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Renewed Efforts in the Fight Against Invasive Plants

Restoring Upper Cathedral Meadow

Youth Learn About Nature Through Photography

Expert Insights Into the Yosemite Toad

YOSEMITECONSE RVANCY

AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 : : VOLUME 03 . ISSUE 02

INSIDE

Protecting Yosemite’s Diverse Habitats

02 AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 :: YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG

COUNCIL

Michael & Jeanne Adams

Lynda & Scott Adelson

Gretchen Augustyn

Susan & Bill Baribault

Meg & Bob Beck

Suzy & Bob Bennitt*

David Bowman &

Gloria Miller

Tori & Bob Brant

Marilyn & Allan Brown

Marilyn & Don R.

Conlan

Hal Cranston*

Leslie & John Dorman*

Dave & Dana Dornsife*

Lisa & Craig Elliott

Kathy Fairbanks*

Cynthia & Bill Floyd*

Jim Freedman

Don & Susan Fuhrer

Bonnie & Rusty Gregory*

Chuck & Christy

Holloway*

Suzanne & Dan Jensen*

Jennifer & Gregory

Johnson*

Jean Lane

Walt Lemmermann*

Bob & Melody Lind

Sam & Cindy Livermore

Anahita & Jim Lovelace

Lillian Lovelace

Carolyn & Bill Lowman

Dick Otter

Sharon & Phil

Pillsbury*

Bill Reller

Frankie & Skip Rhodes*

Angie Rios & Samuel

Norman

Liz & Royal Robbins

Lennie & Mike Roberts

Dave Rossetti &

Jan Avent*

Marjorie & Jay Rossi

Linda & Steve Sanchez*

Lisa & Greg Stanger*

Jennifer & Russ Stanton

Ann & George Sundby*

Clifford J. Walker*

Wally Wallner &

Jill Appenzeller

Jack Walston

Phyllis Weber* & Art

Baggett

Polly & Ward Wolff*

PRESIDENT’S NOTE

MISSION

Yosemite’s Habitats: Supporting Incredible Diversity

am fortunate to have lived in Yosemite National Park, where I spent many years enjoying its beauty — from watching the seasons change in the Valley, to observing

wildlife in the meadows to gazing up at the majestic big trees in Mariposa Grove. It amazes and humbles me to recognize the interconnections of these diverse environments.

Many of you probably have experienced similar awe-inspiring moments of wonder at the beauty of Yosemite’s natural landscapes. That’s why we are devoting this issue to highlighting Yosemite’s habitats and their incredible value, both to the plants and animals they nurture and also to us, as park visitors and supporters. Read about the latest efforts to remove invasive plants and how a high country meadow restoration is providing better habitat while improving your hiking experience. In Expert Insights, aquatic ecologist Heather McKenny tells you why Yosemite toads are vital to the park’s ecosystem — and what’s being done to protect them. Don’t miss updates on the highly anticipated restoration of Tenaya Lake’s East Beach, experiencing the high country through art workshops and exciting trail repair news.

Also in this issue, we’re sharing highlights from our electronic 2011 annual report. Read about how your donations make a difference.

Thanks to your dedication as donors, these efforts ensure Yosemite’s habitats remain timeless and beautiful resources. Thank you for your support.

See you in the park,

Mike Tollefson, President

CHAIR

John Dorman*

VICE CHAIR

Christy Holloway*

PRESIDENT & CEO

Mike Tollefson*

VICE PRESIDENT

& COO

Jerry Edelbrock

YOSEMITE CONSERVANCYCOUNCIL MEMBERS

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

Superintendent Don Neubacher

*Indicates Board of Trustees

Join Yosemite Conservancy on Facebook and Flickr.

Providing for Yosemite’s future is our passion. We inspire people to support projects and programs that preserve and protect Yosemite National Park’s resources and enrich the visitor experience.

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COVER PHOTO An ice skater enjoys the peace

and solitude of Tenaya Lake last winter.

IN THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS

04 STOPPING THE SPREAD

Park scientists are using new technology to identify non-native plants in order to develop a park-wide prevention and treatment plan.

06 RESTORING HIGH COUNTRY HABITAT

A restoration project in Upper Cathedral Meadow in Yosemite’s high country provides better habitat while improving your hiking experience.

08 PARKS IN FOCUS: YOUTH DISCOVER YOSEMITE THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY

Middle-school youth from the San Francisco Bay Area focus on nature through photography.

10 EXPERT INSIGHTS

Aquatic biologist Heather McKenny

discusses the declining populations of

Yosemite toad and what’s being done to

protect them.

12 Q&A WITH A YOSEMITE INSIDER

Valley District Ranger Jack Hoeflich

answers questions about search and

rescue and offers tips for staying safe

in Yosemite.

14 PROJECT UPDATES

Restoration efforts at Tenaya Lake’s

East Beach, 2012 trail repair activities

and monitoring changes in the park’s

glaciers.

19 PROGRAM UPDATES

Find your inspiration by taking a high

country art workshop or attending an arts

and science forum at Parsons Memorial

Lodge next summer.

30 READER PHOTOS

Yosemite Conservancy supporters share

their special Yosemite memories.

YOSEMITECONSERVANCY.ORG :: AUTUMN.WINTER 2012 03

ABOVE First Snow, Tenaya Lake.

CONTENTS AUTUMN.WINTER 2012

VOLUME 03 . ISSUE 02

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“Himalayan blackberry has displaced more than 100 acres of native vegetation in meadow and riparian areas with high plant and animal diversity.”

— GARRETT DICKMAN

Biologist, National Park Service

STOPPING THE SPREAD

REMOVING

INVASIVE PLANTS

FROM YOSEMITE

YELLOW STAR THISTLE SPOTTED KNAPWEED HIMALAYAN BLACKBERRY

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irdsongs, majestic waterfalls, granite monoliths and diverse wildflowers: These features are part of the spectacular natural ecosystems that make Yosemite National Park so special and memorable. Many people come to the park to experience the landscapes for which Yosemite is famous. Unfortunately, the visitor experience can be greatly

compromised when weeds outnumber wildflowers.

Highly aggressive invasive plants, such as yellow star thistle, Himalayan blackberry, cheat grass and velvet grass, threaten native vegetation, alter food supply for wildlife, increase fire potential and reduce recreational quality.

“Himalayan blackberry has displaced more than 100 acres of native vegetation in meadow and riparian areas with high plant and animal diversity,” according to Garrett Dickman, a biologist for the National Park Service in Yosemite. “Yellow star thistle has displaced many native plants, reduced the food supply for wild animals, and the sharp spines stop hikers from even walking through it.”

Invasive plants are not a new issue, as many species have been in the park for decades. People intentionally planted some species for landscaping, such as foxglove, bachelor buttons and black locust. Yellow star thistle likely arrived by accident on contaminated material such as hay or gravel. Cheat grass sticks to clothing, car tires and animal fur, while Himalayan blackberry was planted for food. In the past three years alone, park biologists have discovered more than 30 new non-native species, and all of them arrived in Yosemite by accident.

