emergency care and treatment when you need it.
The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) is the national medical society representing emergency medicine. Through continuing education, research, public education and advocacy, ACEP advances emergency care on behalf of its 39,000 emergency physician members, and the more than 150 million Americans they treat on an annual basis. For more information, visit www.acep.org and www.emergencyphysicians.org. 
Contact: Steve Arnoff | sarnoff@acep.org | Twitter @EmergencyDocs


If you would rather not receive future communications from American College of Emergency Physicians, let us know by clicking here.
American College of Emergency Physicians, 2121 K St NW, Washington, DC 20037 United States

By Quint Studer
          Freedom, independence, self-sufficiency: these are great and glorious concepts. We celebrate them this time of year, whether we process it that way or not, because they're so deeply engrained in our image of America. We see ourselves as a nation of rugged individualists: seizing the bull by the horns, charting our own course, walking alone into the forest with an axe slung over our shoulder.
          Yes, it's a romantic notion. But it's not an accurate one. America is a nation of small, tight-knit communities and always has been. The more we cooperate, share, defer to others, and work together, the more successful we are. Today, as citizens, businesses, and civic leaders seek to come back from a public health and economic crisis, that spirit of community is more important than ever. It holds the key to our survival.
          I've spent much of my career traveling from one American community to another. Some are bustling larger cities. Others are quiet small towns. What they all have in common is the burning desire to revitalize themselves: to become more vibrant, prosperous, livable, and loveable than they are right now. And as I've worked with these diverse groups of Americans, I've seen a theme emerge: Those communities that work together, win together.
          When citizens and leaders come together, put their self-interest on the back burner and work as a team, things get done. When they don't, nothing gets done.
          The more you think about the myth of the self-reliant early American, the less likely it seems. Our ancestors must have huddled together in small groups and worked to protect each other from a harsh and unforgiving environment. They must have joined forces, shared what they had, and leaned on each other when times were tough.
          And on the larger stage, our nation's founders had to work together in a similar fashion to bring America into being. They were working toward independence as a new nation, but they had to rely on interdependence to get there. And as leaders of communities of all shapes and sizes and demographics and political persuasions, we can all learn a lot from them.
          Here are four big "history lessons" we should all heed as we seek to reopen, recover, rebuild, and continue making our way on journey toward vibrancy:
Set aside your self-interest and create something that works for everyone. Lots of different professions, industries, and interests were present at the birth of America. Cabinet makers weren't fixated only on the wood industry, nor silver smiths on the silver trade. Everyone was fired up to contribute to something bigger than themselves. They bought into the overarching mission, and weren't bogged down by endless debate over the short-term costs of their plan.
In other words, don't be overly concerned with your own wellbeing. Setting aside your own short-term best interests may accomplish far more for everyone in the long run. Because a rising tide lifts all boats, this includes you.
Don't let ideological differences stop you from achieving something tangible. Despite bitter disputes and differences of opinion, a group of people with little in common other than their shared determination that change was needed were able to get mobilized and get something done. While there was much to be decided about the way things would function in the new nation, they all recognized that there wouldn't even BE a new nation if they didn't set aside their disagreements and move the ball down the court.
It's important to know what matters. Don't let petty disputes about how things should get done sabotage the greater task at hand.
Don't be constantly trying to steal the spotlight from each other. It's okay to let someone else be "the one in charge." No one complained that John Hancock's signature was bigger than theirs, or that so-and-so got to sign the Declaration before they did. (Okay, it's possible, but we can see by the document that resides in the National Archives that it got done anyway!) The founders kept their focus on the ambitious mission/vision of standing up to one of the most powerful authorities in the world: the King of England.
When we try to make it about ourselves, we can get off track and let our self-absorption derail the project or initiative. Keep the greater goal in mind and stay focused on that.
Don't wait on the government to "fix it." Instead, join together and take bold action at the local level. The changes desired by American colonists weren't coming from Great Britain. And so, in the summer of 1776 delegates from each of the Thirteen Colonies took it upon themselves to challenge British authorities and make change happen—their way.
Citizen-powered change is the most powerful change. If it's to be, it's up to you and me, not government agencies. (Local governments tend not to have the budget to drive fundamental change, and due to election cycles, officials come and go. Many won't be around to see long term projects through.)
          Yes, early communities needed each other and that drove a lot of their interactions. We went through a period of time where we started to believe we didn't need each other and that clearly isn't true. We now realize that working together is the only way we can make our cities and towns thrive.
          No one is saying America's founders were perfect. They were far from it, as we are. But one thing they got right was the knowledge that they needed to work together for a common cause. Teamwork is a powerful force. We couldn't have built a nation without it, and we can't build a better community without it either.
# # #

