Many busy bodies in the community today! A continued monumental effort of roadside fuel reduction. I would wager that our dedicated crew rival the landscaping crew the County hired last year - and they are getting it done much earlier. Looks fantastic! The Water Board (no, really, the Board itself) spent many hours today staring over the hole they made next to the Archway, planning for the upgrade - removing dead line, repairing an old temporary patch, and installing a much needed shut off valve. Please prepare ahead for a temporary water shut off Monday from 9am to approximately 1pm. Please keep water usage at an utmost minimum during that time to prevent the lines filling up with air (which can do a lot of damage and introduce sediment into your home water lines). And finally, two roadway safety mirrors were installed today, replacing ones that had been badly damaged, or outright removed. The dedicated cyclist group "Tuesday Night View Crew" raised $1,600 in 48 hours for the cause. Four mirrors were purchased - two to install, two for replacement as needed. The balance, nearly $1,000 was donated to the Mountain Ember Team! We are so thankful for this collaboration and community support. We are having a hot dog party (vegan included) at the 'Y' (Painted Cave and ECC) this Tuesday, August 6 at 6pm. Please join us and meet your mountain road neighbors! Let Nic or I know if you plan to attend, so we have plenty of food for all - or just show up to say 'Hi!'. Any side dish is welcome! A fine evening to you all - Jessica (Sorry about the picture quality)

This is, hands down, the most accurate information on rattlesnakes that I've seen , and can attest to much of it. Take a moment to learn about your neighbors. https://californiaherps.com/info/rattlesnakeinfo.html

On this day, Tuesday February 27th, I witness Red Shouldered Hawks mating, and then trying to rip a twig off the branch they were sitting on. About an hour later, there was a pair of Oak Titmice, pulling fiberous bark off an elderberry tree for nest material. It might be a little early, but it's happening now. If you plan on doing any clearing, please check for any activity. Be aware that some of our birds nest on the ground - like the quail and juncos. If you are working, clearing somewhere, and there is active bird calling or posturing - take a moment to make sure you are not disturbing an active nest. Thank you all for being good stewards! Spring is around the corner.....