California News Bytes 1060

Sand dunes with jagged mountains in the distance.
Mojave Trails National Monument. Photo by Bob Wick.

Top Stories from California’s Public Lands

Proposed Broadband Site Near Morongo Valley

BLM has completed its review of a proposed broadband site on public land near Highway 62. Project details are now available for public review, and community members are invited to learn more and share feedback. 

large cell tower in the open landcape with blue skies and clouds
Morongo Valley. Photo by BLM.

 

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. 

See all the meeting details in the following links:

Northern California

Central California

California Desert

a dirtbiker rides over a redish clay hill in the trees.
Chappie-Shasta OHV Area. Photo by N. Hamada, 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, DOI.

From the Field

K9 Tukker Retires from BLM Bakersfield

After six years of service, K9 Officer Tukker, known as “Tuk Tuk,” has retired from the BLM Bakersfield Field Office. The Belgian Malinois supported operations across the West, from the Imperial Sand Dunes to major investigations, and now begins a well-earned retirement with his handler’s family. Read more.

A Belgian Malinois kp sits on a white truck in the desert blue sky.
K9 Tukker, the Belgian Malinois. Photo by BLM.

 

Honoring Mona Daniels on Women in Science Day

On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we recognize Mona Daniels for more than two decades of mentorship and field-based learning that connects youth to BLM-managed public lands. Read more about Mona.

Ramona Daniels stands with award near an american flag.
Ramona Daniels with award. Photo by BLM.

 

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.

baby orca pops head above water
Juvenile Killer Whale. Photo by Kaelyn De Young, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

 

Along the California Coastal National Monument, orcas are often seen interacting with "Mola molas" (Giant Sunfish). What is the most common reason for this "non-hunting" behavior? 
  • A) They use the sunfish as a "shield" to hide from sharks.
  • B) They use the flat, disc-shaped fish like a "frisbee" for target practice.
  • C) The orcas let the sunfish clean parasites off their skin.
  • D) They herd the sunfish to "show" them to their calves as a teaching tool.

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

B) They use the flat, disc-shaped fish like a "frisbee" for target practice.
While it might look like a "game," researchers believe this is actually a form of "predation training." Mother orcas will often bat or nudge the sunfish around to teach their calves how to use their powerful tails and snouts without the risk of a more dangerous prey animal fighting back. The sunfish are often left relatively unharmed after these "lessons," as the orcas aren't always interested in eating them—they're just using them for practice. 
 

For those who made it this far, 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.