WALNUT CREEK, CA—In a Bay Area conservation victory, Save Mount Diablo is delighted to announce that we closed escrow on the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch today.

With this purchase, we are permanently protecting this 98-acre property along the Marsh Creek wildlife corridor between Clayton and Brentwood—just one week after receiving approval for the last half of necessary funding.

We are incredibly thankful to the Ginochio family for their partnership with us, to the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) for providing significant funding to the project, to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, to the many generous individual donors who helped make the acquisition possible, and to Joan Morris for supporting the purchase in her newspaper columns.

Last Wednesday, on February 26, the California Wildlife Conservation Board approved a $728,000 grant towards the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch acquisition project, covering about half of the $1.455 million total project cost, in the first grant that Save Mount Diablo has ever received from them.

“We are immensely grateful to the Ginochio family and our supporters for helping make this important land acquisition possible. We are also thrilled and thankful to have officially started a conservation partnership with the California Wildlife Conservation Board by working together to protect the strategic Ginochio Schwendel Ranch,” said Save Mount Diablo Executive Director Ted Clement.

“Together with the WCB, we look forward to protecting other strategic lands within the mountain range that Mount Diablo is a part of and sustained by, the Diablo Range. The Diablo Range is 200 miles long and it runs through 12 counties, with Mount Diablo in its northernmost county of Contra Costa. The Diablo Range is an incredible wildlife habitat corridor supporting species like California condors, golden eagles, tule elk, mountain lions, and many other creatures. The Diablo Range is comprised of over 3.5 million acres, of which only about 25 percent is currently protected. It provides California with one of its best opportunities to meet many of its 30×30 goals,” he stated.

The Wildlife Conservation Board is a state grant-making agency dedicated to safeguarding California’s spectacular biological diversity and wild spaces for the benefit of present and future generations.

The Wildlife Conservation Board will be managing the new “San Andreas Corridor Program.”

The program includes $80 million advocated for by Save Mount Diablo as part of the bond funding approved by voters in November 2024 through statewide Proposition 4.

The program will protect land in the Inner Coast Ranges along the San Andreas fault, an area including the 200-mile Diablo Range.

Nurturing a Long-Term Partnership

Blue oak woodlands at the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch. Photo: Mary Nagle

Save Mount Diablo bought the Schwendel Ranch from the Ginochio family, one of the most significant landowning families in Contra Costa County.

The family owns nearly 7,000 acres on and around Mount Diablo, including some of Save Mount Diablo’s top conservation priorities.

The Ginochio family has lived in Contra Costa County since 1867. Save Mount Diablo’s relationship with the Ginochio family goes back decades.

Beginning in the 1980s, Save Mount Diablo worked with John Ginochio to stop the proposed “Diablo Foothills Freeway,” which would have cut through Diablo Foothills Regional Park near Castle Rock, Shell Ridge Open Space, Mount Diablo State Park, and the Ginochio family’s land.

Since then, John Ginochio and other Ginochio family members have been major conservation partners to Save Mount Diablo, supporting our work in numerous ways, such as practicing conservation grazing on several of our properties.

Protecting the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch deepens Save Mount Diablo’s relationship with the Ginochio family and opens up the possibility of additional collaborative projects on and around Mount Diablo.

The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch Is Special

As a strategic piece of the Marsh Creek watershed containing rare volcanic habitat, the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch has very high conservation value.

Map showing the location of the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch and some of the other properties protected by Save Mount Diablo along Marsh Creek, the least-disturbed stream in Contra Costa County. Map: Roxana Lucero

The property is adjacent to our Marsh Creek 5 property, a 7.4-acre site that includes an undercrossing of Marsh Creek Road for wildlife and a segment of Marsh Creek, Contra Costa County’s second longest and most undisturbed creek.

It’s near several other of our Marsh Creek properties as well.

Protecting the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch also protects more of the Marsh Creek wildlife corridor, which connects Mount Diablo to the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta. Pictured here: Marsh Creek. Photo: Cooper Ogden

Marsh Creek is a vital wildlife corridor in an arid region.

Piece by piece, for decades, we have been working to protect more and more of this riparian habitat, which stretches through eastern Contra Costa County, connecting Mount Diablo to the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta.

To date, properties including 15 miles of the 33-mile creek have been protected by Save Mount Diablo and our partners.

The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch supports a biodiverse population of native plants and animals. Pictured here: Collinsia species and Mount Diablo fairy lantern on the property. The Mount Diablo fairy lantern is endemic to the Mount Diablo region. Photo: Mary Nagle

The unusual volcanic geologic formations found on the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch support numerous rare and endemic native plants.

These formations can be easily seen as steep mushroom-like domes that are made up of high-silica igneous rock, resisting erosion more than the softer sedimentary rock surrounding them, which has worn away to reveal them.

Volcanic domes in the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch resist erosion and are visible as steep formations. Photo: Scott Hein

Not only are these volcanic domes rare locally, but as they break down to mineral soils, they retain water more than surrounding areas; this helps them better support a different array of rare plants and wildlife.

Deep Gratitude to the Community Who Made This Purchase Possible

We’re very thankful to Joan Morris, who encouraged the readers of her columns in the East Bay Times and The Mercury News to make gifts towards the protection of the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch.

Many of her readers donated to help preserve this property for generations to come.

Almost a year and a half ago, Joan Morris also helped us raise enough money to protect the Krane Pond property. Now, she and her readers are continuing to support our work, and for that we are truly grateful.

Heartfelt thanks to our community of supporters who made the acquisition of the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch possible.

Image Captions and Credits

1. The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch with Mount Diablo in the distance. The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch is characterized by its rare volcanic domes. Photo: Cooper Ogden
2. The Wildlife Conservation Board logo. The Wildlife Conservation Board covered about half of the total cost of the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch acquisition.
3. Blue oak woodlands at the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch. Photo: Mary Nagle
4. Map showing the location of the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch and some of the other properties protected by Save Mount Diablo along Marsh Creek, the least-disturbed stream in Contra Costa County. Map: Roxana Lucero
5. Protecting the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch also protects more of the Marsh Creek wildlife corridor, which connects Mount Diablo to the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta. Pictured here: Marsh Creek. Photo: Cooper Ogden
6. The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch supports a biodiverse population of native plants and animals. Pictured here: Collinsia species and Mount Diablo fairy lantern on the property. The Mount Diablo fairy lantern is endemic to the Mount Diablo region. Photo: Mary Nagle
7. Volcanic domes in the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch resist erosion and are visible as steep formations. Photo: Scott Hein

High resolution versions of images and drone footage of the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch are available; please contact lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Laura Kindsvater, Senior Communications Manager

C: 925-451-8376, lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org

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The post Save Mount Diablo Secures Landmark Conservation Victory: Ginochio Schwendel Ranch Permanently Protected appeared first on Save Mount Diablo.

The Discover Diablo outings series offers guided hikes, themed walks, and other outdoor activities: mountain biking, rock climbing, meditation in nature, plein air painting events, bird watching, and property tours.

All Discover Diablo events are free to the public. Trailblazers of all ages and skill levels are welcome to choose appropriate outings from our extensive offerings.

Save Mount Diablo is offering a total of 38 excursions in 2025 to keep up with the consistently growing demand for its outings. The ever-popular tarantula walk will be offered twice.

In 2025, we will be hosting a new stargazing event with the Mount Diablo Astronomical Society; a photography hike in Pinnacles National Park, where attendees will search for California condors; and an LGBTQIA+ hike with Branching Out Adventures.

We’re excited to bring more groups of people outside into the Diablo Range through these new partnerships.

This year, there will also be trail dedications at the new trail connections Save Mount Diablo opened in late 2024 on Curry Canyon Ranch, opening miles of connecting trails around Mount Diablo State Park.

Discover Diablo hikers make a toast at a property dedication at Save Mount Diablo’s Krane Pond property. Photo by Laura Kindsvater

The Discover Diablo program began in 2017 to connect local communities to the spectacular natural world of the Mount Diablo area and to build awareness about land conservation.

