California News Bytes 1059

wintery day with a lake and mountain in the distance. bluish feeling and colors
View of Granite Mountain Wilderness from Bodie Hills, Photo by Jesse Pluim, DOI.

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.

Top Stories from California’s Public Lands

How OHV Areas Are Supported in California

Many services that keep OHV areas open and running across California are supported through the California State Parks OHV Grant Program. The BLM is sharing proposed 2026 grant projects and inviting public input, with meetings scheduled for February and comments due by March 2. Learn more.

sand buggy rides over sand dune
Imperial Sand Dunes. Photo by Jesse Pluim, DOI.

 

Vandalism Convictions at Fort Ord National Monument.

BLM law enforcement recently secured convictions in a graffiti case at Fort Ord National Monument, reinforcing accountability and supporting restoration of public lands. Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails, recreate responsibly, and report vandalism when encountered. Learn more.

cloudy day and green foliage below rock outcropping.
Fort Ord National Monument. Photo by Jesse Pluim, DOI.

 

Gray Wolf Sightings Near Bizz Johnson Trail

Recent gray wolf sightings have been reported near Bunnel Ranch along the Bizz Johnson Trail. Visitors are encouraged to stay alert, keep pets leashed, carry deterrents such as bear spray, and report sightings to the listed contacts to help ensure public and wildlife safety. Learn more.

yellow fall trees near a dirt road
Bizz Johnson Trail. Photo by Jesse Pluim, DOI.

 

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, DOI.

From the Field

New Geology Loop Trail Opens at Alabama Hills

The BLM Bishop Field Office, with support from the Alabama Hills Stewardship Group, has completed the new Geology Loop Trail, featuring wayside exhibits, improved drainage, upgraded trail surfaces, and clearer route markings. Read more about this project and why Alabama Hills is a special place for visitors to explore.

BLM workers near a blue wheelborrow and big granite mountains in the distance
Alabama Hills National Scenic Area. Photo by BLM.

 

AmeriCorps NCCC Named Youth Corps Crew of the Year

AmeriCorps NCCC has been selected as the 2025 Community Engagement Award recipient for Youth Corps Crew of the Year in recognition of their conservation work across California, including invasive species management, habitat restoration, and trail improvements on BLM-managed lands. Learn more.

Volunteers sit on a wooden plank looking west into the singing oragne sun over the mountians and ocean.
NCCC Volunteers at King Peak in the King Range Wilderness. Photo by Kacie Hallahan, BLM.

 

Exploring California’s Deserts on World Desert Day

BLM staff connected with families and students at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, sharing how desert ecosystems work and how public lands play a role in daily life across California. Interactive activities helped build understanding and appreciation for these unique landscapes. Learn more.

a group of blm staff talk to patrons at a booth.
World Desert Day at the Living Desert Zoo, Photo by The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

 

Hit the Trails on California's Public Lands

From desert paths to coastal routes and mountain trails, BLM-managed lands in California offer diverse hiking opportunities for all experience levels. Explore our latest Trail Spotlight on the BLM blog to discover featured hikes and plan your next outing on public lands.

four hikers walk along beach near mountains and water on a blue bird day.
Lost Coast trail on the King Range National Conservation Area. Photo by Clayton Schmidt, DOI.

 

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.

bird flying over water
Melody Baran/University of California, San Diego-Scripps Institution of Oceanography via AP

Which bird did researchers recently spot off California’s central coast near Piedras Blancas, marking only the second recorded sighting north of Central America?

A.  Magnificent frigatebird
B.  Blue-footed booby
C.  Waved albatross
D.  Sooty shearwater

Scroll down for the answer!

Ways to Get Involved

Volunteer Camp Hosts Needed for 2026 Season

The BLM is seeking volunteer camp hosts for the 2026 recreation season at North Eagle Lake Campground near Susanville and Pit River Campground near Fall River Mills. Camp hosts live on site, welcome visitors, share local knowledge, and help keep these popular Northern California campgrounds running smoothly. Learn more.

trapezoid sign in the shrubs of a forest. sign says North Eagle Lake Campground.
North Eagle Lake Campground. Photo by Jesse Pluim, DOI.

 

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.

 

Current USAJOBS Postings for BLM CA:

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. 

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

Answer to Seymour's Question of the Week

Correct answer: C) Albatross - Read the full story here

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.