California News Bytes

fireworks surrounding the vibrant numbers 2026 with BLM logo as the number zero

Welcome to the first News.Bytes of 2026. We have been busy behind the scenes and are excited to be back, sharing updates and stories from across BLM California as we move into the new year. Read through to the end for something to help you plan the year ahead.

 

Headlines and Highlights

Public Comment Open for Oil and Gas Updates

Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on proposed updates to oil and gas leasing and development on public lands in central California. Two virtual public meetings will be held to discuss the draft plan, with comments accepted through the BLM National NEPA Register through March 6, 2026. Learn more.

an oil derrick pumps on desert ground.
California oil derrick. Photo by Jesse Pluim, BLM.

 

King of the Hammers Returns to Johnson Valley

From Jan. 29 to Feb. 7, 2026, the Johnson Valley OHV Recreation Area will host the world-famous King of the Hammers race. During the event, 81,000 acres will be used for race activities, while 46,000 acres and nearby OHV areas like Ord-Rodman and Stoddard Valley will remain open for public use. Learn more.

a side by side drives through a dirt trail.
King of the Hammers, Photo courtesy of Phil Henderson.

 

Strategic Fuel Break Stops Cross-Border Wildfires

The strategic International Border Fuel Break helps prevent wildfires from spreading across the U.S.–Mexico border, supporting firefighters as they protect nearby communities, critical infrastructure, and natural resources. Read the full story here.

Border 7 Fire. (Photo by Robert Hermes)
Border 7 fire. Photo by Robert Hermes, BLM.

 

Fee Free Days Return in 2026

Fee Free Days are back for 2026, offering opportunities to visit BLM California public lands without entrance fees on select dates throughout the year. Mark your calendar and enjoy the diverse landscapes we manage, from deserts, coastlines, and mountains. Learn more.

desery campground with a fire pit and hammock and snow capped mountains in the distance
Tuttle Creek Campground, Alabama Hills. Photo by Jesse Pluim, BLM.

 

Using Beaver Dam Analogues to Restore Meadows

Beaver Dam Analogues, or BDAs, are artificial structures designed to mimic the natural benefits of beaver dams on creeks and rivers. Learn how BLM uses BDAs to improve water retention, restore meadow habitats, and support healthier public lands.

aerial view of a snowy meadow with two creeks running through them
Aerial view of the Fitzhugh Creek Meadow, Photo by Garrett Costello.

 

Partnerships Address Illegal Cannabis Grows

Through the EPIC program, BLM worked with the State of California and law enforcement partners in 2025 to eradicate more than 728,000 illegally cultivated cannabis plants across 34 counties. These coordinated efforts help reduce environmental damage and protect the public lands we all share. Learn more.

California Department of Justice OAG press release cover image. Blue background white text.
California Department of Justice OAG press release.

 

Volunteers Help Remove Marine Debris on the Lost Coast

In 2025, park rangers at King Range National Conservation Area launched a pilot program offering stickers in exchange for collected marine debris. Thanks to more than 200 participants, trash was removed along the Lost Coast Trail, helping keep California’s coastline clean with support from Friends of the Lost Coast. Learn more.

Hiker poses with trash haul on the black sands of the lost coast.
Hiker poses with trash haul from the Lost Coast. Photo by BLM.

 

Volunteer, Training, and Job Opportunities

OMSP Refresher Training Opens for EMS Professionals

BLM California is hosting an Operational Medical Support Program refresher training April 21–23, 2026, in El Dorado Hills, welcoming both returning providers and new EMS professionals. The training prepares EMRs and EMTs to deliver essential medical support to operational teams working in remote field environments across California. Learn more. 

group of people in yellow nomex act out an ems training in a green field.
Operational Medical Support Program refresher training April 21–23, 2026, in El Dorado Hills.

 

Lake Tamarisk Volunteer Clean-Up Event

The BLM and Active Communities of Desert Center invite volunteers to help clean up BLM-managed public land near Lake Tamarisk on Wednesday, February 4. Volunteers should come prepared with water and protective gear, and all participants must sign a Volunteer Service Agreement before work begins. Learn more.

pile of trash on a dry desert ground and a blue sky.
Volunteer clean-up of BLM-managed public land near Lake Tamarisk.

 

Current USAJOBS Postings for BLM CA:

Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) GW-0462-6/7, 3 vacancies, duty location Bishop, Porterville, Susanville, closes 1/23/2026
 
Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District Fire Management Officer) GW-0456-13, 1 vacancy, duty location may be: Alturas, Redding, or Susanville, closes 1/27/2026
 
 
Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Engine Captain) GW-0456-8, multiple vacancies, duty locations include: Alturas, Cedarville, Doyle, Susanville, Topaz, Lee Vining, closes 5/9/2026
 
 

Internal opportunities for not to exceed 120 days details/temporary promotions are also available:

 

 

Seymour's Question of the Week

BLM’s mascot, Seymour the Antelope, challenges you to learn more about the life and ecology of your public lands. Check out this week’s question and see if you know the answer.

Two elk stand in a dry field near a tree
Tule Elk in Clear Creek Management Area, Photo by Jesse Pluim, BLM.

Tule elk are found naturally in which place?

A) Across the western United States
B) Only in California
C) Throughout North America
D) Only in coastal regions

Scroll down for the answer!

 

BLM Spotlight

BLM California Staff Give Back During the Holidays

The BLM California State Office took part in a holiday food drive supporting local families in need. Thanks to the generosity of staff, essential items were collected to help make a positive impact in local communities during the holiday season. Check out our facebook post!

group of staff surround a cart of donated food during the holidays.
California State Office supports local food drive in Sacramento. Photo by Salah Ahmed, BLM.

 

Inside Interior

Explore the latest videos from the U.S. Department of the Interior, featuring stories from across public lands, American energy, conservation efforts, and the people who support them. Visit Interior’s YouTube channel to watch recent highlights and discover more videos each week.

Inside interor text overlays a shorline at sunset.
Inside Interior, Photo by DOI.

 

Answer to Seymour's Question of the Week

Correct answer: B) Only in California

 

For those who made it this far, here’s a quick heads-up. A limited number of 2026 planners are still available and they are going fast. Grab yours while supplies last.

Good news. If you missed the online sign-up, you can still stop by your local BLM field office to pick one up.