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2008 SHOWS
Wednesday, December 31
1. KWMR speaks with Sheila O'Donnell, a newly-elected member of the Bolinas Fire Board, about the fragility of Terrace Avenue in Bolinas. Sheila sheds light on the erosion taking place underneath the cliff, on what homes are in danger, and on what can be done to avoid a possible catastrophe.
Tuesday, December 30
1.Garbage rates for West Marin on the rise in 2009.
2.KWMR reporter George Clyde speaks with Richard Charter about proposed wave energy projects off the West Marin coast. For further information about wave energy projects and their impacts, see the presentations to the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary at their March 2008 meeting, a conference on wave energy at Oregon State University, and The Scholar's Archive at Oregon State University.
3.A Santa Rosa man convicted of murder in Dillon Beach in 1980, is up for parole next month.
Monday, December 29
1. The historic Marshall Tavern may be rebuilt as a bed and breakfast inn. KWMR reporter George Clyde speaks with Daniel Altman about his plans. Carla Steinberg, a one-time Chef at the Marshall Tavern, tells about the Tavern's colorful history.
2. KWMR reporter George Clyde speaks with Captain Loren Edwards about the slow start to the Tomales Bay commercial herring fishing season.
Tuesday, December 23
1. KWMR reporter George Clyde speaks to Jack Leibster, Marin County's Principal Planner for Advanced Planning, about amendments to the local coastal plan.
Monday, December 22
1. Eric Brenner speaks with Jennifer Chapman, Fire Communication and Education Specialist for the National Park Service, about eucalyptus tree removal.
2. KWMR reporter George Clyde speaks with Albert Straus about the proposed new organic standards for dairies. See links on the Strauss Family Creamery web page.
Friday, December 19
1. A Bolinas man who was killed by San Anselmo Police has been identified.
2. KWMR reporter George Clyde speaks with Gulf Of The Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council Chairman Richard Charter about the threat of renewed offshore oil drilling near the Marin County coast.
Thursday, December 18
1. The Park Service begins shuttle bus service as whales and seals arrive at the Point Reyes National Seashore. KWMR speaks with Park Ranger Loretta Farley.
2. The 2008 Pt. Reyes Peninsula Christmas Bird Count is coming soon. KWMR speaks with organizer Tom Gaman.
3. The Food Pantry at the San Geronimo Valley Community Center is seeking donations.
Wednesday, December 17
1. Snow on Mt. Tam causes road closures. KWMR speaks with Park Ranger Tom Fraizer.
2. Inverness resident James Goodwin, a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, to attend the Presidential Inaugural as a guest of honor.
3. KWMR reporter George Clyde speaks with Gordon and Jeffra Hull of Point Reyes about their plans for a honey-wine making operation at the former Bar Orr Ranch in Point Reyes Station.
Tuesday, December 16
1. Arctic air brings rain, wind, and a six minute hail storm to West Marin. Fire Captain Joel Chandler tells KWMR about two automobile accidents that occurred near Tomales.
2. The Gulf Of The Farallones National Sanctuary Advisory Council hears recommendations about mooring and sewage facilities in Tomales Bay. Eric Brenner of KWMR speaks with Maria Brown, the Superintendent of the Marine Sanctuary.
3. Part two of KWMR's conversation with Assemblyman Jared Huffman.
Monday, December 15
1. The West Marin Report returns! Eric Brenner joins the KWMR team as News Producer.
2. A Lagunitas man, Matthew Edwards, is sentenced to state prison after being convicted of the possession and sale of drugs.
3. Assemblyman Jared Huffman comments on alternatives to the incarceration of non-violent drug offenders.
4. The Lagunitas School District rejects a $100,000 federal grant.
5. The Marin County amnesty program for unpermitted second units ends on 12/31/08.
6. KWMR volunteer reporter George Clyde joins Beach Watch members Gordon Bennett, Dominique Richard, and Kate Carolan for their monthly survey of Drake's Beach. For more information, see the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary’s Beach Watch Program web page.
7. Assemblyman Jared Huffman speaks with KWMR about California's troubled economy.
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Friday, August 8
1. KWMR Special Correspondent George Clyde sits down with Restaurateur Pat Kuleto and asks him how the first year since re-opening Nick's Cove and Cottages in Marshall has gone and what is coming in the future.
2. Correspondent Sandy Du Veen rides the West Marin Stage to find out if ridership is up due to high gas prices, and Muir Beach Correspondent Brenda Kohn adds information about public transit in the Muir Beach area.
3. This is the last show for this announcer and the West Marin report will be on a short hiatus until a new News Producer is found. Thank you for your comments and support.
Thursday, August 7
1. New details have emerged in the May shooting of a Hells Angels associate in Marin.
2. Kayaking Drake's Estero is an exercise in tranquility.
3. Tourists on bikes delay Marin's commuters to the City.
4. More locally produced food would be available from farmstands, under a bill working its way through the California legislature.
Wednesday, August 6
1. A search is underway in Costa Rica for a Marin man wanted in connection with two animal rights bombings of East Bay corporations.
2. The Coastal Health Alliance, which runs two West Marin clinics, is also reaching into its own pocket to make up for California budget shortfalls.
3. The Farallon Islands are seeing a record high number of brown Pelicans this year.
4. And, for the first time in seven years, winegrape prices are going up. Will you pay more for wine?
Tuesday, August 5
1. The Golden Hinde Inn and Marina in Inverness is undergoing a cosmetic spruceup, but has dropped plans to dredge the marina harbor. We spoke with owner Jeff Harriman.
2. The Coastal Watershed restoration Project Final Phase gets underway this week in the Point Reyes National Seashore. The project will improve fish passage for spawning runs of steelhead and coho.
3. Marin County Health Officials are looking at regulations that would ban the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies.
4. There will be a second unit amnesty meeting tonight at the Dance Palace in Point Reyes.
Monday, August 4
1. The Marin Agricultural Land Trust announces four new Board members. For info on MALT, visit www.malt.org.
2. The Stinson-Bolinas Community Fund announces recently awarded grants to community members and organizations.
3. Paper or paper? The Point Reyes Farmers market eliminates plastic bags.
4. A Marin man is denied bail a second time in a case of selling military aircraft parts to Iran.
Friday, August 1
1. West Marin's only pharmacy is caught between a rock and ahard place when it comes to Medi-Cal prescriptions. We interview owner Zsuzsanna Biran.
2. The Muir Beach Fire Department is not left out of the loop when it comes to assistance from the National Park Service.
3. California's State Auditor releases the second San Quentin report. See the full Auditor's report at htp://www.bsa.ca.gov
4. Today is the last day to submit public comments on the National Park Service's General Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement for the Golden Gate National Recreation Area's Muir Beach National Monument. Submit comments at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/goga. Then click on "General Management Plan-Golden Gate National Recreation Area", then "Open for Public Comment". Comments may also be mailed to: National Park Service, General Management Planning Team-GGNRA, Denver Service Center, 12795 West Alameda Parkway, Denver, CO 80225-0287.
Thursday, July 31
1. The Advisory Council for the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary accepts the recommendations of the Bolinas Lagoon Working Group. George Clyde interviews Bruce Bowser.
2. In the same session, The Advisory Council considers the Marine Life Protection Act Proposal.
3. And, Fishermen on the Council refuse to endorse the Marine Protected areas of the Integrated Preferred Plan. Brenda Kohn and George Clyde report and interview Superintendent of the Sanctuary Maria Brown and Fisherwoman Barbara Emley.
The approved Locally Preferred Plan for the Bolinas Lagoon can be downloaded from the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary website at Farallones.noaa.gov
Wednesday, July 30
1. Two deaths were reported in West Marin over the past weekend.
2. Bolinas, Nicasio and Inverness Fire Departments receive Rural Fire Assistance grants from the National Park service.
3.Two West Marin properties are on the Agenda for tomorrow's meeting of the Marin County Deputy Zoning Administrator.
4. A free Legal Clinic and Consultation are offered this afternoon at the Dance Palace. Appointments are necessary. Call 663-1075.
5. KWMR's News Producer issues apology for one-sided story July 24th regarding the US Department of the Interior's Investigation into Lunny family claims against the National Park Service.
Tuesday, July 29
Lyons Filmer and Gregory DeMascio produced today's program
1. The Working Group of Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council presents requests and recommendations for action regarding a vessel management for Tomales Bay. Sanctuary Superintendant Maria Brown speaks with Brenda Kohn.
2. The Texas 4000 Charity Bicycle Ride stops in Point Reyes Station on its way from Austin to Anchorage, to raise money for cancer research. Sandy Duveen talked with riders Brooke Ives and Kyle Schaefer, and videographer Michael Culotta.
Monday, July 28
Lyra Frederick and Jill Reploggle produced today's show.
1. Marin County might axe two elected positions that oversee County funds: Auditor/ Controller and Teasurer/Tax Collector. County Administrtor Matthew Hymel makes the argument, but not all agree.
2. George Clyde reports on Friday's "Something Septic" ccelebratin Marshall's new community septic system. Paul Elmore, Eastshore Planning Group president, gives some history. Supervisor Steve Kinsey is awarded a toilet plunger. The unusual solution to Marshall's waste treatment issues is a possible model for other Marin communities, as well as elsewhere in the state.
3.Advisory Council for the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuaries holds day-long session on several plans. Maria Brown speaks to KWMR's Brenda Kohn about the status of the Bolinas Lagoon REstoration Plan. More in Tuesday's West Marin Report.
Friday, July 25
Jill Reploggle and Lyra Frederick produced today's show.
1. Emergency response team wraps up 3-day simulation of oil spill in Bolinas Lagoon. Ralph Camiccia of Bolinas Fire Dept. and Fire Chief Anita Brown speak.