Hikes and outings take place at Save Mount Diablo’s conserved properties or on park lands in the Diablo Range.

These lands include Mount Diablo State Park, East Bay Regional Park District, Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation, Contra Costa Water District, Stanislaus County Parks, and National Park Service lands.

Discover Diablo hikes are guided by local experts steeped in the natural history and lore of the region, who both educate and entertain while emphasizing the breathtaking beauty that the Diablo Range has to offer.

Save Mount Diablo hopes the Discover Diablo series will spark a passion for the Diablo Range and deepen people’s connections to the land and nature.

Ted Clement, Executive Director of Save Mount Diablo, stated, “It is the goal of the Discover Diablo program to build connections between people, Save Mount Diablo, and the land, helping our communities develop a strong sense of place and a deepened appreciation for our collective backyard. Most importantly, we want to cultivate a love of the land in participants, as that is what it will take to ensure the precious Diablo natural areas are taken care of for generations to come.”

There is something right for anyone to discover in the nooks and crannies on and surrounding Mount Diablo and within its sustaining Diablo Range, so be sure to hit the trails in 2025 and find your own individual inspiration!

RSVPs are required. To ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to attend, registration for hikes and outings will open one month prior to each hike’s date, and registration for early outings is already open.

See our schedule of upcoming hikes and outings; view and RSVP online on Save Mount Diablo’s website.

You can also download and print a flyer of the schedule here: http://bit.ly/DiscoverDiablo.

Summary: CONTRA COSTA, STANISLAUS, AND SAN BENITO COUNTIES—Discover Diablo is Save Mount Diablo’s free public hikes and outings series, offering an annual schedule of guided walks; hikes; and rock-climbing, mountain-biking, meditation, stargazing, photography, bird-watching, and plein air painting outings open to all trailblazers.

The 2025 Discover Diablo free public hike series will begin January 25. Discover Diablo offers 38 events throughout 2025—either taking place on a Save Mount Diablo property or hosted on a public agency’s land.

Join Save Mount Diablo in exploring some of the Diablo Range’s most beautiful wild lands and open spaces.

Who: Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited nonprofit land trust founded in 1971. Our mission is to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, and watersheds; and its sustaining Diablo Range, through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide educational and recreational opportunities consistent with protection of natural resources. To learn more, please visit www.savemountdiablo.org.

What: Save Mount Diablo’s 2025 Discover Diablo annual free public hikes and outings program. Discover Diablo, Save Mount Diablo’s series of free guided hikes; walks; and mountain-biking, rock-climbing, meditation, stargazing, photography, bird-watching, and plein air painting outings, shares a taste of Diablo’s wild lands in just a morning, evening, or afternoon.

When: An annual program that will offer 38 free public events in the Diablo Range throughout 2025.

Where: Contra Costa County (Walnut Creek, Clayton, Concord, Dublin, Livermore, Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, Oakley, Danville, and San Ramon), Stanislaus County (Patterson), and San Benito County (Hollister, San Juan Bautista).

How: RSVP required on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/discover-diablo-11942856866. To ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to attend, registration for hikes and other events will open one month prior to each event’s date.

Visit Save Mount Diablo’s website to view the Discover Diablo hikes and outings calendar for a schedule of upcoming events: https://savemountdiablo.org/what-we-do/educating-and-inspiring-people/discover-diablo-hikes-outings/

Why: In support of Save Mount Diablo’s mission, the Discover Diablo free public hikes and outings program seeks to build awareness of local land conservation efforts and convey the importance of protecting open space for habitat and recreation. We intend to reach audiences from all over the Bay Area.

Image Credits and Captions:

• Photo at top: Discover Diablo participants enjoying a Discover Diablo hike at Save Mount Diablo’s Mangini Ranch Educational Preserve. Photo by Ted Clement
• Second photo: Discover Diablo hikers make a toast at a property dedication at Save Mount Diablo’s Krane Pond property. Photo by Laura Kindsvater

High-resolution photos are available upon request. Contact lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org.

Questions about hike program details and RSVP information:

Kendra Smith, Education & Outreach Coordinator, Save Mount Diablo

C: 925-286-9327, ksmith@savemountdiablo.org

MEDIA CONTACT:

Laura Kindsvater, Senior Communications Manager

C: 925-451-8376, lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org

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The post Save Mount Diablo Expands Its Free Discover Diablo Hikes and Outings Program for 2025 appeared first on Save Mount Diablo.

These endangered desert reptiles are officially known as blunt-nosed leopard lizards (Gambelia sila), and while they were some of the first species to be covered by the Endangered Species Act in 1967, like California condors and grizzly bears, the number of “Valley Dragons” has continued to shrink.

A recovery plan and an emergency breeding project at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo has come to the rescue.

Save Mount Diablo is helping with a $5,240 grant from our Mary Bowerman Science and Research Program to cover the cost of a custom weather station which will aid in research about the lizard’s needs.

“Blunt-nosed leopard lizards originally inhabited millions of acres of the San Joaquin Desert, as well as the intermountain valleys nearby, such as the Carrizo Plain,” says Joseph Belli, a wildlife conservation biologist, and expert on both the lizards and the Diablo Range.

“They ranged at least as far north as Stanislaus County, and there’s a highly credible record of one spotted near Corral Hollow as recently as 1960. Today, it’s doubtful that any persist north of the Panoche region.”

And the Panoche populations were shrinking.

Fortunately, thanks to the award-winning efforts of the Fresno-Chaffee Zoo “Valley Dragons” are getting a second chance.

In 2020, when it looked like several of the Panoche populations might vanish, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo sent a collection team to bring in lizards from the dwindling population, focusing on a group that was genetically distinct and considered particularly high risk.

Conservationists were especially concerned about how quickly this population might expire, seeing as the blunt-nosed leopard lizard has a very short lifespan in the wild—about two or three years on average.

They were lucky to retrieve seven lizards, with which the Fresno Chaffee Zoo established a captive breeding program.

Four years later, that program is responsible for hatching more than 150 lizards, 17 of which the zoo released back into the wild in 2023. The zoo released another 20 lizards into the wild in 2024.

Zoo staff reintroducing a blunt-nosed leopard lizard to the wild in the Panoche area on June 3, 2024. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo

To assist in the reintroduction process for released lizards, the zoo equips the “Valley Dragons” with radio telemetry backpacks, specifically designed and tested to be worn in the wild.

These backpacks connect to an automated radio telemetry system and send out pings to help track their progress.

At 894 hectares of coverage, this telemetry system was the largest in the world when it was created, which earned the Fresno Chaffee Zoo the North American Conservation Award.

However, many environmental variables aren’t tracked by the backpacks. The program needed a new weather station to track temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, and more.

The Panoche region in the Diablo Range. Photo: Scott Hein

Now, thanks to the grant from Save Mount Diablo, the new weather station was installed in the Panoche region in November.

The new weather station (in the foreground), which was installed in the Panoche region in late November. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo

“I was 12 when I first learned about blunt-nosed leopard lizards, and 58 when I first saw them in the wild,” said Seth Adams, Save Mount Diablo’s Land Conservation Director. “The very first U.S. list of threatened and endangered species in 1966 included 78 species, some quite notable.

“California condors. Ivory-billed woodpeckers. Grizzly bears, timber wolves. Florida panthers, key deer and manatees. San Joaquin kit fox. American alligator. San Francisco garter snake. And the blunt-nosed leopard lizard.

“Four of them were from the Diablo Range. Just three were reptiles. Remarkably, most of those 78 endangered species are in better shape today.

“That’s not the case for the blunt-nosed leopard lizard. It’s continued to decline. When I learned the Fresno Chaffee Zoo was conducting an emergency breeding program and had already had some success, I immediately wanted to get Save Mount Diablo involved.

“We’ve helped with lots of rare wildlife projects, from reintroducing peregrine falcons to Mount Diablo to aiding the California condor program at Pinnacles. This is another step south in our Diablo Range expansion, with new partners in a new geography.

“I can’t wait, and I’m so excited to maybe witness young leopard lizards bred at the zoo being released this spring.”

