Are You That Woman

Stockton Boulevard’s Medical Mile

Along Stockton Boulevard, a mile-long complex of medical facilities, support systems and education and research centers put this district on the world map!  Teams of professionals and volunteers provide compassionate care to patients and families
and the community.

The Boulevard’s “medical mile” history dates back to 1871 with the relocation of the Sacramento County Hospital (aka Sacramento Medical Center).  With time and many changes, the Medical Center officially became the UC Davis Medical Center (2315 Stockton Boulevard) on July 1, 1978. Spread out over more than 142 acres, the campus is a nationally recognized academic medical center offering primary care for all ages, specialty care in 150 fields, and the latest treatment options and expertise for the most complex health conditions.

On April 14, 1997, Shriners Hospitals for Children – Northern California (2425 Stockton Boulevard) opened and accepted its first patient for care. A new era in treatment for children, the community welcomed Shriners with open arms. More than 70,000 children have been accepted for care since it opened.  The hospital has become the busiest pediatric burn center in Northern California and ranks with UC Davis Children's Hospital as one of the "Best Children's Hospitals" for pediatric orthopedics. Northern California Shriners Hospital treats children who have orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, cleft lip, need for specialized plastic surgery and other complex surgical needs.

The Firefighters Burn Institute (3101 Stockton Boulevard) is small but mighty. Built in 1933, the beautifully restored fire station was once home to Engine Company 9. Following the tragic 1972 Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour plane crash, it became agonizingly clear that Sacramento lacked sufficient burn-treatment facilities to deal with such a catastrophe. Soon after, Sacramento Fire Department Captain Cliff Haskell and Firefighters Local 522 went on a fund-raising mission. The Firefighters Burn Institute was dedicated on Dec. 21, 1973.  A charitable foundation, the Institute works closely with Shriners Hospitals for Children – Northern California and UC Davis Medical Center. They fund continuing education and medical research for the staffs of both hospitals.

“In the beginning, the mission was to establish burn care, but then the aftercare became part of the mission,” said Mike Daw, executive director of the institute. “You go through your healing process. There’s not just surviving but there’s thriving, too. So we established other programs for burn survivors (including firefighters) so they can thrive to best of their abilities. We have camps for burn-survivor children, and a support group and retreat for adult burn survivors as well as additional programs.” 

These three shining stars have helped Stockton Boulevard thrive!

Falling for Yosemite Autumn is Awesome

Even during these trying Covid times, for most travelers, Labor Day signaled the unofficial end of summer. Vacations are over. Kids are back in school. It's the last bona fide summer holiday weekend and, from this point forward it's a slow, steady slide into the New Year.

Fall Equinox occurs around September 23rd each year. The sun crosses the celestial equator, from north to south, heralding the end of summer marking the official start of autumn. Days are getting shorter; shadows are longer; nights are cooler, and you can feel the change in the air. It's inspirational! It's also one of the best and most inspired times of year to visit Yosemite National Park!

When it comes to visiting Yosemite, fewer travelers visit in this off-season. Annually, millions of people throng to see the splendor of the granite cliffs, cascading falls, giant sequoias, and the grandeur made famous by the likes of John Muir and Ansel Adams. During late spring and throughout the summer months, Yosemite is teeming with guests from around the world. There's more traffic and making lodging reservations, especially within the park, can be a challenge. Post-summer, the visitor tide ebbs, and the park begins an unhurried progression into a seasonal hibernation. Fewer cars on the roads in, out, and around the park, are definitely a big plus. The availability of lodging – at all levels – is much more attainable.

Autumn weather remains comfy with daytime temps warm enough for shorts and river sandals; nights can be chilly but cozy – even more so as the fall season evolves. Changes in temperatures and weather should be considered when packing. Better to err on the conservative side – the layered approach is usually best – and remember, rain and early snows are always a possibility; come prepared.

Yosemite Valley is famous for its colorful dogwoods – shades of pink and red; and California live oaks turn a golden amber color mid-October to November. Throughout the season aspens adorn themselves with seasonal hues. The onset of autumn colors can't be timed. Lengthening nights and colder temperatures signal the change. So in other words, later in the season is better but is no guarantee. In the solitude and calm of the autumn season, you can be assured that Yosemite will not disappoint even the most ardent leaf peeper. Look for the landmark blazing red sugar maple near Yosemite Chapel. Take Tioga Road along the Merced River for some of the best fall foliage photo-ops.