2. Details from Inspector General's report investigating National Park Service and Drakes Bay Oyster Company relations. Comment from NPS Regional Public Affairs Officer Holly Bundock, and National Parks Conservation Association's view from the Park's perspective.
Editors' note: The parties involved in this controversy each have their own conflicting interpretations of the Inspector General Report, some of which are included in our reports of July 24 and 25. To form your own conclusion, read the Inspector General's 54-page report at www.doioig.gov <http://www.doioig.gov/>
3. Advisory Council for Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary today hosts all-day session concerning the Bolinas Lagoon, the Tomales Bay Vessel Management Plan, and the Marine Life Protection Act proposals. West Marin Report will have stories early next week.
4. Amgen Tour of California bike race will have new route in spring 2009.
5. Don Smith of BPUD — Bolinas bike path from downtown to Big Mesa completed. Discovery of rare California red-legged frog affects second path completion. Thanks to Point Reyes Light for story details.
6. Kathy Runnion speaks about a walk for non-native deer in the Park to be held Sunday.
Thursday, July 24
1. In a breaking story, KWMR reports on Lunny family perspective on US Inspector Genera'sl report on investigation initiated by Kevin and Nancy Lunny, regarding National Park Service interactions with Drakes Bay Oyster Company.
Editors' note: The parties involved in this controversy each have their own conflicting interpretations of the Inspector General Report, some of which are included in our reports of July 24 and 25. To form your own conclusion, read the Inspector General's 54-page report at www.doioig.gov <http://www.doioig.gov/>
2. Your oak trees may not be dying, but reacting to drought conditions.
3. California may get 800,000 more acres of wilderness designation.
Wednesday, July 23
1. A 3-day simulated oil spill exercise gets under way in Bolinas Lagoon. Brenda Kohn reports.
2. Former Lagunitas School District Surperintendent Craig Lee gets sentenced in a child porn case. Jill Replogle has the story.
3. Lyra Frederick tells us about a new poll showing overwhelming support for a quarter cent sales tax increase that will fund parks and farmlands.
4. James Fox speaks with Aurora Mahassine about Restorative Justice practices. We continue with the report on Thursday.
Tuesday, July 22
1. An equestrian and a bicyclist mix it up on a West Marin trail. The horseback rider went to the hospital.
2. Local Assemblyman warns agaisnt what he calls an 'Illusory' Indian Casino deal.
3. An oil spill emergency training exercise gets underway today in Bolinas.
4. Water is on a lot of people's minds. From cilmate change to conservation to catchment, we've got the details here. SPAWN Catchment details:www.spawnusa.org/pages/page-205, or call 415-663-8590, ext. 102.
5. A free Legal clinic will be held tomorrow at The Dance Palace. Appontments are necessary. Call 415-663-1075 for one.
6. And someone's been rustling coffee in the Point Reyes Seashore...
Monday, July 21
1. The historic Grandi Building in Point Reyes will be converted into a hotel, but a bigger one than expected. KWMR Special Correspondent Jill Replogle reports.
2. Two Point Reyes men— “Planetwalker” John Francis and Jim Simon — are canoeing in Alaska to tackle climate change. KWMR's special correspondent Martin Burch, with the West Marin Citizen, contributes this report.
3. The oaks around you may not be dying. Leaves are changing early this year.
4. And, the Point Reyes Hazardous Fuels Crew has begun work on the Bolinas Ridge Fuelbreak.
Friday, July 18
1. Thirty rescue personnel took part in the rescue of a hiker on Mt. Tam late Wednesday and Thursday morning.
2. A program providing fresh wholesome food to West Marin students has ended. Lyra Frederick reports.
3. A workshop on Restorative Justice will be held this afternoon in Bolinas. Lyra Frederick on this one, too.
4. A meeting was held this week between youth and community elders in Stinson-Bolinas. Aurora Mahassine contributed this report.
5. A driver missed a turn in Inverness Park... Jill Replogle and Richard Dillman report.
6. Residents can take excess green waste for collection in Olema this weekend. Lyra with the details.
Thursday, July 17
1. Marin Prosecutors could seek 7 years to Life for Marin Headlands assault.
2. A Fairfax woman is named U.S. Poet Laureate.
3. The tax initiative to fund SMART makes te November ballot.
4. A motorcyclist injured in a West marin crash has been identified.
5. Marin has the lowest school dropout rate in the state.
6. New tools for early Earthquake warnings.
Wednesday, July 16
1. The Inverness Yacht Club hosted a youth sailing regatta Tuesday. George Clyde reports.
2. A Toxic mercury cleanup has been ordered for West marin.
3. A man who washed ashire last week in Stinson Beach died from drowning, not jumping.
4. Marin County Supervisors pledge $200,000. for farmworker housing.
5. A Mill Valley man has been arrested for attempted rape in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Tuesday, July 15
1. The Marin Agricultural Land Trust adds a jewel to the crown of preserved Ag lands in West Marin.
2. The McEvoy Ranch is proceeding with their windmill plans.
3. A woman with Marin roots is called the "Poster Child for Identity Theft" .
4. A California Inventory of State lands will be undertaken, if a new Assembly Bill passes.
5. There is a youth sailing Regatta on Tomales Bay today.
Monday, July 14
1. A motorcyclist takes on a truck in Marshall Sunday.
2. A small fire was quickly put out Saturday morning on the Marin/Sonoma border.
3. The Inverness Association held its annual meeting Saturday night. Residents expressed concern over two local issues.
4. Phase 2 of the Giacomini Wetlands restoration project gets underway this week.
5. Trash rates might go up a little bit in West Marin.
Friday, July 11
1. A Body was found Wednesday night at Stinson Beach.
2. Additional charges are filed in the Ricky Green Bolinas beating/stabbing case.
3. US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wants to re-name the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
4. A Bolinas man has been bound over for trial in the death and severe injury hit and run involving two motorcycles.
5. A popular Point Reyes restaurant changes hands.
6. Heat relief is in sight...
7. Solar Fest this Sunday at Dance Palace in Pt. Reyes.
Thursday, July 10
1. West Marin Ranchers in the Tomales Bay watershed will be inpacted by a decision made Tuesday at a Water Quality Control Board meeting in Oakland. KWMR correspondent Jill Replogle attended and filed a report.
2. A Bolinas man accused of hit and run and vehicular manslaughter had his preliminary hearing this week.
3. The Marin Agricultural Land Trust is sponsoring a tour next week of the Hog Island Oyster Company. Albert Straus of Straus Organic dairy will also make a presentation. reservations are required. This is a paid tour. Call 663-1158 or register at www.malt.org.
Wednesday, July 9
1. Two more arrests have been made in the Ricky Green Bolinas beating and stabbing case.
2. Lamont Elkins is arraigned in that case in Marin Superior Court. Lyra Frederick reports.
3. A suicide prevention barrier on the Golden gate Bridge could cost $50 million.
4. Spare The Air days continue, as we ride out a sweltering heat wave this week.
Tuesday, July 8
1. Local Firefighters are on loan across the state but Marin is well covered in the event of an emergency, Sandy Du Veen speaks with Fire Chief Ken Massucco.
2. California joins with other states today to push for 'healthier' health care.
3. California rangeland burned in recent fires will take years to recover.
4. A local Assemblyman is appointed to lead a powerful Committee, with West Marin repercussions.
5. Harbor porpoises are beaching themselves. Marine Mammal Center asks for the public's help. To report a stranding or dead porpoise, call 415-289-7325.
6. Today is another 'Spare The Air' day. What you can do to help.
Monday, July 7
1. A woman is assaulted in Point Reyes on Friday.
2. Man pleads guilty in fatal beating at Dillon Beach.
3. A Forest Knolls native son saves the day in College World Series Baseball.
4. The Fourth of July was a big bash all over West Marin. Jill replogle and Sandy Du Veen report.
5. The Coast Guard saves a kayaker off Bodega.
6. Today is a 'Spare The Air' day.
Friday, July 4
1. The fugitive suspect in the Ricky Green attempted murder case is arrested.
2. Who IS Ricky Green? We have some background information.
3. A listing of all the Fourth of July happeninings in West Marin.
4. The real meaning of the Fourth of July - a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Thursday, July 3
1. A Special report on big changes proposed for the greater Muir Beach area by Park Officials from the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Report by correspondent Branda Kohn. The General Management Plan can be accessed at the Park Service's website: parkplanning.nps.gov/goga
2. Fourth of July Events around West Marin.
Wednesday, July 2
1. A Town Meeting was held in Bolinas Monday night, to discuss the community's reaction to a severe beating and stabbing incident.
2. Tomales gets approval for its cell towers.
3. A West Marin newspapaer celebrates its first year and looks to the future.
Tuesday, July 1
1. If you're driving, put your cell phone down! A new law took effect today that could cost you if you don't use a hands-free device.
2. Golden Gate Transit fares went up today.
3. A famous food author with ties to West Marin gave a sold out talk at Toby's this weekend.
4. The US Supreme Court will hear a case wherein the Navy is challenging a ruling that protects marine mammals from high frequency sonar.
5. Californians are buying less gasoline, but it looks ilke the stimulus checks went into the tank.
6. In a rare mid-year move, the IRS allowable mileage rate deductions go up today.
7. And, finally, we continue our discussion of same gender marriage with a local couple for whom it is a reality.
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Monday, June 30
1. Two more arrested, four total charged in vicious Bolinas beating, stabbing.
2. Marin property owners are flocking to the County Assessor's office for tax relief.
3. Today is the last day for comment on whether or not people should be allowed to carry loaded guns in the National Parks. More info, see www.npca.org.
4. LGBT Pride Parade in San Francisco this weekend shines the light on same gender marriage. We speak with a local couple on that.
Friday, June 27
1. Novato man accused of selling military parts to Iran denied bail.
2. Bolinas stabbing victim taken off critical list while 2 remain in jail in attack.
NOTE: Bolinas Town Meeting Monday, June 30, 7pm,Community Center.