Not only does the weather station have the capacity to track the aforementioned factors, but it also will be able to track crucial factors specific to blunt-nosed leopard lizards, like solar radiation, soil temperature, and soil moisture.

With that valuable data, zoo biologists can finally assess how variations in the climate are affecting blunt-nosed leopard lizards. The data will allow the zoo to directly assess how annual variations in climate affect lizard habitat, colonization, and persistence.

That data is essential for reintroducing blunt-nosed leopard lizards successfully, because these incredible reptiles are highly susceptible to changes in their surroundings.

Dr. Rory Telemeco, Director of Conservation Science at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, says that given the program’s ongoing success, they intend to keep increasing the number of blunt-nosed leopard lizard introductions.

“We anticipate releasing up to 100 animals per year in future and will continue reintroductions until 50 or more natural-born females successfully reproduce for three consecutive years,” he said.

Dr. Rory Telemeco, Director of Conservation Science at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, with the newly installed weather station. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo

The insights gained from the new weather station combined with the existing automated radio telemetry system have the potential to help not just the population in the Panoche area, but also serve as a guide for rewilding lizards in any of the other San Joaquin Desert habitats.

These insights will deepen our knowledge of this incredible species.

“I’m so excited to work with the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and the Bureau of Land Management, which manages 250,000 acres of the Diablo Range, especially in Fresno and San Benito counties,” said Sean Burke, Save Mount Diablo Land Programs Director.

“This small grant from our Mary Bowerman Science and Research Program is a first step. Four years ago, we made our first $3,000 grant to the Pinnacles condor recovery program for GPS tags and subscriptions for three condors.

“And the condors immediately proved our point that the Diablo Range is rich and intact by showing up at Mount Diablo. This year, we’re funding GPS for 20 condors.”

San Joaquin Desert

“The saga of the blunt-nosed leopard lizard stretches back perhaps 10 million years, when uplift along the Garlock Fault resulted in the rise of the Tehachapi Mountains, forming a barrier between the San Joaquin Valley and the Mojave Desert,” said Belli.

“Some species that once existed in both areas became separated, and over time isolation led to the evolution of taxa such as the San Joaquin antelope squirrel, San Joaquin coachwhip, and San Joaquin kit fox.

“The leopard lizards on the San Joaquin Valley side diverged from their Mojave Desert ancestors, their most noticeable adaptation being a truncated snout.

“They became blunt-nosed leopard lizards, found along the west side of the San Joaquin Valley and surrounding foothills and nowhere else.”

It’s only in the last few years that the San Joaquin Desert has been officially recognized as the newest, smallest desert in the United States.

In 2011, a group of scientists published a research article in the Natural Areas Journal, “The San Joaquin Desert of California: Ecologically Misunderstood and Overlooked.”

They concluded that the San Joaquin Desert “historically encompassed 28,493 km2 including the western and southern two thirds of the San Joaquin Valley, and the Carrizo Plain and Cuyama Valley to the southwest.

“However, this ecosystem has been reduced by up to 59% from agricultural, industrial, and urban activities.

“The conservation of the unique biodiversity of this region is dependent upon this ecosystem being appropriately managed as a desert and not as a perennial or annual grassland.”

The San Joaquin Desert overlaps with the Diablo Range’s east side, especially at Panoche, extending south and southeast of the range.

Blunt-nosed leopard lizards are directly tied to this unique desert ecosystem. They maintain a large territory of up to dozens of open acres with only enough vegetation so that they can hunt and hide.

Although they can dig their own burrows, they mostly depend on small mammals, such as kangaroo rats and ground squirrels, to create their hideouts, which the lizards need for overwintering in the wet months and as a place to escape extreme desert temperatures.

Blunt-nosed leopard lizards also form a precious link in the food web, serving both as a predator and a food source.

Blunt-nosed leopard lizard. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Large adults can measure 15 inches from nose to tail tip; some lizards boast pale stripes and dark spots along their backs. Coloration can be markedly different between individuals.

They also boast another remarkable feature—in summer, the males flush to a peachy-orange underneath, and female “Valley Dragons” present fiery orange splashes along their sides.

Joseph Belli has remarked that the food supply for these incredible “Valley Dragons” has been particularly hard-hit by aerial pesticides sprayed across the west side of the San Joaquin Valley—so with their food either absent or poisoned, it’s no wonder that the population has been suffering.

Belli is an experienced wildlife biologist specializing in the Diablo Range, and a blunt-nosed leopard lizard expert. The fact that these lizards can dash several yards at a time, even on two legs, he says is a sight to behold.

Since the 1970s, Belli has been exploring the Diablo Range and working with endangered species such as California condors and blunt-nosed leopard lizards.

As with condors, he believes that the captive breeding program for these lizards is essential for their return to historically populated habitats.

The successful recovery of blunt-nosed leopard lizards in the Mount Diablo Range would signal a turnaround for a critically endangered species.

Save Mount Diablo’s participation in the effort will help popularize the Diablo Range for decision makers and help the public appreciate the Diablo Range’s incredibly rich biodiversity. Endangered species recovery galvanizes attention.

When we protect the charismatic species, we support the whole related ecology. A colorful little lizard could become a catalyst for helping to protect the Diablo Range. Isn’t it an inspiring idea, and a cause for hope?

About Save Mount Diablo

Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited, nonprofit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, and watersheds; and its sustaining Diablo Range, through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide educational and recreational opportunities consistent with protection of natural resources. To learn more, please visit www.savemountdiablo.org.

About Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Fresno Chaffee Zoo inspires people to care for animals, create connections, build community, and save wildlife. To learn more, please visit www.fresnochaffeezoo.org.

Image Captions and Credits

1. Blunt-nosed leopard lizard with a telemetry device. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo
2. Zoo staff reintroducing a blunt-nosed leopard lizard to the wild in the Panoche area on June 3, 2024. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo
3. The Panoche region in the Diablo Range. Photo: Scott Hein
4. The new weather station (in the foreground), which was installed in the Panoche region in late November. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo
5. Rory Telemeco, Director of Conservation Science at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, with the newly installed weather station. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo
6. Blunt-nosed leopard lizard. Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo

High resolution versions of images are available; please contact lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Laura Kindsvater, Senior Communications Manager

C: 925-451-8376, lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org

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The post Save Mount Diablo Funds Custom Weather Station to Aid “Valley Dragon” Recovery in the Diablo Range appeared first on Save Mount Diablo.

 * * *

The saga of the blunt-nosed leopard lizard stretches back perhaps 10 million years, when uplift along the Garlock Fault resulted in the rise of the Tehachapi Mountains, forming a barrier between the San Joaquin Valley and the Mojave Desert. Some species that once existed in both areas became separated, and over time isolation led to the evolution of taxa such as the San Joaquin antelope squirrel, San Joaquin coachwhip, and San Joaquin kit fox. The leopard lizards on the San Joaquin Valley side diverged from their Mojave Desert ancestors, their most noticeable adaptation being a truncated snout. They became blunt-nosed leopard lizards, found along the west side of the San Joaquin Valley and surrounding foothills and nowhere else.

Blunt-nosed leopard lizards are large, earth-toned lizards with considerable variation in pattern. Some feature a series of cream-colored lines across the back, while dark blotches reminiscent of leopard spots may be prominent, subdued, or practically nonexistent. During breeding season adults become considerably flashier: males take on a gorgeous background color similar to cantaloupe flesh, while females exhibit eye-catching splashes of red along their sides. From snout to tail tip, a large adult may measure 15 inches in length. That’s one impressive lizard.

Blunt-nosed leopard lizard in the Panoche region. Photo: Joseph Belli

And if breeding color and size aren’t enough, their speed is another marvel. Most lizards scamper a few feet, but leopard lizards can sprint a number of yards, occasionally on two legs. That’s a sight to behold. They run not only to avoid threats, but to capture prey, primarily insects and arthropods. Grasshoppers are a frequent menu item, and they’ll take larger prey as well—other lizards, including young of their own kind.

