May Newsletter
Executive Officer’s Report
The Conservancy recently collaborated with representatives from the Central Valley Community Foundation and River Parkway Trust to organize a Parkway visit for US Senator Adam Schiff and Congressman Jim Costa. This effort culminated in a successful tour on May 24, showcasing several key properties and projects. The briefing document prepared for the Senators visit is included as an attachment.
Executive Officer Kari Daniska participated in a canoe tour of the San Joaquin River alongside Supervisor Gary Bredefeld and staff. The tour was led by volunteer and Fresno Canoe and Kayak Club President, Rich Sloan, offering an insightful perspective on river conservation and public access.
In coordination with City of Fresno officials, the Conservancy has worked on revising the operations and maintenance plan for Jensen River Ranch, the extension property, and Lanes Boat Launch. The revised agreement is expected to be executed by all parties in the coming months and will leverage Measure P funding.
Regulations and Budget Updates
Additional tribal consultations have been completed, and the modified proposed regulations were submitted to OAL and have been posted on our website for an additional 15-day public comment period. Regulations are anticipated to come before the Board in July for adoption.
The Conservancy successfully negotiated to retain a vacant position and secured an exemption from the position sweep. Efforts are now underway to reclassify the position to better suit our needs in the Program and Project Management unit.
Administrative and Contract Developments
The Conservancy is thrilled to be working with Valley PBS on an upcoming project, furthering our mission to increase public recognition and engagement. This collaboration will spotlight the Conservancy’s efforts, bringing greater awareness to our work and inspiring the community to connect with the San Joaquin River.
Additional achievements included:
- The amended Sycamore Island Operation Agreement has been signed and submitted to the Department of General Services (DGS) for final review and signature.
- The Conservancy’s required bond accountability report has been completed and submitted to the Parks Statewide Bond Office.
- The City of Fresno has initiated the permitting process for the River West Project. The Conservancy provided support by securing the check ($8,000) for the Central Valley Flood Protection Board application fee. DGS is currently being consulted on involvement with the project moving forward.
Partnerships and Property Initiatives
Fire fuel reduction efforts have been successfully carried out across five Conservancy properties—Wildwood Native Park, Schneider, Liddell, River West, River Vista, and Circle V. These projects were made possible through the collaboration of Mid-Valley CalFire crews, local California Conservation Corps teams, and the Conservancy’s partnership with Millerton State Park.
Additionally, work has commenced on Nature-Based Solutions initiatives, introducing Sierra Resource Conservation District staff to Conservancy properties. The Conservancy continues to coordinate with the California Highway Patrol to address property security and unhoused community challenges.
In productive meetings with Ducks Unlimited and Western Rivers, the Conservancy discussed potential property acquisitions, habitat restoration projects, and valuable Eagle Scout opportunities that will further benefit conservation efforts.
Celebrating Our People
A heartfelt congratulations to Celeste Perez Corona for receiving the prestigious Fresno State College Corps Climate Actions Team Exceptional Fellow Award—a well-deserved recognition for her dedication and impact.
Important Dates
- June 30—End of Fiscal Year
- July 9—Board Meeting