3. A Muir Beach drowning victim identified.
4. Building, Septic permits and more are going up at County.
5. Woodacre man gets 5 years for DUI injury accidnt.
6. Marin Institute works with 11 Attorneys General, others, to stop production of alcopop energy drinks.
7. California senate passes measure allowing auto insurers to spy on your driving habits.
Thursday, June 26
1. Police make 2 arrests in the beating and stabbing of a 23 year old Bolinas man.
2. A Novato man arrested in Florida recently denies charges of exporting sensitive military parts to Iran.
3. We continue coverage of this week's Planning Commission meeting regarding the Master Plan proposal for Lawson's Landing.
4. And them cattle trucks came a-rollin' into town at Midnight in Pt. Reyes, not knowin' where they was goin'.
Wednesday, June 25
1. The West Marin Report today consists of extended coverage of the Planning Commission hearing this week on the Master Plan, Coastal Permitand Tideland Permit for Lawson's landing, in Dillon Beach.
Tuesday, June 24
1. Where there's Fire, there's Smoke. Brenda Kohn explains.
2. Marin firefighters are all over Northern California helping put out the fires.
3. A free shuttle on weekends is about to get under way to Limantour Beach. Sandy Du Veen tells us about it. Find out more on the web at nps.gov/pore
4. Bolinas and Stinson schools may have to remove year old carpet.
5. The Olema Inn is expanding.
6. A Marin man is arrested in Florida and charged with selling military aircraft parts to Iran.
Monday, June 23
1. Some very interesting ideas on localizing West Marin's economy were presented at a seminar Thursday night. KWMR Special Reporter Jill Replogle has the story.
2. Summer is officially underway in West Marin, and the Farmers Market in Point Reyes is a sure sign of it. KWMR Special Reporter Martin Burch was there and got the inside scoop.
Friday, June 20
1. We have an update on the young girl who drowned at Papermill Creek Wednesday.
2. The Point Reyes Farmers Market opens Saturday.
3. The Sheriff's Office releases crime data for West Marin up to June 1.
4. Recent developments show there might not be a need to spray to eradicate the Light Brown Apple Moth.
5. The deadline is Sunday for written comments on the Bolinas Lagoon Restoration Feasibility Study.
Send your comments via e-mail to Sage.Tezak@noaa.gov
Thursday, June 19
1. A tragic accident in Papermill Creek.
2. The Marin Horse Council's Annual Summer Ride entry cutoff is today - call Marina at 488-0950 to enter.
3. Two fishy stories...
4. California League of Conservation Voters says this will be good election year for environment.
5. A forwrd-looking local network holds a presentation on building a living local economy at The Dance Palace tonight at 7pm.
6. A benefit tonight in Bolinas.
Wednesday, June 18
1. Marin Dairy farmer and beef rancher Dominic Grossi speaks with us about how the drought conditions are affecting his operation.
2. Same-sex marriages begin in Marin County.
3. A $100,000.00 warrant issued in a bizarre pot case.
4. Seniors can get assistance with Property Tax Rebates.
Call 415-459-6700 to schedule at Whistlestop San Rafael.
5. Take a Family Tour of the Straus Organic Dairy tomorrow.
Call MALT at 415-663-1158 today to arrange or www.malt.org.
Tuesday, June 17
1. Telecommunications in west Marin may get better, with a proposed cell tower in Tomales. Zoning meeting Thurs. June 26 at 9:00am. Call 415-499-6269 for agenda and item time.
2. A Bolinas-based newspaper is in hot water with the Anti-Defamation League.
3. West Marin Ranchers are facing strenuous conditions this year.
4. Flood Control Zone 5 Advisory Board to discuss Bolinas Lagoon Restoration project at meeting Wed. June 18 at Stinson Beach Community Center. Call 415-507-2941 for info.
Monday, June 16
1. Third large Marin fire in two days breaks out in Nicasio.
2. 2000 pounds oil collected Friday at Rodeo Beach.
3.Thousands of Marin homeowners are expected to qualify for reduced property taxes. June 30 deadline. Joan Thayer, County Assessor - (415) 499-7215
4. Fundraising breakfast in Stinson Beach for Volunteer Fire Department.
5. Vacancy on Bolinas Lagoon Technical Advisory Committee. Deadline June 17, 5pm. Call (415) 499-7331 to apply, or go to www.co.marin.ca.us. Type 'Commissions' in search box.
Friday, June 13
1. An expanded report on the new Grazing Permit Waivers for ranchers in the Tomales Bay watershed.
2. Marin Municipal Water District officials tell the public that herbicide it plans to spray on Mt. Tam is safe.
3. Warm weather this weekend brings with it inceased fire danger.
Thursday, June 12
1. Marin County Board of Supervisors declare a drought emergency.
2. The California Fish and Game Commission heard proposal to set up new Marine Protected Areas.
3. SF Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board outlines proposals and takes comments on new grazing permit waivers for West Marin ranchers.
4. Today is a 'Spare The Air' day in the Bay Area.
Wednesday, June 11
1. A meeting in Sacramento today on the Marine Life Protection Act affects local fishermen in a big way. We speak to Josh Churchman of Bolinas.
2. Another meeting in Pt. reyes tonight affects ranchers' grazing operations.
3. MALT awards Stewardship assistance grants to 6 area ranches and farms.
4. Marin Municipal Water District presents their Vegetation Management Plan at yet another meeting tonight.
5. Marin County Zoning officials consider three local property development requests tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 10
1. Preview of meeting Wednesday to take input on new ranch water quality regulations.
2. Another meeting Wednesday in Stinson Beach about restoration of Bolinas Lagoon.
3. And finally, another meeting Wednesday in Sacramento on the proposals for the Marine Life Protection Act proposals that will affect waters off West Marin.
Hear this meeting on the Web at: www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings.asp
Monday, June 9
1. It was a wild and wooly Western Weekend in Pt. Reyes.
2. The 98th running of the Dipsea Race nets a new winner.
3. The first Marin town to tackle Community Choice Aggregation for electric power gets in a fight with PG&E.
Friday, June 6
1. Democratic 3rd District Senate Candidate Mark Leno lays out his legislative agenda.
2. The Marshall Boatworks suffers wind damage
3. A Perfect Storm of environmental meetings take place next week.
Thursday, June 5
1. Mark Leno reflects on his landslide victory in the third Senate District Democratic Primary, and results of local election issues.
2. Solar Power is heating up in West Marin, here's an update.
3. The 98th running of the Dipsea Race is this coming Sunday.
4. And cheese is in the news...
Wednesday, June 4
1. West Marin voters go to the polls in a slow but steady turnout.
2. Local men hope to take urban artists to Palestine for message of hope and peace.
Herb Kutchins and David Miller want to have Mission District muralists teach
Palestinian youths wall art.
3. Local Historian Dewey Livingston plans walking historical tour of Pt. Reyes Saturday.
Tuesday June 3
1. The West Marin School Gym and Community Cener gets a better bill of health for air
quality, though there is still room for improvement. Steve Costa geives us some
information.
2. The California Primary Election is today, and some local issues are presented, and we
present the State 3rd Senate District Democratic candidates' positions on some
issues.
3. A Marin-based Wildlife organization looks to the public for voluneer help.
Monday, June 2
1. Suspects arrested in Hell's Angel freeway slaying.
2. Low turnout expected for Tuesday's California Primary Election.
3. Limantour Beach cleanup held over the weekend. Gary Testa and Fred Smith explain/
4.Western Weekend gets underway early.
5. Goodbye to an old friend - Andrew Shaw departs KWMR.
(June 3 back to May 8 are temporarily not available; they will be restored asap.)
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Friday, May 9
1. Light brown apple moth found in the city of Sonoma. The state of California responded by establishing a 15-square-mile quarantine Monday, the latest in a series of similar actions against a the exotic pest. Vinyard owners were the subject this time, along with other nurseries inside the 15 mile radius - businesses will undergo inspections and treatments.
Senator Migden commended the Sonoma City Council for voting 4-1 last night to oppose the California Dept. of Food and Agriculture’s plan to spray the greater Bay Area in an attempt to eradicate the Light Brown Apple Moth. The City of Sonoma became the first Sonoma County local government to pass a no-spray resolution.
2. Marin County may place a new tax proposal on the November ballot: that quarter-cent sales tax would amass some $10 million per year for County parks and open space. Funds would be used for maintanence projects, acquiring open space, preserving farmland and wildland fire protection.
But Supervisors proposing the tax and a key environmental group seem set for ideological clash on the matter: Local Sierra Club head Gordon Bennett say he personally opposes the tax, "if supervisors don't support the Point Reyes National Seashore's restoration efforts." at Drakes Estero.
Thursday, May 8
1. Water conservation measures are under consideration this week in Sonoma County, where the Water Agency will likely increased costs for customers: North Marin Water District is among those groups.
A hand full of other water agencies depend on water drawn from the Russian River. That water is likely to be restricted as water scarcity has been looming since last year, in spite of what districts call adequate rainfalls.
2. The County of Marin says cleanup costs in the aftermath of the Cosco Busan oils spill totaled $600,000. The bill was issued to Regal Stone ltd., the parent company responsible for the vessel. This week, County supervisors recieved a grant from the state department of fish and game for training and equipment to protect bolinas lagoon from the oil spills.
3. Also Tuesday, County supervisors reviewed proposed changes to the Septic System Code and regulations associated with technical advances in the field of onsite wastewater disposal.
4. Supervisors also reviewed a land purchas agreement transfering 117 acres of ridgline adjascent to the French Ranch Open Space Preserve.
Wednesday, May 7
Immigration Dialogue at West Marin School held Tuesday: Immigration Enforcement actions on year ago resulted in numerous arrests, confusion and outrage. Those actions continue throughout the State, and here in Marin. Advocates say the canal area of san rafael is the main focus of recent raids.
