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t long last, gers from Mongolia are in place and ready for students to arrive, as part of Anza-Borrego Foundation’s Fifth Grade Environmental Education Camp. Since the camp began six years ago, sleeping in tents has been part of the experience for San Diego and Imperial County fifth graders who visited Anza-Borrego Desert State Park for an overnight outdoor adventure. But when harsh spring winds blew across the desert, tents were not ideal accommodations. Erratic weather forced some camp sessions to be cancelled or rescheduled, a disappointing outcome for eager youngsters who looked forward to camp all year. The search for a stormy weather solution led to the consideration of Mongolian gers (large round tents, called yurts in many other countries) from the wind-swept steppes of the Gobi desert. During recent visits to Mongolia, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s recently retired Superintendent Mark Jorgensen was impressed with their snug coziness and wind-worthiness, and was convinced that they could serve our students well. So ABF decided to order seven authentic gers from Mongolia for the Fifth Grade Camp program. On a typically sunny day in early January, a team of volunteers, including ABF and state park staff and friends, got together to erect four gers in time to shelter students during the 2010 spring camp season. For many children, this is their first camping experience, as well as their first visit to a state park. Throughout the students’ three-day adventure they learn about desert plants, animals, and the duties of a ranger. Together they hike up Borrego Palm Canyon, visit a Native American village site, and even get a special tour of the Park’s paleontology laboratory, where they are introduced to scientific research and new careers they may never have

A Photo by John Peterson

All “Ger-ed” Upby Sally Theriault, Anza-Borrego Institute Manager

80 roof poles (uni) form the skeleton that supports the ceiling of the gers. Photo by Linda Tandle

continued on page 9

ABI Awards Wier Conservation Grant

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Nolina micrantha, Photo by James Michael Heaney

Anza-Borrego Institute congratulates James Michael Heaney, our 2010 Howie Wier Memorial Conservation Grant recipient. Mike is a student in the doctoral program at University of Florida. He will be studying the systematics and genetics of Nolina in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and southern California. Annual grants up to $2,000 are awarded in memory of Harold A. “Howie” Wier (1952-2001), a lifelong naturalist who worked in conservation biology throughout southern California. More infor-mation about this grant and recipients’ research projects can be found at www.theabf.org/research.

From the President

John Peterson

Challenges and Opportunities I am honored to have been elected as the new President of Anza-Borrego Foundation. In my seven years on the Board, I have been amazed at the scope of work, level of professionalism, the dedication of ABF members, the state park staff and our Board of Trustees, all resulting in accomplishments, year in and year out. We all have joined together to make Anza-Borrego Desert State Park one of the best state parks in the nation. I thank former president, Ray Mouton, for his tremendous dedication and leadership, as well as the support and direction he gave our Board of Trustees and staff over the last three years. Ray will continue to serve as a trustee for the Foundation and I look forward to his guidance in my new role as President. It is with great sadness that I tell you that ABF’s Executive Director Linda Tandle has resigned. After 16 great years with ABF she has decided to make the leap into retirement. She leaves a legacy of helping ABF become a distinguished leader in land conservation. We will miss her greatly and wish her the very best in the future. Anza-Borrego Foundation, along with the rest of the nation, has faced a variety of challenges from the effects of the economic downturn. Though very difficult, our struggles have provided opportunities for growth, to examine the work of the Foundation and ensure that we remain consistent with our goals and objectives. The recession has forced us all to reassess what is important in our lives and the Board especially thanks all the members of ABF who have continued to support our organization and the Park through this most difficult time. ABF has weathered the downturn and remains a strong organization. Current major tasks facing the Foundation include: 1) protection of the Desert Cahuilla properties, 2) acquisition of the Park’s remaining inholdings, 3) ongoing support of ABDSP, and 4) continuation of the Institute’s education programs for adults and children. These tasks also bring opportunities to strengthen the Foundation as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s nonprofit partner. Keeping in line with our conservation mission, the summer issue of Desert Update will be sent by email only. Even throughout our sizzling summer, we’d like to keep you informed of our work and good news. Please take this opportunity to update your email address with us by visiting www.theabf.org or calling 760-767-0446. Again, I would like to thank our members, volunteers, and supporters for the many ways you help the Foundation fulfill our mission to support and protect this “gem of the desert,” Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.Sincerely, John Peterson, President

No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate page 3

Over 30 volunteers joined in the effort to “raise” the four gers near Borrego Palm Canyon campground. The first ger was erected in three and a half hours, a task Mongolians typically accomplish in 30 minutes. Incredibly, all materials needed to set up a ger (image at top left) can be packed onto a single camel’s back when the nomadic Mongolians relocate. Photos by Linda Tandle and Martha Baker.

Construction of a Ger

1 2

3 4

5 6

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No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate page 4

Wildlife of BorregoPalm Canyon

Photography by Jeff Young

Lifeless desert? Jeff Young begs to differ. A photographer from San Marcos, Young has captured the wide range of life in the Park’s most popular hiking destination, Borrego Palm Canyon.