Blunt-nosed leopard lizards do best on open ground with scattered shrubs, which they depend on for shade and as refuge. They rely heavily on burrows dug by mammals such as kangaroo rats and ground squirrels. They’ll make use of the raised earth entrances as promontories, where they can scan the surroundings for both prey and predators, and bask in the sun. The adjacent burrows function not only as hiding places but as refuges from the weather, places to wait out chilly, windy weather and the blazing heat of summer. Like many lizards, blunt-nosed leopard lizards have a preferred temperature range for being active above ground, generally between 75 to 100 degrees.

Desert conditions in the Panoche region of the Diablo Range in June. Photo: Seth Adams

While some lizards are active throughout the year, blunt-nosed leopard lizards are active for only a portion of the calendar. Adults emerge from winter burrows in spring and return by late summer, staying active just long enough to breed and eat enough to fast the rest of the year; no sense exposing themselves to predators any longer than they have to. Hatchlings operate on a different time scale—they emerge in summer, about the time when the adults are retreating underground for the year. Given the threat of cannibalization, that’s a good thing. Hatchlings feed and grow throughout the summer, and sometime in fall take refuge underground like their elders, emerging the following spring.

* * *

Blunt-nosed leopard lizards originally inhabited millions of acres of the San Joaquin Desert, as well as the intermountain valleys nearby, such as the Carrizo Plain. They ranged at least as far north as Stanislaus County, and there’s a highly credible record of one spotted near Corral Hollow as recently as 1960. Today, it’s doubtful that any persist north of the Panoche region. Throughout their range, blunt-nosed leopard lizards have been decimated by habitat loss, as land has been converted from desert to farmland, oil fields and solar energy projects, and as cities and towns have sprung up over what was once prime habitat. Some lizards—fence lizards, alligator lizards—can thrive among orchards and in suburbs, but not leopard lizards; trees are as foreign to them as seaweed. They also have large spatial requirements; an adult male can roam a territory spanning dozens of acres. That’s a lot of ground, and it needs to be unbroken.

Grassland, sparse trees, and hills in the Panoche region of the Diablo Range in December. Photo: Al Johnson

Habitat loss can also be subtle. There are hundreds of thousands of acres along the east flank of the Diablo Range that persist as open space, but despite the lack of development, the leopard lizards are gone. That absence might be due to the proliferation of non-native grasses. Wild oats and brome have replaced the native forbs and bunch grasses, and that did the lizards no favors. Non-native grasses grow thick and tall, creating a forest that lizards can’t see beyond nor run through. They can neither forage nor flee. Where leopard lizards and grasslands coexist, it’s in places where grass growth is meager.

Another likely factor in the decline has been the use of pesticides and rodenticides. The west side of the San Joaquin Valley has seen multiple campaigns against various insect pests using widespread aerial spraying. Those efforts both poisoned and reduced the food supply for lizards. The equally enthusiastic war on rodents may also have contributed to the lizards’ downfall by eliminating the creatures that dig the burrows lizards rely on for shelter and refuge. Given the spread of invasive grasses and aggressive pest-control efforts, all that open space mattered little, for lizards disappeared.

Today, the stronghold for the species are the natural lands west of Bakersfield—the Elk Hills and Carrizo Plain. Scattered populations persist on the floor of the San Joaquin Valley in places such as Pixley National Wildlife Refuge, but those populations are small and isolated. Besides a population outside of Madera, the lizards in the Panoche region represent the northernmost outpost for the species and the sole presence in the Diablo Range. That population has persisted because the area was never converted to crops or energy development, nor was it targeted for pesticide campaigns. But populations on Bureau of Land Management holdings in the area have experienced significant decline in recent years, for no apparent reason. To resuscitate the population, a captive breeding program has been established at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. Several pairs of lizards were captured in the Panoche region as breeding stock, and their progeny have been released back into the wild to bolster the population. The California condor may be the signature captive breeding program in the region, but the blunt-nosed leopard lizard program may be just as important if the species is to persist in the Diablo Range.

About the Author

Joseph Belli. Photo: Joan Hamilton

Joseph Belli has hiked and explored the Diablo Range extensively since the 1970s. He holds a master of science in conservation biology and has worked as a wildlife biologist for the National Park Service. He has conducted surveys for the Bureau of Land Management and California State Parks, and has worked with California condors, California red-legged frogs, and other sensitive or endangered species. Belli’s writing has appeared in High Country News, the Ponderosa, and The Wonder of It All, a collection of stories from National Park Service employees and volunteers. He lives on a rural property in the Diablo Range.

He has written two books:

• The Diablo Diary contains 25 natural history essays about the Diablo Range.
• Beneath a Black and White Sky: A Year Among Condors at Pinnacles National Park is his inside account of California condor reintroduction in Pinnacles National Park.

Image Captions and Credits

1. Blunt-nosed leopard lizard at the Carrizo Plain. Photo: Joseph Belli
2. Blunt-nosed leopard lizard in the Panoche region. Photo: Joseph Belli
3. Desert conditions in the Panoche region of the Diablo Range in June. Photo: Seth Adams
4. Grassland, sparse trees, and hills in the Panoche region of the Diablo Range in December. Photo: Al Johnson
5. Joseph Belli. Photo: Joan Hamilton

High resolution versions of images are available; please contact lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org.

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Of the 11 songs on the album, which is entitled Blue-Eyed Grass after the band’s name, nine are original and two are cover songs the Grateful Dead played, one of which has an environmental message.

Blue-Eyed Grass’s original songs on the new album cover various topics:

• loving Mount Diablo,
• protecting land,
• appreciating native flora and fauna like the Mount Diablo globe lily,
• honoring the Mount Diablo Beacon,
• hiking in the Diablo area,
• dealing with the climate crisis,
• addressing invasive species, and
• being a kid in nature.

To listen to the new album, please visit any of the major online music platforms (Amazon Music, YouTube Music, etc.).

The band will be grateful if you enter your likes for all their new songs that you enjoy to spread the love for Mount Diablo and its Diablo Range, our incredible natural world, and the band and its music delivering a positive message about nature and conservation.

On Saturday, December 21st from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, there will be an album release party at Luigi’s Deli and Market, located at 537 Main Street in Martinez, California.

Stop by for some good food, drinks, company, holiday cheer, and live music from Blue-Eyed Grass. At the event, you will also be able to donate to Save Mount Diablo and get a CD copy of the band’s new album.

There are five people in Save Mount Diablo’s Blue-Eyed Grass band:

• Ted Clement, who serves as Save Mount Diablo’s Executive Director, on guitar and vocals;
• John Gallagher, who serves on Save Mount Diablo’s Board of Directors, on dobro and vocals;
• Bob Loomis on ukulele, harmonica, flute, and vocals;
• Dave Schneider on bass and vocals; and
• Rich Silveira on drums (made out of a recycled suitcase!) and vocals.

Band members of Blue-Eyed Grass. Photo by Tena Gallagher

The band worked with recording engineer Bob Byers, of Clayton, California, on recording the album.

Music and events artist Edward Sortwell Clement, III, Ted Clement’s son, created the art for the band’s new album cover.

Album cover for Blue-Eyed Grass. Art by Edward Sortwell Clement, III

The band thanks Bob Byers and Edward Sortwell Clement, III for their important contributions to the album.

About Save Mount Diablo

Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited, nonprofit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, watersheds, and its sustaining Diablo Range through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide educational and recreational opportunities consistent with protection of natural resources. To learn more, please visit www.savemountdiablo.org.

Image Captions and Credits

1. Top row from left to right: Rich Silveira, Ted Clement, and John Gallagher. Bottom row from left to right: Dave Schneider and Bob Loomis. Photo: Tena Gallagher
2. The art for the band’s new album cover. Artwork: Edward Sortwell Clement, III

High resolution versions of images are available; please contact tclement@savemountdiablo.org.

The post Save Mount Diablo’s All-Volunteer Band Releases New Album with Original Songs about Nature and Conservation appeared first on Save Mount Diablo.

The Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors, Chapter 5 are pleased to co-sponsor this 61st annual National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Beacon lighting ceremony with Save Mount Diablo; California State Parks; and California State University, East Bay.

