November 2024

Listening to Bats, Birds, and Other Animals at JDSF

Part of JDSF’s role as a living laboratory is learning about all the flora and fauna that call the forest home. Auditory Recording Units (ARU) are important tools for biologists and foresters as they allow for huge amounts of data to be collected quickly and efficiently. Recently CAL FIRE’s environmental scientists reinstalled these units in the forest after a prescribed burn. Learn more about ARUs and the important data they collect by viewing the video linked above.

Expanding Local Water Capacity: The City of Fort Bragg Raw Water Line Replacement Project at JDSF 

The City of Fort Bragg is replacing parts of its aging raw water transmission line, which supplies untreated water to the Water Treatment Plant. This project will construct about 2 miles of new pipeline, including 0.5 miles in Jackson Demonstration State Forest. Ongoing collaboration with JDSF aims to minimize environmental impacts and recreational disruptions while ensuring reliable water delivery, especially during droughts when other sources, like the Noyo River, are limited. 

Slow and Steady: Exploring the Fascinating World of Snails at JDSF

Did You Know? The Pacific sideband snail (Monadenia fidelis), a large land snail with a unique, colorful shell, is more than just a pretty face! These snails are found in the forests of the Pacific Northwest, including Jackson Demonstration State Forest. While many think of snails as slow plant-eaters, the Pacific sideband also has a taste for fungi! One of their favorite snacks is Stereum fungi (pictured). These snails munch on the fungi’s fruiting bodies, playing an important role in the forest ecosystem by helping break down decaying wood and returning nutrients to the soil. Next time you’re in a forest along the Pacific Coast, keep an eye out for these cool critters.  

Join Us for a Flora, Fauna, and Fungi Foray, Dec. 9, 2024 

Join JDSF Biologist Robert Douglas as he takes you on a public tour of the best fall has to offer in the forest. Learn about mushrooms and many other species of plants and animals that call the forest home. Thie final Flora, Fuana, and Fungi Foray of 2024 will take place on Monday, December 9, 2024 at Camp 20 at 9:30 a.m. Remember to get your mushroom permit in advance so you can attend our Fall Forays! Permits are $20 by mail only- grab an application at our front office or download one online. Happy hunting and more information below.  

Jackson Advisory Group Soliciting New Member Applications

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) invites public participation in managing Jackson Demonstration State Forest (JDSF) through the Jackson Advisory Group (JAG). CAL FIRE seeks three members: a Recreation Advocate, a Biologist/Conservationist, and a Registered Professional Forester. To apply, submit a letter of interest and resume by Tuesday, December 10, 2024. Your input can help shape the future of JDSF!