To combat the spreading problem, Yosemite Conservancy is working with the National Park Service to fund a multi-year comprehensive invasive-plant survey throughout the park. “This project will give us a picture across the landscape of which invasive plants are in the park and where they are located,” Dickman explains. “We will use this information to reprioritize locations and species for treatment.”

The data collected from the survey will be used to create computer models and will form the basis for an effective prevention, early-detection and rapid-response program for invasive-plant management in Yosemite. Park biologists have already made enormous strides and are vigilantly guarding Yosemite Valley from aggressive species moving farther up the Merced River corridor.

Technology is playing an important role in this project. A smartphone app developed earlier this year allows users to

document invasive plants by taking a picture and a GPS point, and providing some basic but critical information about the plant. This app is available for free at CalFlora: calflora.org/phone. Thanks to technological innovations, you don’t have to be a park botanist to help survey invasive plants. Along with park scientists, volunteers are encouraged to go hiking and capture valuable data about non-native species throughout Yosemite’s vast terrain.

“We cannot do this project without the help of volunteers,” Dickman says. “The park is too big for a handful of botanists to survey, so we are asking for help from volunteers to survey and treat invasive plants.”

In 2011, hundreds of volunteer weed warriors surveyed about 280 acres of Yosemite Valley and manually removed invasive plants such as bull thistle. In 2012, volunteers incorporated the use of the smartphone app in survey efforts. This year, a group of Yosemite Conservancy work week volunteers also treated several acres of bull thistle and surveyed dozens of acres of prime habitat in Yosemite Valley for invasive plants.

Visitors can help prevent the introduction of non-native species by making sure shoes, cars and camping gear are clean before arriving in the park. Any burrs or seeds stuck to gear can accidentally hitchhike to Yosemite and spread from there. Guarding against invasive plants doesn’t stop at the park’s boundaries. You can also help your local communities by landscaping with native plants and by not planting species known to be invasive. By working together and staying informed, we can ensure Yosemite’s natural habitats thrive for generations to come.

Learn more about becoming a Yosemite Conservancy

volunteer at yosemiteconservancy.org

OPPOSITE PAGE TOP A team of volunteers survey plants in Tuolumne

Meadows. ABOVE Volunteers help remove invasive plants, such as the

mullein and bull thistle pictured.

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almness and serenity: Being near a tranquil meadow bordered by the granite domes and alpine lakes of Yosemite National Park is enough to evoke these feelings. Meadows instill a deep connection with the natural world, but these are not just beautiful places — meadows are also flourishing natural ecosystems that support Yosemite’s plants and animals.

“Meadows are the most biologically diverse and productive habitats in the Sierra Nevada,” says Sue Beatty, restoration ecologist for the National Park Service in Yosemite. “They play an important role by capturing snowmelt in the deep soils and slowly releasing nutrient-rich water into the streams and rivers throughout the summer.”

Meadows are also vital habitat to a variety of wildlife, especially numerous species of birds and bats that depend on meadows for food, breeding and preparation for migration. The Yosemite toad, which is endemic to the Sierra Nevada, is one of many amphibian species that depends on seasonally flooded meadow habitat for breeding.

In Yosemite’s high country, popular hiking trails have evolved into large trail networks that intersect meadows, causing disruptions in water flow. Recognizing the significance of meadows to the park’s entire ecosystem, Yosemite Conservancy and the National Park Service are working together to restore these special places.

In 2010, Yosemite Conservancy began funding a three-year restoration project to return natural processes to Upper

ABOVE View of Cathedral Peak from Upper Cathedral Meadow. In addition to being a popular hiking destination, this high country habitat is home

to a variety of plants and wildlife.

“Meadows are the most biologically diverse and

productive habitats in the Sierra.”

— SUE BEATTY

Restoration Ecologist

RESTORING HIGH COUNTRY HABITATPROTECTING UPPER CATHEDRAL MEADOW

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RESTORING HIGH COUNTRY HABITAT

Cathedral Meadow, a wet meadow along the popular John Muir Trail and High Sierra Camp loop. Hikers and pack stock were constantly side-stepping the main path to avoid pools of water and, in the process, unintentionally creating new parallel trails. As many as 10 parallel trails, some up to 14 inches deep, crossed through sections of the meadow, acting as ditches and changing the natural water flow.

Work completed during the past three summers includes rerouting the trail out of the meadow and into the adjoining upland forest. Crews removed ditches, restored topography and replanted salvaged vegetation to facilitate the return to natural conditions. The visitor experience, which was being affected by the former route, is now greatly improved.

“Visitors and pack stock will no longer need to traverse

through the deep ruts, trying to keep out of the mud,” Beatty says. “This project is a win-win situation for both the visitor and the meadow ecosystem.”

Last year, more than 195 linear feet of rutted trail was restored, including an area containing as many as 10 parallel ruts, the highest number on the project. The restoration crew lived near the project site, resulting in numerous opportunities to answer questions from park visitors and teach youth groups about wilderness restoration.

Visitors have an important role in helping the restoration succeed. Hikers should stay on the formal trail to give meadow plants the time needed to grow, flower and produce seeds during the short growing season. “Staying on the trail will allow these plants the best chance for success,” Beatty notes.

BEFORE DURING AFTER

ABOVE The John Muir Trail in Upper Cathedral

Meadow acted as a ditch, disrupting water flow.

ABOVE National Park Service trail crews

reroute the trail and replant salvaged plants.

ABOVE The trail has been rerouted, allowing

the ecosystem to return to natural conditions.

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FocusFor young people who have never experienced

the natural world through a camera lens, this

program allows them to sharpen their focus on their futures.

Through photography, underserved middle-school youth from

the San Francisco Bay Area spend five days observing nature

and learning about environmental conservation. Parks in Focus

is more than just photography — it’s about introducing young

people to a new way of seeing the world. While in Yosemite,

these kids also work on a park–service project. By actively

connecting with the park, they develop a lifelong stewardship

ethic. Your continued support means more students will have

this life-changing opportunity to learn a new skill and become

future park stewards.

Parks in

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Youth DiscoverYosemite Through Photography

Parks in Focus is more than just photography — it’s about introducing young people to a new way of seeing the world.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT A student poses with a pine cone

during restoration activities in Mariposa Grove. A big tree

from a unique perspective, taken by Monica, age 12. The

students experiment with their digital cameras. A vision of Half

Dome at sunset, taken by Isaac, age 11. Martin sets up for a low angle

shot. A deer in its natural habitat, taken by Shontelle, age 14. A student

receives hands-on photography lessons.

YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY and the

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE are proud

to partner with the Udall Foundation to

connect youth to nature through Parks

in Focus. Thanks to this productive

partnership, more young people have

the opportunity to experience Yosemite

through photography.

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SAVING THE YOSEMITETOADHEALTHY ECOSYSTEMS DEPEND ON HEALTHY TOADS

BY HEATHER McKENNY, AQUATIC ECOLOGIST

itting quietly in the warm springtime sun in one of Yosemite’s picturesque meadows, you may be fortunate enough to experience the rare joy of hearing the Yosemite toad’s musical call. Hearing the toad’s chorus was once a common pleasure for spring visitors to the High Sierra. Sadly, Yosemite’s meadows are much quieter today due to substantial population declines.

