SACRAMENTO, Calif. –During Child Passenger Safety Week, September 19 through 25, 2021, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will educate the public on the importance of ensuring children are riding in a properly fitted and installed child passenger safety seat. 
 
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13.  In 2020, 90 children aged 13 and under died as a result of car crashes in California.  The NHTSA reports that while most parents and caregivers are confident they have correctly installed their child’s safety seat, when checked almost half (46 percent) are found to be installed incorrectly. 
 
California law requires all children under the age of 2, or weighing under 40 pounds and under 40 inches tall, ride in a rear-facing car seat.  All children under the age of 8 must ride in the back seat in an age-appropriate safety seat.  Safety experts recommend children ride in the back seat until the age of 13.  For more information about child passenger safety, visithttps://www.chp.ca.gov/Programs-Services/Programs/Child-Safety-Seats.  
 
“Proper use of child safety seats can mean the difference between life and death,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said.  “Our child passenger safety technicians can assist you in ensuring your most precious cargo arrives safely.” 
 
At all CHP child safety seat events throughout the week, child passenger safety technicians will provide free safety seat inspections, education, and hands-on training for parents and caregivers.  These free safety seat inspections are also available year-round, by appointment, at any CHP Area office.  To locate the nearest CHP Area office, please visithttps://www.chp.ca.gov/find-an-office.
 
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the NHTSA.
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 

 
Tahoe, California – Liberty Utilities (Liberty) is notifying customers that it may implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in  THESE AREAS on or about Sunday, 9/19 from 1 a.m. to 4 p.m.to reduce wildfire risk and promote the safety of the community during the anticipated extreme weather conditions. If a PSPS is implemented, it could last more than 24 hours before power is safely restored.
The state of California grants authority to Liberty to implement a PSPS in high-risk areas when extreme weather conditions present a clear danger to public safety.
Customers who require power to operate life-essential medical equipment are strongly encouraged to call 9-1-1 if they are unable to secure necessary alternative power.
“We understand power outages are never convenient for customers, and we appreciate the community’s cooperation as we consider these measures to keep the area safe from wildfires,” said Travis Johnson, Vice President, Operations.   
For safety, customers are advised to take the following proactive measures:

• Create an emergency kit including, but not limited to, flashlights, first aid supplies and local maps. Consult Ready.gov for additional emergency kit necessities.
• Plan for medical needs that may be impacted by a power shutoff, including medications that need refrigeration or devices that require power. Be sure to register an energy-related medical needs at 1-800-782-2506.
• Store nonperishable foods and water to support your family for a minimum of 48 hours.
• For additional information and real-time updates, please visit libertyutilities.com or follow us on Facebook (@LibertyUtilitiesLT) and Twitter (@LibertyUtil_CA).

If a PSPS is implemented, Liberty will activate Community Resource Centers (CRC) throughout the de-energization event to provide customers with essential resources and an opportunity to speak directly with customer care representatives. 
 

By Ted Gaines
Word count 634
 
Kate Tibbitts can’t make this plea to you.  She can’t cast a vote or call a legislator or sign a petition for change. She can’t install a security system or add another deadbolt to her Sacramento home. Kate Tibbitts is dead. She was raped, murdered, her pets killed and home set on fire by a transient career criminal. Her innocent life ended in horror. Her death, while heartbreaking, is not surprising.  Kate’s tragedy can be traced back to political trends and liberal policy decisions that, if not reversed, will leave a longer trail of victims behind them.
 
The recall election succeeded in highlighting California’s dysfunction. This administration will be forever linked to raging wildfires, massive and inhumane homeless camps, Employment Development Department fraud and French Laundry hypocrisy, but what most symbolizes Newsom’s reign, and the madness of the legislature, is the upside-down view of crime and punishment. The saddest and most profound symbol of Newsom's tenure is Kate Tibbitt’s tombstone.
 
California is conducting a real-time experiment implementing the “de-incarceration” philosophy, which paints the criminals themselves as victims of “the system,” and considers their imprisonment the true injustice. This is the animating thought behind the emptying of our prisons and the no-cash bail push in the legislature. Newsom’s administration recently went all-in for de-incarceration by sidestepping the legislature and unilaterally green lighting the early release of more than 70,000 of felons back on to California streets. Expect a crimewave to follow.
 
It’s hard to end up in prison. The myth of a prison sentence for a first-time offender for marijuana possession may be politically appealing to some, but it’s mostly imaginary. Our prisons are stuffed with hardened criminals, violent felons, who get paroled and commit new felonies to get back in.
 
Troy Davis, the suspect in Ms. Tibbitts’ murder, has a rap sheet that would defy the belief of a law-abiding citizen. The Sacramento Bee reported Davis’ list of charges includes resisting an officer, battery on an officer, possession of methamphetamine, threatening an officer, misdemeanor sexual battery, assault and battery, assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, and other unnamed crimes in June 2021. He was also, according to the Bee, arrested for auto theft this past June and released with zero bail, per state policy. He did not show up for his arraignment and became a “parolee at large.”
 