Female yearling bighorn sheep

Yellow-backed Spiny Lizard

California Tree Frogs

No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate page 5

Big Red Skimmer Dragonfly

Peninsular bighorn sheep, ram and ewe

Loggerhead Shrike

Bighorn ewe

page 6No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate

For 16 years, ABF’s Executive Director Linda Tandle has faithfully served with enthusiasm and dedication. As she retires from her post, she can proudly reflect on her many accomplishments, leaving the organization poised for a new level of achievement. Linda was first hired in December 1992 as a part-time director of development, serving until August 1994. In July 1995 she was rehired to serve as the Foundation’s first executive director. ABF had no office, no long-range strategic plan and was vir-tually unknown within the state. Linda’s knowledge and ski l ls completely revamped the way ABF did business and the level of professionalism she brought now defines the organization. Linda’s style stressed the importance of a fully engaged board of trustees. Her emphasis on board development and training reshaped the board and the way it operates. The efforts of Linda and the board were recognized in 2001 when ABF was awarded the Land Trust Achievement Award. Then in 2003, Anza-Borrego Institute was formed as part of the Foundation and ABF became a Cooperating Association for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. As executive director, one of Linda’s first directives was to develop a positive rapport between ABF and the community. She interfaced with the community and personally participated with community organizations, thereby enhancing the image of the Foundation. As president of the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce, Linda worked to revitalize the community by

developing Borrego Vision Quest, a group of community leaders that created a vision for Borrego Springs’ future and a plan for implementation. The Chamber subsequently received a $50,000 Community Development Block Grant

to hire a consultant to develop a marketing plan for the community. Linda also served as president of the local Kiwanis Club and was awarded the Distinguished Service Award in 2000 by Kiwanis International for her outstanding service to the com-munity and Kiwanis. As a result, ABF became a well-respected organization, not only within Borrego Springs, but also within the state. In 2000, Linda was the recipient of the Public Relations/Nonprofit award for “San Diego Women Who Mean Business,” sponsored by the San Diego Business Journal, and in that same year, the California State Assembly passed a

resolution on June 9 stating that she “personifies that which is the very best in community leadership, and she has served as a worthy model for all public-spirited people of the state.” As Linda steps down, she leaves an organization that has made major strides in achieving its objective of making Anza-Borrego Desert State Park whole through the acquisition of large inholdings and in becoming a full partner with the Park as a leading Cooperating Association in California. It is with great appreciation that we thank Linda for all her years of dedication to this organization and we wish her the best in her retirement.

A Salute To Our Executive Directorby Diana Lindsay, Vice President for Environmental Affairs

Linda Tandle

Workplace Giving. When you donate to Earthshare of California through your workplace giving program, you can support our work to protect bighorn sheep and so much more...

Anza-Borrego Foundation acquires land to preserve natural habitat for the endangered

Peninsular bighorn and hundreds of other rare animals and plants. ABF Institute programs connect nearly 10,000 adults and students to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park® each year.

To donate to ABF through Earthshare, United Way or a Federated Campaign, select Anza-Borrego Foundation or enter EIN#33-0334338.

Save bighorn sheep while you work.Thank you for your support!

photo by Ernie Cowan

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AnzA-Borrego InstItutesprIng 2010 schedule of events

ValleCito DaysMarch 5 – 7 Vallecito Stage Station County ParkExperience what life was like in the 1850’s, in the days of the Overland Mail Route, with demonstrations, reenactments, and more! For details visit www.theabf.org/event

arroyo tapiaDo MUD CaVesMarch 6, 8 am – 4:30 pm Paul JohnsonYou won’t want to miss this popular 4WD tour to explore fascinating geo-logical features! Participants will also hike extensively in the mud caves. $45 or $35 for ABF members

a Celestial BUCket list (Desert skies oUtDoor leCtUre series)March 6, 7 – 9 pmThe heavens are filled with amazing sights you won’t want to miss! Astrono-mer Dennis Mammana enlightens and inspires us with the mysteries of the cosmos, followed by telescope viewing (weather permitting). Bring blanket and flashlight with red lens or covering to the Nierenberg Plaza at ABDSP Visitor Center. No registration required. Suggested donation $5

WreCkage of tiMe: the fish Creek BaDlanDsMarch 7, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Paul RemeikaExplore the fascinating geology of Split Mountain Gorge and Sandstone Canyon. 4WD required. $45 or $35 for ABF members

illUstrateD natUre JoUrnalingMarch 7, 8 am – 4 pm Phil Roullard and Callie MackJournaling, especially when enhanced with your own illustrations, can add much to your enjoyment and remembrance of time in nature. Documenting what you see through photography or by creating sketches is something that can be learned by almost anyone, especially under the guidance of skilled, experienced instructors. $45 or $35 for ABF members

hike of the Month: grapeVine Canyon (resCheDUleD)March 7, 8 am – 1 pm Mountain lion expert, Mike PuzzoThis strenuous hike will explore various canyons within Grapevine Canyon as you learn about our neigh-bor, the mountain lion. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring leather gloves for off-trail hiking that may require some scrambling. High-clearance vehicles required, 2WD OK. Bring wa-ter and snacks/lunch. $10 each