 
 

Nevada City, Calif. — The Tahoe National Forest is increasing access to the public by providing additional developed recreational opportunities. We encourage visitors to check our website and social media pages for the most up-to-date information on what is open so that you can plan your visit.
 
All visitors are encouraged to recreate responsibly and to practice self-sufficiency during while visiting the Tahoe National Forest. This includes:
 
• Maintaining at least six feet distancing from others
• Do not gather in groups and please follow the latest guidance from officials
• Communicate with others as you pass. Alert trail users of your presence and step aside to let others pass
• Pack out your trash and leave with everything you bring in and use.
• All services may not be available, so please plan accordingly.
 
The Tahoe National Forest will continue to phase in opening of facilities and services as county policies and facility preparations allow. For complete list of current updates, please see below.
 
Campgrounds
The following campgrounds are open. All campgrounds are 90% reserved unless indicated:

• Highway 89, South
  • Goose Meadow Campground
  • Granite Flat Campground
  • Silver Creek
• Foresthill Divide Road
  • Giant Gap Campground
  • Shirttail Campground
  • Mumford Bar (First Come First Served only)
• Gold Lake Road
  • Berger
  • Diablo
  • Packsaddle (Water systems under repair, campers must pack in water)
  • Salmon Creek (Water systems under repair, campers must pack in water)
  • Sardine (Water systems under repair, campers must pack in water)
• Marysville Road
  • Dark Day Campground
  • Garden Point Campground (boat in)
  • Madrone Cove Campground (boat in)
  • Schoolhouse Campground
• Mosquito Ridge Road
  • Ahart
  • French Meadows
  • Lewis
  • Talbot (First Come First Served only)
• Interstate 80
  • North Fork  
  • Onion Valley (First Come First Served only)
  • Hampshire Rocks (some sites closed due to hazard trees)
• Highway 49
  • Loganville – (no water in campground, water available across the road)
  • Rocky Rest
  • Carlton Flat
  • Cal Ida
  • Union Flat
• Highway 89, North 
  • Bear Valley
  • Cold Creek
  • Cottonwood
  • Little Lasier Meadow Horse
  • Lakeside (Water systems under repair, campers must pack in water)
  • Lower Little Truckee
  • Prosser Family (Water systems under repair, campers must pack in water)
  • Upper Little Truckee
• Boca / Stampede Reservoirs
  • Boca
  • Boca Rest
  • Boca Springs
  • Boyington Mill
  • Logger – Dump station open
• Bowman Lake Road
  • Carr-Feeley – PG&E managed site, first-come first-serve only
  • Lindsey – PG&E managed site, first-come first-serve only
  • Grouse Ridge – Open, first-come first-serve only NO FIRES ALLOWED

The following campgrounds are closed for the upcoming weekend, June 26-28, 2020. Closing any site for any reason is not an action we take lightly, but protecting our visitors and employees remains our highest priority.
 
In addition, reservations have been temporarily canceled for the following closed campgrounds. If you previously made a reservation for one of the following closed campgrounds, and the campground opens before your current reservation date, your reservation will be honored. If a closed campground does not open before your reservation date, you will be refunded. Please check back in for weekly campground opening updates.