Federal raids of immigrant communities around the Bay Area took place after May first labor demonsrations. Immigration and Customes enforcement (or ICE) agents arrested 63 people -- workers associated with 11 restaurants.
Tuesday, May 6
1. Emergency officials responded to an injury accident north of Bodega Bay, Sunday at Schoolhouse Beach.
2. The Stinson Beach Village Association met over the weekend to review survey results in an update of the town's general plan. As the new plan develops it will offer the VA a set of priorities to push for the coming years. Survey results were presented Saturday, highlight the towns resources, demographics, strengths and weaknesses.
That project is headed up by UC Berkeley professor, Dr. David Dowall, an expert in development policy, land economics, and he's the head of Cal's Institute of Urban and Regional Development.
Monday, May 5
1.Salmon fishery failure declaration opens door for relief funds.
<http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/mediacenter/docs/disaster_declaration_2008_FINAL.pdf>
2. Petaluma man arrested in Dillon Beach rape allegation.
3. Experts say probability of a magnitude 6.7 or larger earthquake over the next 30 years striking the San Francisco Bay Area is 63%.
For northern California the most likely source of such earthquakes is the Hayward-Rodgers Creek Fault (31% in the next 30 years). READ THE FULL REPORT.
The Northern California Geological Society will be visiting the Point Reyes National Seashore this weekend after visiting Point Lobos State Park south of Monterey. Kathleen burnham is the researcher leading the trip. She says, though the parks are separated by a great distance, they are closely related.
Friday, May 2
1. As school graduations approach, student success was on the minds of latino parents meeting last night at Tomales High School.
Counselor at the schools Steffan O'Neil heads a group focussed on English language acquisition, an avenue of suport for spanish speakers, bilingual students and parents at the school. These are regluar meetings to plan events and address parent concerns, but last night the group heard a presentation from Dr. Marisol Munos, a clinical psychologist specializing in child development, families and parenting for latinos.
Thursday, May 1
1. Two pieces of land lying just outside the National Seashore are priority purchases for the National Park Service.
The National Parks Conservation Association is prepared to allot more than $6 million towards the acquisitions to prevent development in the area. That money would come through Congress from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF): established with a series of fees from companies conducting offshore oil and gas drilling in U.S..
2. The Governor of California made emergency budget adjustments after declaring a fiscal emergency in January, but his estimate of the projected budget deficit has increased substantially. ^th District Assenblyman Jared Huffman says updated figures won't be out until mid month, he's concerned that an impass, and deep cuts to State programs seem inevitable, and may be worse than initially expected.
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Wednesday, April 30
1. Tax Board reports Marin County still has the highest median income: $116,626 for 2006 joint tax returns.
2. Water rate increases considered at IPUD and MMWD.
3. The Bolinas-Stinson Union School District Board met in regular session yesterday to consider a contentious personnel evaluation.
4. Seaflow Director Robert Ovetz, Ph.D. to lead a Vessel Watch program, monitoring ocean noise and shipping traffic through Marine Sancuaries.
Tuesday, April 29
The County Planning Commission met yesterday in regular session to consider proposed changes a the Redwood Landfill. Commissioners are looking to finalize environmental study of improvement plans that critics say would extend environmental impacts.
Monday, April 28
1. Inverness Association Directors concerned about deer eradication at Nat. Seashore.
2. The Marin Conservation League held their annual awards ceremony over the weekend, honoring the contributions of area Environmental Champions. Among the winners at this 74th Annual event were The Marin Farmers Market, the Salmon Protection and Watershed Network (SPAWN), and The Sustainability Team of Marin County’s Community Development Agency.
Friday, April 25
1. Judge haults moth eradication plans in Santa Cruze; Governor agrees to postpone similar actions in the Bay Area after meeting with Senator Migden and Marin County officials.
The Muir Beach Community Service District passed Resolution No. 2008-1 Wednesday, opposing the California Department of Food and Agriculture Aerial Spray Program to Eradicate the Light Brown Apple Moth, by unanimous vote of the 4 present members.
2. Controversy over the future of aquaculture in the Point Reyes National Seashore has prompted the National Park Service to contract with the National Academy of Science for additional study of the ecology of Drake's Estero.
The National Research Council will conduct a study of existing science on the effects and management implications of commercial mariculture in Drakes Estero. Chief Regional Scientist (NPS) Dr. David Graber says the study should illuminate current disagreements.
Thursday, April 24
1. New protections for ocean waters off California’s northern coast move ahead.
2. A 10% budget cut to the California Coastal Commission could create additional problems for the agency. The CCC is currently under staffed and has a long backlog of cases. Sonoma County's Coastwalk is calling for additional support for the commission.
Wednesday, April 23
1. Supervisors consider renewable energy, status of the Lawsons Landing Master Plan, and an extension of the current beach camping ban in Bolinas.
2. CA Fish and Game department meets in San Rafael to reveiw expanded marine protections off the Marin county coast. A blue ribbon taskforce considers implementation of the Marine Life Protection Act: Dr. Astrid Scholz (MLPA Master Plan Science Advisory Team) discusses possilbe socio-economic impacts on commercial and recreational fishing.
Tuesday, April 22
1. The last in a series of public hearings is now taking place for wood-stove users to address an upcoming ban on wood burning during times of heavy air pollution. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is moving to ban wood fires during special climatic conditions when pollution is most problematic for human health.
2. Domestic raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement continue in some Marin neighborhoods. Focused primarily on the canal area of San Rafael, raids continue on an ongoing basis, but tactics have shifted since previous actions provoked massive public outcry. A training program for service providers focus on emergency situations related to immigration enforcement actions. Lourdes Romo and Marisol Salgado, student and family advocates for Shoreline School Readiness discuss the training.
Monday, April 21
As local fishermen head to the shores of Tomales Bay in search of surf perch, public hearings continue in the formation of protections aimed at conserving ocean resources: Representatives with the CA Department of Fish and Game will assemble to formulate the marine life protection network, under the CA marin life protection act.
Protected areas will include state marine reserves, state marine parks and state marine conservation areas. Tuesday both the regional stakeholders group, and a blue ribbon taskforce will meet in San Rafael.
Jessica Luo of the Point Reyes National Seashore Association is one of the organizers of a new campaign to raise awareness about dwindling fish stocks in the ocean world-wide.
Lou says that if the long-term trend continues, all wild caught fish and seafood species are projected to collapse within the next 50 years.
Friday, April 18
1. Two bills opposing the state of California's pest eradication plans passed the Assembly Agriculture Committee yesterday.
The California Department of Food and Agriculture is planning aerial application of a synthetic pheramore that would disrupt the matting habbits of the light brown applemoth. The Governor insists on the safety of the plan, which was passed in emergency measure without typical study because the insect may threaten $32 billion worth of california's agriculture industry.
Four bills in total and one resolution were considered at the state capital Wednesday, two passed the committee. One of those bills, AB2765 by Assemblyman Jared Huffman, D-San Rafael, requires public hearing before pest eradication plans are confirmed.
2. Vegetation mangers with MMWD say invasive plants and climate change are damaging watershed lands and increasing demands on the districts budget. Vegetation ecologist Janet Kline says some plants are claiming large tracts of land, edging out native species, changing the landscape, and increasing the risk of wildfire.
MMWD hosted a wide range of experts at a scientific symposium last week to consider the changing needs of the Mt. Tamalpais watershed. The district is revamping an out-dated vegetation management plan in an effort to better control the spread of invasive species.
Thursday, April 17
1. Marin democrats vote for delegates in the 6th district for the presidential campaign. While the State of California as a whole opted for Hillary Clinton, the 6th district preferred Barak Obama. Those primary results landed each candiate three delegates each.
Individuals were elected over the weekend for both campaigns, delegates will head to the 2008 democratic National Convention in Denver in August.
Among those elected were Inverness writer and media critic Norman Solomon who joined Barack Obama's campaign. Solomon says he will use the position to push for progressive values in the presidential election. We spoke Tuesday.
2. Also, continued coverage of last weeks symposium on the ecology of the Mt. Tamalpais watershed. Today Brannan Ketchum of Point Reyes National Seashore says watershed managers may have a key role yet to play in rescuing native salmon populations from recent declines.
Wednesday, April 16
1. The Tomales Bay Watershed Council calls for more civil public dialogue in controversy between Drake's Bay Oyster Company and the National Park Service.
2. Marin Municipal Water District persues high-tech vegetation mapping on watershed lands
Tuesday, April 15
1. The Tomales Bay Watershed Council meets today at the red barn classroom, National Seashore Headquarters. County Supervisors also hold a regular meeting at the county Civic Center: they will consider naming the Point Reyes playground "Toby's Community Playground" honoring Toby Giacomini.
2. At a regular meeting Thursday, the Shoreline Unified School District trustees will discuss environmental health and public safety conditions inside the West Marin School gym.
Concerns have been mounting for months among gym users as public events held at the gym continue to be hampered by heavy chemical fumes inside.
Conditions in the gym lead to a list of personal complaints, which reached a zenith in March at the Wallace Stegner literary conference. Interest in the matter prompted school district authorities to enlist the help of Dominion Environmental LLC., an environmental consulting firm which looked into health and safety at the gym.
A letter written by Philip Fradkin to district superintendent Steven Rosenthal called for the release of details in the environmental study of the gym because it "belongs not only to the school district, but it is a taxpayer and a community facility... backed by our votes for the bond issue that financed its construction."
3. Watershed Managers with MMWD host Ellie Cohen of PRBO Conservations Science for Keynote address at watershed sympsosium.
Monday, April 14
Researchers convened in Mill Valley Friday in a workshop hosted by the Marin Municipal Water District. They're developing a new vegetation management plan to address changes on distric lands. That plan may not be completed for years to come, but could cut out an existing ban on the use of herbicides.