The Yosemite toad, found only in the Sierra Nevada, was a historically abundant species occurring primarily in high-elevation wet meadows higher than 6,400 feet in elevation. Scientists estimate we have lost between 47 percent and 79 percent of our Yosemite toad population due to factors such as disease, habitat loss and degradation, climate change and air pollution. Because of the decline, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service considers the species a candidate for listing under the Endangered Species Act.

The decline of the Yosemite toad is likely affecting the health of high-elevation aquatic ecosystems. It has also reduced the chances park visitors will be able to experience a natural landscape with a full complement of native biodiversity.

The Conservancy is funding a three-year project to conduct the first-ever park-wide survey for Yosemite toads. The park hopes to document as many toad populations as possible and to assess how different stressors may be affecting the toads’ distribution. Between 2010 and 2012, scientists surveyed 1,032 meadows and found toads in 126. As part of the survey, information is collected on whether toads are found in the meadows, as well as information about the habitat and any signs of human use.

This information is being used to develop a conservation plan for restoring and protecting the Yosemite toad. The plan will include identifying meadows for habitat restoration and making science-based decisions about managing threats.

EXPERT INSIGHTS


LEFT A female Yosemite toad in its natural high-elevation aquatic habitat.

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HEALTHY ECOSYSTEMS DEPEND ON HEALTHY TOADS

BY HEATHER McKENNY, AQUATIC ECOLOGIST

EXPERT INSIGHTS


This project is also providing unique educational opportunities to students (ages 13–17) from Seven Hills School in Walnut Creek, Calif., who participate in a week-long summer science program in Yosemite. They work alongside park biologists learning wilderness survival skills and help survey for Yosemite toads, Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frogs, and other amphibians and reptiles. They are even helping find populations of Yosemite toads that have not been documented previously. The experience has been life-changing for many of the students and has helped them appreciate the importance of conservation.

Saving the Yosemite toad from extinction is crucial for restoring a healthy ecosystem in Yosemite’s high country and for ensuring future generations of park visitors can experience the joy of hearing the toad’s tuneful call ringing across mountain meadows in the spring.

Read more about the Yosemite toad project on our

website at yosemiteconservancy.org/magazine

HEATHER McKENNY is an aquatic

ecologist at Yosemite National Park,

where she has been overseeing the

Aquatic Ecology Program since 2008.

She graduated from the University of

Vermont with a B.S. in biology and an

M.S. in forestry. Saving the Yosemite

toad and the Sierra Nevada yellow-

legged frog from extinction is the most

important part of her job. She hopes

that one day these formerly abundant species will be restored

throughout Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada.

YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY has provided a three-year grant to

fund a survey of the Yosemite toad and its high-elevation meadow

habitat. Data collected will help park scientists determine the

current status and distribution of the species, as well as factors

associated with species decline, such as climate change and

visitor-use activities. The goal of the project is the development

and implementation of a more informed conservation plan to

protect and preserve this unique species.

LEFT A female Yosemite toad in its natural high-elevation aquatic habitat. ABOVE Students from Seven Hills School in Walnut Creek, Calif. survey a high-elevation meadow in Lyell Canyon for Yosemite toads and other amphibians.

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Q&AP

ark ranger Jack Hoeflich was drawn

to Yosemite National Park while

working as a computer engineer in

Silicon Valley. The allure of rock climbing

inspired him to leave his desk job to pursue

his passions in Yosemite. Hoeflich moved

from a volunteer to a search and rescue team

member and, finally, a park ranger. Today, he

is part of the Protection Division responsible

for visitor and resource protection, including

search and rescue operations.

Q :: What brought you to Yosemite?

A :: I grew up in rural Illinois and first visited Yosemite in

1988. I started rock climbing and was drawn to the sport

by the combined mental and physical challenge and the

amazing terrain I could explore. In 1999, I took a leave of

absence from my job and spent the summer volunteering in

Yosemite. I never made it back to my old career. Over time, I

became a search and rescue team member, and in 2003, I was

offered a permanent job as a park ranger.

My love for climbing, my desire to live and work in such

an amazing place, and my interest in protecting Yosemite

[brought me here].

Q :: What are your typical duties as Valley

district ranger?

A :: As the Valley district ranger, I’m responsible for visitor and resource protection in Yosemite Valley, including search and rescue, emergency medical services and law enforcement. I manage a permanent staff of 15, a seasonal staff of 28, and numerous volunteers and interns.

The major duties vary by season and can involve a search and rescue incident or fatality, or a natural disaster — flood, rockfall, wind event, wildfire. In a typical summer, it is not uncommon to be called out several times per week for a technical rescue or a backcountry medical emergency.

Q :: The Protection Division must be ready to

deal with all types of emergencies. How does

your team train and prepare for such a wide

variety of situations?

A :: The park ranger historically has been a “jack-of-all-trades” profession. Rangers spend an incredible number of hours training in many disciplines. Much of their skill, fitness and area orientation is developed while exploring the park on their personal time.

We are successful in Yosemite because the magnificence of the park attracts outstanding rangers. Motivation comes from the National Park Service mission and from the privilege of being able to live here and enjoy the park as a home.

WITH A YOSEMITE INSIDER

“The park ranger has historically been a ‘jack-of- all-trades’ profession.” — JACK HOEFLICH

Valley District Ranger

ABOVE Ranger Jack Hoeflich repairing cables on Half Dome.

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Q :: What is the best advice you can give someone about staying safe in Yosemite?

A :: My advice to visitors is to understand your limits, respect the resource, and don’t underestimate the force of gravity and moving water.

YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY has given grants throughout the

years to Yosemite National Park for a variety of search and rescue

projects. For example, the Conservancy funded the construction

of a helicopter-simulator rappel tower in Crane Flat to provide

a better and safer training environment for search and rescue

personnel. Additionally, the Conservancy has funded an upgrade

of the search and rescue supply cache in Wawona to improve

efficient deployment of gear in an emergency situation.

YOSEMITE INSIDER

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ABOVE A search and rescue team is briefed near El Capitan.

LEFT A rescuer and patient are lifted toward the summit of

Half Dome.

“My love for climbing, my desire to live and work in such an amazing place, and my interest in protecting Yosemite [brought me here].” — JACK HOEFLICH

Valley District Ranger

Shop now atyosemiteconservancy.org

Give GiftsInspired by Yosemite.Give gifts that will inspire the kids on your list to get outdoors. Explore our selection of young reader nature guides, Junior Ranger gear and more!

Purchases made at the Yosemite Conservancy store support our work in the park and help ensure its preservation for generations to come.