• Interstate 80
  • Indian Springs - tentative open date August 1
• Highway 20
  • White Cloud - tentative open date July 2
  • Skillman - tentative open date July 2
• Highway 49
  • Chapman Creek - Closed for the season, hazard tree and road work
  • Fiddle Creek - tentative open date July 17
  • Indian Valley - tentative open date July 2
  • Ramshorn - tentative open date August 1
  • Sierra - tentative open date August 1
  • Wild Plum - tentative open date August 1
  • Yuba Pass - Closed for the season, hazard trees
• Highway 89, North
  • Lake of the Woods - Closed due to hazard trees
• Marysville Road
  • Frenchy Point

All group campgrounds are closed at this time. Please check back July 2 for tentative group campground opening date information:

• Big Bend
• Cottonwood Creek
• Coyote – Reservations cancelled at least through July 9
• Emigrant Gap
• Forbes – Reservations cancelled at least through July 9
• Gates– Reservations cancelled at least through July 9
• Hornswoggle
• Prosser Ranch
• Tunnel Mills

Reservations are not available for the following campgrounds and they are currently closed:

• Robinsons Flat (hazard trees)
• Sterling Lake – PG&E managed site, closed for hazard tree removal
• Meadow Lake – PG&E manages site, closed for hazard tree removal, est. opening July 3
• Sagehen Creek
• Snag Lake
• White Rock Lake (unreachable due to snow)

Day Use Sites, Trailheads, Boat Ramps, and Staging Areas
All developed recreation sites on the Tahoe National Forest are now open. Trash removal services remain limited – please pack out all trash and waste. Toilet facilities remain limited, please plan accordingly.

• Gold Lake Road
  • Sierra Buttes Trailhead – Rough conditions may exist
• Highway 20
  • Gold Country Equestrian Trailhead – Open
  • Golden Quartz – Open
• Highway 49
  • Oregon Creek Day Use Area – Open
• Highway 89, North
  • Pass Creek – Open
  • Woodcamp Boat Ramp – Opens July 1
  • Donner Picnic Area - Open
• Interstate 80
  • Indian Springs Staging Area – Open
  • Castle Valley – Inaccessible due to snow
• Boca / Stampede Reservoirs
  • Prosser Boat Ramp – Open
  • Boca Boat Ramp – Closed due to water level
  • Stampede Boat Ramp – Open
  • Boca Town Site – Open
  • Prosser OHV – Open
  • Vista Overlook – Open
• Marysville Road
  • Dark Day Boat ramp/picnic area – Open
• Mosquito Ridge Road
  • French Meadow Boat Ramp – Open
  • Big Trees Nature Trail – Accessible, windfall on access road and trail
• Foresthill Divide Road
  • Manzanita – Open - $5.00 day use fee now in effect.
  • Sugar Pine Boat Launch – Closed June 24-26; limited parking, $5.00 day use fee now in effect.
  • Brimstone staging area - Open
  • Parker Flat OHV staging area – Open
  • Sugar Pine OHV staging area – Open
• Bowman Lake Road
  • Carr-Feeley – accessible, free trailhead parking
  • Lindsay – accessible, free trailhead parking
  • Loney Meadows – accessible, free trailhead parking

Motorized Routes and Trails
Trash removal services remain limited at many motorized trailheads – please pack out all trash and waste. Thank you for helping to keep the Tahoe National Forest safe and clean. Happy riding!
 