That's because water district managers say invasive plants, the constant risk of wildfire, and now climate change are threatening the health of Mt. Tamalpais.
Friday's scientific symposium included a broad range of presentations on the biological activity of Mt. Tam, begining with a presentation from Ellie Cohen, E.D. of PRBO Conservation Science. Other subjects included sudden oak death, wild fire risks and protection measures, and native plant ecology, just to name a few.
Friday, April 11
Thursday, April 10
After a wet winter, California pastures and rangelands are drying rapidly in the abscence of Spring rains. Rangeland specialists say dry weather impacts the nutritional value of pasture.
Long-range weather forecasts indicate rainfall will stay below average. Ranchers will soon face decisions about whether to sell their cattle or provide supplemental feed.
Steve Doughty of Point Reyes Vinyards, and RCD Director Hank Corda discuss the impact of dry weather on local productions.
Wednesday, April 9
Working towards greener Parks: Restoration Ecologist with the National Seashore, Bonnie Simpson says park staff are riding bikes, carpooling, running electric and hybrid automobiles in an effort to reduce green house gas emmissions from with the National Park system. A visitor shuttle to Limantour Beach may be in the works, but emissions from auto traffic is not the main contributor to climate change from within the seashore. Cows produce the bulk of warming gasses emmitted from park property, other efforts are underway to capture and reuse bovine methane.
Tuesday, April 8
Planning for a low-carbon future: residents meet at the Point Reyes Dance Palace to plan for resource scarcity. At the third in a series of public meetings the West Marin Localization Network continues to survey needs in the area, like access to food, water, and renewable energy.
Monday, April 7
1. Cash in your old wood burning stoves: rebates from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District promote gas fire places as new pollution rules form.
2. A ordinance banning weekend camping on Bolinas Beach may be extended into 2013: Supervisors say the ban has improved public health problems and rowdiness in the area, while allowing some overnight access for locals during the week.
Friday, April 4
1. Supervisors to consider extending camping ban for Bolinas Beach until 2013.
2. County open space department recieves $65,000 in donations from Seadrift Homeowners Association and Bolinas Lagoon Foundation for restoration feasability study.
3. Public hearing set for Summit Drive Land Division and Development Plan: San Geronimo Valley Planning Group opposes plans for three new single-family homes.
4. CA Coastal Commission to hear building and design review of Inverness lot.
Thursday, April 3
West Marin Senior Services concludes ten-week training series for area care givers. The final class focused on Neuropsychology in Geriatric care with guest presenter A. Michael Wolfe PhD. Dr. Wolfe joins Senior Services Program Director Pam Osborne, a registered nurse and course participant Jeff Skeldon to discuss the training course, and the work of care givers.
Wednesday, April 2
1. PG&E offers pay outs to residential customers affected by winter storm related power outages in january.
2. Migden, Leno and Nation to face off in public forum.
3. Watershed managers and stakeholders meet Friday with State and local officials to discuss energy, water, and the role of climate change in area watersheds.
Tuesday, April 1
Marine Sanctuary Expansion Bill passes House of Representatives Monday morning. Congreswoman Lynn Woolsey discusses her bill H.R.1187, which would expand the boundaries of the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary and the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary along the Marin, Sonoma, and southern Mendocino coast.
Woolsey's bill would ban oil exploration and production off the coastline, but Cordell Bank Marine Sanctuary superitendant Dan Howard says the effort also promotes ecosystem-based management within the sanctuaries.
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Monday, March 31
California State Parks Foundation introduces "Save Our State Parks" Campaign. Local and statewide organizations ban together to fight the Governor's proposed closure of 48 state parks. In partnership with organizations, businesses, local governments and individuals throughout the state, representing hundreds of thousands of Californians, CSPF is leading the SOS Parks campaign.
Friday, March 28
1. Enviromental writer Bill McKibben discusses his latest book, "Deep Economy" with KWMR's Claire Peasley, at the PR Dance Palace.
2. Earth Hour and Global blackout: Muir Beach residents turn off electrical gadgets for one hour. Tayeko Kaufman discusses the gathering at Little Beach in Muir Beach Sat. starting at 7:45pm to join in the lights out around the world event.
The World Wildlife Fund’s Earth Hour movement began in Sydney last year when 2.2 million residents and 2100 businesses switched off all lights and electrical applicances for one hour. WWF says this reduced overall electricity consumption by 10.2%, the equivalent of taking 48,000 cars off the road for one hour. This year 30 million people are expected to be involved and well over 6,000 businesses. This year San Francisco is a sponsoring city.
3. Juanita Brown: Tomales! ¡Tamales! A Cross-Cultural Dinner, Dance, and benefit for Tomales Town Hall.
Thursday, March 27
1. Stewart Horse Camp to continue administering the campground and equestrian facility with National Seashore in Olema Valley.
2. Candidates report financial figures in the contest to represent the 3rd state Senate district, Marin, southern Sonoma County and part of San Francisco.
3. MMWD to hold Biodiversity Symposium to Discuss Challenges Facing Mt. Tamalpais Watershed.
4. Abalone fishing season to open April 1; Department of Fish and Game announces
New tagging requirement
5. Open space in the San Geronimo Valley will be feted: Friends of the Valley, host the celebration "Amazing People and Landmark Decisions." honoring the 25th anniversary of the approval of the Hendricks-Horne plan that led to the creation of the Gary Giacomini Open Space Preserve.
Wednesday, March 26
Report calls for investigation of the "achievment gap" in Marin's public schools - the focus of a new county-wide initiative on Race and Class. The Education Equity Initiative includes an overview of how race and class affect education for children of color and the poor.
In 2007, the California Department of Education found that 19% of Marin students are socio-economically disadvantaged. A disproportionate number of African American and Latino youth in Marin are in the juvenile justice system – race matters play a key role in establishing a long standing "Achievement Gap" between students of different backgrounds.
Tuesday, March 25
1. Mauro Iaconi of Bolinas suspected in fatal collision outside Stinson Beach last week. Laconi allegedly drove into two motorcyclists - he's been charged with vehicular manslaughter.
2. Legislation allowing non-profit groups to retain volunteers for public works projects set to expire this year.
The original law was authored by Assemblywoman Loni Hancock, D-Berkeley, as a way around CA labor codes mandating a minimum financial compensation for workers involved in certain public works projects.
MMWD, local watershed groups, the National Park Service, Resource Conservation Districts, and the Marin Conservation Corps., all rely heavily on volunteers for restoration projects.
3. A joint restoration project for Redwood Creek in Muir Beach found support from the county Planning Commission yesterday. Improvements are imminent for wildlife and residents alike: commissions approval of the environmental documents pushed the project one step closer to its initiation.
Monday, March 24
CA State Senator Carole Migden joined Albert Straus and a consumer watchdog in Roint Reyes Friday to announce the arrival of cloned foods in the general markets, and new legislation to have them clearly labeled.
SB 1121 is Migden’s second attempt to get cloned foods labeling approved. Migden’s first piece of legislation, SB 63 was vetoed by Gov. Schwarzenegger. Elisa Odabashian of the Consumers Union says that 13 states and New York City have introduces anti-cloning legislation.
Friday, March 21
Town Hall workshop set for Monday on Tax resistance in a time of war. Susan Quinlan, of Northern California War Tax Resistance discusses the history of tax resistence in America. Other topics to be covered at the workshop include:
-refusing to pay all or part of federal taxes
-living below the level of taxable income
-phone tax resistance
-redirecting resisted taxes to local alternative funds and/or community organizations
-local support networks for war tax resisters
Thursday, March 20
1. The Marin County Public Works Department is planing to repair a 5.4 mile section of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard between Shafter Bridge and Platform Bridge Road. They're holding a public meeting at the Point Reyes National Seashore's Red Barn Classroom this Saturday, 9:30 AM.
2. On the first day of spring, Co-author Wilma Follette discusses the recent publication of a new and revised version of MARIN FLORA, from the CA Native Plant Society.
Wednesday, March 19
1. Law enforcement officers are looking for a Bolinas man who fled the scene of a fatal auto accident on panoramic highway Tuesday night. A truck apparently crossed the yellow lane dividers, just outside of stinson beach, killing a corte Madera motorcyclist and critically injuring another.
2. Senator Carol Migden has been targeted by a political watchdog group for a list of illegal financial transactions.
The California Fair Political Practices Commission fined the senator $350,000.
3. Cosco busan pilot John Joseph Cota of Petaluma is facing criminal violation of environmental laws. He was charged Monday for "negligently causing the discharge of oil in such quantities as may be harmful from a vessel... into and upon the navigable waters of the United States without a permit."
4. Assemblyman Jared Huffman joined other law makers in Sacramento recently to take on big oil companies with legislation. California is facing billions of dollars in cuts to schools, meanwhile Huffman says, oil companies basking in record profits. The assemblyman aimed to skim some of those profits off the top for Californians. California is the only oil producing state in the nation that does not tax oil that is owned, leased, or extracted within its boundaries.
5. A series of demonstrations has been set this week, observing the fifth aniversary of the Iraq war. Protesters will gather today at corner of Hwy1 & Shoreline (front of bank in Point Reyes Station) - Wednesday, Mar. 19, 2008, at 6:30 PM - Other events in the area will be held at Old Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman St, Novato at 5:30 PM -- In front of the Rino Station at Sir Francis Drake Blvd. & Claus Dr., Fairfax at 6:00 PM -- also at Washington St. & Petaluma Blvd., Petaluma at 5:00 PM—(in front of the BofA), Petaluma at 6:30 PM.
Tuesday, March 18
Unfavorable Ocean Conditions a Likely Cause of Low Salmon Returns Along West Coast in 2007.
