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August 2023

NEWS & FEATURES

Spending Summer Days in Regional Parks

A MESSAGE FROM GENERAL MANAGER SABRINA B. LANDRETH

Late summer days can produce a surprising mix of hot and cool weather throughout the Park District. Whether visiting inland area parks on the hottest days of summer, or the coolest, foggiest parks along the bay shoreline or in the East Bay hills, Regional Parks provide visitors with a healthy way to enjoy being outside in nature.

Remember to check weather conditions before heading out. Always bring plenty of water for yourself and your pets, and let someone know where you are planning to go and when you expect to be back. If visiting parks on a hotter day, look for tips on the District's Heat Safety webpage. A few minutes of preparation will ensure that your outdoor adventures are safe and fun.

See you on the trails in your Regional Parks.

New System Makes Police and Fire Activity Info More Accessible to Public

The Park District has launched a new system to improve access to police and fire department information. The system includes an interactive webpage with near real-time mapping of public safety activity, including location, date and time, a general description, and outcome. The new system also allows the public to sign up for daily or weekly email updates with a summary of public safety activity and links to more information. More info.

Shady Hikes and Cooler Parks

To beat the August heat, consider visiting Regional Parks with cool weather and shady trails, which offer an escape on hot summer days. More info.

EBRPD Officer Saunders Receives Lifesaving Medal

On May 24, 2023, Park District Police Officers Alec Saunders and John Gallegos witnessed a vehicle collision on I-580 near the San Ramon/Foothill Rd. off-ramp. They immediately assessed the condition of the drivers and determined one driver was unresponsive without signs of life. Officer Saunders retrieved the Automatic External Defibrillator from his vehicle and worked with sheriff deputies on scene to perform CPR. After several minutes of lifesaving measures, the victim regained a pulse. An ambulance arrived shortly after and continued medical care. Officer Saunders was acknowledged for his exceptional actions that saved a life, receiving the Police Department’s lifesaving medal in July. He received this award on July 12, 2023.

IN THE PARKS

Dog Lovers: Clean Up After Your Pet

Access to dog-friendly parks is one of the best features of the East Bay Regional Park District. Everyone knows that poop bags should be deposited in the bin, so how can we prevent them from being left on the trails? More info.

Be Vigilant During Tick Season

Whether you’re hiking in Regional Parks, venturing in nearby open spaces, or simply relaxing in your own yard, it’s important to be wary of ticks at this time of year. More info.

IN THE COMMUNITY

A Fun Time at National Night Out at Lake Chabot

On August 1, 2023, the Park District held its first National Night Out event at Lake Chabot Regional Park. More than 1000 parkgoers stopped by and enjoyed seeing the fire trucks, meeting the police horses, engaging in fun activities, taking snapshots at a photo booth, and eating hot dogs. A good time was had by all!

Foundation's Compass Magazine Now Available

The new summer 2023 edition of the Regional Parks Foundation's Compass magazine features stories on the Park District's contribution to the California 30x30 initiative, members sharing Trails Challenge tales, and how the Foundation supports kids in nature.

Compass Summer 2023 | Learn more and support.

Foundation Offers Free Estate Planning Seminar

The Planned Giving Committee of the Regional Parks Foundation invites you to a free online introduction to estate planning seminar on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Learn about wills, revocable trusts, powers of attorney, health care directives, irrevocable trusts, life insurance, retirement plans, charitable trusts, and estate trusts. More Info.

Hike with Rep. Swalwell on Saturday, August 26 at Lake Chabot

Enjoy an early morning hike with U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell on Saturday, August 26 from 8:30-10 a.m. at Lake Chabot Regional Park in Castro Valley. Participants meet at the Lake Chabot Marina. No registration required and no parking fee for attendees. Dog fee is $2, and dogs must be leashed.

FEATURED ACTIVITIES

Beat the Heat Underground at Black Diamond Mines

The Coal Mine Experience at Black Diamond Mines takes visitors deep beneath the surface to a time when coal powered California. The interactive and immersive experience transports visitors back in time with the sights and sounds of an active 1870s-era coal mine, with stories of the toils, triumphs, and tragedies embedded under the hills.

The Coal Mine Experience is located inside the Hazel-Atlas Mine at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve where temperatures are in the mid-50's year-round, so bring a jacket or wear layered clothing. Participants must be age 7 or older, and parent participation is required. Hard hats are required and provided. Reservations are required. More info.

Enjoy Summer Campfire Programs at Del Valle

Although you may not be camping at Del Valle, anyone can join the campfire programs taking place at the Del Valle Amphitheater through Labor Day weekend. No registration is required. Parking is available in the campground overflow lot during the program.

Days of the Pioneers: Discover the valley's history through hands-on activities and stories during this family campfire. Fridays from 7:30-9:00 p.m.

Night with a Naturalist: The evening glow gives way to the roaring fire, as families gather along the creekside. Discover the wonders of the park during this camping tradition. Saturdays from 8:30-9:30 p.m.

Ardenwood Movie Night: Saturday, August 12

Spend an evening outdoors with friends and family at a movie night at Ardenwood Historic Farm! Enjoy a FREE showing of the hit movie Lightyear shown on the Patterson House lawn beginning at sunset, around 8 p.m. Arrive early to secure a good seat on the lawn. Bring a flashlight, warm clothes, and a blanket or chairs for sitting. No pets. Rain cancels. More info.

Sensory Tour at the Botanic Garden: Sunday, August 27

Join Regional Parks Botanic Garden docents for a free family-friendly sensory tour. on August 27 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. Explore the garden with hands, nose, ears, and eyes. Smell the sages, feel soft hazel leaves, look for crayfish in Wildcat Creek and for newts in the pond. Meet in front of the Botanic Garden Visitor Center. More info.