We invite you to attend the ceremony to pay tribute to the lives that were lost and honor our surviving veterans of Pearl Harbor. The ceremony will be held at the California State University, East Bay Concord Center at 4700 Ygnacio Valley Road in Concord.

Viewing of the USS Arizona exhibit at the CSUEB Concord Center will be available from 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM. The ceremony will commence at 3:45 PM in the Oak Room. Pearl Harbor Survivor Earl “Chuck” Kohler is expected to attend.

The program begins with the posting of colors and pledge of allegiance by the Historical Forces Association, and the national anthem, sung by Erin Hegarty.

Cathy Sandeen, President of California State University, East Bay will give a welcoming, followed by Ted Clement, Executive Director for Save Mount Diablo, who will give ceremonial remarks, and Clint Elsholz, Acting Diablo Range District Superintendent, who will give district remarks.

Gary Moreland, the son of a Pearl Harbor survivor, will then speak, followed by remarks from the recipient of the Pearl Harbor Legacy scholarship, who will speak about the work supported by the award.

The Pearl Harbor Legacy Scholarship in history is a competitive scholarship that supports undergraduate and graduate history majors studying the World War II era, and with an interest in teaching at the K–12 or higher education levels.

Pearl Harbor Survivor Earl “Chuck” Kohler, who celebrated his 100th birthday this year, will speak about his experiences on December 7, 1941.

Afterwards, an Honorary Member of the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor survivors, Wayne Korsinen, will speak and Frank Dorritie of Bugles across America will perform “Taps.” At 5 PM, the Beacon will be lit.

“The Beacon lighting is a tribute to those individuals that lost their lives at Pearl Harbor,” remarked Earl “Chuck” Kohler, Pearl Harbor Survivor.

The ceremony is also an opportunity to honor the survivors.

The ceremony will also be broadcast on Contra Costa Television during the following dates and times:

• Monday, December 16, at 9:00 PM
• Thursday, December 19, at 11:00 AM
• Saturday, December 21, at 1:00 PM
• Monday, December 23, at 9:00 PM
• Thursday, December 26, at 11:00 AM
• Saturday, December 28, at 1:00 PM

Contra Costa TV is available to watch on Comcast channel 27, AT&T/U-verse channel 99, and

Astound 32 and 1027, or online at www.contracostatv.org.

The Beacon on Mount Diablo was originally installed and illuminated in 1928 to aid in transcontinental aviation. It is one of the four guiding beacons installed along the West Coast by Standard Oil of California and is the only one known to still be operational.

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Beacon’s light was extinguished during the West Coast blackout, for fear it could enable an attack on California.

It stayed dark until Pearl Harbor Day in 1964, when Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz, Commander in Chief of Pacific Forces during World War II, relit the Beacon in a commemorative ceremony and suggested it be illuminated every December 7th to honor those who served and sacrificed.

Since that day, Pearl Harbor veterans and their families have gathered every December 7th to see the Beacon light shine once again.

The Beacon now shines brighter than ever since it underwent an extensive restoration process in 2013 (thanks to a campaign led by Save Mount Diablo) to ensure it continues to shine for many more years.

The Pearl Harbor Survivors now know that the Beacon will shine long after they are gone.

The Beacon is lit at sunset and shines all night on this evening each year. Beginning in 2022, it is also lit on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

On Sunday, April 11, 2021, Save Mount Diablo concluded a year of lighting the Beacon weekly to bring light and hope to our region during the worst of the pandemic.

Save Mount Diablo has restored, maintained, and operated the Mount Diablo’s Summit Beacon, the Eye of Diablo for many years, and the organization is grateful to provide this service to our communities despite the time and cost involved.

About Save Mount Diablo

Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited nonprofit land trust founded in 1971. Our mission is to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, and watersheds; and its sustaining Diablo Range, through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide educational and recreational opportunities consistent with protection of natural resources. To learn more, please visit https://www.savemountdiablo.org/.

SUMMARY

What:  Save Mount Diablo; the Sons and Daughters of Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, Chapter 5; and California State Parks will light the “Eye of Diablo,” the Beacon atop Mount Diablo to memorialize National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. As the number of survivors has decreased over the years, the number of people attending the ceremony in honor of these heroes has increased, including many sons and daughters vital to organizing the service.

When: Saturday, December 7, 2024

USS Arizona viewing begins at 3:00 PM, ceremony at 3:45 PM, Beacon lighting at 5:00 PM

Where: The ceremony will be held at the California State University, East Bay Concord Center, 4700 Ygnacio Valley Road, in Concord.

Directions: http://goo.gl/maps/jXhcW

Access: Parking is available, and parking fees will be waived for this event. See map.

For more information on the Beacon:

https://savemountdiablo.org/experience/events-outings/beacon-lighting/

Photo: Mount Diablo Summit Beacon, the “Eye of Diablo,” by Stephen Joseph. Additional high-resolution photos of the Beacon and the Pearl Harbor Survivors are available upon request by contacting lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org.

Media Contacts:

Ted Clement, Executive Director, Save Mount Diablo

P: 925-947-3535, C: 925-451-8108, email: tclement@savemountdiablo.org

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The post On Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, Attend the “Eye of Diablo” Beacon Lighting Ceremony appeared first on Save Mount Diablo.

The three-hour flight began shortly after noon, when they left their previous evening’s roost site south of Ohlone Regional Wilderness.

They soared over Pleasanton and Sunol, near the intersection of Highways 580 and 680 and the furthest west the birds have flown in the East Bay. They flew over Dublin and Tassajara.

They ventured north over Mount Diablo’s Pine Canyon near Castle Rock—a possible future nesting site and where Save Mount Diablo previously helped reestablish endangered peregrine falcons—and as far north as Lime Ridge Open Space west of Clayton before veering east—the furthest north the birds have flown in Contra Costa County.

Map showing notable condor movements from Pinnacles National Park to the Mount Diablo region. Map: Evan McWreath/Ventana Wildlife Society

They circled Mount Diablo before heading south over the outskirts of Livermore and then spending the night in the mountains near Lake Del Valle. The condors, fitted with radio and GPS transmitters, did not appear to have landed during their time in the area.

We know all of this because wildlife biologist Joseph Belli, who volunteers for the California condor recovery program at Pinnacles National Park, also works closely with Save Mount Diablo and pays special attention to birds ranging up and down the Diablo Range.

The condors’ flight paths, tracked via GPS, highlight the vital role the Diablo Range plays as a wildlife corridor.

Save Mount Diablo, which recently expanded its geographic scope to 12 counties, has been instrumental in supporting these efforts, funding GPS transmitters and data subscriptions that allow for detailed tracking of the condors’ movements.

“I’ve been monitoring condors for nearly 20 years and it’s wonderful to see groups of them exploring further north in the Diablo Range every summer for the past four years.

“We would rarely know of these long-range flights if it weren’t for the GPS transmitters on some of the condors. I wouldn’t be surprised if these summer forays continue into the future, so all you eagle-eyed condor enthusiasts should keep an eye to the sky!” said Alacia Welch, the Condor Program Manager at Pinnacles National Park.

“I was riding my mountain bike at Lime Ridge, and I noticed a group of rather large birds a couple times but kept on riding, not looking too much into it because why would I think they could be condors,” said Frenchy Hendryx, a former Save Mount Diablo employee.

“The next day I heard the story that condors had flown over the area from Sean [Burke], and at that point, I wanted to know what time they had flown over. When the times matched, I got excited. I may have seen condors!

“I will definitely be looking out for them now and paying closer attention. A condo of condors is just not something you see every day in the Mount Diablo area.”

Condors returning to Mount Diablo. Graphic: Evan McWreath/Ventana Wildlife Society

If this story sounds familiar, it’s because a very similar event occurred around this time last year, when six condors undertook an exploratory flight near Mount Diablo. It was the first flock in Contra Costa County in 100 years.

Two of them—#1021, a three-year-old male, and #943, a six-year-old male—were also among this year’s group.

#943 made news in June 2022 for making a solo flight near Brushy Peak, the second condor documented in the area in over a century after #828’s ground-breaking journey in August 2021.