Bill Sydeman, President of the Farallon Institute for Advanced Ecosystem Research says unusual atmospheric conditions in the Pacific Ocean may be partly to blame for low slow biological activity along the West Coast last year.
According to Bill Peterson of NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Centers, low food production offered young salmon returning to the ocean little to eat after leaving their natal streams.
Monday, March 17
1. Domestic Violence on the rise throughout Marin: County District Attorney says number of cases has increased over the past six years - 2,200 reports were filed, a thirty four percent increase.
2. Supervisors meet again Tuesday: they seem likely to authorize a letter calling on the State Governor to consider alternatives to proposed aerial spraying to eradicate a moth that the State considers an agricultural pest. Read the letter calling for "Alternatives to Aerial Spraying to Address the Light Brown Apple Moth."
Supervisors are also likely to take up a request from a property owner looking to transfer a piece of the county's ag land to a "farmland security zone." The FSZ program applies to ag land protected by the Williamson Act, the owner typically sees a 35 percent discount on their property tax bill by agreeing to restrict the use of their land to agricultural and compatible uses. A public hearing will be held on the matter.
3.Sonoma County residents turned out in force last week to ask that to State Parks in the area be kept open. A protest was held in guernville to keep the gates of Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve and Austin Creek Recreation Area open in the face of proposed closure due to budget cuts.
Supervisor Mike Reilly, represending western Sonoma says he has every intention of keeping the parks open.
4. Point Reyes National seashore continues its work with the federally-threatened Western Snowy Plover - according to park biologists, that small birds nesting season is now underway on area beaches.
Friday, March 14
1. Senator Migden hosts committee hearing to discuss health and environmental ramifications of LBAM eradication proposals.
2. NOAA Completes U.S. Tsunami Warning System: network of 39 deep-water activity sensors relay emergency information should a tsunami impact pacific coast.
3. Plans to expand National Marine Sanctuary supported unanimously by the House sub comittee on Natural Resources. Administered by Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank sanctuaries - boundary expansions could include parts of Marin, Sonoma and Mendocino county shorelines.
Rep. Lynn Woolsey, co-sponsored the bill, which is supported by a broad range of commercial fishing interests, state and local county governments. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, California Sens. Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein are also working on Senate versions of the measure.
4. Sonoma county's coastal voters are preparing for a busy election season. Eight candidates registered this week to succeed Mike Reilly as Sonoma County supervisor in district 5 - coastal Sonoma.A run-off seems likely in November, as competition for a majority of votes will be tight.
Thursday, March 13
1. Director of Marin County's Community Development Agency, Alex Hinds announces plans to retire.
2. Straus Family Creamery in Marshall takes up new efforts to keep genetically modified organisms out of organic cattle feeds.
3. Fisheries managers meet the public this week to set up salmon fishing seasons this year - scientists with the CA. Department of Fish and Game say salmon populations have hit a 30 year low.
Wednesday, March 12
1. The California State Parks Foundation (CSPF) will fund 22 environmental improvement projects at parks statewide as part of the 11th annual Earth Day Restoration & Cleanup. On Saturday, April 19th, volunteers of all ages are needed to help restore the beauty of Mt. Tamalpais State Park and Samuel P. Taylor State Park
2. San Geronimo Valley Diversity Group addresses race issues, hosts movie series.
Tuesday, March 11
1. Paramedics responded to the scene of a high-speed crash between two motorcycles and a pickup truck at about noon Sunday. Tomales volunteers and USCG fire units found the accident at Alexander Rd. and Pt. Reyes-Petaluma Rd near county line. One of the riders was airlifted with major injuries to a Santa Rosa hospital trauma center.
2. Several hundred fans from around the country attended a literary conference this past week end in Pt. Reyes Station to celebrate the life and works of author and conservationist Wallace Stegner. Stegner died in 1993 and would have celebrated his 99th birthday this year.
The conference, Geography of Hope, was the brainchild of locals Steve Costa, Chair of the Tomales Bay Library Association and owner of Pt. Reyes Books, Robert Hass, 2-term U.S. Poet Laureate and recent National Book Award winner, and Philip Fradkin, environmental historian and author of a recently published biography of Wallace Stegner.
Monday, March 10
Marin Women's Commission continues work in the area: setting up domestic violence prevention, creating access to confidedtial healthcare for teens/young adults, and connecting generations of women.
Established to address discrimination, the commission will offer county supervisors their comprehensive needs assessment later this year. Kate Caine discusses the results of two recent townhall meetings.
Friday, March 7
1. Celebrating the life and work of Wallace Stegner: Writers conference begins today in Point Reyes. Stegner was a writer, conservation advocate, and taught other well known conservationists like Edward Abbey, Wendell Berry, and Ken Kesey. Stegner died in 1993 after wining a Pulitzer Prize and the National Book award.
2. CA Judge says homeschooling parents need teaching credential. The ruling gives the State of California legal right to file criminal complaints against uncredentialled teachers.
3. Senator Feinstein and Barbara Boxer have reintroduced legislation to extend protection of the coastal waters and estuaries along the coast of Marin, Sonoma, and part of Mendocino counties. Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey.
Thursday, March 6
1. West Marin Alliance is helping locals identify ways to secure the most basic of lifes necesities - like food and water. Faced with the prospect of fuel scarsity and escalating costs, organizers are banding together to discuss self sufficiency and how West Marin will look in the distant future.
2. Property owners may need to purchase flood insurance for the first time, as Federal Emergency officials redraw flood zone area in the county. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has been working with the county Department of Public Works to update maps of flood prone areas.
Wednesday, March 5
1. Flood prone homes to be included in updated FEMA maps. The Map Modernization Program will bring changes to Special Flood Hazard Areas in unincorporated Marin.
2. Disaster Council, Red Cross host Learn Emergency Shelter Management training
3. Sheriff's Search and Rescue find lost 64-year-old hiker Carol Patel in good condition near Alpine Lake.
4. Bolinas Musician Buddy Craig died Friday.
5. Supervisors approve continued grant funding from the State Dept. of Fish and Game for Fishnet 4C, watershed restoration and other projects.
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Tuesday, February 27
1. Growing demand for weekend service has prompted schedule changes to West Marin Stagecoach bus service to take effect Sunday, March 9th.
2. Trustees with the Bolinas-Stinson Union School District visit Sacramento lawmakers to push for Marin County Children and Schools.
While in the State Capitol, small group advocacy sessions connect trustees with consultants or policy experts like Senator Carole Migden, Education Secretary Long, and Assemblymember Jared Huffman. Committee member and Board Trustee Tom Willard says the state's budget problems will likely impact county schools.
Monday, February 25
Voters in Muir Beach overwhelmingly approved Measure B in the Feb. 5 Ballot Election. The Measure will levy a $200 per parcel tax on all property in Muir Beach. KWMR News recently spoke with members of the Muir Beach Volunteer Fire Association and with the Muir Beach Fire Chief about how the money will be used, why the Fire Association determined it was in the best interest of the residents of Muir Beach to assess the tax.
Friday, February 22
BCPUD Directors call for improved communication with Pacific Gas and Electric during power outages. Coordination efforts underway with Bolinas Fire and ultility managers. Fire Chiefs say local repair crews paired down as P.G. and E. business expands.
Thursday, February 21
1. The North Marin Water District reports 250 gallon sewage spill in Oceana Marin temporarily closing Dillon Beach.
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency selects Ralph Grossi of Novato to serve on First-Ever Agricultural Advisory Committee - the committee, advising the administrator on environmental policy issues impacting farms, ranches, and rural communities.
The committee is charged with advancing sustainable agriculture, protecting the environment, and addressing communication between environmental and agricultural interests.
3. Sen. Carole Migden introduces Resolution this week calling for a moratorium on plans to conduct aerial spraying Marin County as part of California’s eradication campaign for the light brown apple moth.
Agricultural leaders with the state of California are recommending widespread application of chemical attractants in order to prevent the light brown apple moth from establishing itself on this continent. Migden’s resolution would set up a moratorium on the action.
4. The Shoreline Unified School District trustees meet again today at the West Marin School. Closed session begins at 6pm followed by regular session at 7:00 PM. A number of staff in the district will have their hours reduced in a workload reduction program. There will also be a report from the Papermill Creek Preschool. And a portion of the Superintendent's report tonight will focus on the Tyris proposal for a cell tower.
Wednesday, February 20
1. Joshua Smith, 24 of Kentfield severly injured in motorcycle accident outside Bodega Bay Sunday.
2. People with disabilities, seniors rally in Sacramento to protest budget cuts to In Home Support Services. Herb Meyer discusses the possible impact of proposed cuts to IHSS Public Authority of Marin.
3. Former Fairfax Mayor Frank Egger announces upcoming Town Hall Meeting: a campaign to stop State efforts to combat spread of the light brown apple moth.
Tuesday, February 19
1. Tour of California racers too fast for Stinson Beach? Crowds gather to watch the race on busy holiday weekend. Fire Chief Ken Stevens continues efforts to improve public safety during the event.
2. Pathway committee meets tonight to plan connection between Inverness Park and Point Reyes Station. Locals are split on how best to move ahead with improvements at Whithouse Pool County Park. Committee member Donna Larkin says any connection requires a new bridge crossing Lagnunias Creek.
Monday, February 18
1. Professional Cyclists with the the Tour of California passing through the area today. This will be the third annual event touring much of the State. The first stage uses the coast highway between Muir beach and Bodega Bay. Highway one will be closed to accommodate the race.
2. Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary and Farallones Association recruiting new volunteers for their Beach Watch program: long-term monitoring that surveys beaches from Bodega Head in Sonoma County south to Año Nuevo in San Mateo County.
Beach Watch participants survey "their beach," every four weeks counting, identifying, and photo-documenting live and dead birds and marine mammals and human activity on- and immediately offshore. These volunteers were among the first responders after the Cosco Busan oil spill – collecting data now being used in litigation.