CULTURAL & HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Historic Sachse Springs Cabin Restoration $64,464Sharing Traditions Exhibit: History of Cultural Demonstrators in Yosemite $39,575

HABITAT RESTORATION

Mariposa Grove Restoration $1,000,000Removing Invasive Plants from Yosemite $79,838Tenaya Lake Restoration: East Beach $800,000Wilderness Restoration with SCA Crews $199,699

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

Protecting Songbirds & Inspiring Visitors $37,233

TRAIL REPAIR & ACCESS

Improved Trails & Wetland Restoration: Lembert Dome Loop Trail $193,596John Muir Trail & Habitat Improvements in Lyell Canyon $120,000Legendary Valley Trails Restoration $390,050 Restoring Popular Climbing Trails $57,000Tuolumne & Merced Watershed Trails Rehabilitation by CCC Crews $429,305Tuolumne Grove Trailhead Rehabilitation $120,428Yosemite Trails Campaign $233,000Youth Crews (YCC) Restore Campgrounds, Trails & Habitat $351,908

VISITOR SERVICES & EDUCATION

Adventure to Leadership: Youth Development Program with ARC $93,120Junior Ranger Program $96,000Parks in Focus: Youth Photography Program $8,500Parsons Memorial Lodge Summer Series $25,000Teens Connect to Yosemite through WildLink $14,500WildLink Alumni Explore Careers in Yosemite $13,700Yosemite Guide for Visitors with Language Disabilities $28,160Yosemite Leadership Program Summer Internship $102,465Yosemite Nature Notes Web Video Series $38,000Yosemite Trip Planning Podcasts $29,000Yosemite’s 150th Year Celebration $57,000

WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

Protecting the Great Owl $60,000Protecting Yosemite’s Bears Through Electronic Monitoring $117,700

TOTAL $4,799,241

*Total project funding is included for multi-year projects.

Color represents 2012 Youth in Yosemite Programs.

PROJECT UPDATES

New Projects for 2012*


RESTORINGYOSEMITE’STRAILSA LOOK BACK AT 2012

If you have hiked up the heart-pumping Four Mile Trail, strolled to Lower Yosemite Fall or trekked the popular Lembert Dome Trail, you have experienced the results of your donor dollars at work in the

park. The trail network is critical to ensuring visitors have access to Yosemite’s many wonders. With your support, the Conservancy can continue to provide funding to Yosemite National Park to keep these trails in excellent condition.


PROJECT UPDATES

2012 was another busy year for trail crews, including several youth crews, who repaired stone steps, built bridges and eradicated social trails throughout the park. Yosemite Conservancy recognizes the importance of trails in protecting natural resources while providing visitors with memorable hiking experiences. That’s why we, together with the National Park Service, work hard to make sure these trails endure.

ABOVE A Yosemite National Park trail crew member fits a

series of rocks into place on the new trail to the East Beach at

Tenaya Lake. LEFT A Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) crew

member breaks rock on the Lembert Dome Trail in Tuolumne

Meadows. RIGHT California Conservation Corps (CCC) youth

crew members Nick and Andrew move rock into place on the

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail.

ABOVE A team of volunteers from Tuolumne Climber Coffee

builds a clearly marked trail near the “Lord Caffeine” climbing

route in Olmsted Canyon near Olmsted Point.

ABOVE Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) crew members pause

for a photo while hauling rocks on the trail between Sentinel

Dome and Taft Point.

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PROJECT UPDATES


POLISHING THE JEWEL OF THE HIGH COUNTRY

ut a visit to Tenaya Lake on your 2013 summer calendar, and look forward to enjoying the results of a highly anticipated restoration project at the popular East Beach area. Work crews spent last summer completing a two-year restoration project to enhance the visitor experience while protecting wetlands.

“Thanks to the unwavering support of our donors, lakeshore habitat at one of Yosemite’s most popular summer destinations is protected, while providing visitors with a better place to connect to nature and family,” says Mike Tollefson, president of Yosemite Conservancy.

National Park Service trail crews rerouted the beach-access trail to a drier upland area and built elevated boardwalks and bridges to avoid areas of sensitive wetland habitat. The handicapped-accessible trail now includes interpretive

RESTORING EAST BEACH AT TENAYA LAKE

ABOVE A visitor learns about Tenaya

Lake’s natural and cultural history thanks

to new interpretive signage installed

as part of the Conservancy-funded

restoration project.

PROJECT UPDATES


signage to educate visitors about the restoration and natural ecology of the area, while a new communal picnic table will better accommodate large family gatherings.

To encourage a healthy ecosystem to take root, restoration crews replanted native willows and sedges along the old trail. These plants will help reduce lakeshore erosion and keep natural processes intact.

Yosemite Conservancy has provided $1.7 million during the past two years to improve visitor enjoyment while ensuring Tenaya Lake’s natural integrity will endure for generations. Thanks to your support, this jewel of the high country is shining more brightly than ever.

LEFT The restoration at Tenaya Lake’s

East Beach area protects habitat while

enhancing the visitor experience at

this popular and beautiful location.

ABOVE Park rangers pose at the newly-

installed communal picnic table at

the East Beach area.

PHOTOS: (LEFT) © NANCY ROBBINS. (ABOVE) © YOSEMITE CONSERVANCY. (RIGHT) © NANCY ROBBINS.

Yosemite Conservancy has provided $1.7 million during the past two years … ensuring Tenaya Lake’s natural integrity.

PROJECT UPDATES


PARK SCIENTISTS MEASURE GLACIERS

ohn Muir’s legacy is strong — even at the highest reaches of Yosemite National Park. His many accomplishments include the 1872 introduction of measuring the McClure Glacier to evaluate its speed and size. Today, scientists are attempting to reproduce Muir’s research in order to compare current glacier ranges with historical dimensions.

The Conservancy is funding a three-year study of the Lyell and McClure glaciers — the largest in Yosemite — to understand the climate patterns

causing the retreat of these valuable resources. Park scientists have been documenting the size and velocity of the glaciers, as well as the amount of water being delivered to the upper Tuolumne River. Field data will be used to build computer models to predict glacial behavior in response to future climate scenarios.

When this study concludes in December 2012, scientists will have a better understanding of how Yosemite’s glaciers are affecting valuable water resources.

TOP McClure Glacier is one of Yosemite’s few remaining “living” glaciers. MIDDLE Park scientists

drill a velocity stake into Lyell Glacier to measure how fast it is moving. BOTTOM A researcher

inspects the meteorological station installed between Lyell and McClure glaciers.

MELTINGGLACIERS

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I n the early morning on the bank of the Tuolumne River, a group of artists have joined to interpret a tranquil and serene scene. The group mindfully slows down and absorbs the elements one by one to avoid being overwhelmed, as the interplays among land, water and wildlife create an ever-present symphony. Their ears perk up as they hear sounds previously

unheard; their eyes absorb infinite shades of blue, gold, green and more along the riverbank. Each artist makes a soft shushing sound across the canvas with his or her brush, then pauses to marvel at the vault of precious gems that sparkle beneath the surface of the river or listen to the krauk of an ardent Clark’s Nutcracker dancing in the trees above.

“Painting inspires you to really see the depth in the trees, water and granite. You really need to focus not only your eyes, but also your thoughts,” says Catherine Cummings, a workshop participant. For Cummings and the other art students, slowing down and using all their senses is the first lesson.

ARTWORKSHOPSINSPIRATION COMES NATURALLY IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

“Painting outdoors makes you part of the place. You can’t make this up in the studio.”— CHARLES WALDMAN

Veteran Artist & Workshop Instructor

LEFT Artist Charles Waldman at his easel preparing to instruct

plein air participants in Tuolumne Meadows.