Westside of the Tahoe National Forest

• Sugar Pine OHV system is open. Loop 6, of the Foresthill OHV system, is closed at the “lower bridge” due to major storm damage. The trail is open on both sides but the bridge is impassable.
•  The Downieville multiple-use trail is mostly open.  Some of the highest elevation trails may still have snow drifts blocking access (i.e., Chimney Rock, top of Gold Valley 4x4 and top of Lavezzola)
• Fordyce Jeep Trail – Open, all snow should be melted out
• Burlington Motorcycle Trail system – Open
• Gold Valley OHV system  -  Log blocking 4x4 entrance, still some snow drifts on highest elevation trails
• Excelsior – Rough conditions
• Pendola - Open
• Chalk Bluff – Rough conditions
• Omega – Rough conditions
• Alpha  – Rough conditions
• Burlington – Rough conditions
• Bowman  – Clear to Bowman Lake
• Lindsey (FS 17 RD) – Clear to lake
• Grouse Ridge (FS 14 RD) – Rough conditions from Bowman (FS 17 RD) patched of snow may exist on road near campground, proceed with caution
• Cal-Ida – Fully accessible, rough conditions
• Fiddle Creek – Fully accessible, rough conditions
• Texas Hill – From Emigrant Gap clear to MP 8.5, rough conditions thereafter, 4x4 high clearance recommended. From Yuba Gap clear to MP 4.6, then rough condition thereafter.
• Eureka  – Fully accessible, rough conditions
• Long Point Access – Rough conditions
• Jouberts  – Poor road condition, snow and tree limbs in road
• Madrone Spring – Good condition
• Washington Ridge – Good condition
• Packer Lake Road – Clear

Eastside of the Tahoe National Forest

• Fiberboard (07 Road) – Open  
• Prosser Hill Moto (Animal/Animal Crackers) – open, cleared
• Bald Mountain Moto (Happy Face) – sections of the trail and area will be closed during the summer to accommodate the Big Jack East Vegetation Project - see Big Jack East Project Story Map for project updates and closure info
• Lloyd’s Moto – Open, cleared
• Meadow Lake – Open and snow free
• The Bear Valley OHV system – Open, actively being cleared of down winter trees
• Yuba Weber  - Open and snow free
• Carmen Valley - Road is snow free and in good condition and passable
• Nichols Mill – Open to Jones Valley, snow beyond that
• Verdi Peak – Open, rough conditions
• Haskel Peak – Passable
• Babbit – Rough Road. Road maintenance activities, watch out for heavy equipment.
• Sawtooth (06 Road) – Open, watch out for large trucks/heavy equipment
• Bear Valley Road – Snow free, good condition and passable
• Sardine Road- Snow Free, clear to Sardine Lake
• Rubicon – Snow melted out
• Mosquito Ridge – Clear to Hell Hole

               
Local County Roads within the Tahoe National Forest

• Boca/Stampede - Clear
• Foresthill Road – Clear to Robinson Flat
• Indian Springs Road – Clear to OHV Trail Head. Signal Peak still snowed in.
• Gold Lake Highway – Open
• Sierra County has closed Mountain House Road between Goodyears Bar and Henness Pass Road due to road repair work for storm damage culvert replacements.

Non-motorized Trails
Generally non-motorized trails are open, but high elevation trails may be inaccessible due to late season snow and other factors:

Below 5000’: Trails may not have been cleared. Potential for down trees and rough conditions on trails below in this elevation. This applies to:

• Pioneer Trail
• Bullards Bar Trail Complex
• Joshua M. Hardt Memorial Trail – Trails have been cleared and fully accessible
• North and South Yuba Trail – Reports of some downed trees, actively being cleared
• Dascombe Trail Complex
• Western States Trail – Trails have been cleared and fully accessible

5,000’ -6,000’: Trails may not have been cleared. Potential for down trees and rough conditions on trails below in this elevation. This applies to:

• The Lone Grave area trail system has been cleared.
• Blue Lake Trail
• Spaulding Lake Trail
• Forest City Trail Complex

6,000’ to 7,000’: Trails may not have been cleared. Potential for down trees and rough conditions on trails below in this elevation. This applies to:

