AmeriCorps Corner with Jake

Shasta Bally Hike

With the New Year now here, I figured I’d give a recap on what I’ve done, as well as what I am most excited for coming up in my term as the Conservation Associate. While I’ve only been here for 2 months, what a great 2 months it has been!

Back home in Wisconsin, I had heard and knew of land trusts, but it was only until I started serving with Shasta Land Trust that I really understood their importance in land conservation. Since arriving here, I have gotten to see some amazing properties that we've protected, from the ranches close to Redding, such as the Parkville, Fenwood, and Hathaway Ranches, to those in the Fall River area. It’s good to know that you won’t see a new subdivision popping up on those properties in the future. I can’t wait to see the rest of our protected properties and to take volunteers out there come monitoring season!

Along with the upcoming monitoring season, I am gearing up for some environmental education. We are now in the process of giving new life to the programs and activities we offer, and I am excited to use them! I am also looking forward to some upcoming trail work on the Great Shasta Rail Trail, as well as many others in the area. It will be some good fun!

As always, I look forward to a year full of exploration in Northern California! My latest excursion was to the top of Shasta Bally with some friends. The 4-hour hike to the top was definitely worth the view!

Until next time,
Jake