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“Painting outdoors makes you part of the place. You can’t make this up in the studio,” explains Charles Waldman, a veteran artist who has been leading Conservancy workshops for more than a decade. “Nothing you can imagine will come close to what you can discover being outdoors.” Waldman teaches a plein air workshop to artists of all skill levels. His workshop is just one of the many ways Yosemite Conservancy is engaging visitors in the high country through the arts.

In addition to painting workshops, Yosemite Conservancy also supports the Parsons Memorial Lodge Summer Series, a forum that features many notable scientists, authors, musicians and poets. The series takes place each summer at the historic Parsons Memorial Lodge in Tuolumne Meadows. Yosemite’s inspiring high country is the perfect setting for the series, where arts and science communities come together to share their discoveries.

“Painting inspires you to really see the depth in the trees, water and granite. You really need to focus not only your eyes, but also your thoughts.”

— CATHERINE CUMMINGS

Workshop Participant

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“We hear nothing so clearly as what comes out of silence,” says David James Duncan, an author whose presentation, The Wild Without and the Wild Within, was among several presentations at Parsons Lodge, where offerings explored subjects from species extinction to yoga and meditation.

The subjects vary, but the common thread is that by learning to slow down and connect with our natural places whether through writing, meditation, or art — we are really making discoveries that connect us with ourselves.

As Waldman reminds his students: “The point is not just to make a painting; it is to engage in this dialog with our world … to live life. This is a path of discovery.”

Looking for inspiration? Join us for a painting or photography workshop to

hone your artistic skills. Winter photography workshops are available now on

our website at yosemiteconservancy.org/adventures

BOTTOM LEFT An example of a finishd plein air

painting. LEFT Program participants find

inspiration while on an Outdoor Adventure with

professional artist and guide Charles Waldman.

ABOVE Dana Fork in the Afternoon by Charles

Waldman, painted at one of the many Tuolumne

Meadows locations visited during the workshop.

“We hear nothing so clearly as what comes out of silence.”— DAVID JAMES DUNCAN

Author

UPCOMING 2013 OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Get Outdoors with Yosemite Conservancy

OUTDOORADVENTURES

Yosemite has so much to offer year-round, and we want to share it with you. Join Yosemite Conservancy expert naturalists on a snowshoeing adventure to explore Mariposa Grove or join a photography expedition to improve your skills and experience breath-taking scenery.

JANUARY 12

Mariposa Grove Snowshoe Trek

JANUARY 17–20

Winter Landscape Photography

FEBRUARY 9

Trek to the Edge: Dewey Point Snowshoe 1

FEBRUARY 22–23

Photographing the “Firefall”

MARCH 9

Sequoias & Snowshoes: Explore Mariposa Grove in Winter

MARCH 16

Trek to the Edge: Dewey Point Snowshoe 2

MARCH 22

Secrets of the West Valley

MARCH 24

Spring Canyon Flowers

APRIL 5–6

Leave No Trace Trainer

APRIL 13

A Saunter with John Muir

MAY 16–19

Spring Light Photography

MAY 25

Photographing the “Moonbow” 1

MAY 31–JUNE 2

Yosemite’s Birds of Prey

2011 Annual Report

W hen we reflect back on the past year, we are delighted and humbled by the commitment of our donors, volunteers and park partners to help provide for the future of Yosemite National Park. From habitat restoration, to trail repairs, to providing

opportunities for deeper connections with the park, the Conservancy’s support serves as a visible reminder of passionate efforts to preserve and protect Yosemite. In this report, we are thrilled to share our successes — none of which would be possible without the profound dedication of people such as you.

2011 was a busy and exciting year for projects and programs in the park, especially our two signature projects: Youth in Yosemite and restoring the East Beach at Tenaya Lake. Youth of all ages participated in programs designed to build park stewardship, self-confidence and leadership skills. We have broken ground on the restoration of Tenaya Lake’s East Beach, setting the foundation for new ecologically friendly trails and the replanting of native willows along the shoreline and in the surrounding wetlands.

These accomplishments would not be possible without your commitment:

• $9.3 million in support provided to Yosemite for projects and programs • More than 42,000 supporters • 55 miles of trail and 40 acres of meadow restored throughout the park • More than 27,000 young people participated in Conservancy-funded

youth programs that encourage future park stewardship• 56 park-enhancement projects funded, ranging from trail and habitat

restoration to cultural resource protection and enhanced visitor services

We thank you for your unwavering support in protecting Yosemite today and for future generations.

See you in the park,

John Dorman, Chair Mike Tollefson, President

Please enjoy highlights of our 2011 annual report. The full-length report can

be viewed on our website at yosemiteconservancy.org/annual-report

A Special Message From the Chair & President

PHOTO: © JOSH HELLING.

f you’ve visited Yosemite, you’ve experienced the difference our support makes. From the installation of bear-proof food lockers in Valley campgrounds, to the restoration of miles of trail in the high country, the

work we support to preserve and protect Yosemite’s natural wonders and enrich the visitor experience is everywhere. Art and theater programs, Outdoor Adventures, bookstores, volunteers and wilderness-support services provide visitors with more opportunities to connect with Yosemite on a deeper level.

In 2011, we funded 56 projects throughout the park, including restoration of 55 miles of trail and 40 acres of meadow. From Yosemite Valley to Wawona to the high country, our support is making a big difference in restoring natural ecosystems, protecting wildlife and improving the visitor experience.

Your Support Makes an Impact

Think about your most recent visit: Did you stay in a Valley campground or go to a performance at Yosemite Theater? Then you benefitted from a Conservancy project or program.

Our Work is Everywhere

Our Support is Everywhere

ABOVE Workweek volunteers restore habitat in Yosemite Valley.

’11 ANNUAL REPORT


PHOTO: © KEITH WALKLET.

Statement of Financial PositionAs of December 31, 2011

The amounts presented here are derived from Yosemite Conservancy’s audited financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2011. A copy of the audited financial report is available on request.

*Reserves are maintained to meet future grant obligations to Yosemite National Park.


FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

’11 ANNUAL REPORT

Support & Revenue $12,866,122

Contributions $11,358,600

Retail & Publishing

$901,264

Visitor Services

& Programs

$510,572Investment Income

& Other Revenue

$95,686

Cause Related

$1,150,026Foundations

$541,468

Individuals

$9,338,796

Corporations

$116,068

Events

$212,242

88%

7%4%

1%

Campaign forYosemite Trails

$298,914

ASSETS Current Assets

Cash & Investments $14,792,449

Receivables & Other Assets $1,541,089

Total Current Assets $16,333,538

Pledges Receivable, Net of

Current Portion $325,664

Furniture & Equipment, Net of

Accumulated Depreciation $317,066

Land Held for Future Use $764,200

TOTAL ASSETS $17,740,468

LIABILITIES Current Liabilities

Accounts Payable & Accrued

Expenses $554,205

Grants payable to Yosemite

National Park, Current Portion $1,735,794

Total Current Liabilities $2,289,999

Grants Payable to

Yosemite National Park,

Net Current Portion $63,775

TOTAL LIABILITIES $2,353,774

NET ASSETS

Unrestricted* $10,431,178

Temporarily Restricted $3,941,807

Permanently Restricted $1,013,709

TOTAL NET ASSETS $15,386,694

TOTAL LIABILITIES

& NET ASSETS $17,740,468

Statement of Activities As of December 31, 2011

Note to Financial Statements

The amounts presented here are derived from Yosemite Conservancy’s audited financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2011. A copy of the audited financial report is available on request.