One-man crime scourge Troy Davis should be in prison. Kate Tibbitts should be alive.
 
But we’ve recently built a system where it’s hard to get in to prison and easy to get out.  “Realignment,” Proposition 47 and Proposition 57, Newsom good-time credits increase, Newsom-mandated zero cash bail, all of these policies are pillow-soft on crime. They rob law enforcement of power and the ability hold criminals accountable. Society suffers as crime explodes.
 
Greenhouse gas reduction is not a concern for Kate Tibbetts. It doesn’t matter that she can’t get a single-use plastic bag at the grocery store or a plastic straw at a restaurant. She can’t get a subsidy to buy a Tesla or install rooftop solar. While Newsom and the legislature focus on fashionable leftist elite concerns, the real state has fallen apart.
 
Basic government services, such as public safety, which includes punishing criminals to hold them accountable, as well as keeping them off the street where they commit more crime, have taken a back seat to self-congratulatory moral grandstanding.
 
Kate’s last moments must have been grisly. I pray for her family and friends, who will deeply mourn her death.  No legislation can undo her loss. No policy will prevent wickedness. But we absolutely cannot facilitate it.
 
The simple fact is that career criminal Troy Davis could not have killed Kate from his prison cell.
 
I plead with you all – support policies that punish crime and maintain our civil society. Our lives depend on it.
 
Senator Ted Gaines (Ret.) was elected to represent the Board of Equalization’s First District. He is a leading taxpayer advocate, defender of Prop. 13, and is committed to providing trustworthy and transparent representation for nearly ten million constituents in 30 counties of northern, eastern, and southern California. For more information, visit boe.ca.gov/Gaines.
​

THE REQUEST FROM THE CITY OF LOYALTON for the County to consider assuming Planning and Building inspection services for the City was discussed during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting held Tuesday, September 7th. Planning Director Tim Beals stated the purpose of this item was to give a report on progress. He reported they had a meeting at Sierraville School with Mayor Sarah Jackson, one of the members of City Council, as well as Supervisors Terry LeBlanc and Lee Adams. Beals said at this meeting it was clear there are a number of questions that need to be resolved; insurance, liability, exposure of litigation, opinions of City attorney and whether involvement is needed by County Counsel. The County recently received an email from a very disgruntled City resident expressing contempt and concern for their building process. He stated it has become apparent there are probably some legacy issues they need to understand. Beals recommended another meeting to include the City attorney and County Counsel to understand the scope of what they are being requested to do and whether it’s an appropriate move for the County to make. He felt the City was up against a wall at this point.
Supervisor Adams supported pulling County Counsel into this to look at some of the alternatives. He didn’t want to split the Board and suggested if there was not a consensus they shouldn’t move forward. Adams felt badly for residents and the current council who had nothing to do with what happened, but added that didn’t make it a County issue. He suggested the City hire someone to do a full evaluation of what they have been doing the last 10 years, adding this was well beyond their capability.  
Supervisor LeBlanc reminded the Board that quite a few years ago, two councilmembers decided to take it over and do it themselves. Now those councilmembers are gone and City doesn’t know what they are doing. He figured the County would have to take it back, or teach them how to do it. LeBlanc stated the City was not in good shape, just lost a council member, lost their water and maintenance employees. He said Loyalton is still a part of Sierra County who had been doing it for years. LeBlanc didn’t think it would be that much of a burden to take it back. He reiterated the City doesn’t have a clue on what they are doing.  
Supervisor Sharon Dryden agreed with Adams on this item, adding she didn’t feel they had a full consensus of the Board. Adams felt it was best for the City to talk to their internal council and maybe pull in an expert from out of the area, adding the City does have to make some choices. He stressed having the upmost respect for Mayor Jackson and what she is trying to do, but has a quagmire and not of her own making. Adams said the City is within Sierra County but are legally separate from the County adding, “They drive their own ship. We can’t drive it for them.”  
No action was taken.



PROPOSED GRANT FOR FUNDING the consolidation analysis for water systems within the community of Sierra City was discussed at the Board of Supervisors’ meeting held in Downieville, Tuesday, September 7th. Planning Director Tim Beals stated there had been considerable concern of updating with the water purveyors and had not met since COVID. A meeting was finally held on August 25th. He reported they only had one water system they couldn’t get hold of but the other 16 were there. Two parties called in virtually and all others were present. Beals stated the meeting was very productive. Steve Watson Lassen District Engineer from the State Water Board was present and reported to the water purveyors that grant funding was available and management had authorized the County to be the applicant. Beals said everyone supported the concept of the consolidation study except one. The one who did not felt uncomfortable speaking for the party that wasn’t present. Everyone attending was well informed and agreed that this should happen. There was a consistent concern that the greater community needed to look at this issue. He stated 16 systems, were all in states of disrepair with not a lot of maintenance and management support, adding it was a definite need that needs to be looked at. Once they have the report then decisions can be made. It was emphasized, that this was not an effort by the County to be the water purveyor of Sierra City. Beals stated the two issues that needed approval weere the Board’s willingness to support the application for funding and authorize the Public Works department to proceed with discharge of the grant and preparation of the report. Supervisor Sharon Dryden asked how much of it was grant funded. Beals thought the grant was 100% funded by the State. A consensus was given by the Board to allow Beals to move forward.
​

SACRAMENTO - Today, the Governor’s Office announced the allocation of $138 million for wildfire prevention grants statewide to help mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfire. In budget negotiations for this year’s wildfire prevention funding, Senator and Assemblywoman Dahle identified a list of unfunded, shovel-ready projects throughout the First Assembly and Senate District prepared for immediate funding to fire safe communities. 