• Hole in the Ground Trail – not cleared, many snow patches still exist
• Western States – open, clear east of Hwy 89 and 3 miles west of 89; still snow near the crest
• Commemorative Overland Emigrant – open, cleared
• Sawtooth – cleared, sections of the trail and area will be closed during the summer to accommodate the Big Jack East Vegetation Project – seeBig Jack East Project Story Map for project updates and closure info
• Big Chief – open, clear of snow, not affected by the Big Jack East Vegetation Project
• Donkey Town/Burro (formerly Jackass Ridge/A1) – open, heavy use
• 5 Lakes – clear to lakes, patches of snow may still exist around 5 Lakes
• Loch Leven Trail
• Castle Valley Loop Trail
• Loyalton/Boca Railroad Trail
• Deer Creek Trail - cleared

Above 7,000’: Any trails along the crest at high elevation still have snow patches, making the trails difficult to follow. Snow is melting, but many these high elevation trails will likely not be clear of snow until the beginning of July or later.

• Mt. Lola Trail – not cleared
• Mount Judah Loop – cleared, large snow patches
• Granite Chief Trail – partially cleared, snow patches near PCT
• Pacific Crest Trail – snow patches, not cleared
• French Lake Trail
• Granite Chief Wilderness Trails – not cleared, many trees down on trails

Tahoe National Forest and Virtual Services
The Tahoe National Forest has closed all offices to in-person visits and is implementing virtual services to protect the health and safety of employees and members of the public during the COVID-19 outbreak in accordance with guidance from federal and state authorities.  
 
Many services traditionally offered in our public offices are available online. To access these virtual services, please visit our website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/tahoe/.  We will continue to update our website with current virtual service information as conditions change. To email the Tahoe National Forest, please use the ‘Contact Us’ function on our website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/contactus/tahoe/about-forest/contactus.
 
Firewood Cutting Permits
The Tahoe National Forest Firewood Cutting permit process has changed. Please refer to our ‘permits’ page for more information:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tahoe/passes-permits/?cid=stelprdb5212195
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

JUNE 24, 2020 — The U.S. Census Bureau announced today that it will send an additional reminder postcard to households that have not yet responded to the 2020 Census. The postcard is scheduled to arrive between July 22 and July 28, a few weeks before census takers are set to begin visiting households that haven’t responded.


The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the start of census taker visits from mid-May to mid-August. Responding now minimizes the need for census takers to visit homes to collect responses in person. About 61.7% of households across the country have already responded online, by phone or by mail.


The Census Bureau also announced plans to send postcards to about 1.3 million post office boxes in communities that are required to use P.O. boxes for mail delivery. The postcards – planned to be sent between June 24 and July 3 – alert households that a census taker may drop off census invitations or visit later to interview them.


The Census Bureau strongly encourages the public to respond online at 2020census.gov. Households can respond online or by phone in English or 12 other languages, or by mail using the paper questionnaire mailed to nonresponding addresses or dropped off at the door. Although census takers will begin visiting households that haven’t yet responded beginning August 11, households can still respond on their own until these visits conclude on October 31.  


To see a revised timeline for the census, visit the 2020 Census operational adjustments page.

​

SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 23, 2020 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- As the
Sacramento region heads into an extremely hot week, one local animal
welfare organization is taking action to help animals left in hot cars. The
Sacramento SPCA is providing thermometers to all animal control officers in
Sacramento County in an effort to prevent animals from suffering and dying
in hot cars and to hold those who caused this suffering accountable.

Each year police and animals control officers in our community respond to
hundreds of calls about animals - most often dogs - left in hot cars. These
are reported by Good Samaritans who hear the animals crying for help or, in
the worst cases, notice an animal that has passed out or stopped breathing.
California law now allows these Good Samaritans to break into the vehicle
under certain circumstances.

"We need the community to know that there are consequences to leaving an
animal in a car - no matter the reason," said Kenn Altine, CEO of the
Sacramento SPCA. "The consequences for the animal are horrific," he said,
"but too often the person is not held accountable."

Altine said the thermometers, which are certified tested and calibrated,
will allow the animal control officers to accurately capture the ambient
air temperature in the vehicle as part of their evidence collection.