Total support for Yosemite National Park was projected to be $9.3 million. This support is composed of park enhancements, programs and services. Final aid to Yosemite National Park reflects the actual number in audited financial statements. One of the significant non-cash support items reflected in the $9.3 million is the value of volunteer hours. The Conservancy contributed $355,000 in value based on volunteer contributions to Yosemite National Park in 2011.


FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2011

Park Enhancements $6,485,943

Aid to Yosemite National Park $8,794,067

Visitor Services

& Programs

$1,380,289

Cultural & Historic

$51,528

Scientific Research

$119,140

Visitor Services & Education

$2,601,633

Campaign forYosemite Trails

$298,914

Habitat Restoration

$1,037,872

Trail Repair & Access

$1,066,150

Wildlife Management

$18,900

Other Pass-thru Gifts & Grants

$370,920

Project Administration

$920,886

74%

16%10%

Retail & Publishing

$927,835

$355,000 in support was

provided to Yosemite in the

form of volunteer service.

SUPPORT & REVENUE

Contributions $11,358,600

Retail & Publishing $901,264

Visitor Programs & Services $510,572

Investment Income &

Other Revenue $95,686

TOTAL SUPPORT & REVENUE $12,866,122

EXPENSES Aid to Park

Park Enhancements $6,485,943

Retail & Publishing $927,835

Visitor Services & Programs $1,380,289

Total Aid to Park $8,794,067

Administrative $602,321

Fundraising $2,195,260

TOTAL EXPENSES $11,591,648

’11 ANNUAL REPORT

Edward & Harriett AbbottSidney AbedBarbara Carr AcevedoRobert L. AdamsJudy AguayoJoanne AkerMarcos AkiatenMaxine S. AkinRichard A. AlterAngelo AmbrosioInge AmodeoAnne AndersonMilton AndersonStephen W. AndersonEugene AngellCarol AntoineFausto AraujoRosasco F. ArayaCesar AriasMargaret L. ArmstrongBarbara ArnoldMarshall Arnold Jr.Ted ArnoldJean & Chuck AtthoweHarry L. Baer IIRobert C. BaldwinAnton K. BallendorfLenore BarbataCharles BarkerMary V. BarmettlerElton “Barney” BarnettRichard BartholomewCora BartonBruce BartramGino & Mary BattaginBob BatyMatthew A. Baxter IIIDolores BelewLeon BellAl BellucciJim BenedictBarbara BerlinJames Dana BernierPastor Dale BethelGene BianchiDorothy T. BiddickWilliam BiggerstaffRobert C. BilekVirginia BinghamNed Birdsall

Barry BiscombeArthur M. BishopVivian Marie BishopDavid BixlerDaniel K. BlairBeverly BlakeThomas BlankenshipJames BleakSylvia BleiweissGeorge R. BlitchAlan BodineRalph Boemio & the Boemio FamilyRev. Ralph BolinMatthew BoltonIrene BonelliJoe BorrusoPatricia BoydLesly Jane BoyerPete BradleyKathryn L. BreezePatricia M. BrennanSally BrennanOlga & Edgar BrewerJames BricePatricia BrienChristine J. BrockElbert BrockDale BrombergerJohn BrooksFrances K. BrossyMr. & Mrs. James BrouderAlvin Edmund BrownAvery BrownBernelda BrownWallace W. BrownDonald BruzzoneDuncan BuchananRobert Henry BuchholzEdward BuckleyBill & Lois BuddCharles C. BuettnerAnna BurchCecile BurleighTom BurnsMaureen BurrowsKenneth V. ByramAngela ByrdMichael A. CalderonRebecca Caldwell

Mary Louise CallasPeter CallizoRuth CamaraotaRyan CameronLCpl William G. CampMatt CannonVincent A. CapuanoJudy CarballoJeanne CarevicBob & Lydia CarlsenRonald D. CarlstonPaul J. CarmentCara-May CarpenterDorothy CarsonElliott ChamberlainAlbert S. ChanAlvin ChanBeulah ChandlerJohn C. CheslockGuy H. ChickJohn W. ChildsKaren Louise ChinChloeVirginia ChoateJesus ChristTess ChristensenAnthony T. ChwalaSam & Jean CiccarellaLeonard CiprianoFrank CirariMike ClarkDoris ClearyEleanor ClementsDorothy CochranRobert L. CochraneRod CollierArthur CollinsAva J. CollinsHenry Eaton Collins IIILaura CollinsHarold & Dorothy CominsFrancis R. ConnettJeffrey Scott CookeHarold CooperPhyllis Ann CopeMarc CorradiniTheo CorrosJane CorsoLouis P. CorsoJohn Edward Cotter

Bruce CowanAndrew Roy CoxScott P. CrannyRuth D. CrawfordJames CrichtonBev CrossLouie CruzSunnie CullingsLynda CunninghamChristopher CurataloScott CuthbertPierre d’AlbertGrace DaltonBurt L. Davis Jr.L. Eston & Ethel O. DavisEva DavisRobert C. Davis Jr.Beverly H. DayBrian Dessin DayMabel M. DayEvans de GeostKatherine S. DeBrechtJim DeckardEmma DelgadoGladys DemingWilfred DeniseHelen DewitWade H. Dozier Jr.Ismael & Pauline DuarteHarry L. DuceyDale DumondJason DunbarSam & Connie DunhamGerald DunnJack DupuisJohn Ansley EdwardsKatha Gail EdwardsThomas Edward EggersJohn R. EiflerGary EisenbergJudith ElliottMarilyn EllisCarol A. EnglehornMary Elizabeth EnglishElda EnsmingerErick C. & Linda ErdmanNancy EricksonScott EricksonMichele EvansAbigail Ann Fahrner

James FarrisRichard FauverBernard & Jeanne FavaroKenneth D. FawcettMollie Felso GebingLynn Lee FerrinCrystal Coral FespermanJack FinchCommare Frances FinocchiaroNic Fiore & Midge FioreBeverly FischerBetty FisherLenora FittingMargaret M. FletcherRichard C. FletcherMary Bell FloydChris Alex FongBertha ForrestHubert ForsythLouise FranceRobert Eugene FrederickFrederick FreiBarbara FrommNancy Lee FryRobert L. FryCarol FuentezJames GalbreathRobert M. GaleOsa Middleton GallowayLorine W. GamlenDaisee Dawg GarberIsabel GarberEileen GardnerCharlotte E. GastonGeorge Nester GeeLeland F. GerberKaren Ann GibsonPatricia G. GibsonMike GilbertNancy GildersleeveEdwin P. GillsAnita GilpeerKeith GloverRich GnagyJane GoebMatt GoettschTsuyoshi GokaDr. Michael D. GoldmanRichard N. Goldman