The other five—#1099, #827, #912, #986, and #1078—are a mixture of juveniles and young adults, both male (#827, #912, #986) and female (#1099, #1078). It’s this age group that tends to undertake ambitious discovery flights.

Older condors with nesting territories tend not to wander as extensively. Condors can begin breeding as early as five years old but generally wait until they’re at least six and often much older before nesting.

#827 is the oldest of the group, an eight-year-old male who has yet to find a mate.

The group is also a blend of condors raised in captivity (#1099, #827, #986, #943) and products of wild nests (#1021 in southern San Benito County, #1078 and #912 in Pinnacles National Park).

Pinnacles and Ventana Wildlife Society co-manage the flock, managing release sites and monitoring the birds from the park and Big Sur.

All condors have radio transmitters because there are so few, and each one is important to the overall population. That allows the birds to be tracked if necessary.

Some also wear GPS transmitters (less than half the flock have GPS, though most Pinnacles birds do, thanks in part to Save Mount Diablo).

In the last few years, Save Mount Diablo has funded additional GPS transmitters and subscription services for Pinnacles birds with grants from its Mary Bowerman Science and Research Program.

The transmitters and subscription services allow precise flight tracks to be monitored and recorded.

Condors prefer to fly over undeveloped areas.

The theory in making the grants for GPS transmitters and subscriptions, especially for young birds, was that their GPS flight tracks would define and highlight the importance of the giant Diablo Range as habitat for the birds—200 miles north-south and 3.5 million acres of high-quality intact habitat.

The theory is proving to be true.

The central California flock consists of roughly 100 free-flying condors, ranging from north of Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo to southern Santa Clara County and occasionally beyond.

That number will increase toward the end of the year, when 10 to 12 young condors raised in captivity will be released.

It’s also been a banner year for nesting, with a record nine chicks potentially ready to fledge in fall. The growing population bodes well for the future and the likelihood of more frequent condor appearances in the East Bay.

Special thanks to Joseph Belli, a wildlife biologist working closely with our organization, for his work in tracking California condors.

Belli’s new book, Beneath a Black and White Sky: A Year Among Condors at Pinnacles National Park, offers a deeply personal look at the condor recovery program and the challenges and triumphs of conserving these incredible birds.

Wildlife biologist Joseph Belli recently published a new book about California condors, Beneath a Black and White Sky: A Year Among Condors at Pinnacles National Park. Illustration: Megan Gnekow

His work underscores the critical importance of habitats found in the Diablo Range for the future of the condor population.

As Save Mount Diablo continues to expand its efforts across the Diablo Range, its focus remains on ensuring that wildlife connectivity persists for future generations. The protection of these lands is crucial to the survival of California’s most iconic species.

Condor #912, one of the California condors that flew to the Mount Diablo region on August 18, 2024. Photo: Joseph Belli

About Save Mount Diablo

Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited, nonprofit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, and watersheds; and its sustaining Diablo Range, through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide educational and recreational opportunities consistent with protection of natural resources. To learn more, please visit www.savemountdiablo.org.

Image Captions and Credits

1. Condor flock at Pinnacles National Park. Two of the birds in this picture, the ones in the middle with numbers 12 and 86 on their tags, were among those who flew to the Mount Diablo foothills on August 18, 2024. Photo: Joseph Belli
2. Map showing notable condor movements from Pinnacles National Park to the Mount Diablo region. Map: Evan McWreath/Ventana Wildlife Society
3. Condors returning to Mount Diablo. Graphic: Evan McWreath/Ventana Wildlife Society
4. Wildlife biologist Joseph Belli recently published a new book about California condors, Beneath a Black and White Sky: A Year Among Condors at Pinnacles National Park. Illustration: Megan Gnekow
5. Condor #912, one of the California condors that flew to the Mount Diablo region on August 18, 2024. Photo: Joseph Belli

Higher resolution versions of these images are available upon request; please contact lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Laura Kindsvater, Senior Communications Manager

C: 925-451-8376, lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org

Seth Adams, Joseph Belli, and Alexander Broom contributed to this press release.

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The post For the Fourth Year, California Condors Return to Mount Diablo and the East Bay appeared first on Save Mount Diablo.

The Discover Diablo outings series offers guided hikes, themed walks, and other outdoor activities: mountain biking; rock climbing; trail running; meditation in nature; plein air painting events; and property tours.

New this year are two property dedications and a yoga outing at the Curry Canyon Ranch property.

All are free to the public. Trailblazers of all ages and skill levels are welcome to choose appropriate outings from our extensive offerings.

Save Mount Diablo is offering a total of 36 excursions in 2024 to keep up with the consistently growing demand for its outings. The ever-popular tarantula walk will be offered twice, and we are offering three plein air painting walks, two meditation events, and another trail run in 2024.

We will also be offering rock-climbing outings and mountain-biking events.

Generously sponsored by the Martinez Refining Company, the 2023 Discover Diablo free public hikes and outings series will begin on January 7.

“Through the Discover Diablo series, people are fortunate to be able to explore and discover the beauty of Mount Diablo with experienced guides,” said Ann Notarangelo, Community Relations Manager for the Martinez Refining Company. “Our refinery has sponsored these hikes since 2017 in the hopes people will enjoy learning more about the mountain, while spending quality time with family and friends.”

The Discover Diablo program began in 2017 to connect local communities to the spectacular natural world of the Mount Diablo area and to build awareness about land conservation.

Our Mitchell Canyon medicinal herb hike group. Photo by Haley Sutton

Hikes and outings take place at Save Mount Diablo’s conserved properties or on park lands in the Diablo Range.

These lands include Mount Diablo State Park, East Bay Regional Park District, Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation, Contra Costa Water District, Stanislaus County Parks, and National Park Service lands.

Discover Diablo hikes are guided by experts steeped in the natural history and lore of the region, who both educate and entertain while emphasizing the breathtaking beauty that the Diablo Range has to offer.

Save Mount Diablo hopes the Discover Diablo series will spark a passion for the Diablo Range and deepen people’s connections to the land and nature.

Ted Clement, Executive Director of Save Mount Diablo, stated, “It is the goal of the Discover Diablo program to build connections between people, Save Mount Diablo, and the land, helping our communities develop a strong sense of place and a deepened appreciation for our collective backyard. Most importantly, we want to cultivate a love of the land in participants, as that is what it will take to ensure the precious Mount Diablo associated natural areas are taken care of for generations to come.”

There is something right for anyone to discover in the nooks and crannies surrounding Mount Diablo and within its sustaining Diablo Range, so be sure to hit the trails in 2024 and find your own individual inspiration!

RSVPs required. To ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to attend, registration for hikes and outings will open one month prior to each hike’s date and registration for early outings is already open.

See our schedule of upcoming hikes and outings; view and RSVP online here: https://savemountdiablo.org/what-we-do/educating-and-inspiring-people/discover-diablo-hikes-outings/

You can also download and print a flyer of the schedule here: http://bit.ly/DiscoverDiablo

Summary: CONTRA COSTA, STANISLAUS, AND SAN BENITO COUNTIES—Discover Diablo is Save Mount Diablo’s free public hikes and outings series, offering an annual schedule of guided walks; hikes; and rock-climbing, mountain-biking, trail-running, yoga, and plein air painting outings open to all trailblazers.

The 2024 Discover Diablo free public hike series will begin January 7. Discover Diablo offers 36 events throughout 2024—either taking place on a Save Mount Diablo property or hosted on a public agency’s land.

Join Save Mount Diablo in exploring some of the Bay Area’s most beautiful wild lands and open spaces.

Who: Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited, nonprofit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, watersheds, and connection to the Diablo Range through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide educational and recreational opportunities consistent with protection of natural resources. To learn more, please visit www.savemountdiablo.org.

What: Save Mount Diablo’s 2024 Discover Diablo annual free public hikes and outings program. Discover Diablo, Save Mount Diablo’s series of free guided hikes; walks; and mountain-biking, rock-climbing, trail-running, yoga, and plein air painting outings, shares a taste of Diablo’s wild lands in just a morning, evening, or afternoon.

When: An annual program that offers 36 free public events in the outdoors throughout the year.