Calumet Photo Trek, photo by Katie Cowan

Desert Skies Outdoor Lectures, photo by Dennis Mammana

page BSpring 2010 Events Desert ConneCtion

July 23 – August 6, 2010Join retired ABDSP Superintendent Mark Jorgensen on a

two-week tour of the Gobi Desert of Mongolia this summer!

Photos by Steve Bier, Diana Lindsay and Mark Jorgensen

his all-inclusive adventure will introduce you to the distinctive culture, wildlife, and varied terrain of Mongolia, including remote desert landscapes and Mongolia’s bustling capital, Ulaanbaatar. Tour leader Mark Jorgensen, along with a bilingual guide, will lead you on a variety of hikes, drives, and a river raft float excursion, which explore the Gobi Desert’s wildlife, history, and current research. Most accommodations are in rustic ger (yurt) camps, with very simple facilities. All meals outside of Ulaanbaatar are included.

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For ABF members only: $1,995. Price includes airport transfers, but does not include airfare.

Tour Highlights:Two days in capital city Ulaanbaatar for museums, shopping, and a folk concert. Hotel accommodationsTwo nights and days in Hustai National Park for wildlife viewing, including Przewalski Horses.Two nights at Arburd Sands Ger Camp, exploring grasslands and sand dunes, looking for wildlife and visiting a local nomadic family.Three days and nights in and around Ikh Nart Nature Reserve, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s sister park.Visit a local village on the way to Gun Galuut Nature Reserve, ideal for birdwatching in steppes habitat.Two days and nights at Jalman Meadows Includes a float trip down the Tuul River on raftsRegister by June 1, 2010. Visit www.theabf.org or call 760-767-4063 for more information.

page CSpring 2010 Events Desert ConneCtion

AnzA-Borrego InstItute 2010 Desert Hostel:

oin earth scientist Paul Remeika on this fascinating 2-wheel drive trip through the Colorado Plateau’s fantasyland known as “Standing Up Country.” Learn about the breathtaking scenery of the world’s greatest concentration of natural arches at Arches National Park, unparalleled vertical edifices that edge Island in the Sky within Canyonlands National Park, and unreal red rock spires and towers in the land of the Navajo at Monument Valley.Included: 4 nights at the Moab Valley Inn, in Moab, Utah, 2 nights at the San Juan Inn in Mexican Hat, Utah, and 1 night at Marble Canyon Lodge on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona. All rooms are double occupancy with singles available at an additional cost. Also included: breakfasts, lunches, museum fees, state park day-use fees, white-water raft trip, loop drive in Monument Valley, and handout materials.Not included: Dinners, except for our first and last nights, (dinners are not included to allow participants maximum flexibility to choose the foods and portion size they desire.), alcoholic beverages, National Park fees, and transportation. Participants are required to bring their own vehicles and 2WD is OK.Physical difficulty: Most stops will feature informative field study with short hikes to points of interest such as Dead Horse Point, and involve cross-country travel. An additional hike to Delicate Arch is 3 miles roundtrip.Fee: $1210, or $1175 for ABF members. Prices are based on double occupancy. Add $350 for single accommodations. Children over 10 years old welcome. No pets please.Register by July 31, 2010. Visit www.theabf.org or call 760-767-4063 for more information.

September 21-28, 2010An introduction to the unique and captivating geology

found throughout Utah and Arizona

Program ItineraryDay 1 serves as an introduction to the Dinosaur Triangle with visits to Copper Ridge and the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail. Other geologic visits include Dead Horse Point, Upheaval Dome, and Grandview Point atop Island in the Sky. Here the northern half of Canyonlands National Park features incredible geologic terrain.Days 2 and 3 are dedicated to Moab’s scenic back country of Castle Valley and Arches National Park. Witness red rock strata weathered into a netherland of delicate arches, fins, castles, balanced rocks, and hoodoos. Hikes to Landscape Arch and Delicate Arch are a must-do.

Standing Up CoUntry: arCheS and CanyonlandS

Standing Up CoUntry: arCheS and CanyonlandS

All photos courtesy of National Park Service

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continued on page D

page DSpring 2010 Events Desert ConneCtion

AnzA-Borrego InstItute 2010 Desert Hostel:

Program Itinerary continued from page C Day 4 is a soaking wet and smiling half-day white-water rafting adventure through Professor Valley on the Fisher Towers section of the Colorado River east of Moab, Utah. Towering sandstone walls, exhilarating waves, and fun on the river are guaranteed for all.Day 5 will be a scenic travel day into the southern half of Canyonlands National Park. Stops at the Needles and Anticline Overlooks, with drops of 1,500-2,000 feet, overlook the Colorado River. Another point of interest is Newspaper Rock where prehistoric inscriptions are carved into sandstone cliffs.

