Almost like clockwork, the June gloom has set in. After a few weeks of abnormally cool May weather, which included some snow at the higher elevations, we appear to be settling in to the usual June gloom coastal patterns and hotter inland temps. We’re also starting to get reports that some of the creeks and rivers are drying up. The flow has receded to a trickle and in some cased to no water whatsoever. There is still more water on the surface than there was at this time last year but most of the springs are at all time low flow rates and we should expect dry conditions throughout most of the backcountry within the next month or two. If heading out on a trip, be sure to choose your destination wisely. Check the weather forecasts, avoid the heat and check in with the various websites like www.HikeLosPadres.com or www.VentanaWild.org for the most recent water reports.
June 6 is National Trails Day. We mentioned this a few weeks ago but have a few more details this time around. There are three trail projects scheduled in the Los Padres that weekend. This is a great opportunity to get out, volunteer, meet people, learn about the Forest, get some exercise, off the couch and into the fresh air. Not only should you try to make it to one of these events, but try to bring a friend along or someone who doesn’t frequent the Forest. I promise they’ll be excited about the day and end up thanking you for getting them out there. Who knows, it could make an everlasting change in their lives and it would be all thanks to you! Hope to see you out there……. Click the links below to learn more.
DOUGH FLAT ROAD CLOSURE
Dough Flat Road out of Fillmore (aka Squaw Flat Rd) is closed due to reconstruction of a retaining wall. We got word this past weekend that the closure is 8miles before you get to Dough Flat. So if you are planning a trip to that part of the Forest be sure to plan on an extra 8miles of road hiking/biking before you get to the trailhead. The road is supposed to reopen May 28. We’ll keep you posted as to when the road reopens.
GIBRALTAR ROAD OPEN
Gibraltar Road in SB County has been reopened after a few weeks of repaving. Rumor is that the work is not done just yet but it will be open for at least the next few weeks. Probably really good road biking up there right about now.
PARADISE ROAD MAINTENANCE
Paradise Rd, also in SB County, is getting a facelift at the moment as well. It is not closed but there are rather long waits going up or down the canyon as a pilot car is needed to chauffeur cars along the road. Heading up-canyon, the pilot car is leading twice an hour at 15after and 15before the hour. Coming down-canyon, the pilot leads on the hour and on the half hour. The closure currently starts near Paradise Campground and word was that earlier today it took almost an hour to get from Paradise Camp to First Crossing. The work is scheduled to last until August and is on weekdays starting at 0630 and ending at approximately 1630. Plan accordingly.
FIRST AID COURSES
The LPFA is working on scheduling a First Aid certification class this Fall in Santa Barbara County. This is the necessary cert for any crosscut sawyers or chainsaw operators. Dates are flexible but if you would like to attend please let us know. The cost will be around $40 and the class will be one day. INFO@LPForest.org for more information.
DO YOU LOVE PLANTS?
The Forest Service is looking for volunteers to help plant oak trees in the Santa Ynez Valley. If you are interested in hearing more details, let us know. The work has started and will be needed throughout the summer. INFO@LPForest.org for more info.
WATER-WISE LANDSCAPING WORKSHOP
SB County is hosting a free landscaping workshop focused on drought tolerant planting. It’s this Friday May 29 at the Faulkner Gallery off Anapamu Street. For more information visit www.waterwisesb.org/workshops or email Riley Hubbell at riley@loacom.com.
Lots going on, hope I didn’t lose you there. Take care everyone and stay in touch………..
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May 19-27: Santa Cruz Trail Project
May 29-31: Buckhorn Trail Project
June 2: Jim & Rob’s Ojai Fundraiser
June 5-7: National Trails Day, Mono Campground Trail Weekend
June 6: Sespe National Trails Day Project
June 6: Romero Canyon National Trails Day Project
June 27: Big Sur Wilderness Celebration
June 12-14: Bear Sisquoc Crosscut
July 10-12: Santa Barbara 100 Endurance Run Support
July: Madulce Trail Crosscut
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