Keith GoodinDennis GormanAnna, Thomas & Vernon GradySue Ann GrafDavid GrattonDaniel R. GravelynDavid GrayEugenia GrinwaldtJack A. GronerMargo GrossDr. Nathan GrossMichele Amy GuardHans GuentherFortunato GuerraGeorge GuntermannLarry GutierrezMichael E. HadeGaylen D. HafnerPaul HahnWesley L. HalbrunerChris HaleSharon Joy HaleThomas L. HallWilliam A. HallidayWoody & Ruby HamiltonBill HammakerLeslie HamptonCharles C. Hansen Jr.Edward HansenLaura M. HansenNatalie HansenSue HansenJune HardieKenneth HargreavesThomas HarperCharles W. HarrisCeacy HartSteven HartmanJack Rockwood HarveyElfriede HauggHarford Holmes HaysRonald W. HeiermanArthur G. HemlerRick HemmingerCandace HenryPeter HenshawHoward D. Herbert Jr.Angel HernandezHugo Herrera

THANK YOUIn Memoriam We are grateful to our donors who honor and remember their friends and loved ones with a memorial

gift to Yosemite Conservancy. Below we list the names of those individuals remembered with gifts

received between January 1, 2011 and July 31, 2012.

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James Kenneth HessRobert HevnerDennis HewettThomas Robert HigelinWalter & Mildred HillDr. Walter B. HillRyan HillerLoralee HiramotoJohn Gilbert HockingLane “Bumpa” HodginWilliam Parker “Bill” HoffmanEugene HolahanMeessy HolbergGerry HolcombWinston HolmesEmil Hoppe Jr.Ernest E. Horn Jr.Bob HouserRobert H. HouserDouglass HubbardJeffrey HuffakerMrs. John HuffingtonRobert L. & Joan D. HughesHarry & Mable HullDonna HurleyWilliam Brian Huston Jr.James N. IdaGloria C. IgnasiakFrederick Ilchert & Kurt WrobleValantino R. “Bud” InmanBernice JacksonJess JacksonTopsy Jackson-ArayaErnest JawetzJames JerniganHenry Charles JoergerDaniel Martin JohnsonDaniel M. JohnsonMartin L. JohnsonSamuel JohnsonMitch JonaskyBarry JonesMorgan “Chuck” JonesCharles M. JonesEthel M. JonesLlewellyn JonesRuss JonesJim JuhlerRobert JuhlerJohn G. KamenaRobert KangasHoward KaytonDickie KernSonya KieranBarry S. KingJon KinneyM. Maxine KneidingKate KnightWilliam KnoopDonald & Jean KnowltonEvan Andrew KoppHenry KuropatJoan KuropatHaley LaFlanneGeorge “Papa” LaFleurElise “Mimi” LaFleurRobert LairdThelma LambertPhillip LammiDr. Baldwin G. LamsonBill LaneJames R. LaneRoy E. Laubscher

Dr. George LaversSharron LawJohn S. LeasLloyd LedbetterWallace LeeScott Allan LehmannVirginia N. LeichtfussRobert LemosRichard W. LennenAmi LesoStephen Alan LeventhalRaymond Arthur LewisPaul & Michelle L’HeureuxDorothy LindBill & Amye LindseyHarry LindseyPeter Howard LiskerAlan Norman LittleDr. Donald R. LoebEileen Cunningham LohkampRichard LohsenKaren LongJon B. LovelaceCharlotte M. LundbergNeil MacGregorMichael Anthony MachadoJeanne & Robert MacleanJohn MacomberBruce MadisonAl & Dorothy MaggioJohn P. MagillJohn & Olive MahoneyLouis Hendrix Major IIIMr. & Mrs. MakisJean MalerbiMildred S. MannMichael E. ManningJay ManuelLorraine MarconeEllis MarekEnnio MarottoTim MartinWilliam MartinRichard MaskalGeorge E. MatthewsRobert W. MattutatJeff MaurerJessie Anne McBrideJoseph R. McBrideThomas McCallFrancene McCartyCraig A. McClureAmy Ayotte McDonaldCaroline Rush McDonaldJohn McDonnell Sr.Elizabeth McGinnessKurt McGintyJames A. McKeeverWayne McKillipCharles Lachlan McKinnonEdouard McKnightPaul McLaughlinSonia & Bud McLellanCraig McLureEdward McMullenLeslie Chase McNeillLynn McNultyEdward L. MearsSteve MedleyVaunita MeehanKaesy L. MendozaAlfred G. MenickLouise Watson Mericle

Fred MerrifieldDavid Ernest MerrillBob MessmanEric MetcalfCharles MeuelHarriett MeuelGreg MeyerMilton MeyerArt & Pat MichielssenBryan C. MierSamuel J. MigliazzoChester & Helen MillerMaria MillerThomas P. MillerDoris MillsIvan D. MillsMarjorie S. MinneyEvelyn MinnigCurt MoellerGabrielle S. MoellerLinda E. MolyneuxGabriel MonacoRobin G. MonacoHelen MondientzAlma MooreWoody & Olga MooreAngelo J. MorescoWilliam MorimotoRoger MorpheyOlga MorrisSusan H. MorseMichelle MoskalikRagnwald MullerW. Joseph MundyElda MurphyBarbara NajarianWalter NakanoJoanie NarzisiWill NeelySteve NemethPeggy & John NewmanRalph NewmanVictoria M. NewtonLouise Kirtley NicholsGil NickelFrank NiedermeierCornelius & Mae NihillEllie NishkianMargaret NoonenEvan Armstrong NorthDonna G. Oakes, MDNancy ObymakoAl O’ConnorAlan P. O’ConnorAlbert C. Oetting Jr.Paul & Elizabeth OffermannDebbie O’LearyJohn OlguinRobert L. OliverEgidio “Gene” OliverioJim O’LoughlinDean OlsenRussell Bryan O’NealMercedes OrantesAndrew C. OrozcoOrville OrtonW. F. OstranderMary Sheppard OswaldKyle OtsujiSibyl Ann OtterTimothy Michael OwensRichard PackWilliam Brewster PaddockRalph Park

Fess ParkerJohn R. Parmeter Jr.Adeline PartinDon PattersonKenneth PaulinTheresa L. PaulsJohn & Elrose PearsonTed PearsonHerb PerassoTheodore PetersenDavid H. PetersonEsther Dimotakis PetersonElmer B. PhillipsTameka PhillipsLorraine & Russell PhilpottDana PierceKitty PirieLee R. PlattEdward PostHays & Margaret PostKris PoyhonenAlfred PrommerHenrietta PuccettiCarl PurdyDorothy PyleCarolyn Luise Huber QuinnKent QuinnHarold RadcliffeNancy Clare RalstonMathilda RamseyJames H. RayElizabeth ReadGeorge & Rose ReamsThe Regan FamilyMarion RehfeldDennis RehmanPaul ReiterAlberta RenkAnnabelle RichardsWarren Lee RichardsLarry RicheyJo Anne RiddleFrances RidgwayBert RiggioAllen C. Riggle, MDBruce E. RobinsonNancy RogersArthur A. & Frances RosenRachel RosenbachRobert N. & Betty L. RosenthalRobert O. Roth, MDDick O. RoweGalen RowellDavid D. RoybalArthur B. & Dorothy L. RozellRoger E. RuchJames J. RulecLorene RussellJack RyanRobert Ryder, VAnn RyttingDon & Mildred SaaleMary SaatjianRaymond SaatjianEdward SalvatoreJames A. Sandell Jr.John P. Sands, MDLuanne SarconiDon H. SchellingerKatherine H. SchenckLois B. SchilderMabel SchillerJim Schimandle