Day 6 will complete a geologic orientation of the area west of upended Combs Ridge. Traveling on dirt roads through Valley of the Gods, we’ll then head out to Muley Point Overlook, and the natural wonders at the Goosenecks of the San Juan River. Day 7 is a delightful drive along Trail of the Ancients to Natural Bridges National Monument. Hikes to some of the largest natural bridges in the world wil be geologically rewarding. A free afternoon allows further exploration of the upper end of Lake Powell via ferry boat.Day 8 will be a scenic travel day to Marble Canyon Lodge with a loop drive through unspoiled Monument Valley. Time-permitting, an afternoon hike out to the steep walls of Horseshoe Bend overlooking Glen Canyon and the Colorado River is always a thrilling experience. Our day ends at Marble Canyon with our famous barbeque at the historic lodge.

personal! Trip meets just north of Yuma. Space is limited. $150 or $125 for ABF members

festiVal of haWksMarch 19 – 20 The Borrego Valley Hawkwatch counts more spring Swainson’s Hawks than any other site in North America. It’s possible to see 500 hawks in one day! Be a part of science in action: Join counters at the Evening Hawkwatch Site on Borrego Valley Road (1.5 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive) one hour before sunset. To catch morning “lift-off”, plan to arrive at the Morning Count Site on DiGiorgio Road (2.3 miles north of Palm Canyon Road) between 8-9 am. While the peak of hawk migration through the Borrego Valley is often mid-March, counts are variable and observers will be present at both sites through April 15.

hike of the Month: harper CaBin March 13, 8 am – 3 pm Mark Jorgensen, StrenuousHike to the old Harper brothers’ cabin with retired superintendent, Mark Jorgensen as your guide. Meet at Tamarisk Grove campground parking lot. Advanced registration required. $10 eachhollyWooD in BorregoMarch 14, 8 am – 4 pm, Fred JeeSee clips of movies shot in Borrego, and travel to locations, primarily in the southern part of the Park, where scenes were filmed. $45 or $35 for ABF membersBoat toUr throUgh piCaChoMarch 14, 9 am – 4 pm, Robin GreeneOur popular jet boat tour on the lower Colorado River is back, enhanced by more paddling opportunities to experience the river up-close and

ABF and members of Anza-Borrego Desert Botany Society will lead tours to the best display areas throughout the bloom. Join us! • Tuesday, March 9 • Wednesday, March 10 • Thursday, March 11 • Friday, March 12 • Tuesday, March 16 • Wednesday, March 17All walks are 9 – 11:30 am. Meet at ABF’s State Park Store. $5 each. Be sure to check our website or call 760-767-4063 for additional dates.

Wildflower WalksWildflower Walks

photo by Judy Kramer

sprIng 2010 schedule of eventscontinued from page A

For additional information andonline registration, visit

www.theabf.org

page ESpring 2010 Events Desert ConneCtion

Why are there WilDfloWers?March 27, 7:30 pm Dr. Michael WallEveryone loves flowers... now learn the other half of the pollination story – how insects have colored the desert – from the San Diego Natural History Museum Curator of Entomology. Lectures take place at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. No registration required. A $5 donation is suggested.

Thanks to our Institute sponsors!

California Overland offers off-road excursions

on special wildflower routes to beautiful, remote locations

throughout the spring bloom. Half-day tours are $85 or $70

for ABF members.

Visit www.californiaoverland.com or call 760-767-1232 for more information.

Festival of Hawks, photo by LeRoy Dorman

Why Are There Wildflowers, photo by J. Rebman Marshal South

haWkWatCh leCtUre: What’s going on in oUr Valley?March 20, 2 pm Borrego Springs Library Community RoomHawkwatch organizer Hal Cohen explains what we are learning about these amazing birds that journey 7,000 miles every year, and why they are stopping off in Borrego Springs!

