New book chronicles untold story of the effort to preserve Big Basin

On the heels of the 1-year anniversary of the CZU Lightning Complex Fires, Big Basin Redwood Forest, California’s Oldest State Park, shares the true story of a conservation victory for the ages. A portion of the proceeds from sales of the new local history book will benefit the Big Basin Redwoods State Park fire recovery effort.
 
Inspired by a story shared by her great-great aunt six decades ago during a family outing at Big Basin, local author Traci Bliss spent more than a decade meticulously researching the untold story of a herculean effort to preserve the ancient redwoods for future generations.

The book features a foreword by California State Parks Historian Martin Rizzo-Martínez and Mark Hylkema, supervisor of the California State Parks Cultural Resources Program that explores the history of native people in the region, including the Cotoni who inhabited the Big Basin area for centuries. Friends Executive Director Bonny Hawley authored the introduction. The epilogue focuses on the CZU Lightning Complex Fire and provides a detailed account of the courage and dedication of several park employees during the fire and afterward.

“The work to reimagine and reestablish Big Basin will be a grassroots effort, just like the park’s founding,” said Chris Spohrer, Santa Cruz District Superintendent for California State Parks. “As we engage the community, we’re going to need the historical perspective and inspiration this new book so clearly provides.”
 
Big Basin Redwood Forest, California’s Oldest State Park shares the epic saga of Big Basin which began in the late 1800s, when the surrounding communities saw their once “inexhaustible” redwood forests vanishing. Expanding railways demanded timber as they crisscrossed the nation. But the more redwoods that fell to the woodman’s axe, the greater the effects on the local climate. California’s groundbreaking environmental movement attracted individuals from every walk of life. From the adopted son of a robber baron to a bohemian woman winemaker to a Jesuit priest, resilient campaigners produced an unparalleled model of citizen action.
 
The book is available on the Friends website and has limited local release, including ParkStores at Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park, Natural Bridges State Beach and Seacliff State Beach. It will be released widely on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 6, 2021.

New Brighton SB day-use parking lot reopens following construction

The New Brighton State Beach day-use parking lot has reopened. It sustained damage during winter storms three years ago that resulted in the closure of a portion of the parking. After a lengthy construction process, the parking lot is now open. 

Come on down to check it out and enjoy an afternoon at the beach! New Brighton is a great spot for beach play, paddleboarding and on-leash dog walks. The day-use parking fee is $10 and supports the park. New Brighton is off McGregor Drive in Capitola.

(Photo courtesy Seacliff State Beach)

Volunteer opportunities return to local state parks and beaches

California State Parks is recruiting volunteers for the first time in more than a year. This is a great way to learn more about our local state parks and beaches, give back and have some (COVID-safe) connection with people.

Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park is welcoming volunteers interested in working at the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast—the historic 115-foot tall Pigeon Point Lighthouse. Docent training begins Sept. 25, 2021; email volunteers.pigeonpoint@parks.ca.gov to apply!

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is seeking volunteers who are keen to lead public programs, guided walks, school tours and interpretive programs. The Volunteer Training Program is scheduled for Feb. 19 to April 16, 2022. Email dylan.mcmanus@parks.ca.gov or call (831) 335-7077 to sign up.