Senator and Assemblywoman Dahle released the following statement in response to the governor’s announced funding and its inclusion of over $30 million to Fire Safe Councils in their districts who will now have the resources to complete several critical projects:

“We are excited to announce the data we gathered on unfunded projects was prioritized in the governor’s funding, and thankful for his trust in our local Fire Safe Councils abilities to do this critical work. Our local Fire Safe Councils will be able to use this $30 million to complete vegetation management projects that have been ready and waiting for state funding. This funding will give our brave firefighters a fighting chance to stop catastrophic fires before they destroy more lives, property, and livelihoods.”

“Over the last two years, more than 6 million acres have been destroyed by wildfire, much of which could have been avoided had we begun decades ago to mimic nature by clearing unnatural undergrowth mechanically and with controlled burns.”

“This new funding will give our communities some of the resources necessary to prioritize areas that are prone or in danger of future wildfires, establishing much-needed firebreaks to protect communities. However, this is only a drop in the bucket compared to the scale and financial resources we will need to treat the millions of acres of forest in California. State and federal officials also need to focus on mobilizing the timber industry, reducing environmental regulation and costly red tape that holds up projects, and commit substantial, ongoing funds to wildfire prevention. We will continue to push for these reforms and fight to bring additional resources to our districts to create a safer North State.” 

A full list of the 2021 Fire Prevention Grant recipients can be found here.


# # #
 
Senator Brian Dahle represents California's 1st Senate District, which contains all or portions of 11 counties, including Alpine, El Dorado, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Shasta, Sierra, and Siskiyou.

 
Liberty may implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) for THESE AREAS, due to extreme fire conditions. A #PSPS is not imminent at this time; however, customers are encouraged to plan ahead for the possibility of an extended shutoff that could begin 1am Sunday, September 19 and last more than 24 hours. Customers who require power to operate life-essential medical equipment are strongly encouraged to call 9-1-1 if they are unable to secure necessary alternative power. Please join us for a PSPS briefing on Friday, September 17 at 5:00 p.m. Join by clicking HERE.  
 

On the Monday, September 13, 2021 the front porch of the old house at White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR) began to get a facelift that was years in the planning.  After months of delays, the process of restoring the front façade was begun.  Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers, complete with 40 year old cement mixers, began the process of pouring the concrete footings that will support the beams of the West porch.  This is the side of the old house that faces Highway 89 and the entrance to the Mohawk Valley.  Years of weathering and neglect resulted in a near collapse of this side of the house. 
The ranch was designated an historic structure in the 1983 Plumas County General Plan. In spite of this, the old house was in the process of being dismantled when the community began to take notice and neighbors started a campaign to save the ranch.  The MVSC was formed in 2009 and the restoration of the historic ranch site was begun.
The WSSR website, www.WhiteSulphurSpringsRanch.com, has more about the history and the restoration of the ranch.  It also has information on how the community can support the work of the MVSC.  This includes memberships, direct contributions and legacy brick purchases.
photos by Janet Reihsen
 
Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council volunteers shovel the concrete in place for the front porch footings. Left to right, Robert Ware, Tom Barker and John Barker.      Facelift5.jpeg
 
Tim Buckhout and Don Maddelena in front of the antique concrete mixer used to start the repair of the front porch of the old ranch house at White Sulphur Springs in Clio.  Facelift4.jpeg
​