Visitors should keep an eye out for mule deer and coyotes, which are now seen frequently as they move from the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada down into Yosemite Valley. Bears should always be a concern – though not as frequently sighted. Do not leave any food or sunscreen, toothpaste, shampoo, lotion, gum, candy, and any other items that have a scent in your car. If camping, be certain to take precautions and use food storage lockers.

From Sacramento and foothill locations, you have easy access to one of California's most scenic byways, Hwy. 49. There's no better way to begin this fall foliage sojourn. As fall flourishes, sightings of color along Hwy. 49 are clearly an added attraction to this multi-hued escape.  Also known as the Golden Chain Heritage Corridor, Hwy. 49 passes through charming and historic towns. Allow time to enjoy the sights and an occasional stop at towns along the way. Amador City, Sutter Creek, Angels Camp, Sonora, and others offer outstanding opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and maybe a fresh-baked loaf of bread or a glass of wine. California's past lives on in these Gold Rush-era gems. If you choose to bypass downtown Sonora's two-lane traffic, a detour on Rawhide Road saves about 15-20 minutes of driving time. It's always best to travel with a detailed map as cell service can still be spotty.

Hwy. 49 has more than its share of twists and turns and slow-moving vehicles. Relax and enjoy the ride. Remember, getting there is half the fun. If you've never driven to Yosemite via Hwy. 120 you may want to avoid Old Priest Grade. This incredibly steep, two-mile stretch of road is not for the weak-of-heart. We love it and wouldn't think of going any other way, but never with a trailer or motor home! Think about staying on Hwy. 120 on the west side of the canyon. This will meet Old Priest Grade at the top. About a six-mile trek, the New Priest Grade bypass is longer and somewhat winding, but the stress-free ascent can easily accommodate trailers and motor homes as it's the preferred route for tour buses.

If heading down the "vertical” Old Priest Grade, make sure your brakes are in good working order.

Hwy. 120 passes through the Gold Rush-era town of Groveland, an excellent pit-stop or place to stay outside the park if that's your choice. The 3-diamond Groveland Hotel has been greeting guests since 1849. All the rooms have been completely updated and are twenty-first century fresh. The new Groveland Provisions Taproom & Bourbon Bar provides small bites and libations.  The Iron Door Saloon claims to be the longest continuously operated drinking establishment in California. About 23 miles away is the Big Oak Flat entrance to the Yosemite National Park and you'll be required to purchase a $35 vehicle pass, valid for seven days.

Tip! Be sure to gas up before heading into Yosemite Valley. The last chances are in Big Oak Flat, Groveland, and Yosemite Lakes Road (Hardin Flat). There is another chance for fuel at Crane Flat inside the park.  Yosemite Valley Shuttles are not running in 2021. Check schedules for YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System.

 

Rearview Images

As we drive away from snow-crested Sierra,
Images of where we're going
Are not so beautiful as rearview images
Of where we've been.

April 2, 2006

Damond Lee: Creating New Memories at Stockton & Broadway

Ori

Originally published January 2020 Stockton Boulevard Partnership directory

A newcomer to Stockton Boulevard, OBA Kitchen was the neighborhood’s only Japanese restaurant when it opened in 2017. Master Chef and owner Damond Lee saw the potential for OBA with its ready-made regulars from Louie’s Chinese Restaurant a neighborhood favorite for 27 years. Damond, along with his partner and Executive Chef Billy Huang, remodeled the interior with wooden floors, rustic Japanese chairs, and colorful murals.

“After immigrating to California in 1992, I began working as a dishwasher at a Japanese restaurant in Alameda. I was mentored by the owner, Master Chef Yamamoto, who taught me how to make sushi. It became my passion and thought if I open a restaurant, this is what I want to do! Start-up costs in the Bay Area were too high – along with living expenses – so we moved to Sacramento. We’ve now owned and operated five successful Japanese Restaurants. I met and hired Billy Huang mentoring him to prepare sushi. An excellent chef, he creates all the Chinese dishes and daily Chef Specials at OBA.”

“When we were looking for another location, we saw that UC Davis was expanding and wanted to be part of the evolution. Stockton Boulevard Partnership has facilitated many improvements along the corridor and around our restaurant. It feels safer now. There’s been lots of support from the neighborhood and UC Davis. We kept some “honor items” from Louie’s, the Chinese restaurant that previously inhabited the space. For their devoted clientele, OBA still has Walnut Shrimp and General Chicken, among other Chinese-American classics.”

