April Newsletter

Executive Officers Report

 All Conservancies Meeting

This month, the Conservancy participated in the biannual meeting of State Conservancies and the WCB, discussing CNRA guidance, the rollout of Prop 4, Nature-Based Solutions climate targets, program delivery, and next steps.

 CNRA Equity Year in Review

The Conservancy contributed to this year’s CNRA Equity Year in Review Newsletter, which is set to be finalized next month. Stay tuned for your copy!

 Climate Action and CCC Internships

The Conservancy collaborated closely with the Sierra Resource Conservation District, guiding the work of a Climate Action Intern. Together, we completed restoration efforts at Jensen River Ranch Extension and gathered valuable information on additional properties. Building on this success, we have applied to become a partner agency with the Climate Action Corps for next year’s program and are working with the California Conservation Corps to explore enrollment in their internship program.

 

Administrative and Contract Updates

 Website Accessibility Improvements

The Conservancy’s administrative staff continues refining the website with input from staff, board members, CNRA technical advisors, and IT accessibility and customer relations managers.

 Contracts and Agreements

Staff collaborated with contract analysts and specialists to amend active and executed contracts with the California Conservation Corps. We also executed multiple service agreements for safety-related repairs at the Lanes property, utilizing CaleProcure and CalVets to engage Disabled Veterans Business Enterprises and Small Businesses whenever possible. Additionally, staff reviewed and processed invoices for Sycamore Island and Ball Ranch Operating Agreements. Following requested revisions from DGS, we have submitted the updated Sycamore Island Operating Agreement to the Parkway Trust, the operator, for review.

 

Partnerships and Property Updates

 Eagle Scout Project

An Eagle Scout project was successfully completed at Ball Ranch, repurposing site materials to refurbish the Egret Maze entry arch and create a friendship rock garden.

Property Safety and Maintenance

  • Coordinated CHP patrols to maintain property safety.
  • Completed Operation Schneider cleanup on 4/30 through the Nature-Based Solutions contract with Dillard’s Environmental and the Sierra Resource Conservation District.
  • Fresno Fire Department utilized Liddell property for firefighter training.

 

Community Engagement and Volunteer Efforts

  • Drafted two license agreements, duty statements, and exhibits for CCORC and Fresno Sheriff Search and Rescue, supporting Conservancy properties and community safety.
  • Led CCC and RCD intern workdays at Jensen River Ranch Extension, completing the final steps of the habitat restoration project.
  • Coordinated volunteer efforts at Van Buren with CCORC, creating fire breaks that double as recreational trails.
  • Hosted the Nature-Based Solutions contract kickoff meeting, providing Sierra Resource Conservation District with essential property data for upcoming assessments.
  • Provided the City of Fresno with APN and site information for trailhead parking projects.
  • Reviewed and approved a fire fuel reduction plan with minimal herbicide use at Ball Ranch.
  • Began updating Conservancy properties in the AllTrails app.
  • Conducted ongoing property checks to ensure public safety and agreement compliance.

 

IMPORTANT DATES

  • May 7—Board Meeting
  • June 30—End of Fiscal Year
  • July 9—Board Meeting