The Trail Companion

Winter 2002

A Day in the Life of a Crew Leader

If you have ever taken part in one of the Trail Center's trail construction or maintenance events, you've had the opportunity to work with one or more red-shirted crew leaders, and perhaps a crew leader trainee wearing a red banana. But what makes a crew leader and how did they get their shirts?By Richard Allsop and Geoffrey Skinner.

Fleet Feet on Redwood and Coastside Trails

A run in the redwoods on a cool spring morning - what could be better? I choose to run (rather than hike or bike) our local trails for the wonderful experience of long distance training free from cars and exhaust; for the chance to see the land and its inhabitants; and for the solitude and opportunity to clear my mind. And as a runner, I believe there is no better place to train (for endurance, strength, and agility) than on the hilly trails through our parks and preserves. By Lenore Studt.

The Gazos Creek Mountain Camp, a Field Research Station

How would you like to experience the beauty of redwood trees, ferns, and waterfalls, while doing your part to restore native habitat? Explore the resources offered at the Pescadero Conservation Alliance's Field Research Station at Gazos Creek, located by a few miles south of Pescadero at the end of Gazos Creek Road - a beautiful setting for environmental teaching and restoration projects. By Rick Powers.

The Campaign for Castle Rock

Learn why the Sierra Club and Friends of Castle Rock State Park are suing the California Department of Parks and Recreation over the Department's approval last year of the Castle Rock State Park General Plan.

Favorite Trail Project

Chances are very good that you have a favorite trail in the Bay Area or beyond (or perhaps many favorites) - and we want to hear about it! With your help, we're putting together a list that will appear in an upcoming issue of The Trail Companion and on our website.

Photographers Needed to Document California Plants

The Calflora database needs your help to fill out the database of California plants. As of January 10, 2002, they have photos for less than half the plants in the state and hope to add at least 202 additional species by May 2002.

Celebrate Earth Day and National Trails Day with the Trail Center

Celebrate with the Trail Center for our two biggest events of the year.