Friday, February 15
Legislators and agricultural experts met yesterday to discuss pending eradication efforts to halt the spread of the light brown apple moth.
That flying pest could cause significant losses to the State of CA's fruit, vegetable, wine and nursery markets. The county and state are urging eradication measures before the animal establishes itself on this continent.
First found in north America last year the moth was likely imported from its native Australia in the shipment of infested plant materials.
Light brown apple moth has only a few moth have been found in the county so far, but the California Dept. of Food and Agriculture says control measures are needed now to preempt action from the federal government.
The local plan begins with the use of synthetic pheramones that disrupt the breeding behaior of the moth. Initially, small wire ornaments will be placed in large numbers on trees in San Rafael and parts of southern Marin. Aerial spraying will likely follow in the greater Bay Area.
Find the plan according to the CA Department of Food and Agriculture in the link above, review the following resources from CDFA: FAQ, LBAM Fact Sheet or browse these resources from area groups opposing the plan: lbamspray.com, or stopthespray.org
Thursday, February 14
County Supervisors upheld plans for a new telecommunication facility atop Mt. Barnaby, denying an appeal of an earlier Planning Commission decision.
The Mathew appeal reviewed access problems, possible site alternatives, and the projects compliance with county zoning.
County planners and lawmakers are determined to provide wireless service throughout the county – citing phone service as a pre requisit of basic public safety, and to satisfy demand from residents in remote areas. The tower design and location was recommended by county staff for its location adjacent to similar telecommunication facilities, and for its efficiency of coverage.
Wednesday, February 13
Supervisors passed an emergency ordinance Tuesday: a new study aiming to protect the habitat of endangered fish and the headwaters of the San Geronimo Valley Watershed. A salmon enhancement project would include a two year moratorium on construction near streams. Only a short list of parcels are directly impacted in the area, more broadly, around 800 parcels could be affected, lying within protected streamside zones.
Local watershed groups came together last year as the county-wide plan process was ending, asking supervisors to take bolder steps to protect the areas most sensitive habitats.
Tuesday, February 12
1. The County Planning Commission agreed to a property subdivision in the San Geronimo Valley, Monday. The 24-acre site will proceed to the design review stage, after being divided into three residential lots at 1 Summit Drive, Woodacre.
Approximately 3.5 acres of land is designated for building, access, sewage systems, and utilities. The remaining approximately 20.8 acres of land are to remain as permanent, private, open space with Marin County Open Space District.
The project has been revised to address issues and concerns raised by county staff including protection of ridgelines (Policy ER-1.3), minimizing surface runoff (Policy ER-1.5), and protecting the riparian environment.
Commissioners heard public testimony and Valley residents and neighbors turned out to have their say in the project… Stuber Stroeh Engineering Group, Inc represents the property owners.
2. Sunny weekend weather brought out recreationists of all sorts over the weekend – KWMR’s Jonny on the Spot filed this report from Bolinas Beach, where Jimmy Friedrich continued to test out and refine a new way to surf – with skis?
Monday, Febuary 11
1. Iconic coastal Brown Pellican rebounding from extinction? Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne announced Friday the brown pelican's full recovery. He’s proposing to remove remaining protected populations of the bird along the Pacific coast and elsewhere from protection under the Endangered Species Act.
There are now more than 620,000 brown pelicans nation-wide , due in large measure to the federal ban on the general use of the pesticide DDT in 1972. California Audubon "cautiously optimistic."
2. Honey bees threatened by multiple pests. Marin beekeepers suspect commercial processes stresses the bees and may be a key factor in the huge losses experienced by beekeepers all over the country in the past two years.
Friday, February 8
1. CA dept. of Fish and Game wraps up three days of public sessions on the Marine Life Protection initiative. Ocean resource managers and regulators continued their work this week constructing a statewide network of coastal marine reserves. Their final meeting of the series was held in Pacifica, Wednesday night - others were held in Gualalla, and Point Arena
The state is redesigning the marine protection systems according to the marine protection act – taking an ecosystem wide approach to protecting sea life and habitats, and to improve recreational, educational and study opportunities.
2. The Marin Horse Council meets again this weekend for their annual education program – Special focus this time will be paid to emergency preparedness for horse owners, as county government continues to streamline its emergency procedures.
Horses can be especially vulnerable during fire, flood or other emergencies, and the prospect of evacuating a large number of large animals can be daunting. Lauren Terk is spearheading the project for the marin horse council.
Thursday, February 7
County government unveiled plans for new protections, additional studies of the areas native salmon species. Biologists with the Salmon Protection and Watershed Network met with District Four Supervisor to announce the plans: new building/development restrictions, restoration projects, and cumulative impact analysis will be voted on by the Board of Supervisors this Tuesday.
S.P.A.W.N. also released a new report this week detailing what may be a catastrophic year for the endangered Native Coho salmon. This year's spawning season is the worst in 12 years for the fish. S.P.A.W.N. reports a 70 percent average drop in the animal’s reproduction in Lagunitas, Devil's Gulch and San Geronimo Creek watersheds compared to three years ago.
Wednesday, February 6
1. Election results for local measures:Muir Beach residents pass measure B. Measure C in Stinson Beach recieved majority support.
2. The Marin's Administrator and Board of Supervisors extend ongoing financial agreements with West Marin Chamber of Commerce – the Chamber regularly receives money from the county to support a wide variety of local programs. This most recent agreement consists of $50,000, to support and promote local businesses and “community-based efforts” like Think Local First - West Marin.
3.Residents in Stinson Beach relieved from flood concerns as a crucial portion of Easkoot Creek breaches dunes, runs to ocean. Floodwaters in the creek have historically caused flooding in lowest parts of the town. Engineers with Marin County Flood Zone Five (5) say the new drainage is located near where they are considering improvement work.
4. A small coastal fish is the focus of a recently expanded critical habitat – including ten thousand some acres statewide. A final rule was published in the federal register last week by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, protecting the habitat of the tidewater goby in Rodeo Lagoon, Lagunitas Creek, Esteros San Antonio and Americano, and Salmon Creek in Sonoma County.
Tuesday, February 5
Marin County Women's Commission hosts townhall meeting in Point Reyes Station. The group collected public input on the top issues facing West Marin women. Those items will be passed on to the county Board of Supervisors.
Created by the Board of Supervisors in 1974, to ensure women equal economic, social, political and educational opportunities throughout the county - the commission says Domestic violence continues to plague Marin women.
Monday, February 4
1. Local and state ballot items explained:
- Measure C (Stinson Beach) would increase the water district's budget limit to $681,083 without raising taxes. Majority Approval Required.
Shall the appropriations limit of the Stinson Beach County Water District for Fiscal Year 2006-2007, adopted by the Board of Directors pursuant to Resolution No. GB-2006-07 ($421,711) be ratified, shall the appropriations limit of the Stinson Beach County Water District for Fiscal Year 2007-2008 be established at $681,083, and shall the limit for Fiscal Year 2007-2008 be used to determine the limits for Fiscal Years 2008-2009 and 2009-2010?
- Measure B (Muir Beach) would imposes an annual special tax of two-hundred ($200.00) for a period of four (4) years, commencing FY 2008-2009 and terminating in FY 2012-2013, on each parcel within the Muir Beach CSD for fire protection, including fuel abatement and emergency preparedness, be approved and shall the Muir Beach CSD appropriations limit be increased by the amount of this voter-approved tax?”
2. Julie Monson of the non-partisan League of Women Voters, Marin details State-level measures and initiatives on your ballot February Fifth.
Friday, February 1
State and Federal agencies assess oils spill damages: This edition of the program focuses on marshy and lagoon habitats, how key fish species are responding, and what that damage might be worth in dollars.
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Thursday, January 31
Scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are preparing survey results that will guide restoration efforts on the heals of the Cosco Busan oil spill. Approximately 100 miles of the Marin County coastl was affected by the spill. Damage assessment is now the focus of National Marine sanctuaries, CA Department of Fish and Game, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Restoring the county's coastline requires detailed study of existing resources - key plant and animal species, along with their habitats. Understanding clearly how those resources have been impacted will be a challenge, but will ultimately determine how and where restoration funding is spent.
This program focuses on damage assessment, and the spills impact on a key species in the marine food web - eel grass. NOAA staff also address how the spill affected the county's rocky, inter-tidal areas, and what restoration options might be possible there.
Wednesday, January 30
1. Public input session helps define goals for coastal restoration projects after Cosco Busan oil spill. Al Donner of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service describes damage assessment and restoration process.
2. Point Reyes National Seashore Association looking to finalize purchas of tax-defaulted ranch between Marshall and Tomales.
Tuesday, January 29
The Lawson and Vogler families continue towards securing necessary permits for their Dillon Beach campground. Planning commissioners agreed to send along the long-anticipated environmental impact report to the Board of Supervisors for approval (tentatively set for 4th Tuesday in Feb). The plan will be further revised by county staff after public hearing Monday.
Public testimony mostly recommended moving forward with the project - with notable exceptions from environmental groups.
Monday, January 28
2. Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary to begin restoration of areas most affected by the Cosco Busan oil spill. Before that work begins, the Sanctuary is looking for public input in their damage assessment of sandy beaches, habitat, eel grass, wetlands, intertidal areas, birds, mammals, fish and the spills impact on human uses.
A public meeting has been set for Tuesday - 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Cascade Room of the Mill Valley Community Center at 180 Camino Alto in Mill Valley.
3. The San Geronimo Lions Club turns 50 years old this month and will host their annual Crab Feed fundraiser at the Woodacre Improvement Club - a benefit to enrich the San Geronimo Valley and other global charities.