Damond Lee has created many memories in Sacramento’s dining scene. Before OBA, two additional restaurants, The Izakaya and Sushi Café, and more recently Shoku Ramen Bar, receive rave reviews. About any other restaurants, Damond says, “It’s about timing and economy – if the location is good – I’ll never shut the door and leave my options open.”

Saratoga Revealed

California byways never disappoint. Interstates and boulevards wind their way through the outskirts of San Jose to Big Basin Way and Saratoga Village. The small-town charm and pedestrian-friendly Main Street beckons visitors to walk and explore Saratoga's finest dining, wine tasting, art galleries, and fabulous retail. 

Close by, performing arts venues provide astounding entertainment including year-round and seasonal top-name performers. Historic gardens, hiking, horseback riding, wineries, and breathtaking views are just a few distractions to bring you back again and again.

Unwind and Snooze
Many years ago, Saratoga Oaks Lodge shed its 1955 motel cocoon and turned into a beautiful butterfly. From a single-queen room to two-room suites, it’s the ideal hibernation destination. Treehouse bungalows accommodate couples or groups; the perfect haven to de-stress following the day’s explorations. In-room whirlpool bathtubs and steam-bath showers help you find your bliss. Shaded by majestic oaks, balconies and garden patios are a joy any season. Amenities include microwave, mini-fridge, coffeemaker, free Wi-Fi, and modified continental breakfast.

Utterly tranquil, pour yourself into village wine tasting rooms Cinnabar Winery, Roudon Smith Winery, Ruth Roberts Wine Collective, and Uncorked.  Walking makes designated drivers obsolete. Nothing goes better with wine than luscious, handcrafted chocolates. Yes, this sinful pleasure is close enough to see and taste at Plumed Horse Chocolaterie by Angelica. Chocolate addicts, this is your new home. Angel’s career as a certified chocolatier was divine intervention. An artist since childhood, she taught herself the fine art and science of chocolate. Delicate works of art, each chocolate gem is hand-painted with colored cocoa butter. Angel created all the recipes - more than 25. Some of the favorites include salted caramel, passion fruit, jalapeno, strawberry, and Sprinkles are for Winners in the shape and flavor of a baby donut. 

Vineyards, Views & Performing Arts Preview
On the edge of the Santa Cruz Mountains, zigzagging and sometimes precipitous roads lead from Saratoga Village to stunning vistas, hidden gardens, and a captivating villa and chateau, vineyards, and tasting rooms. Be swept away by the magic!

Arriving at the regal Mountain Winery, you immediately understand why Paul Masson – the original owner – called it his "vineyard in the sky". Views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Silicon Valley below are inspirational. A Saratoga landmark since the early 1900s, the world-class wines and cuisine, and summer concert series catapult Mountain Winery to the top of your bucket list! A sacred feeling exudes within the inner sanctum of the winery.   

Just a few miles away, sequestered on a hillside, the Mediterranean-style Montalvo Arts Center is another Saratoga jewel. The 175-acre estate offers extraordinary performing arts programs, year-round concert series, hiking trails, and gardens. Visitors are invited to discover miles of woodland hiking trails, and formal and informal gardens. Go in search of Sculpture on the Grounds – a multi-faceted installation of works of art.

Enjoy the music of waterfalls and Mother Nature at her finest at Hakone Estate & Gardens. Influenced by Buddhist and Zen cultures, this ever-changing 18-acre landscape presents something new each season. In spring and summer, multi-hued wisteria, azaleas, and rhododendron await. Delicate maples show their best fall colors. Winter brings a wall of camellias. The oldest Japanese and Asian estate garden in the Western Hemisphere, it is also a treasure of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Visitors wander the gardens and meditate on benches overlooking the koi pond or bamboo forest. Hakone also conducts several events including tea ceremonies and Maturi (Spring Festival).

Family-owned and operated since 1893, the 28-acre organic and sustainable Cooper-Garrod Estate Vineyards and Garrod Farms is an experience like no other. Just minutes from the village, enjoy scenic horseback-riding adventures through the vineyards and Fremont-Older Open Space Preserve followed by wine tasting and small bites on the shaded garden patio. 

Feasting
A stunning Victorian houses Bella Saratoga Restaurant. Superbly prepared Italian fare served in an intimate setting makes this a popular destination. Award-winning pastas, local vegetables, fresh fish, filet mignon, and pizzas – plates are bountiful so come hungry. Fronted by a lovely covered patio, ask about dining alfresco in spring and summer.

