February Newsletter
February 29, 2025
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS REPORT
The Conservancy confirmed that the vacancy and 7.95% reduction drill will have a direct impact on the vacant Parks Maintenance Worker II position, and its funding. The vacant position was eliminated and a $172,000 reduction from Prop 84 program delivery will be applied for both FY 24/25 and 25/26. We hope to hire a much needed Parks Maintenance Worker II position with Prop 4 program delivery funding.
Conservancy Staff kicked off planning sessions for JEDI and Fee Collection policies, and the Strategic Plan. Conservancy Staff also attended several partnership meetings and Parkway tours with Board Members, local elected officials, and Parkway partners. We will continue to build and strengthen partnerships and implement our mission of improving and opening Parkway properties.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND CONTRACT UPDATES
The Conservancy has successfully updated the website for consistency with other State agencies and is currently working on updating content. We will also be utilizing GovDelivery for email event notifications and updates. If you have any suggestions on ways we can improve, please let us know. Thank you to Board members who have already reached out with kudos and comments.
Notable contract and agreement updates include the following:
- SRCD Wildfire and Nature Based Solutions Contract is with DGS for review and signature.
- River Parkway Trust Sycamore Island and Van Buren Unit Operation Agreement Amendment and Extension is with DGS for review and signature.
- Conservancy Staff conducted a kickoff meeting with CHP to discuss the contract for additional patrol and services on State-owned property.
- The River West Habitat Restoration funding has been passed by WCB and the City of Fresno City Council.
- Successfully completed eleven drills for the Governors Office, Parks and Rec, and CNRA.
PARTNERSHIPS AND PROPERTY UPDATES
On February 1st, the Conservancy co-hosted a successful volunteer event on River West and Jensen River Ranch Extension. Over 140 volunteers joined Conservancy staff and many other valued partner groups to plant native trees and shrubs and remove protective tree cages. An additional effort on February 28th was also completed to remove the remaining protective tree cages at Jensen River Ranch Extension.
Notable property and safety updates include the following:
- Coordination with the River Parkway Trust and implementation of specific safety measures to improve safety around Ledger Island Bridge.
- Coordination with Madera County to improve access and road conditions at Sycamore Island.
- Coordination with State Parks and implementation of road grading activities to improve access and road conditions at Lanes Main Office.
- Coordination with the City of Fresno public works and maintenance team at Jenson River Ranch for visitor and safety improvements, tree planting, and fire fuel reduction.
- Coordination with CalFire to begin fuel reduction work at River West, Fresno.
- Garage doors/openers and rain gutters repaired or installed at Lanes Main Office.
UPCOMING EVENTS
- March 22 – Wildwood Grand Opening
- April 1 – Form 700 Due
- April 3 – 2nd Quarter PACE Meeting
- April 6&7 – All Conservancies and WCB Meeting
- May 7 – SJRC Governing Board Meeting