September 15, 2021
Recently, Brandeis University updated its list of no-longer-politically correct idioms we should eliminate from our vocabulary. 
Among them is the one that’s always disturbed me a little, but seems perfectly apropos this week: There’s more than one way to skin a cat.
Perhaps more relatable to Californians living in 2021 (who hopefully will never need even a single reason to skin a cat) is the reality that there is more than one way to hold an elected official accountable.
While the mainstream media is drunk off Gavin Newsom’s victory, the governor and elected officials up and down the state should consider:ordinary Californians — Republicans, Democrats, and everyone in between — made Newsom answer for his role in California’s downward spiral and they won on Tuesday.
Just think back to this past spring. California remained one of the most locked down states in the country, despite having the lowest COVID rate in the nation at the time. Indoor capacity limits were in place, masks were required indoors, non-essential offices and many businesses were prohibited from opening. The United Teachers Los Angeles and smaller teachers unions throughout the state refused to meaningfully return to in-person teaching, and threatened to keep students at home behind screens even in the fall.
But then, in May, it began to seem as though a recall election could materialize. A grassroots, bipartisan network of Californians had submitted the required number of signatures — and then some — to put Newsom’s political future up for a vote. The establishment powers started their collective shock then panic. Could their guy actually lose? In California? The all-out assault on his challengers kicked into high gear, and even included labeling the leading African American candidate as the “Black face of white supremacy.” In July, a headline-grabbing poll found Newsom’s chances of beating the recall too close for comfort.
The money, especially from government unions, started flowing into Newsom’s campaign. He collected more than $80 million and spent almost $60 million more than his closest competitor Larry Elder, the clear winner of Question 2. 
Newsom realized his political future was on thin ice and that, for the first time in his career, he’d have to fight for his job. Even though he refused to give up his emergency powers, suddenly, pandemic restrictions began fading into the background, and Californians were permitted to enjoy freedom previously only experienced by elites and lobbyists at the French Laundry. To much media fanfare, Newsom “reopened” California in the summer. Restaurants could more fully reopen, fans were filling stadiums, normalcy was on the horizon. The state’s powerful teachers unions, seemingly overnight, went silent, laid down their arms, and returned to school. The governor tried to reassure his constituents at every juncture that California was “roaring back!”
None of this would have happened without the threat of recall. And while many readers may understandably be discouraged today, remember that efforts to improve peoples’ lives, even if the result is only temporary, are worthwhile. 
Over the summer, small business owners were able to reopen, saving countless family businesses from the bankruptcy that loomed. Individuals were able to get off the government dole and return to work, restoring their sense of pride in themselves and hope in the future. Friends were allowed to share meals together at their favorite local restaurants maskless, reviving the sense of community squashed by the pandemic and government’s response to it. Children are back in school where they are learning face-to-face with their teachers, and importantly, playing with other children and experiencing some sense of normalcy. 
Many — the California Policy Center included — have speculated that a Newsom win this week could send the state backward in its reopening. Schools may again shut their doors, and relegate children to isolation and increased learning loss. Masks and vaccine mandates could spread. Businesses could close shop, some temporarily and others permanently. The California economy, which Newsom has so proudly claimed is “roaring back” would be silenced, again.
But, the truth is, Newsom and the government unions that elected him would be wise to proceed cautiously. Though Newsom saved his job this week, he will soon find himself campaigning again, first for the June 2022 primary and then, if he’s lucky, for the November General election. Voters should not let their discouragement or relief prevent them from holding Newsom’s feet to the fire these coming months. 
David may not have killed Goliath, but he took him down. So much so that California Democrats are working to reform the recall process, ensuring they never face such a challenge again. 

Support the California Policy Center. Donate Today.The Newsom recall election was just the beginning for ordinary Californians committed to challenging establishment power, special interests, and the status quo. A bipartisan, grassroots excitement has sprung up and is taking hold throughout the state. There are 15 efforts underway to recall California school boards, along with efforts to recall other public officials, from county supervisors to district attorneys. Voters could have the opportunity to vote on not one, but two, ballot proposals in 2022 that would disrupt public education. They might even consider whether to make public-sector unions illegal. 
While Newsom is right to breathe a sigh of relief this week, he shouldn’t get too comfortable. 

​The U.S. Forest Service will end Regional Closure Order No. 21-04 affecting National Forests in California at 11:59 pm today. However, Forest Closure Order No. 05-11-00-21-21 remain in effect on the Plumas National Forest. For more information, please visit the links below.
 
https://cms.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd940207.pdf
 
https://cms.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd940209.pdf
 
 

 
REDDING – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans District 2) wishes travelers a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. Motorists are reminded that areas of construction, maintenance, and emergency work remain in effect and are advised to check roadway conditions and allot extra time for delays surrounding travel on this holiday weekend.
 
Historically, peak travel dates and times surrounding this holiday weekend are:
 
·      Friday, September 3rd between the hours of 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

·      Monday, September 6th between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
 
While many crews will not be working over the weekend, road work will be in effect in many areas through Friday, September 3rd and starting again on Tuesday, September 7th. In addition, Caltrans District 2 alerts the public to the following long-term work zones, rest area closures, and areas of traffic congestion:
 
·      STATE ROUTE 299, MONUMENT FIRE EMERGENCY WORK – On Friday, September 3rd between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., motorists will be escorted through the closure area via pilot car from Big Flat to Burnt Ranch in Trinity County at 7 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. For Saturday, September 4th – Monday, September 6th between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., motorists will be escorted through the closure area at the top of every hour. Beginning Tuesday, September 7th, openings every 1 ½ hours will resume again between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Only local residents and emergency personnel are allowed in the closure area between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. daily (overnight hours).
 