CalUMet photo trekMarch 26 (evening) and 27 (all day) Ernie CowanPhoto seminar through Anza- Borrego Desert S t a t e P a r k . C o n t a c t C a l u m e t Escondido for details: 760-737-6002 or www.calumetphoto.com

floWering plants of higher eleVationsMarch 27, 9 am – 4 pm Michael WanglerThis session focuses on the recognition and identification of flowering plants found at higher elevations within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. $45 or $35 for ABF members

Borrego BirDers• First Monday of every month, 8 am• New leader and destination every month• Meet at Christmas Circle• No chargephoto by Eric Kallen

CharaCters anD stories along the soUthern iMMigrant trail April 17, 10 am – 5 pm Diana LindsayTravel back in time aboard a C a l i f o r n i a Overland excur-sion vehicle to historic areas of t h e s o u t h e r n part of the Park. Includes lunch and Lindsay’s book, Marshal South & the Ghost Mountain Chronicles.Visit www.californiaoverland.com or call 760-767-1232 for more information. $90 or $75 for ABF members.

fossil treasUres of anza-BorregoApril 3, 7:30 pm Dr. George Jefferson and Lowell LindsayLearn about the tremendous variety of life forms that populated this area long before it was a desert! Lectures take place at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. No registration required. A $5 donation is suggested.

hike of the Month: loWer WilloWs April 11, 7:30 am Paul Jorgensen, ModerateHike through Lower Willows to spot migrating warblers and other wildlife. Meet in front of the State Park Store in Borrego Springs. $10 each

No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate page 7

Back in the early 1980s, California planned to dam the Yuba River as it flowed through Sierra County – o n l y t o f a c e g r a s s r o o t s opposition from the South Yuba River Citizen’s League (SYRCL), an organization with goals and a tenacious spirit much like Anza-Borrego Foundation.The SYRCL battled on and didn’t let up until 39 critical miles of watershed and river gained federal protection with a Wild and Scenic River designation. This victorious effort, in turn, inspired a modest, home-grown film festival. Little did its organizers know that, in just eight years, the Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival would become the largest and most respected event of its kind in the United States.

ABF Film Honored at Environmental Festival This year, the Anza-Borrego Foundation film, A Year in the Desert: Anza-Borrego – produced for the Park’s renovated Visitor Center – was an Official Festival Selection, and was screened in mid-January before an enthusiastic audience. During the film’s introduction, filmmakers Chris Pyle and Nicholas Clapp noted that, though originally intended to illustrate the wonder and mystery of our desert, the film had served an unexpected purpose. On the eve of the decision as to whether many state parks would be closed due to budget cuts, the film was hand-delivered to every state

legislator, poignantly showing all that would be lost to the public if the Park were shuttered. A Year in the Desert: Anza Borrego was further honored by its inclusion in a national, 90-site Best-of-Festival tour. [Thefilmiscurrentlyofferedasagifttonewandrenewingmembers. Visit www.theabf.org/support to join or renew and receive your copy of the DVD.]

Anza-Borrego Foundation’s 5th Grade Environ-mental Education Camp has received a $10,000 grant from The Heller Foundation of San Diego at Union Bank, a $5,000 grant from The Foster Family Foundation, a $2,000 grant from H. Fort Flowers Foundation, and a $20,000 grant from the Desert Protective Council. The grants will help support intensive hands-on environmental science learning opportunities for approximately 300 urban and rural students from San Diego and Imperial Counties this Spring. “ABF is most appreciative of these foundations’ generous investment in our program. With their support, we are shaping a new generation of conservation ambassadors to care for the Anza-Borrego Desert’s fragile resources,” said ABF’s Institute Manager, Sally Theriault. As mentioned in our cover article, the three-day

environmental education camps give 5th grade students intimate contact with the natural and cultural resources of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. More than 1,500

students have attended camp since the pilot year in 2004, and gained an appreciation for nature, scientific study, and the physical and mental benefits of nature recreation. Since 2004, Anza-Borrego Foundation (ABF) has con- d u c t e d c a m p s e s s i o n s entirely free of charge for 5th grade underserved students, where most are eligible for free lunch programs and rarely get recreational oppor-tunities in wild nature. In addition to their grants for the 2009-10 school year,

The Heller Foundation, The Foster Family Foundation, H. Fort Flowers Foundation and the Desert Protective Council have also provided generous funding for previous camp sessions.

5th Grade Environmental Education CampReceives Numerous Grants

Campers head up the trail to explore in Borrego Palm Canyon’s oasis.

Inthefilm:amountainlioncub discovered by a team from the Wildlife Health Center, UC Davis.

No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate page 8

Anza-Borrego Blooms

I f you’re lucky enough to be in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in the spring, look for these commonly spotted flowers and cacti. If the weather is starting to heat up, head for the hills to catch higher-elevation blooms before they’re gone.