"By having a reliable and accurate recording of the temperature using a
certified thermometer, we can better hold the people accountable for their
actions," said Sacramento County DDA Hilary Bagley-Franzoia. The Sacramento
County District Attorney handles cases of animals left in cars.

They've already had several cases this year, including an animal who was
left in a car where the temperature reached 130 degrees, causing the animal
to have seizures, neuropathy and to bleed through its skin and paws.
Forty-five minutes after the animal was freed from the car, its internal
temperature was still 108 degrees (normal body temperature for dogs and
cats is 101 to 102.5 degrees).

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals
with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 128 years. They
provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually
and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and
pets together for life.
​

​Reno Discussion:
 
KEY POINTS
 
·       Well Above Normal This Week: Warm/hot valley temps this week...near record highs possible Tuesday. High temps in the 80s Sierra valleys, with 90s - around 100 lower valleys. Hottest days Tuesday-Wednesday and Saturday. Heat health impacts possible. Significant cooling a good possibility next week.
·       Light Winds Today with Westerly Breezes Midweek: Light northeast winds today with typical westerly afternoon breezes returning Tuesday-Wednesday. Northerly winds look to return Thursday/Friday
·       Chances for Thunderstorms Tuesday-Wednesday: Main focus for t-storms Tuesday-Wednesday, mainly in the Sierra, along the Sierra Front, and across northeast California.
 
CHANGES FROM PREVIOUS BRIEFING
 

• Extended t-storm coverage on Tuesday to include the Sierra Front region and increased chances on Wednesday for northern Lassen & Washoe counties. 

Cooler conditions likely next week. Breezy weekend...strongest winds likely Sunday with fire concerns.
 

​

June is Men’s Health Month
By Dr. John Chang, Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare of California
 
June is Men’s Health Month!  This annual observance brings added significance this year given the health challenges men may face in general and specifically to COVID-19. For instance, research shows men are more likely than women to experience worse outcomes due to COVID-19, including double the risk of death.
 
Independent of COVID-19, men also have a lower life expectancy (76 years for men vs. 81 years for women); a lower likelihood of visits to the doctor (76% of men had seen a doctor in the last year vs. 92% of women); and a higher risk of being overweight or obese (nearly 71% for men vs. 59% for women).
 
With that in mind, here are tips for men and families in California to consider as we celebrate Men’s Health Month!
 
Be a Masked Man: While initial COVID-19 guidelines may have suggested otherwise, federal and international health authorities now recommend the use of masks when people are outside the home and unable to maintain at least six feet of distance from others. In fact, a recent study found widespread mask wearing can reduce the spread of COVID-19 by as much as 80%.  Even so, the adoption of masks remains mixed, especially among men: Just 56% of men said they had worn a mask outside the home, compared to 67% of women. Tightly fitting home-made masks, including ones of cotton or silk, may provide protection for yourself and others.     
    
Prevention is Important: Men are three-times more likely than women to go a year without visiting the doctor, and nearly twice as likely to be without a regular go-to physician in times of sickness. This behavior may be reinforced by COVID-19, which has prompted some people to skip medical care, including wellness visits or chronic care management.  Urgent health issues, including persistent chest pains, head injuries or signs of stroke such as sudden numbness in the face arm or leg, should not be ignored. To help encourage health, now is the time to schedule an annual wellness visit with your primary care physician, providing an opportunity to detect potential health issues early. If in-person appointments may be a concern due to potential exposure to COVID-19, telehealth resources are now enabling more people to connect with a health care professional, including for urgent medical care and on-going disease management.  
 
Reduce Risky Behavior: Research suggests that men may take more risks than women, with this type of perilous behavior potentially manifesting itself in some unfortunate consequences. For example, men are more likely to be addicted to alcohol and tobacco than women; men are twice as likely as women to binge drink; and men use illicit drugs at more than double the rate of women. What’s more, some men may be prone to push themselves physically, such as attempting a marathon, triathlon or an extreme sport. It’s a good idea to check with your physician before you engage in any extreme sport and start a slow and steady training routine. 
 
