California State Park Rangers Association

President’s Message

Spring 2024 

Spring Has Arrived

By David Carle, President

Spring has arrived after a relatively easy winter in the Mono Basin compared to last year's monster snowstorms and avalanches. Yet enough water came out of the sky this winter to keep Mono Lake on the rise. The lake is almost back to the elevation it was at when I retired here, almost 24 years ago. I hope the renewed progress continues, but dry years are very likely to return. The LA Department of Water and Power needs to pause all stream diversions to allow for the additional 8 feet of lake rise that was mandated in 1994, 30 years ago! 

Spring has arrived after a relatively easy winter in the Mono Basin compared to last year's monster snowstorms and avalanches. Yet enough water came out of the sky this winter to keep Mono Lake on the rise. The lake is almost back to the elevation it was at when I retired here, almost 24 years ago. I hope the renewed progress continues, but dry years are very likely to return. The LA Department of Water and Power needs to pause all stream diversions to allow for the additional 8 feet of lake rise that was mandated in 1994, 30 years ago! 

For CSPRA, I have communicated support for a proposal made by the Mono Lake Committee to the State Water Resources Control Board, to pause diversions. A hearing should occur this year.  In the Spring 2024 issue of the WAVE, you can read about actions our officers and Board took recently, including a Medal of Valor presentation (thank you V.P. Ann Meneguzzi), comments opposing the proposed gondola across LASHP addressed to the LA Metro Board (thank you Treasurer Ron Krueper) and State Parks Commission (thank you Secretary Joanne Kerbavaz). 

Looking ahead, this issue also announces the annual State Parks Rendezvous, to be September 16-19 in the North Coast Redwoods District. Save the dates and make your lodging reservations right now to ensure the special room rate in Crescent City. We are grateful for the enthusiastic planning and support from District Superintendent Victor Bejelajac and Deputy District Supt. Shelana deSilva. Our Webmaster Jeff Price is posting the Rendezvous information and registration form at 2024 Rendezvous. 

World Ranger Day is celebrated every year on July 31st. The East Bay Regional Parks District is hosting this time, and has invited the country of Luxembourg's only ranger (they have 3 national parks) to mark the occasion. This is always a special and poignant gathering of park professionals from many California agencies to recognize those who have fallen in the line of duty. Mark the date on your calendar. More details will be provided soon. 

As always, many thanks to all CSPRA members and supporters. 

CSPRA President

Dave