Desert Lily, photo by Judy Kramer Desert Sunflower, photo by Deborah Knapp

Deset Sand Verbena (pink) and Dune Evening Primrose (white), photo by Judy Kramer

Beavertail cactus, photo by Judy Kramer

Right, Brown-eyed Primrose, photo by Judy Kramer

Far right, Cholla cactus, photo by Sam Webb

Above center, Brittlebush, photo by Deborah Knapp

All “Ger-ed” Upcontinued from page 1

page 9No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate

The Secret Life of the Smoke TreeBy Gail Sevrens, District Services Manager

his is the desert. There is nothing out here. Nothing.” — N. Karavasiles, on a plaque marking the intersection of the Anza-Borrego and Yuha deserts. It usually takes a moment t o u n d e r s t a n d w h y t h e smoke tree (Psorothamnus spinosus) is so named. But, a f ter a second g lance a t the trees scattered down a sandy desert wash, you will notice that the trees really do resemble puffs of smoke. You may be tempted to m o v e o n . A f t e r a l l , h o w e x c i t i n g i s a bush that looks half-dead? Isn’t it time for the more spectacular fields of wildflower blooms? But l ike many other deser t dwellers — and the desert itself — looks can be deceiving, and smoke trees are full of surprises. Plants make a living through photosynthesis. For most plants photosynthesis is carried out in the leaves, which take in sunlight and carbon dioxide and convert that energy to sugars the plants can use. In the desert, this strategy faces a big problem: the larger the leaf surface available for photosynthesis, the more precious moisture is lost from the plant. Desert plants adapt to deal with this water loss in various ways; some leaves sport waxy coatings to seal in moisture, others, like the smoke tree, have

tiny leaves that appear only after a fall or winter rain. So how, then, is the smoke tree able to carry out

photosynthesis? Like some of its desert cousins in the pea family, the smoke tree uses its stems to photosynthesize. The greenish tinge to the stems of many of these relatives, such as the palo verde, is evidence of the chlorophyll present. The smoke tree, however, has gray stems that contribute to the blue-gray smoky illusion. The smoke tree packs another shocker, one most

visitors to the desert never see: raging purple blooms cover the tree’s boughs for several days in late May to early July — not exactly peak tourist season here in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. When the petals fall and coat the ground like spent cherry blossoms, an ant hole is likely to appear nearby, down which the apparently tasty flowers disappear. There is nothing like this explosion of summer color on the ephemeral looking trees to epitomize

the subtle secrets of the desert. So, after the spring wildflower blooms have faded (and the crowds have departed), venture back to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park to experience the smoke trees in bloom. And remember, there is more to the desert than what meets the eye.

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Photo by Franz Boschiero

Photo by Sam Webb

never have considered. Camp Borrego provides students with opportunities for team building and positive self-growth, as they connect with nature and their classmates. In addition to offering shelter, the gers offer opportunities to educate students and the public about nomadic cultures and adaptations made for living in extreme climates throughout the world. ABDSP and its sister park, Ikh Nart Nature Reserve in the Gobi Desert, deal with similar challenges and rely on each other as a resource and support. This unique addition to our Fifth Grade Camp program would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Colorado Desert District Maintenance Chief Jason Duke and his team of park

maintenance workers, Jim Dascoulias, Dave Robarts, and Greg Johnson, who prepared the site to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) specifications. SDG&E generously donated anchors to help ensure ger stability during high winds. Anza-Borrego Foundation would like to thank Mark Jorgensen for his leadership in this effort, and ABDSP’s new Superintendent Kathy Dice for her continuing support, as well as the many volunteers who have given so much time to make this happen. We also express our utmost gratitude to all of our donors, including The Foster Family and H. Ford Flowers Foundations, and Senator Denise Ducheny and her husband Al, for their support of the Fifth Grade Camp program, year after year.

No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate page 10

Donations – November 1, 2009 – January 15, 2010ABF thanks all of the following for their generous support.

New Members – November 1, 2009 – January 15, 2010 ABF welcomes our new members!

Aurelia AdamsSteven and Nanci AdlerMona AndersonJesse ArizaAllison Atkinson and Brian MaxsonJakob and Xia Zhso AxelssonMartin BanksSusan BazellDenny and Sally BeckerShirley BerryRoma BlanchetThomas E. BoyleRhonda and Mike BradburyTom BradnerElaine BriggsCaryn and Gary BurgerJohn CampbellKen and Bev CarrierRoss and Mary CarrollFranklin and Vada ChapelMin ChuNed and Kathy ClarkJohn ClementsSandra Cohen

Maureen Corrigan and Jim RussellBrooke CrothersJean DavisCatherine Deshayes and Robert ChavezProfessor Pamela DiggleMolly Donovan and Jeff HoffmanPatrick Donovan and Emilynda ClomeraDale DouglassRebecca Duckworth and Stephen RossElaine DuguetteGerald and Ruth EhlyJack EllwangerJudy FarnethRusty K. FarrellTed FautzTony FeathersKatherine R. FrancescaJohn and Sandra FranklinKaren and Ken FreemanJennifer Guthrie

Virginia HalesLilla HangayJames HannenJoyce and C.W. HarrisonAnne Charlotte and Michael HarveyLaRae and David HayesDon and Jane HelminiakSteve and Tilly HoardKathie HormanCharles HouserRonald A. HowardJulian Hurt M.D. and Myra HurtV. Starr HutchisonJanice Jones and Sally RosenAdam R. KimmerlyGraeme KinseyDavid KlindienstDon and Joy KnightMarcia KnuttMark KoonsJohn LaneSally LawsonSuzann Leininger