·      STATE ROUTE 70, DIXIE FIRE EMERGENCY WORK – On Friday, September 3rd between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., motorists can plan for up to 2-hour delays on State Route 70 between Jarbo Gap and Quincy at various locations for emergency work. From Saturday, September 4th – Monday, September 6th, no work or delays are planned in the area for Caltrans operations, however motorists may encounter areas of permitted emergency work. Motorists should plan for up to 2-hour delays beginning again on Tuesday, September 7th at 6 a.m.
 
·      STATE ROUTES 36 & 89, DIXIE FIRE EMERGENCY WORK – On Friday, September 3rd between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., motorists can play for up to 1-hour delays in various locations on State Routes 36 and 89 for emergency work. From Saturday, September 4th – Monday, September 6th, no work or delays are planned in the area for Caltrans operations, however motorists may encounter areas of permitted emergency work. Motorists should plan for up to 1-hour delays beginning again on Tuesday, September 7th at 6 a.m.
 
·      SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 5, BLACK BUTTE OVERHEAD BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – Southbound Interstate 5 is reduced to two lanes between Weed and Mt. Shasta for the Black Butte Overhead Bridge Replacement Project in Siskiyou County. Motorists may experience delays during periods of higher traffic volumes.   
 
·      STATE ROUTE 36, AUGUST COMPLEX SLIDE – 24/7 traffic control is currently in effect for slide work on State Route 36 in Trinity County, approximately 6 miles west of the junction with State Route 3. Motorists should plan for up to 60-minute delays during daytime hours through September 3rd at 7 p.m. While no work is planned for Saturday – Monday (September 4th – September 6th), motorists will encounter flagging operations 24/7 with minimal delays. Longer delays (up to 60-minutes) are planned to begin again on Tuesday, September 7th at 7 a.m. 
 
·      STATE ROUTE 299, FRANCIS B. MATTHEWS SAFETY ROADSIDE REST AREA – The Francis B. Matthews Rest Area on State Route 299, near Salyer in Trinity County, will be closed over the holiday weekend due to continued construction work. Motorists traveling in the area should plan their stops accordingly.
 
·      NORTHBOUND INTERSTATE 5, O’BRIEN SAFETY ROADSIDE REST AREA – The O’Brien Rest Area on northbound Interstate 5, north of Redding, will be closed over the holiday weekend due to continued construction work. Motorists traveling in the area should plan their stops accordingly.
 
·      NORTHBOUND & SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 5, WEED SAFETY ROADSIDE REST AREAS – The Weed Safety Roadside Rest Areas on northbound and southbound Interstate 5, north of Weed in Siskiyou County, will be closed over the holiday weekend due to continued construction work. Motorists traveling in the area should plan their stops accordingly.
 
·      STATE ROUTE 89 NEAR McARTHUR – BURNEY FALLS MEMORIAL STATE PARK – Impacted traffic flows have occurred on recent holiday weekends on State Route 89 near McArthur – Burney Falls Memorial State Park in Shasta County. Motorists are asked to utilize alternative routes for through traffic in the area and plan for delays if they are intending to visit the park.
 
Motorists are recommended to follow roadway conditions often for any possible new incidents that may cause traffic control or areas of closure.  Up to date California highway conditions are available 24/7 through QuickMap. Motorists are also advised to tune to 1610 AM (97.9 FM in Modoc County and 1580 AM in Butte County for State Routes 70 & 191) when flashing lights are operational on Highway Advisory Radio signs and to immediately call 9-1-1 if they find themselves in an emergency situation.
 
Traveler resources include:
 
·      QuickMap: http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ (also available by free app. for smartphones)
·      One-Stop-Shop (Western U.S.): http://oss.weathershare.org (mobile version available at: http://oss.weathershare.org/m)
·      District 2 Project Information: https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-2/d2-projects
·      District 2 Facebook and Twitter pages with updated project and incident information
​

​Division of Boating and Waterways Provides Tips for Safe Boating During Low Water Conditions and Ahead of Labor Day Weekend
 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- With this year’s drought conditions impacting waterways throughout the state and the busy Labor Day weekend ahead, the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways wants to remind recreational boaters that drought conditions may reduce water levels, but not the dangers. When on waterways, boaters are reminded to recreate responsibly by adjusting their activities to the drought conditions as areas that were easily previously accessible may now be different and unfamiliar. Many lakes and reservoirs have restrained boat launch ramp availability or have reduced speed limits.
"We strongly encourage boaters to plan ahead and check the impact of the drought on their favorite waterway before going out on the water,” says DBW Acting Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez. “And if you visit a new boating location, be sure to exercise caution, wear a life jacket and be prepared."
Here are some safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe on the water:
Know Before Your Go: Contact your local waterway manager to check if your favorite boating location has any operating restrictions. Expert tip: download the BoatCA app for a listing of California boating facilities. If you opt to boat on a different waterway than usual, be sure to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. Operating on the ocean or river is different than operating on a lake.
Watch for Navigational Hazards: Low water can expose obstructions that could cause harm to you and your boat such as tree branches, snags and sand bars. Keep a proper lookout and heed warnings.
Be Prepared: Before heading out to the water, take a safe boating course and apply for your lifetime California Boater Card. The card is legally required for all operators of motorized vessels on California’s waterways. The law is being phased in based on operator age. For 2021, operators 40 years of age or younger must obtain the card. Visit CaliforniaBoaterCard.com for a complete list of approved courses and to apply for your card.
Equip Your Boat: Make sure you have all required equipment on board. View a virtual safety check to ensure you have the proper equipment. All boaters should wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Leave the Alcohol on Shore: Consuming alcohol negatively impacts vision, balance and reaction times and can cause dehydration. The effects of alcohol are heightened on the water compared to on land, with the environmental stressors such as wind, noise, and vibrations of the boat. Boating under the influence is illegal on all bodies of water. Law enforcement can terminate your voyage and issue citations if you are found to be impaired.
For more tips on how to recreate responsibly or to view California’s boating laws, please visit www.boatcalifornia.com.
With record-setting drought conditions in California, it is imperative that we all do our part to conserve water. Boaters are encouraged to repurpose unused water from their trip and skip the boat wash. Unless you need to rinse the salt water, just wipe the boat down with a damp cloth. For more tips on water conservation, visit SaveOurWater.com.
 

