San Bernardino Mountains, CA, July 5, 2014 - Long before recorded history, this area was home to Native Americans--in fact, 616 prehistoric archaeological sites remain--and then to Mexicans and Europeans in the early 1800s. Mexico ceded California to the United States in 1848, just a few years before the discovery of gold in the San Bernardino mountains kicked off decades of … [Read more...] about The Evolution of a Forest
Environment
Critters vs. Litter
Big Bear Lake, CA, July 2, 2014 - With year round recreation, the San Bernardino National Forest is one of the busiest in the country. But with more visitors comes extra litter, and the Forest Service is asking for public cooperation in keeping the area garbage-free. Some environmental effects are obvious. Plastics take decades to disintegrate and aluminum cans last in the … [Read more...] about Critters vs. Litter
The Ongoing Evolution of Stanfield Marsh
Big Bear Lake, CA, June 21, 2014 - A favorite scenic spot in Big Bear is the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Habitat that extends east from Stanfield Cutoff. Visitors can park in the southwest corner, stop by the wooden gazebo acting as an informational kiosk, then stroll along the water on the wooden walkway. The wooden walkway has a dual purpose: to encourage … [Read more...] about The Ongoing Evolution of Stanfield Marsh
Civic Center Going Solar
Big Bear Lake, CA, June 12, 2014 - The City of Big Bear Lake received a Dept. of Energy grant for solar demonstration projects and already have one project up and running and another one in the works. Currently, solar equipment has been running continuously since March on a warm storage building in the Public Works Yard and will generate an energy savings of $56,000 this … [Read more...] about Civic Center Going Solar
Mistletoe: Parasite & Provider
San Bernardino Mountains, CA, June 7, 2014 - According to an old Scandinavian Christmas custom, a couple who meets under hanging mistletoe is obliged to kiss. But mistletoe's function in the forest is actually less romantic: as a parasite, it attaches to the branches of a host tree or shrub, and absorbs water and nutrients from the host plant. There are six different species … [Read more...] about Mistletoe: Parasite & Provider