Dr. Gerald A. and Grace LiebermanRaymond A. LonserHenry Louria Jr.Richard Luben and Ameae WalkerBarry MartinS. Helene MartinYaeko MasuchiDr. Pamela McEvoyLane and Elaine McVeyWilliam ModesittMarilyn MoskowitzJohn and Ceena NegrychBryan O’LearyJohn and Karen PooleForest QuinlanKurt and Nancy RademacherJudy RamirezMr. RobamatoAlex and Rebecca RossThomas SandersDr. Jim SchultzDaniel H. Schumann

Jack and Joanne SimsRichard and Anne SipeRichard Smedstad and Larry BirkettMark SmithMichael L. SmithDeena and Kent StaarCarol StradleyJoe W. Strow Jr.Alice SundbergSwedlund PropertiesTim SwiftMari ThygesenTy and Julie TyboutAnna-Marie UpdegraffPhil and Karen Van HornLynne VasquezRobert C. VictorBetty Wallin and Donald SweinhartLisa WalswickJerry and Brenda WatkinsBruce and Thera WoodruffDavid Worthy

5th Grade Camp ProgramH. Fort Flowers FoundationThe Foster Family Private FoundationThe Heller Foundation of San Diego at Union BankMark M. JacksonDeborah Knapp (in memory of Bob Cassidy)Herb and Irene Lagois

Bird FundHerb Stone

Desert ConnectionPaul Johnson and Sonja Lane The Springs at Borrego

General Operating41 Pounds.org - Greenwave Strategies Marty Allenby (in honor of H.A. Allenby) Marty Allenby (in honor of Leighton T. Allenby) Marty Allenby (in honor of Mark Albert) Marty Allenby (in honor of Peter Allenby) Marty Allenby (in honor of R.G. Allenby)Alliance Consulting International American Legion Post #20Christopher M. AndersonAnonymousJames and Louise ArnoldHamp Atkinson

Russell AveryJames BarnesPhilip R. BehrendsRuth and Roy BelzerMark and Cynthia BenderLarry E. BennettJeff BlackKathy and Stefen BoehmeProf. Dr. Edith F. BorieHomer L. BossermanE.J. and Stacie BrandrethJanet BrechtColin BrownWilliam J. BryanThomas BuhlerClifford and Kathleen Burt (in honor of Cliff Schumacher)Jackie and James CaffeeBob and Anita CaplanShirley and Webb CateSamuel and Darlene ChirmanDavid Clapp and Gayle BarsamianNicholas and Bonnie ClappGrace A. ClarkBruce CleggFrank and Barbara CoatesDavid and Edna ColwellSteve and Carolyn ConnerBill and Virginia CooperriderHarry and Joanne CrosbyLauren Crux Dr. Pedro and Carol CuatrecasasDr. Earl CurtisJ. Michael DeasyJanet M. DellariaKaren and Tony DeLorenzoDesert Trails Hiking ClubDaniel and Violet Devoe

Jim and Kathy Dice (in memory of Harriet Allen)David and Helen DichekMarilyn DicksonPatricia K. DiGiorgioElaine DinerManfred and Elisabeth DittmannAlex and Merry DraffanBill DraperBrad and Micki Dutenhoeffer Jeanette DuttonDuane and Patricia EbbertJoel S. Edstrom and Margaret I. AdamsBernard Eggertsen and Florence NemkovLee ElsterCarl and Patti EmerichBob and Suzanne EmeryDavid and Peg EngelRupert Essinger and Christen Powell-EssingerJohn and Beate EveyF1 Key FoundationChris C. Farnsworth and Kathleen C. DayKathy FarrellyTed FautzSusan Forsburg and Lisa ChurchillRobert and Sharon FritzRosemary GaetaCatherine GayRobert GerhardGarry and Valerie GibsonFrank J. Goebels and Renee BrinkmanJohn and Jo GolcherJudd and Faye GoldfederGary and Jana Goodwin

Eloise Gore and Allen HileJeremy and Maureen GormanSteven Grady and Joan Warren-GradySinda Gregory and Larry McCafferyPatti Del GuercioRick, Tory and Luke GulleyThomas and Peggy HallEllen HamiltonTom Hamilton and Carin DugowsonDan and Shelley HammerGwen and Rolland HammernessVirginia Hammerness Walter K. HarrisonChuck and Tootie HatchRoss and Kay HenryJackie HiderRose HingeleyNancy and Bill HomeyerDavid Hurwitz and Rebecca SmithTed JacksonGary and Marty JacobsonVictoria and David JamesElizabeth A. JavensLydia Louise and Fred Jee (in memory of Nee Lim Jee)Jeanne Johnstone and George JeffersonDave and Gail JonesJeffrey JonesSamy and Hedi KamienowiczGerald and Nancy KibbeyMr. & Mrs. Ken KingJanet and John Kister

