Over the next several months, Tuleyome will be hosting many activities for the public throughout the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument (BSM NM) Region. These activities are intended to give the public a greater appreciation for the BSM region.
The BSM National Monument was established in July 2015 to protect over 330,000 acres of the Inner Northern Coast Range. This monument stretches from south of Berryessa Peak, west of Winters, over 100 miles north to the Snow Mountain Wilderness. It encompasses many wonderful ecosystems and is home to diverse communities of plants and animals.
Tuleyome’s activities — which encourage families and individuals to get out and enjoy the beauty of the Inner Northern Coast Range — encompass everything from a relaxing car tour (bird photography), to a strenuous hike and overnight camping trip on the summit of Berryessa Peak. Tuleyome’s events provide the public with opportunities to seek out wildflowers, go birdwatching, learn wilderness skills, explore the national monument and its surrounding landscapes, and view the night sky.
What’s new this year is Tuleyome’s new series of “Monumental Activities”: six activities that include favorite trails and events in the region. The first “Monumental Activity” is on November 4 and will provide participants with the chance to learn about Tuleyome’s work in mercury mine remediation. The event will include a guided tour of the Corona/Twin Peaks Mines where they will see and learn about the ground-breaking science being employed by Tuleyome and its community partners to restrict the amount of mercury contamination if regional waterways.
Tuleyome will be also continue its work with the UC Natural Reserve System to help restore Stebbins Cold Canyon. This popular hiking spot outside of Winters is one of the most accessible “entrances” to the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and offers unparalleled views of Lake Berryessa as well as Berryessa Peak, and — on a clear day — Snow Mountain.
For those interested in “community service” hours, volunteering with Tuleyome on any of the Monumental Activities can help fulfill this obligation.