The Dixie Fire smoke plume as seen from Sierra Valley on the afternoon of 8-31-21 with the two month old Sugar Fire scar on Sugarloaf in the foreground.
Photo by Kristi Jamason/FRLT.
The Feather River Watershed has now seen over two months of mega-fire with evacuations spanning multiple counties, people's lives up-ended, and much change and loss.

• The Beckwourth Complex started in Sierra Valley on June 30th and burned 105,670 acres.
• The Dixie Fire rages on. At day 49, the Dixie Fire is the largest single fire in California history, at over 850,000 acres and 55% contained.

To all who are impacted by these fires, our hearts are with you.

The devastation of communities, the loss of cherished homes and important businesses built by the people who make this region unique and special, is especially heartbreaking. FRLT is dedicated to fire recovery on the land and within these communities. Our staff and Board live and work here—together we will envision and build toward a more resilient future.

The Dixie Fire is now threatening Lake Davis, communities along the Highway 70 corridor east of Quincy, and burning toward Milford on Highway 395 and into the Beckwourth Complex scar. To all of those currently impacted and ready to evacuate at a moment's warning, including our Sierra neighbors now facing the Caldor Fire—stay aware, strong, and safe. We will get through this, together.
Conserved Lands: Working with Nature for Recovery
Riparian vegetation regrowth (aspens too!) seven weeks after the Beckwourth Complex burned a recently conserved ranch in eastern Plumas County.
Photo by Kristi Jamason/FRLT.
To date, 13 FRLT conserved properties have been impacted by the Beckwourth Complex and Dixie fires. We’re working in close coordination with landowners and fire personnel for both incidents.

In the weeks and months ahead, we'll be working with landowners and a team of experts to (1) assess fire severity and impacts on vegetation and soils, water resources, wildlife habitats, and cultural resources on conserved lands, and (2) identify best practices for allowing and assisting natural regeneration where possible, and appropriate interventions for restoration where needed.

Each day, we’re learning new ways to be effective and adaptive during these large and challenging incidents.

Visit our blog for more information. We'll be updating regularly and will share more about fire recovery efforts in the weeks and months ahead. 
An Update on the Heart K Ranch
A message from Stewardship Manager, Nils Lunder
The Heart K Ranch red barn and apple orchard with low intensity fire in the oak woodlands as seen on 8-24-21. Photo by Plumas PAO, Ludie Bond.
For the last two weeks, the Dixie Fire has been surging near one of FRLT's most iconic properties—the historic Heart K Ranch. Here's an update from our Stewardship Manager and Indian Valley resident, Nils Lunder.

"Fire has burned up and out of Indian Valley impacting Peters Creek and Foreman Ravine. The steep, wooded slopes of Mt Jura have burned with the fire backing down numerous drainages towards Taylorsville, Genesee Woods and the Genesee Valley. Fire has burned down the slopes of the Heart K Ranch, reaching the Genesee-Beckwourth Road in several places. Fire spotted across the meadow and Indian Creek burning some pasture and fencing. To date, none of the historic structures have been lost, but there has been damage to our ranching infrastructure.

Fire crews have established structure protection throughout Genesee Valley protecting homes and ranches. The USFS has been lighting backfires to burn off surface fuels and keep the fire burning at a lower intensity.

The large spot fire on the north slope of Grizzly Ridge, and fire south of the Heart K Ranch has burned into the fire scar from the 2019 Walker Fire on the flanks of Mt. Ingalls and is now making huge runs to the east. This active and dangerous front of the fire is a priority in the firefight, and many communities evacuated and impacted by the Beckwourth Complex are unfortunately preparing to leave again.

We are grateful for the hard work that everyone is doing on the Dixie Fire to protect our communities while also prioritizing the safety of fire personnel and first responders."
How you can help our communities
There are many ways to help those impacted by the Dixie Fire. From farmers, small businesses, schools, volunteer firefighters, and families, many people have had their lives turned upside down and could use a hand up.