Haute cuisine! Haute décor! The Michelin-rated Plumed Horse is that. The ambiance exudes chic elegance and comfort. Draped in golden light and warm woods – dining rooms are elegantly decorated – a visual feast. Feel free to roam and ogle the towering wine cellar housing more than 1,800 wines from around the world. But brace yourself! You are about to be treated to gastronomic artistry. Every berry, vegetable, meat, fish, wild game, sauce, and dessert is painstakingly plated. Executive Chef Peter Armellino’s fresh seasonal menus will captivate your palate. Fourteen years on both the tasting and entrée menus, the signature Black Pepper and Parmesan Soufflé, served with uni and Dungeness crab, is the most requested dish. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 5:00 to 10:00 pm. Reservations are available only online and require a three-day advance cancellation. 

One Last Tip
Cyclists adore road trips up Highway 9 into the Santa Cruz Mountains. At Big Basin Café, a wide selection of fresh-roasted coffees and specialty drinks make this a perfect locale for a morning wander or post-bike ride hangout. 

 

Also published: Mountain Democrat and Outdoor Writers Association of California 

Retreat to Fern Canyon Trail in Mendocino County California

Silence . 

Eyes closed. The stillness beats in your ears. The hammering Mendocino ocean surf is replaced by giggling streams and fern grotto waterfalls. Blue skies and sunshine swallowed by towering redwoods, ferns and moss – kept lush by the dark, dank, and cold of this rainforest environment. Walking more than five miles in this tranquil woodland, you are alone on the planet. The silence broken mostly by small bird voices and a lone tree frog far and away. Other hikers occasionally cross your path with a nod and a smile.

The magic and spirit of Fern Canyon Trail at Russian Gulch State Park is ancient. Life here began long before humans breathed on this Earth. Despite human intervention, its mystical soul survives. Worth the ascent, the north trail (2.6 miles) is up and over and gets heart and lungs pumping for the Fern Canyon waterfall trail (another .7 miles). Loop back along the flat bike trail.

Slowly come to your senses as you leave this dreamscape behind.

 

Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary is still one of a kind

To say there is nothing like Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary is not far from the truth. It is the only cedar enzyme bath in the United States. An experience like no other, there are hardly words to describe the sublime nature of this Japanese therapy. This coupled with the beautiful gardens and atmosphere of the sanctuary, well, you must see it to understand just how special it is. From the moment you enter, you should feel all stress begin to fall away.

Once you have donned your cotton kimono, your personal attendant tends to your every need. Gaze out on the bonsai garden as you relax and enjoy your enzyme tea. Once enveloped in the enzyme bath you'll be wondering why you hadn't done this sooner, and asking yourself, "How soon can I do this again?"

Following the bath, continue to unwind with a massage or simply partake of the meta-sync music, eye pillow, and a 30-minute nap.

I am fortunate to have enjoyed Osmosis more than once over the years. The addition of the Japanese Meditation Garden....could it get any better? Yes, and it did with the addition of the Field of Hammocks! 

Osmosis is a treat. Enjoy it alone. With friends. With a lover. Some would say the experience is pricey; that's misleading. It's not inexpensive, but it's worth the cost and certainly much less expensive than other spas I have visited. The experience and ambiance are over the top.

If you're lucky enough to indulge Friday through Monday, be sure to visit Wild Flour Bread across the road. This bakery is to bread what Osmosis is to the "ahhh" in spa.

Take your time. Enjoy the drive to this darling hamlet in west Sonoma County. You'll want to find a place to stay nearby and let all that wonderfulness take over. Unwind. Let go. And let Osmosis.

 

 

Oka-Bs still Made in the USA 2021

OKA b. Shoes that Love You - Originally published 2012

And yet another product I already owned and bought last year because....drum roll...they were Made in the USA. I needed some new slip-ons. Not for spa use necessarily, but to have for that quick footwear and out the door. I did go with the basic black, but these come in some really great styles and colors.

Oka-B really are comfortable and affordable, too! The website states, "A shoe that's 100% recyclable, waterproof, Made in the USA and priced under $40."  And they give you guidance on recycling their sandals and all the other great eco-friendly stuff they do.

Made in the southern quadrant of the USA in Buford, Georgia. Where? Okay, near Atlanta. These sandals are fun, fanciful, frilly, fierce, and Made in the USA! You know, they're kind of like flip flops on steroids.  Hey, I wonder if I could find a real pair of flops Made in the USA. Do you know?

PS - They're vegan, too!

