Memorial Day weekend traditionally marks the opening of many campgrounds and state park facilities across California. But this year is a bit different. As the pandemic took hold, outdoor spaces were some of the few places people could safely go. What is the state of California’s State Parks following a tumultuous year of wildfire and a pandemic?
CalMatters’ Julie Cart describes a recent visit to Big Basin, California’s oldest State Park, which was destroyed by wildfire in 2020. We also hear from State Parks Director Armando Quintero about what it will take to rebuild Big Basin in a sustainable and fire resilient way and how the pandemic and climate change have affected his vision for our parks.
Additional music in this week’s episode is from Flatlands 3rd and Alarm Cycle provided by Blue Dot Sessions.
Berry Creek Falls in Big Basin Redwoods State Park in Boulder Creek, California on April 22, 2021. Most of the park burned in 2020's CZU Complex wildfire. Photo by Max Whittaker courtesy of Save the Redwoods League.
A view of Big Basin Redwoods State Park in Boulder Creek, California on April 22, 2021. Most of the park burned in 2020's CZU Complex wildfire. Photo by Max Whittaker courtesy of Save the Redwoods League.