Remember Behavioral Health: The pandemic – and associated economic challenges – may be triggering more stress and anxiety. Unfortunately, research shows that men are less likely than women to seek help, particularly for depression and other behavioral health issues. One potential barrier may be that some men might be embarrassed to ask for this type of assistance. To help with that, men may consider a virtual visit with a mental health provider via a mobile device or computer, a service that may already be available as part of their health care benefits. Virtual visits may shorten wait times for an appointment, fit schedules, and eliminate travel time and expense. And, research shows that outcomes of a virtual visit with a mental health provider may be similar to in-person sessions for multiple behavioral health issues.
 

We’re not done with the first wave… COVID-19 cases are on the rise in many states, including California, Florida, Arizona and Texas, but conspiracy-minded demonstrators are fighting against the use of masks, putting healthcare workers and the public at risk. National Union of Healthcare Workers (NUHW) president Sal Rosselli is available for comment on these two conflicting and disturbing trends.

 
Only yesterday (Tues.), profane protestors — claiming that COVID-19 is a "fraud-demic, a scam-demic, a plan-demic" — shouted down healthcare workers, grocery workers and other essential workers in Orange County, California. With signs claiming "Masks Suck,” angry demonstrators prevented essential workers from being heard during a press conference called by the National Union of Healthcare Workers (NUHW), the Orange County Labor Federation and other unions representing essential workers.
 
The LA Times reported that anti-mask protestors "tried to hit them [essential workers] in the head with their signs," citing an eyewitness report from Luis Aleman of the Labor Federation. In a separate incident, an 82-year old woman wearing a maskwhile shopping in Fountain Valley, Calif., found "F*** your mask, You scared, b****" scrawled on her car.
 
Essential workers are asking Orange County officials to reinstate a rule requiring that facemasks be worn in public places, in accordance with public health recommendations from the US Centers for Disease Control, Orange County had a mask-wearing order in place, but it was rescinded following the resignation of county health officer Dr. Nicole Quick, who had been the subject of a public death threat and demonstrations depicting her as a Nazi.
 
COVID-19 has claimed 233 lives in Orange County and more than 112,000 in the United States. 

Latest FREE testing dates in Sierra County and other locations 10am – 2pm:
June 16 Drive-Thru ONLY in Loyalton – TODAY till 2pm
June 17 Drive-Thru ONLY in Downieville
 
In response to community requests 10am – 2pm:
June 23 Walk-up, Bike-up, Scooter-up ONLY Loyalton
June 24 Walk-up, Bike-up, Scooter-up ONLY Downieville
 
Registration is not always available until a few days prior. Register and schedule an appointment: https://www.projectbaseline.com/study/covid-19/
 

 
 
 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) today announced a statewide effort to resume litter removal on the state highways. Roadside litter cleanup has been limited since March due to the COVID-19 health crisis.
 
“Litter increases the risk of fire, pollutes our waterways, threatens wildlife and costs taxpayers millions of dollars to remove,” said Toks Omishakin, Caltrans Director. “We ask all Californians to be part of the solution, dispose of trash responsibly and secure cargo loads before getting on the road.”
 
California needs your help to prevent trash from ever making it to the highways. Money spent on trash clean-up diverts crews away from filling potholes, fixing guardrails, and performing other essential maintenance activities. You can help by following a few basic travel behaviors:  
 
·        Stow a litter bag in your automobile and always dispose of trash appropriately;
·        Properly extinguish cigarettes and cigars; Never throw a lit item from a vehicle.
·        Always cover and properly secure cargo or materials hauled in passenger trucks and pick-ups.
·        Adopt a California highway and remove litter.
 
Litter removal was limited to protect the health and safety of Caltrans crews during the current health crisis. Due to the accumulation of trash on the state highways, Caltrans crews and volunteers with the Adopt-A-Highway program are picking up garbage statewide and removing items abandoned on the side of the road.
 