Long Island Ice Cream is providing happiness again on Stockton Boulevard

Yes, they’re open! At long last! During the early days of the pandemic, Long Island Ice Cream was social distancing with ice cream lovers. Then in autumn 2020, an arson fire at Tirapelli Plaza shuttered all the businesses including Long Island Ice Cream. On April 23, 2021, they happily reopened providing full service, welcoming the community of supporters but still requiring masks and social distancing. Nothing is sweeter than a little ice cream – except lots of ice cream. Is there a milkshake favorite? Some days are a Rocky Road and some days are Cookies ‘n Cream.

When Ken acquired Long Island Ice Cream (LIIC), it needed lots of TLC. Opened in the ‘70s, the one-time Baskin-Robbins passed through various owners until Ken took over in 2009. The then owners, originally from Vietnam, had chosen the name Long Island in honor of a famous island in the Mekong Delta. Ken decided to preserve the name and goodwill with locals. Today, fans of Long Island Ice Cream believe it’s a nod to New York, a valid assumption.

 “First thing I did was infuse money into rehabilitating the store and products. Focusing on quality and attention to detail, Long Island committed to serving the best ice cream from different manufacturers – including the local favorites from Gunther’s Ice Cream! We grew year after year and made a commitment to providing the best customer service,” Ken said. 

About 75% of Long Island’s customer base is from outside of the area. With a focus on quality, supporters clearly like what they do. Word of mouth is the best advertising in a world where social media reigns. “We make some of the best milkshakes in the area! We hear this again and again and that ‘friends recommended’ LIIC. The milkshakes and smoothies are fully customizable. We don’t use any syrups and use higher butterfat content ice creams and milk – the key to a great shake. Adding fresh fruits makes it even better!”

They buy from three different vendors and select what they do best. There are four Long Island divisions: ice cream, drinks – milkshakes and smoothies, cupcakes (German chocolate, vanilla, coconut pineapple, red velvet, also gender reveal, and brownie cups, and coffee.

Yes, LIIC also does fresh-brewed coffee drinks – nothing is pre-brewed and everything is made to order. Just like ice cream, coffee drinkers are very specific so Ken caters to their penchants carrying Pete’s, Starbucks, and (Sacramento’s own) Temple. The difference between coffee cremas (the flavorful, aromatic, reddish-brown froth that rests on top of a shot of Espresso) is noticeable and coffee drinkers have a preference. “Think coffee milkshake! Try fining this anywhere else – we grind, brew, and chill the coffee before blending it into mouthwatering ice cream. I strive for perfection and have learned that people are willing to travel for that ‘perfect’ confection or beverage.”

At the onset of Covid-19, LIIC immediately modified their service. They installed an electronic lock to control the number of people in the store; added extra staff and took orders outdoors, but this has all changed as restrictions have eased.

“We actually grew during that time because we changed the way we did business and helped new and returning customers who were concerned. It’s still been challenging but we’ve been very lucky for all the people who have supported us. Going into March it was scary and we saw a little downturn, worrying it might be the end for us. Every crisis can be weathered with cash reserve; fortunately, we received a small PPP loan and disaster aid through SBA. When you have employees counting on you, it was a huge relief.”

“Even though business life on Stockton Boulevard has been tough, we have a good clientele base and I have a good location. The cost-benefit is that rents are affordable. For starting a small business, it’s economically viable. It was a good decision to come here and I try to build relationships. What better way to make people happy then to make them a delicious treat and see them smile and say. ‘That’s why I’m back again!’ That’s the enjoyment.'

Born in Oak Park, Ken still lives in the neighborhood where he was raised. Joining the Navy right out of high school, he traveled the world before returning to Sacramento to help his mother. Ken has worked at UC Davis Medical Center interpreting heart rhythms for 20 years – the ice cream parlor is a ‘side gig’. “It’s been a great 11 years and I’ve met so many good people. Nothing like the feeling when someone tells you, ‘That was perfect!’ You feel like you’re doing something right.” 

Long Island Ice Cream
5017 Stockton Boulevard
916/737-8888 

Butte County Watchable Wildlife

California Watchable Wildlife (CAWW) celebrates the state’s wildlife and diverse habitats by acknowledging and elevating the value of wildlife viewing and nature tourism to benefit individuals, families, communities, and industries while fostering awareness and support for conservation and protection of wildlife and habitats.

Throughout Butte County, a wide array of feathered friends, mammals, reptiles, insects, and fish are full-time residents, making it an ideal California Watchable Wildlife (CAWW) destination.