A grassroots website has emerged as a hub for verified relief campaigns--dixiefirerelief.org. Thank you for your generosity!
Visit Dixie Fire Relief Hub
We have so much to be grateful for.

A huge thank you to everyone braving dangerous conditions to fight these fires and care for our communities. And thank you land trust community and donors for standing with us as we navigate landscape-scale wildfire impacts and recovery in the watershed we call home.
Save the Date: September 15

The Wild and Scenic Film Festival returns to Quincy in just two weeks! FRLT is proud to sponsor this annual event and fundraiser for Plumas Arts. This year, the film fest is available in-person or live online.
Buy tickets today to connect with community and support a great cause.
Now more important than ever
Help protect the Sierra Nevada's largest watershed
The headwaters and habitats of the Feather River Watershed are crucial for California's water resources and a climate resilient future. Help us conserve and restore these lands and waters,
today and for future generations.
Donate Today
Feather River Land Trust | 530-283-5758 | info@frlt.org | www.frlt.org

 
Company Supports Nonprofits, Volunteer Fire Departments, Community Groups
 
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — As wildfires continue to spread across Northern and Central California forcing residents and entire communities to evacuate, nonprofit organizations, volunteer fire departments, and community groups are mobilizing to provide immediate relief and longer-term recovery services.
 
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is joining the effort, and will contribute $1 million in charitable giving for the 2021 wildfire season, focused on sheltering and near-term resources, food security for vulnerable communities, and support for volunteer fire departments. 
 
As part of this overall pledge, PG&E is contributing $100,000 to assist communities impacted by the Caldor Fire in El Dorado County, which has consumed more than 200,000 acres and continues to grow. This includes $50,000 to the California Association of Food Banks’ Rapid Response Fund, which helps local food banks purchase food and supplies and supplement their staffing.
 
“Every day, food banks are on the frontlines responding to the increasing needs of hungry Californians,” said Stacia Levenfeld, Chief Executive Officer, California Association of Food Banks. “The ongoing pandemic, coupled with wildfires devastating communities and forcing thousands of Californians to evacuate their homes for safety, are a one-two punch. It’s critical that we all stand together to support our food banks, and to nourish and uplift every member of our community. We are grateful to PG&E for supporting our food banks and in turn helping to combat record levels of food insecurity and hunger.”
 
PG&E also is providing funding to the El Dorado Community Foundation’s Caldor Fire Fund. The Foundation is dedicated to serving those in need through the direct support of community and organizations. The Caldor Fire Fund has been set up to support families impacted by this fire. You can donate here.
 
PG&E’s contribution also is providing assistance to El Dorado County Animal Services; Pioneer Fire Protection District and Pioneer Volunteer Firefighters Association; and senior support groups.
 
PG&E and PG&E Corporation are grateful for the legion of nonprofits, community groups, and volunteers answering the call to support those impacted by wildfires.
 
“We are so thankful for the courageous firefighters working around the clock to contain the wildfires ravaging California communities. We all are blessed by the kindness of the many nonprofit organizations, volunteer fire departments, and community groups that are opening their hearts and rolling up their sleeves in service to those who have been displaced temporarily or permanently by these terrible fires. We humbly offer our support to them to help our communities through these difficult days,” said PG&E Corporation Chief Executive Officer Patti Poppe.
 
Included in PG&E’s $1 million commitment, the company previously announced $300,000 to support the wildfire relief and recovery efforts of its longtime partner the American Red Cross this fire season. Donations help the Red Cross to shelter families, serve meals, support emergency responders, deliver relief supplies, provide medical care, and create recovery plans.
 
These charitable donations will come from PG&E shareholders, not PG&E customers.
 
The public can help, too. Donors can contribute online or send checks to the Red Cross designated to “Western Wildfires.”
 
Supporting Employee Giving and Volunteering
 
This month, PG&E and PG&E Corporation launched an employee giving campaign that includes an additional 1:1 match for any employee donations, up to a total of $50,000 from The PG&E Corporation Foundation. Employees can receive the match for their donations to any of five featured charities: Red Cross, California Fire Foundation, Pacific Service Employees Association Emergency Assistance Fund (nonprofit serving PG&E employees and retirees), El Dorado Community Foundation Caldor Fire Fund, and North Valley Animal Disaster Group.
 
The companies also support virtual volunteering during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and encourage employees to participate in volunteer events supporting the Red Cross. Volunteers are assembling Red Cross Projects in a Box for wildfire-displaced individuals and families, and care packages for first responders.
 
About PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit www.pge.com/ and http://www.pge.com/about/newsroom/.

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Labor Day weekend is approaching, and many Californians are preparing to close out the summer with a road trip.  In anticipation of the increased traffic that often accompanies a holiday weekend, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will implement a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP).
 
The holiday enforcement effort begins Friday, September 3, at 6:01 p.m., and continues through 11:59 p.m. Monday, September 6.  To help keep motorists safe, officers will focus on removing impaired drivers from the road.  Impairment can be caused by more than just alcohol – it also comes from cannabis, illicit drugs, and prescription drugs, or a combination of any of these.
 