The CHP actively enforces California’s anti-littering laws, ticketing motorists seen littering the highways or driving with unsecured cargo loads. Last year, CHP officers issued more than 3,100 citations for littering, and roughly one-third of those violations involved a lit cigarette.
 
“Not only is littering illegal, but there can be devastating consequences resulting from these senseless actions,” said CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley. “A lit cigarette carelessly tossed from a window can start a brush fire, an unsecured cargo load can result in a collision, and the safety of a highway worker cleaning up the mess is at great risk.”
 
Caltrans collected 287,000 cubic yards of litter in 2019 alone—enough to fill 18,000 garbage trucks. Of that total, 35 percent resulted from efforts by the department’s community programs, saving California millions of dollars. Our efforts help prevent litter from ending up in our waterways.
 
Caltrans collaborates with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and advocacy groups to provide occupational mentoring and temporary employment to parolees and veterans. Participants are trained in litter abatement, and the program has grown from eight crews in 2009 to 55 crews operating in the state today.       
 
The Adopt-A-Highway program provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and businesses to help maintain sections of the state highways. Since its start in 1989, Adopt-a Highway has removed litter from more than 15,000 miles of roadway shoulder and has helped maintain 36 acres of wildflowers, 1,540 acres of vegetation management, and 111 acres of tree planting. More information on becoming an Adopt-a-Highway volunteer may be found on the Caltrans website at dot.ca.gov.
 
Caltrans trains maintenance workers, parolees, veterans and volunteers to keep themselves safe by following guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Crews wear personal protective equipment such as face coverings and gloves and practice physical distancing.

​As a County with a Variance Attestation in place with the State, Sierra County is able to move forward further into Stage 3 of businesses reopening.  See attached press release June 12, 2020.
 
The following businesses are able to open as of June 19, 2020 after reviewing the guidance here: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/expanded-personal-services.pdf  and submitting an MOU to covid19@sierracounty.ca.gov
 
o Personal care which requires touching someone’s face: facials, electrolysis, waxing, esthetician, skin care and cosmetology services
o Nail salons
o Body art professionals
o Tattoo Parlors
o Body Piercing
o Massage Therapy
 
Guidance for outdoor religious gatherings is up-dated and can be found here: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-places-of-worship.pdf
 
Don’t weaken and stay well!

 
The Sierra County has completed its first fuel reduction project on its lands in the Sierra Buttes/Lakes Basin at Packer Saddle.  This was a high priority fuel reduction area because it is used heavily by mountain bikers, hikers, sightseers, and 4 wheel drive enthusiasts. It includes the start of the Downieville Downhill trail and the beginning of the Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail.
 
The project was funded by the Sierra Nevada Conservancy ($167,200) using Proposition 68 funds as part of the Sierra Nevada Conservancy Watershed Improvement Program.  The primary intent of the project was to reduce the risk of high intensity fire surrounding the headwaters of the North Fork Yuba River-Packer Saddle and Sierra Buttes/Lakes Basin area as well as surrounding public and private forest lands and the communities of Bassetts and Sierra City. Benefits will also include enhanced watershed health.
 
The project reduced understory fuel along 10,000 feet of road frontage, 150 feet on either side of road, totaling 69 acres.
 
A light-on-the-land approach was used to protect the aesthetics of this recreational area.  Islands of low vegetation were retained, track marks were avoided, hand work was used on steep slopes, and care was taken to evenly distribute chips and lopped limbs.  Specimen trees were protected.  Snags for future nesting were retained.
 
The professional forester overseeing the project was Kevin Whitlock of Under the Trees, and the forest contractor was Misita Tree and Land, both of whom did an excellent and sensitive job.
 
The Sierra County Land Trust has acquired 1525 acres of land in the Sierra Buttes/Lakes Basin
 
The project will be discussed at the June 16 meeting of the Sierra County Board of Supervisors.