The SGV Lions Club recently presented their largest donation in 50 years, $10,000, towards the SGV Community Gym project,
4. California Farm Bureau representatives visited Washington DC last week to push for Farm Bill passage. They're looking for expanded research on air-and-water quality, and increased fruits and vegetables in school lunch programs.
Congress has not yet produced a final version of a bill to re-authorize federal farm programs. Farm Bureau leaders asked Congress and the administration to resolve funding questions that have slowed the Farm Bill.
Friday, January 25
Thirty or more people turned out Wednesday evening at the Fairfax Women's Club for the first in what will likely be years worth of public scoping sessions to refine MMWD's Vegetation Management.
Citing the over growth of French broom and the looming prospect of broad scale die-off of the areas native oak woodlands, the Water District is refocusing its efforts to manage invasive plants that are undercutting the health of the watershed, and increasing the risk of a catastrophic wildfire.
The district has developed a list of the areas least wanted plan species that are out pacing the districts current control methods.
Thursday, January 24
Mike Lawson says seasonal camping and other recreation on the Dillon Beach dunescape is likely to be scaled back. County planners hold a site visit before next weeks discussion of a plan to preserve the unique ecology of the area without stripping away the historic use of the property.
According to environmental review, grazing, fishing, and tourism could continue at Lawson’s with a decreased footprint, and a costly new septic system may force the company to raise its fees. But after decades of planning and negotiations, mounting legal and consulting fees, the owners can't be sure the latest plan will be adopted.
Wednesday, January 23
1. Dramatic escalation in costs associated with response to the November 7th oil spill in San Francisco Bay. Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services soliciting public input for revised local response plan.
2. Marin County Planning Commission to visit Lawson's Landing today. 137 Marine View Drive, Dillon Beach. Public comment and consideration of the Final Environmental Impact Report for the project will be made at the regularly scheduled hearing on January 28.
3. The Muir Beach Community Service district meets again tonight. The group is set to reappoint board member Shere Stoddard and re-elected member Steve Shaffer.
A representative of the National Park Service may be present updates on various ongoing Park Service projects including the Big Lagoon: Final EIS/EIR or Dog Policy on Muir Beach.
Also in Muir Beach, a tax measure for increased fire protection funding will be on the Febuary fifth ballot. The CSD will consider administration and disbursement of the tax allocation revenues if passed by voters.
Tuesday, January 22
1. National Weather Service issues winter storm watch for Monday afternoon and night, snow forecast for elevations above 1,000 feet.
2. Undercover Game wardens arrest Redwood City man for abalone poaching on Sonoma coast. Now on probation, the man was released on bail from the Sonoma County jail Monday accused of illegally harvesting abalone for the third time in less than a year.
3. A proposed ban on wood burning aims to reduce health risks and the list of problems associated with smoke inhalation.
Monday, January 21
The U. S. Food and Drug Administration declared meat and milk from cloned animals "safe." Marshall Dairyman Albert Straus continues work with Senator Carol Migden to pass legislation to require special labels on food products derived from clones.
Friday, January 18
Marin Municipal Water District to review plans for managing invasive plants on 22,000 acres of lands through out Marin. Public process to begin Friday updating the district's 1994 plan.
Reducing the risk of wildfire promoting biodiversity and to control the spread of non-native plants are the goals of the update. Watershed staff say invasive weeds are consuming some 30-60 acres per year on Mt. Tamalpais.
The new proposals include both herbicidal and non-herbicidal means of weed control.
Thursday, January 17
National Seashore spokesman John Del Oso says elephant seals have returned to local beaches. Elephant seals are among the most iconic animals that inhabit the Point Reyes National Seashore. The animals form a colony yearly, near the point, and have been doing so for more than twenty years, after a prolonged absence. The National Seashore is critical to the population of the animals, which use secluded areas to rear their young. This notice triggers some limited restriction to public access and the park service offers popular docent programs, a viewing area, and shuttle service.
Wednesday, January 16
Proposed cuts to the State’s general fund and budget that could mean closure of Tomales Bay State Park.
Parks came up with their own proposals to cut costs by 10 percent or 17 million. Tomales Bay State Park hosted some 119,000 visitors last year. Staff and educational programs are historically the first to go. But due to the parks location and use, it was slated for possible closure.
Tuesday, January 15
1. Volunteers with Marin County Search and Rescue find unidentified body on Mt. Tamalpais.
2. Lifeguards at Sonoma County beach report first drowning death of the year.
3. MMWD directors solicit public input on pending changes to Vegetation Management Plan.
4. State Parks staff discuss proposed funding cuts that could close Tomales Bay State Park
Monday, January 14
Over a period of 13 or so years between 1961-1973, Bolinas and Tomales bays were the targets of an onslaught of developers. Troubled by the vision of a Malibu style marina, and suburban sprawl through the Olema Valley, Dr Martin Griffin and a team of other activists with Audubon Canyon Ranch were spearheads of the county’s environmental movement.
Griffin and ACR formed the Environmental Forum of Marin as an educational institution for activists. That legacy continues today: the forum is opening another round of training courses in February. Forum member Wendy McPhee and Ann Faught discuss the program.
Friday, January 11
1. Sonoma County Supervisors to make funding available for the scourge of sudden oak death – the rapidly expanding tree disease first identified in Marin now poses serious fire hazard for the 14 coastal counties now affected.
2. Art thief strikes the Point Reyes Dance Palace.
Thursday, January 10
1. State Senator Carol Migden says she’s pursuing $20 million for flood control projects in Marin County, through a revised bill. That bills predicessor ab 1002 was vetoed by the governor late last year.
2. Local Olive producers at McAvoy Ranch and the Marin Country Club are looking to divert water from local streams - and could see some improvements in the overloaded and ineffective administrative process. The State Water Resource Control Boards say policy changes are needed to speed up the application process, and save the State of California administrative costs.
Wednesday, January 9
1. Some 3,000 PG&E customers in Marin in Sonoma Counties still without power. Mark Johnson, vice president of electric operations and engineering says sthe company gives priority to customers who have been without power the longest and to critical facilities such as hospitals, schools, water systems, and telecommunications facilities. Outages in the hardest hit areas may last late into the week.
Residential customers without power for 48 hours or longer may be entitled to an automatic payment of $25 to $100 for their inconvenience under PG&E’s SafetyNet Program. No action is required by the customer. www.pge.com/safetynet for more information.
2. MMWD is reporting that rainfall averages are approaching normal for this time of year. They measure rain fall at lake lagunitas where average year to date totals are 21.35 inches. Recent storms brought average rain falll this to this point just below average at 20.33 inches.Only 14.76 inches of rain had fallen at lake lagunitas this time last year.
3. District 4 supervisor steve Kinsey will be stepping down from his role as president of the board of supervisors. The board voted yesterday to appoint Charles McGlashan of Mill Valley to take up the position.
4. An auto accident near Bodega Bay claimed one life Tuesday, as did a boating mishap Sunday in Marshall.
Tuesday, January 8
1. Parts of Bolinas, Stinson Beach, Nicasio and other areas of the county are still without power, leaving some residents vulnerable to cold or isolation after recent inclement weather. Related power outages continue, flooding and other damages minimal, and more rain predicted through Friday.
2. Marin County ranchers and farmers are well known for the high quality beef, dairy products and organic foods that they sell. But someday they may be able to add a new product: carbon credits.
An end-of-year grant of $30,000 by the Rathmann Family Foundation of Nicasio will fund an investigation of the trading markets* for carbon credits and the ways in which Marin County farmers can participate. RCD approved the program December 27.
The Foundation has recently sponsored other initiatives designed to bring new tools to local farmers, including a program on a new plow technology at the Dance Palace in December.
*Correction: $60 billion, not $60 million.
Monday, January 7
Rush to legalize inlaw units: popular Second Unit Amnesty Program could see extension through 2008. Supervisors consider the matter at their regular meeting Tuesday. Program head Stacey Laumann says incentives for property owners promote infill, affordable housing stock for workers and young families.
Friday, January 4
1. County supervisors meet on Tuesday of next week – among a list of items, they’ll consider two Resolutions for the Marshall Phase 1 Community Wastewater Assessment District: financing for that project will come in part from I-Bank low interest financing.
Supervisors will consider an ordinance readopting a second unit amnesty program until December 31, 2008.
Also Tuesday, Supervisors will consider new appointments to the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District.
ROY’S REDWOODS open space preserve is also likely to be granted a public recreational easement long the ridgeline to Spirit Rock.
Supervisors will likely move forward with a Community Development Block Grant for continued funding of the San Geronimo Valley Community Center.
Thursday, January 3
1. West Marin Medical Center open for business under previous owner Dr. Mike Whitt. Whitt and the Coastal Health Alliance have secured another doctor to see patients at the clinic.
Out-going owner of the clinic Dr. Bourne takes new position as a Medical Director at the non-profit Hospice by the Bay. Bourne says she will begin writing a book, and will continue on as Medical Director at Serenity Knolls, alcohol and chemical dependency facility in Forest Knolls.
2. Keystone Marin ranches—Tomales Farm & Dairy and the Poncia Ranch—will remain working farmland through agricultural conservation easements acquired by Marin Agricultural Land Trust (M.A.L.T.).
3. Mushroom hunting for Science: amatures collect macrofungi at the Point Reyes Mycoblitz. Dr. Thomas Bruns, Professor of Plant & Microbial Biology at UC California says there is only a small catalogue of the hundreds of species found in the Point Reyes National Seasore area.
Wednesday, January 2
Rift Zone from above: Arial Photographer and pilot Robert Campbell to release book in January. Images of the San Andreas Fault and surrounding area are annotated by Valley writer Frank Binney. Based out of Sonoma, Campbell's company Chamois Moon produces treatments of Marin and greater Bay Area landscapes. Usually working from an airplane, the images highlight the Point Reyes peninsula, Bolinas ridge, and the Marin Headlands.
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