Where: Contra Costa County (Walnut Creek, Clayton, Concord, Dublin, Livermore, Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, Oakley, Danville, and San Ramon), Stanislaus County (Patterson), and San Benito County (Hollister).

How: RSVP required on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/discover-diablo-11942856866. To ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to attend, registration for hikes and other events will open one month prior to each event’s date.

Visit Save Mount Diablo’s website to view the Discover Diablo hikes and outings calendar for a schedule of upcoming events: https://savemountdiablo.org/what-we-do/educating-and-inspiring-people/discover-diablo-hikes-outings/

Why: In support of Save Mount Diablo’s mission, the Discover Diablo free public hikes and outings program seeks to build awareness of local land conservation efforts and convey the importance of protecting open space for habitat and recreation. We intend to reach audiences from all over the Bay Area.

Questions about hike program details and RSVP information:

Sean Burke, Land Programs Director, Save Mount Diablo

C: 925-448-1193, sburke@savemountdiablo.org

MEDIA CONTACT:

Laura Kindsvater, Communications Manager

C: 925-451-8376, lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org

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The Krane Pond property is part of the “Missing Mile,” a square mile of partly unprotected land on Mount Diablo’s North Peak.

The property has been a priority of Save Mount Diablo’s since our founding in 1971, in part because of its large pond, one of the largest on Mount Diablo’s north side, and its position directly adjacent to Mount Diablo State Park.

Krane Pond is a vital water source for Mount Diablo’s wildlife, one that contains water throughout most summers, unlike many of the creeks and other ponds found on Mount Diablo. The ecological significance of Krane Pond far eclipses its size.

Save Mount Diablo secured the option agreement to purchase Krane Pond in the fall of 2022, with a year to raise the necessary funds to complete the purchase. Save Mount Diablo had one year to raise the $500,000 needed to cover the various project costs for acquiring the Krane Pond property.

We are particularly grateful to the donors who made large leadership gifts to help us raise the bulk of the funds for this project.

We are also grateful to have received 257 donations totaling $61,361 from the readers of Joan Morris’s East Bay Times and Mercury News column. Their gifts arrived close to the fundraising deadline, when it was a race against time to acquire the remaining funds to complete the purchase.

A development lies along one of the property’s borders, a very real reminder of how the land could have been graded and paved over had Save Mount Diablo not acquired it.

In 1978, Walt and Roseann Krane purchased 6.69 acres of land on the outskirts of Clayton, bordered by Mount Diablo State Park and the meridian on the west side, Mount Diablo Creek on the north side, and property held by ranchers to the east.

Although the Krane family initially had plans to build a house on the property, they decided to preserve the land and eventually sold it to Save Mount Diablo.

About Save Mount Diablo

Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited, nonprofit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, watersheds, and connection to the Diablo Range through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide educational and recreational opportunities consistent with protection of natural resources. To learn more, please visit www.savemountdiablo.org.

Image Captions and Credits:

1. The Krane Pond property in the spring. Photo by Sean Burke.
2. The Krane Pond property in the fall. Photo by Ted Clement.
3. Wildlife that could potentially benefit from Krane Pond. Illustration by James Woods Marshall.

High resolution images and drone footage of the property and the surrounding area are available upon request by emailing lkindsvater@savemountdiablo.org.

The post Save Mount Diablo Closes Escrow on Krane Pond Property appeared first on Save Mount Diablo.

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA—Just in time for the holidays, Save Mount Diablo (SMD) has optioned the 98-acre Ginochio Schwendel Ranch on Marsh Creek Road between Clayton and Brentwood. The $30,000 option payment holds the property for 12 months while Save Mount Diablo raises almost $1.5 million for acquisition and other project expenses.

It’s the first property Save Mount Diablo is purchasing directly from Contra Costa County’s Ginochio cattle ranching family, which owns nearly 7,000 acres on and around Mount Diablo.

The property includes extremely rare dacite volcanic habitat along Marsh Creek’s Dark Canyon section. The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch is the fifth acquisition project Save Mount Diablo has participated in this year. Save Mount Diablo expects to close escrow on its Krane Pond property next week on December 20th.

Save Mount Diablo’s Executive Director, Ted Clement, stated, “We are so thankful for our Save Mount Diablo team, including our amazing supporters, and the Ginochio family who together have enabled us to enjoy so much success this year in advancing our time-sensitive land conservation mission, even in the waning days of 2023. This is the first time Save Mount Diablo has bought a property directly from the Ginochio family, the most important landowning family in Contra Costa County. The Ginochios own several high priority properties on the slopes of the mountain. They’ve been amazing stewards of their land for generations. The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch will expand our abutting Marsh Creek 5 preserve. They both share very unusual volcanic geology and are in the high priority Marsh Creek wildlife corridor. If we don’t protect the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch, the property will eventually be divided up and developed, causing its special conservation values to be lost. We’re going to need help from our generous donors and agency partners to fund this project in the next 12 months.”

The Ginochio Family

The Ginochio family arrived in Contra Costa in 1867 and settled in Concord and the coal mining town of Nortonville, and then diversified into ranching. Over 156 years, they created and have stewarded the biggest cattle ranching operation in the county.

The Ginochios own nearly 7,000 acres, including the most important ranches remaining west, north, and east of Mount Diablo.

Much of the land is in the Marsh Creek watershed, like the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch. But each generation has more family members, and over time, ranching has become more difficult.

Historically when the family has sold property, they’ve used the funds to buy more agricultural land. When another of their properties was condemned after World War II, the Ginochios bought the Schwendel Ranch. They will continue to own 665 acres north of Marsh Creek Road.

According to John Ginochio, a member of the ranching family, “I’m pleased to make this deal with Save Mount Diablo. When you think of influence, people often think about big environmental groups. Personally, I think Save Mount Diablo is the most influential environmental organization in our area. I’ve worked cooperatively with them for over 50 years. They’re financially sound and have the funds to make solid deals and the integrity to go with it. We graze cattle on a number of SMD properties. I’m happy to see this part of the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch go to Save Mount Diablo because they have always been a good neighbor.”

Added Ginochio, “This parcel south of Marsh Creek Road hasn’t been especially useful for cattle grazing but it’s always been interesting because of its unusual pink soil. I learned more about its volcanic character from Save Mount Diablo as they sponsored research on their neighboring property. I’m really happy we can help expand the protected volcanic habitat instead of more houses.”

The 98-acre Ginochio Schwendel Ranch would expand on Save Mount Diablo’s adjacent 7.4-acre Marsh Creek 5 preserve, an unusual volcanic dome. Marsh Creek 5 was protected in 2011.

That same year and one parcel away, Save Mount Diablo also protected a similar volcanic dome, its 5.7-acre Marsh Creek 6 preserve, where the organization demolished a house overlooking the canyon and restored habitat.

According to Seth Adams, Save Mount Diablo’s Land Conservation Director, “The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch is part of the east-west Marsh Creek riparian, road, and trail corridor, and near the western end of the Dark Canyon section of the riparian corridor. Solid blue oak and live oak woodland, it is part of the wooded habitat corridor from Black Diamond Mines through Clayton Ranch south to Morgan Territory Regional Preserve and Mount Diablo State Park. Steep wooded slopes rise from Marsh Creek Road to flatter meadows, then climb higher in one direction, while dropping into a canyon in another. I consider John Ginochio a good friend and I hope this is just the first conservation project with the family.”

Ginochio Schwendel Ranch is a beautiful wooded 98-acre property, most of a steep volcanic knoll rising from 530 feet to 1,140 feet—with dramatic views.

The property is quite visible from a variety of protected lands and from both directions of Marsh Creek Road. Development of the property would degrade the visual value of the road corridor, a Contra Costa County General Plan–designated “Scenic Route.”

The most likely development threat is minor subdivision and ongoing fragmentation to more houses over time. Development would destroy the habitat, wells would damage the unusual hydrology, and roads and pads would require removal of many trees.

Dark Canyon is a critical fire danger area, and part of the property burned several years ago.

