Local Nature Conservancy Project (from Nature Conservancy Landmarks, Spring 2004)
Looking at a map, it's easy to see why the Conservancy recently identified California's upper Pajaro river flood plain as a conservation priority. This patchwork of agricultural lands, perennial streams and seasonal wetlands is the last natural wildlife corridor between the Conservancy's Mount Hamilton project in the east and the Santa Cruz Mountains along the central coast. Last summer, the Conservancy made its first move to protect the area, helping a local land trust acquire 480 acres of seasonal farmland. The property, which becomes a playground for migrating birds during the rainy season, will help buffer the river and its tree-lined banks from advancing urbanization. The upper Pajaro River region is under significant development pressure from the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley.
Fishcamp For Kids
The Fly Shop in Redding is offering its Fishcamp again this year. Fishcamp is a 4 night, 5-day summer fly fishing camp for kids in Northern California. It is a unique program that offers children the opportunity to experience the mystique of fly fishing coupled with the serenity of the outdoors. Boys and girls, 10-15 years of age, arrive with smiles painted on their faces and sleeping bags in hand with the anticipation of fish. One thing is for sure; campers catch fish, meet new friends, and experience adventures in the beauty of the outdoors. 2004 Dates: June 21 Ð25; July 5 Ð 9; August 2 - 6 (Advanced Fish Camp). See their website for more details: www.flyfishcamp.com/.
Putah Creek Re-opened
Putah Creek below Monticello Dam at Lake Berryessa, the closest opportunity from the Bay Area to flyfish for trout, re-opened this weekend after an emergency closure last winter for scientists to study possible infestation of the invasive New Zealand Mud Snail. (Tom Stienstra, San Francisco Chronicle April 25, 2004).
Salmon Bite Off Santa Cruz
On April 25th, Bayside Marine reports "the Salmon bite continues to be hot along with the weather. The fish have moved near Santa Cruz near the edges of the Soquel Hole. There were anglers catching fish as close as 5 miles from Santa Cruz."