Discover red-tailed hawks, Swainson’s hawks, falcons, river otters, owls, Mexican free-tailed bats—and too many more animals to list—at Butte County’s urban parks, neighborhoods, and rivers. With its myriad of lakes, seasonal wetlands, vernal pools, and creeks, Butte County also welcomes millions of migratory birds each fall and winter as a major player on the Pacific Flyway. Each year, winged visitors make their way to flooded rice fields, nature preserves, parks and refuges where you can watch breathtaking fly-ins and showstopping fly-outs of ducks, sandhill cranes, Canada geese, snow geese and tundra swans (and more!).

Whether you walk, paddle, hike, or observe from your car, it’s easy to get up close and personal with nature in and around Butte County all year long (just look for the binocular signs).  Discover more about a few of Butte County’s official California Watchable Wildlife locations and check CAWW as more locations are added:

• Bidwell Park
  • Premium Site: worth visiting if you have limited time; has wildlife values year-round
  • The habitat: Blue Oak foothills woodland, Riparian, Grassland, Foothill Pine-Oak Woodland, Freshwater seeps/wetlands, pond
  • With both a lower and upper part to the park, Upper Bidwell Park is the Watchable Wildlife focus, with over 100 species of birds found during various seasons and critical habitat for the Eastern Tehama deer herd, the largest in California. The area also provides critical habitat for and spawning for threatened Spring Run Chinook salmon and hosts larger, seldom seen, animals, such as mountain lion, black bear, coyote, and bobcat.
• Chico Seed Orchard
  • The habitat: Oak woodland and riparian
  • Originally known as the Plant Introduction Station with the purpose of plant breeding research and plant introduction from all over the world, today the Chico Seed Orchard produces plants for projects such as reforestation, wildfire recovery, watershed restoration, fisheries, riparian habitat for threatened and endangered species, oak woodland restoration, and more. The trees and plants from around the world provide shelter for 200 species of bird throughout the year.
• Feather River Fish Hatchery
  • Located on a scenic stretch of the Feather River just below Oroville Dam, this hatchery offers stunning scenery, an underwater window view of fish using the fish ladder, close-up views of Chinook salmon and steelhead spawning and rearing, and opportunities to see fish spawn naturally in the river gravels below the hatchery. The Feather River Fish Hatchery handles 30 million eggs, 15 million fingerlings, and 17,000 adult salmon and steelhead annually. Approximately 20 percent of the ocean sport and commercial catch originates here. Best viewing will be during the salmon spawning season (mid-September to November) and steelhead spawning season (late November to February 1). Find other wildlife viewing opportunities along the Feather River, where you’ll enjoy views of waterfowl, wading birds, songbirds, birds of prey, and small mammals.
• Gray Lodge Wildlife Area
  • Premium site: worth visiting if you have limited time; interpretive programs and/or displays, well-developed facilities
  • The habitat: 35% upland, 5% permanent wetland, 60% seasonal wetland, 5% riparian, plus delivery ditch, natural slough, and creek banks.
  • Gray Lodge Wildlife Area is a spectacular, seasonal wetland, located 5 miles north of the Sutter Buttes. Wintering waterfowl, which includes over a million ducks and more than 100,000 Ross' and snow geese, enjoy loafing on the shallow ponds of this 9,200-acre wildlife area. Occasionally, muskrats and river otters are seen swimming through the deeper waterways. The upland fields and tree-lined canals provide habitat for warblers, red-shouldered hawks, ring-necked pheasants, tricolored blackbirds and much more. You may even spot some of the nocturnal life, such as barn owls and black-tailed mule deer, some of which are albino.
• Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge
  • The habitat: Butte County’s part of the Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge is the Pine Creek Unit, which consists of 141 acres of native grasses and 423 acres of mixed riparian forest
  • The Sacramento River is an important breeding area for migratory songbirds and other migratory and resident land birds. This River is also an important migration corridor that provides stopover resting and feeding habitat for birds that breed in the nearby northern Sierra Nevada and southern Cascade foothills and mountains. Many mammalian species are year-round residents of the Refuge. Fish species occur at the Refuge in the main channel, sloughs, oxbow lakes, and on the inundated floodplain. Visitors to the Pine Creek Unit can enjoy about 2 miles of trails, accessible by foot or boat.

Photo Contest:  California Watchable Wildlife administers the annual California Wildlife Photo of the Year Contest. Photos can be present or past, but must have been taken in California, including the wilds of Butte County. The contest has five submission entry periods, beginning in January 1, 2021 and ending October 31, 2021. The final judging period, November – December, is reserved for selecting the Photo of the Year. Learn more about this annual contest at California Watchable Wildlife and submit your photos for your chance to win!