Larry and Pat KlaasenLaurel KleinBob and Barbara KleistDave and Lou KlindienstDr. Arie KorporaalRay and Lucy LarsonMark and Noriko LawlessThomas F. LennonLarry and Karen LeonardsonCornelia Lieb-LundellRobin Lillyreed and Joseph LillyDiana and Lowell Lindsay (in memory of Nee Lim Jee)Diana and Lowell Lindsay (in memory of Jay Von Werlhof)John Liponi Doug and Karen ListerLt. Col. R. L. Llewellyn III, USMC Ret.Lyn LoerkeKathleen LoewyBonnie Loizos ClappDelores and Wally Lukina (in memory of Nee Lim Jee)Brian and Celia LuxCallie Mack and Phil RoullardKenneth and Susan MaehlerStan and Ann MagagnoscFrank and Jean MalloryElizabeth MartinDonna MatsonThomas Mauldin (in memory of Robert Clark)

continued on page 11

Anza-Borrego FoundationP.O. Box 2001Borrego Springs, CA 92004(760) 767-0446

www.theabf.org

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

page 11No. 66 • Spring 2010 Desert UpDate

Non ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 17

San Diego, CA

Donations – November 1, 2009 – January 15, 2010Bucky and Colleen MaurinGeorge and Rosemary McDaniel, Jr.Frederick McDavittBertha McKinleySusan McLaughlinJoan and Joe McNamaraCarrie McNeilMartha McPhailPat McReynoldsGordon and Trudy MelvinDan Mercola and Eileen AdamsonChristine R. MillerLee Miller Dr. Robert and Anne MorrisonRobert W. MuldrewSanjiv Nanda and Urmi RayCurtis Nelson and Annette SeppanenEugenie NewtonDavid and Ann NunezBryan O’LearyChristine Lee OlerPGELore Parker and Charles LoughRobert and Catherine ParksJames and Nancy PearsonFrank and Deanne PedroniJohn David and Mary Yankee PetersJohn Peterson and Jennifer Gwynne

Daniel PorterGeorgia PriorDanielle PutnamLarry and Peggy PuzzoGene and Ann RasmussenLynn and Harry RhodesAnthony RichardsNorman Roberts EstateKen and Jan RobinsonCatherine RoseMary RosenfeldBriana RossJames W. RoyleLaura RuppLouise RussellStephen and Teresa SanFilippoJack and Kathleen SaucierAnn H. SayreGreg ScharfSteven and Brenda SchickRichard Schilk and Mary OlanderSanford and Joan SchneiderTim and Nancy Sexton Joanie and Dave ShannonClark and Eleanor ShimeallDolores and Jack SiegelJeanne SiegelRalph Singer and Lou BaharJon SirkisJames C. SkeltonAdam Smalley and Diane P. Strong

Fritz F. Smith MD and Aminah Raheem PhDGerould H. SmithJames A. SmithJames H. SmithTeri G. SmithDonald J. StangJohn SteeleGeorge and Lucy SteersTom and Christine Stemnock Lem and Louise StephersonCynthia Stribling and Paul WebbGeorgia and Michael StroudAlene and Frank StuartSunbelt PublicationsDan and Katie SullivanMelvin and Ellen SweetGary and Carol SzytelLinda Tandle (in memory of Nee Lim Jee)Barbara and Daniel TartreDon TellezPeter ThomasHomer and Tina TownsendCarol and John TyrrellDave and Mary Van CleveJohn E. VentonSteve and Kelly VittBill WalkerElizabeth WallAlbert WalterNeal and Coleen Walters

Addis and Bev WardMarian WarwickJudith WatermanGeorge and Anne WattsMichael WeberJean P. WehrenMikel Weinberg M.D. and Betzi Roe WeinbergMike Wells and Marie SimovichHeidi WestR. Michael WestCatherine and Garrett WestoverMichael White and Jerre StallcupGail WilliamsKate and George WillisKirsten Winter and Charles VantasselEldon and Marilyn WinterbournePeter and Donna WorcesterRusty and Deanna YoungFran Zajac and Barb PetersonEdward and Bonnie ZeranskiRichard and Lynne ZinsleyRichard Zundel

In-KindMartha BakerDenis HunsingerBrett Kirkman and BillLinda TandleWendy Youngren

Land AcquisitionJames BauerBill Bookheim Janene ColbyGail EllestadWilliam and Sally HawesHermosa Garden ClubMiriam LakritzCora Long (in honor of Cora Steffen)Mike and Sue MahoneyJerald Heschel and Mary MorganGreg and Frances PenkowskyDennis and Debra Stanger

Paleontology FundCRM TECHDr. Robert and Patricia GerdsenRalph and Rosalie Webb

Photo ContestCalumet Photographic Inc. Oceanside Photo and Telescope

Wier Memorial GrantDavid Weston Wendy Youngren