Traffic safety efforts by the CHP during the 2020 Labor Day MEP resulted in more than 900 arrests for driving under the influence.  Sadly, 46 people died in crashes throughout California that weekend – many of whom were not wearing a seat belt. 
 
“Our officers are dedicated to making the roadways safe for all who use them,” said CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray.  “Driving sober or designating a sober driver is the responsible choice to keep you, your passengers, and other motorists safe.”
 
All CHP officers and sergeants have received additional training on detecting impaired drivers.  California also has the nation’s highest number of Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) – an officer specifically trained to identify drug impairment.  During the upcoming holiday weekend, DREs will be on duty throughout the state.
 
If you suspect that a driver is impaired, keep your distance and call 9-1-1.  Be prepared to provide the dispatcher with a complete description of the vehicle, license plate number, location, and direction of travel.  That telephone call may save someone’s life. 
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 

SACRAMENTO – Frustrated at the Newsom administration’s refusal to participate in the Wildfire Prevention and Forest Resiliency hearing and the hearing’s cancellation, the Assembly Republican Wildfire Working Group hosted an informational forum on the barriers, challenges, and solutions to preventing catastrophic wildfires.
 
During this legislative session Republican lawmakers asked for the following resources:
   • $500 million to the California Climate Initiative to be split between Fire Prevention and Forest Health Grants.
   • An exemption for all projects funded by the $500 million from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
   •  Making SB 901 (2018) commitments continuously appropriated through 2028-29
 
This year, the fast burning Caldor Fire and California’s second largest Dixie Fire have ravaged Northern California communities, many represented by the attending lawmakers. With over one million acres burned in the First Assembly District alone, the state is on track to suffer the most devastating wildfire season in recent history.
 
Today, healthy forestry experts traveled to the State Capitol to provide testimony before lawmakers on best practices to prevent wildfires. Foresters spoke on opportunities to improve firefighting operations, wildland fire mitigation, recovery services, and measures to prevent wildfires and improve forest health.
 
“Today’s expert witnesses confirmed what we already knew. The Newsom administration has completely failed to provide desperately needed budget funding and regulatory streamlining for forest health projects that are ready and waiting. The Wildfire Caucus has collected statewide data on over $400 million in unfunded, shovel-ready projects that are stalled due to lack of funding. What could be more important than entire communities being burnt to the ground year after year?”
 
“Our governor can no longer be all talk and no action. California’s majestic forests must be treated, not regulated into further destruction. It is time for his administration to provide real resources on the ground to fund efforts to manage our forests, combat catastrophic wildfires, and assist wildfire victims in rebuilding.”
 
“For years Republicans have been saying that combatting wildfire and the effects of climate change begins with sustainable forestry management practices. Yet year after year we have been ignored, our policies shunned, our legislation shot down and we have been at the mercy of special interest groups who would rather watch the state burn than work together to implement good environmental public policy.”
 
“In the last eight years, Senator Brian Dahle and I have hosted over 125 members of the California State Legislature in our districts, to educate them on sustainable forestry management practices that protect our environment and climate from unnecessary carbon emissions.”
 
  Assemblywoman Megan Dahle represents the 1st Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes portions of Butte and Placer counties, along with Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, and Siskiyou counties.
 

Sacramento Better Business Bureau (BBB) is reminding businesses and consumers that price gouging is against California law during a state of emergency.



Sacramento, September 3, 2021 -- The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is reminding businesses and consumers of the California law prohibiting excessive price hikes during a state of emergency following California State Governor, Gavin Newsom’s declaration on August 18, 2021 in response to the Caldor Fire. According to CalFire, the Caldor Fire is 20% contained, has burned over 200 thousand acres, and has destroyed close to three thousand structures in its way. Causing mandatory evacuations in and around the South Lake Tahoe area.
“Local businesses may be overwhelmed with the influx of customers following recent evacuations in the South Lake Tahoe area. We want to help businesses avoid potential problems as our community comes together to help one another in a time of need,” said Lynn Conner, President of the Sacramento Better Business Bureau.
Industries affected by the consumer protection laws during a state of emergency include, but are not limited to, hotels and other lodging accommodations, gas stations, grocery stores, and rebuilding industries.
If you need to make preparations to stay at a hotel:

• Know that according to California law, under Penal Code 396, 30 days after a state of emergency is declared, it is illegal for a business or other entity to sell their goods or services for more than ten percent of their regular rate. This includes hotels, motels, the sale of food items, gasoline, and any goods or services used for emergency cleanup, emergency supplies, and building materials. Consumers who are told otherwise should file a complaint with their local Better Business Bureau, the California Attorney General and their local District Attorney’s Office.  
• There is a penalty up to $2,500, one year of jail time, or both per violation.
• To file a citation please visit www.oag.ca.gov or call 800-952-5225.

For more information on this and other tips please visit BBB.org.


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