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THE ENDANGERED SPECIES FAIRE
In 2018, the Endangered Species Faire returned to Cedar Grove, and was bigger than ever. The Faire expanded to include the Nature Center and a second performance area! Hundreds of local elementary students paraded puppets of endangered species during the Procession of the Species, and thousands of community members got a reminder about the importance of protecting our environment.
This year, on Saturday, May 4th, 2019 we will hold the 40th Annual Endangered Species Faire.
Our theme for 2019, "Ecosystem Earth" celebrates the interconnectedness of all life on earth while also emphasising the global scale of our current climate crisis. SAVE THE DATE and join us and celebrate four decades of the Endangered Species Faire!
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CHICO BICYCLE MUSIC FESTIVAL
The Chico Bike Music Fesitval was a huge success this year! The event moved to a new home at the End of Normal. Hundreds of Chico folks on bikes celebrated the power of alternative transportation while enjoying the sounds of dozens of local performers.
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BIDWELL PARK AND CHICO CREEKS CLEANUP
In 2018 more volunteers than ever showed up at the
Bidwell Park and Chico Creeks Cleanup. 547 community members removed more than 17 TONS of recyclables, trash, and hazardous materials from every creek in Chico.
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CLASSROOM EDUCATION
2018 brought BEC into local classrooms to educate students about Endangered Species through our Paper Mache Puppet workshops led by BEC volunteers and interns.
In the fall we introduced a new classroom program. As part of North Valley Energy Watch, BEC staff brought the DIY energy saving toolkits in to local schools to educate students about energy conservation through hands-on math and science activities.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCACY
BEC continues to be a voice for the local environment. Participating as a stakeholder, we attend public meetings and make comments on plans and policies that will impact our land, air, and water.
The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
BEC is participating in the SGMA process as a representative for the environment, and we are continuing to advocate for balanced representation as governance is established. Our Executive Director, Natalie Carter, is currently sitting on the Butte County Groundwater Pumpers Advisory Committee. BEC will remain a voice as Butte County begins to develop our Groundwater Sustainability Plans, promoting conservation, floodplain restoration, and a climate resilient water system.
Stonegate Development
Approved by the Chico City Council in September of 2018, the Stonegate development plans to subdivide 313-acres of virtually untouched vernal wetland habitat that is currently home to the Federally Endangered Butte County Meadowfoam, a number of rare or threatened species, and countless other wildlife.
Although the City has approved the project, there are a number of State and Federal agencies that have yet to weigh in. Agency permits are required before construction can start. BEC is closely following the permitting process with the agencies, and will continue to oppose the loss of this habitat at every opportunity.
TREE PLANTING
This year our Oaks Restoration Program continued to support more than 300 oak seedlings that have been planted in Upper Bidwell Park. Throughout the dry season volunteers participated in weekly watering and caging days.