Save Mount Diablo and our partners have protected more than 15 miles of the 33-mile Marsh Creek riparian corridor. Marsh Creek is the second longest, least-disturbed creek in Contra Costa County. The creek is across the road in this case, but the overall corridor and this upland habitat are very rich.

As with our neighboring Marsh Creek 5 preserve, we know the property supports listed species such as Alameda whipsnake and California red-legged frog, along with a whole suite of rare or unusual plants such as endemic Contra Costa manzanita and Mount Diablo fairy lantern, western hop tree, and Hartweg’s umbrellawort.

An on-site fire road accesses the property and will allow much better access to our neighboring Marsh Creek 5 preserve. In the future, we hope the property will help with the creation of a section of the Clayton to Round Valley Marsh Creek Trail.

The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch is the fifth acquisition project Save Mount Diablo has participated in this year. After a successful community-based public fundraising campaign this fall, Save Mount Diablo expects to close escrow on its 6.69-acre Krane Pond property next week.

Save Mount Diablo recently made its eighth installment payment on the 87-acre North Peak Ranch.

In August, Save Mount Diablo purchased the critical 10-acre Balcerzak inholding within Mount Diablo State Park, situated in Curry Canyon, including the most remote house on Mount Diablo, in just a few weeks.

And in April, the East Bay Regional Park District closed escrow on the $11.2 million 768-acre Finley Road Ranch property with Save Mount Diablo’s assistance, providing a location for a new regional staging area for Riggs Canyon and Morgan Territory Regional Preserve.

The Schwendels

We’re just getting to know the history of the property. The Schwendel Ranch was originally pieced together from homesteads and holdings by the heirs of railroad interests.

One owner was Joseph or “Josef” Schwendel, a well-known Austrian musician who played the violin or cornet until his death in 1930. He was the organizer of the Clayton Silver Cornet Band in the 1870s. Frank Schwendel was born about 1883. Sometime during that period, Frank Schwendel took ownership of part of the land.

Apparently, Mary Berendsen owned another part in 1927. When her husband died, she married Frank. They were still living in the area in 1940 when he was 57 and she was 63, and he still owned the land in 1946 when he granted an easement to PG&E.

Schwendel children married members of the Frank family, who arrived in Clayton in the 1870s, and the Cakebread family. The Ginochio family bought their part of the Schwendel Ranch after World War II.

“Anna (Berendsen) Berkheimer has lived in Brentwood since 1981, but Clayton will always be her home. Berkheimer was born in Clayton . . . in a building that is known as the Clayton Club, a country and western bar,” according to the Clayton Historical Society and reprinted from an article that ran in the Brentwood News on August 13, 1987. “’Before Prohibition my father ran the saloon and mother took care of the dining room.’. . . ”Berkheimer was the daughter of Carl Berendsen, who emigrated to the United States from Denmark at the age of 17. Her mother’s parents were also from Denmark. . . . In 1926 her father drowned in Marsh Creek after driving his vehicle off the bridge and her mother subsequently married Frank Schwendel, who was born and raised in the Marsh Creek area. Schwendel owned 1,200 acres between Brentwood and Clayton and Berkheimer assisted with many of the chores on the ranch. ‘I learned how to milk cows, drive a tractor, and quite a few other things, but I really enjoyed it even though it was hard work,’ she said.”

Why Does the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch’s Geology Matter?

Complex geology = complex soils = rich botany. As rocks break down, soils are formed, and when the geology is complex, so are the soils.

Because they’re high in some minerals, chemicals, and trace elements, and deficient in others, rocky soils often exclude some plants and are speciation sites where others evolve into new forms.

These volcanic dacite intrusions are high silica and break down into sands that hold water and support a different plant community and rare plant species, often with springs on their slopes or base. Their vegetation is brighter green and lusher than surrounding areas, often dense with trees or poison oak.

A dozen volcanic, mostly dacitic intrusions have been mapped along Marsh Creek at the northeast corner of Mount Diablo State Park.

In 2011, Save Mount Diablo protected 7.4-acre Marsh Creek 5, including one volcanic dome and then later that year a similar dome, 5.7-acre Marsh Creek 6. Another volcanic dome is found in Mount Diablo State Park at Perkins Canyon, which is easily accessible.

Marsh Creek 5 and Marsh Creek 6 are two volcanic exposures on either side of the Marsh Creek Springs resort. These properties form a volcanic habitat found nowhere else in central or eastern Contra Costa County. The 98-acre Ginochio Schwendel Ranch is part of this same volcanic area.

There’s not as much igneous rock in Contra Costa County as in the North Bay, but it’s not all that unusual, especially on Mount Diablo.

The most common igneous rocks on Mount Diablo are old ocean crust formed as much as 165 million years ago deep out at sea.

These rocks included parts of Diablo’s main peaks. Also present are pillow basalts formed at underwater eruptions along a mid-ocean ridge. These pieces of igneous rock were carried to North America and added to the continent by the movement of tectonic plates.

In the Oakland hills, more recent volcanoes erupted and spread lava and ash locally around 10 million years ago. And in various places around Contra Costa County, ash from eruptions farther away are consolidated as “tuff” beds.

The 4.83 million-year-old pink Lawlor Tuff is an age marker around Diablo, laid down on a flat to rolling landscape before the peaks were exposed, and steeply folded as Mount Diablo emerged.

Save Mount Diablo’s Marsh Creek 5 and Marsh Creek 6 properties are different. So is the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch.

We began studying the geology of the volcanic deposits after we acquired these Marsh Creek properties and sponsoring research into their origin in grants in 2018 and 2019 from our Mary Bowerman Science and Research program.

Ultimately a chapter was included, “Neogene volcanism on the eastside of Mount Diablo, Contra Costa County, California” with findings in a new geology book, Regional Geology of Mount Diablo, California in 2021.

“Neogene volcanic rocks are located to the east and north of Mount Diablo, near the eastern boundary of the San Andreas fault system . . . probably associated with the northward migration of the Mendocino Triple Junction along the western plate boundary in California . . . This event produced a series of volcanic centers along the plate boundary . . . referred to as the Coast Range Volcanic Suite.” These dacite intrusions had not been previously radiometrically dated. The research Save Mount Diablo sponsored investigated their age, chemistry, and field relations and established their age as 7.5 to 7.8 Ma (“mega annum,” or “million years ago”).

These spots are of high silica, much younger igneous rock visible in mound- or dome-like surface exposures, within a four-mile northwest-southeast band, a mile and a half wide.

They’re strangely steep because they resist erosion and look like mushroom caps, compared to more erosive sedimentary Great Valley Group geology nearby. Marsh Creek threads through them near the intersection of Morgan Territory and Marsh Creek roads.

The volcanic intrusions are also one of the most limited habitats in the East Bay, retain water more than surrounding areas, and are often associated with springs and rare plants. The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch includes part of the biggest mapped exposure of these dacite intrusions.

The rare geology and plant habitat on the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch is just one more thing that makes Mount Diablo special.

Image Captions and Credits:

1. View from the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch. Photo by Scott Hein.
2. Map showing the location of the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch and other properties protected by Save Mount Diablo along Marsh Creek, the least-disturbed stream in Contra Costa County. Map by Roxana Lucero.
3. The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch at sunset in November 2022. Photo by Scott Hein.
4. The Ginochio Schwendel Ranch harbors oak woodland and rare volcanic plant habitat. Photo by Scott Hein.
5. The volcanic domes at Save Mount Diablo’s Marsh Creek 6 and Marsh Creek 5 preserves, with Ginochio Schwendel Ranch rising beyond. Photo by Scott Hein.
6. Volcanic rocks from Save Mount Diablo’s Marsh Creek 5 preserve and Ginochio Schwendel Ranch acquisition project. Photo by Save Mount Diablo.
7. Save Mount Diablo staff and committee members on a land tour on November 22, 2022 to investigate the Ginochio Schwendel Ranch and Save Mount Diablo’s Marsh Creek 5 preserve. Left to right: Joan Duffield, Juan Pablo Galván Martínez, Margaret Kruse, Shirley Langlois, Seth Adams, Sean Burke, and Ted Clement. Photo by Scott Hein

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