Warren SchmidJosephine SchmidtAnne SchneiderWilliam SchneiderHildie SchretteKenneth Leo SchuchardMorris & Genevieve SchuhrkeKatherine SchulzArent SchuylerChuck SchweikerRichard W. ScottKristy A. Seligman BukettHelen SemerlingWil SeymourEsther ShandlerH. William Shawhan IVMr. & Mrs. SheelyAlain ShelburneAnn ShepherdWilson Eliot Driver ShepherdMary Lou SherfJohn Robert ShumanRev. Laing SibbetRuby SimmonsSusan Aitken SimónSteven Robert SimonsTerry SinclairLouis SislerWarren N. & Shirley G. L. SizooBonnie SmithCay SmithEdward B. Smith Jr.Gay SmithLiz SmithMarcia SmithMarilyn SmithMorgan SmithRuthann L. SmithWilliam R. SmithLeo SnowissEarl D. SnyderJohn E. SoaresMadeline SoderMichael SoffaArthur SolivaNorman SoloveiAllen SpannuthArnold SpearC. Allan SpencerJeannette L. SpencerPaul SpiveyVirginia SpringerMarvel StaffordChester StanchinaJames & Emily-Ann StandleyArcher StanleyJames StantonWilliam J. StappJeffrey SteachHubert T. Stebbins Sr.Preston StedmanMarilyn SteelDr. Frederick L. Stein & Rose C. Stein, RNDwight SteinertNatalie StetsJeanne StickneyDavid StilesCharles StoneFred StoneJohn A. StoverJeffrey L. Strach

Jennie StrainLola StrongEdward & Marie StulikSteve SuddjianBeverly SumoMary SutliffRyan TaberManuel Ruben Tamayo Jr.Ned TaylorElouise Brown TeaguePaul ThomanMarian ThomasCarol Keenen ThompsonMrs. TibkeSgt James R. Tijerina, USMCWayne ToddVictoria TrumblyFran UttonMilton VailTony Vallot Jr.Lena & Erle Van BuskirkAlex VasquezRobert McKinley “Bob” VaughanReese H. VaughnLorraine VeneziaCasey Russell VeselyVic VictoriaBarbara A. VilliottiRichard E. VollGarudamangalam VridhachalamGeorge VuosoKurt WagnerWilliam A. WahlerDon WaldenDarlene WalkerHarold WallaceMartha Walton McCleanRudy WatkinsSara Jackie WeigelJim WestonNancy P. WestonCurtis WetterJohn WhedonPaul S. Williams Jr.Harry Williamson Jr.Paul WilliamsonOtto L. WilsonAric WiltSteven WinardThomas T. & Ethel P. WinslowMr. & Mrs. James Winters Sr.Par WohlersJames F. WolfeMillicent A. WollenweberJim WoodHoward & Ellen WorleyWalterlynn Vanderveer WoythalerEd & Betty Lee WrahtzErnest E. WuethrichCarl Otto WulfDr. Joe YamamotoJessie Eiko YasakiRuth & Bill YearianAlbert & Evelyn YeeRose YoshimotoFrank L. & Joan F. YostRobert L. YoungJerome YuillPolly Chun YunGinger ZilischDr. David Zlotnick

DONOR CORNER


DONOR CORNER


John and Carolyn Landgrebe spent their honeymoon in a snow-covered Yosemite cabin. In 2011, they joined their family at The Ahwahnee to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. The event was commemorated with their own custom T-shirt, which read, “Yosemite: Where honeymoons last forever.”

John purchased a section of the cable that was used on Half Dome from 1934–1984 to celebrate his hike to the top. “Being able to sit on the edge of the visor, looking down several thousand feet to Mirror Lake below was truly spectacular … That piece of cable occupies a special place in our home,” he says.

John and Carolyn find something amazing in each visit to Yosemite, whether it is a physical challenge or something new learned from a campfire interpretive program.

Yosemite: Where Honeymoons Last Forever

ABOVE John and Carolyn Landgrebe take

their young family on a Yosemite backpacking

adventure in June 1976.

ach year since 1983, Don Allegri’s family has traveled to Yosemite, where they take a special photo on the same rock. The photos document Don’s two sons, Joseph and Justin, growing from infants to young men, reminding the family of their multigenerational connection to Yosemite.

Don has passed along his passion for Yosemite to his sons, just as his mother did while he was growing up. For Don, there is something timeless about Yosemite that flows from one generation to the next.

As a Friend of Yosemite Conservancy, Don plays his part in preserving the park. He says that whether on a hiking trail with his sons or enjoying the view from Glacier Point, he knows his support is behind the restoration of these trails and viewing areas.

Rock of Ages: Perfect Setting for Family Album

“These trails are our access to some of the most beautiful views on Earth. I want my grandchildren to share these places, too.”— DON ALLEGRI

Yosemite Conservancy Donor & Volunteer

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VOLUNTEER CORNER


W hile on vacation from his job as an architect, Paul Gan of Union City, Calif., has volunteered for two years to help make Yosemite an even better place.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A CONSERVANCY VOLUNTEER?

A few years ago, my wife, Liz, and I met park ranger Shelton Johnson, and I was inspired by his love and passion for the national parks. It’s important to me to protect and conserve Yosemite, as well as to give back to the park that has given me so many wonderful memories.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT BEING A CONSERVANCY VOLUNTEER?

I enjoy the experience of working and living alongside other passionate volunteers. During one week volunteering, I learned more from my peers about Yosemite than I ever had before in my 40 years of visiting the park.

WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS DID YOU WORK ON THIS PAST SUMMER?

Our team refurbished fire rings and campsite benches at North Pines, Upper Pines and Lower Pines campgrounds.

Thank you to Paul Gan and all the work-crew volunteers for your dedication to Yosemite National Park!

Campsites Renewed With Help From Yosemite Conservancy Volunteers

ABOVE Paul Gan (left and back row, third from left) with his fellow volunteers after completing

a week-long restoration project to rehabilitate the Lower Pines Campground.

Do You Have What it Takes? Volunteer!

ur volunteers are passionate supporters of Yosemite who give generously of their time and skills. Work crews stay for

one week in Wawona, Yosemite Valley or Tuolumne Meadows, completing projects ranging from campground renewal to habitat restoration. Visitor-information volunteer opportunities are also available for supporters who want to share their knowledge and love of Yosemite with visitors.

If you have a passion for the park and a desire to serve, then you have what it takes to be a Yosemite Conservancy volunteer.

Learn more about volunteering at

yosemiteconservancy.org

ABOVE Conservancy volunteers work

together to replace benches on campground

picnic tables.

PHOTO: (RIGHT) © STEVE BICKNESE.

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YOSEMITE THROUGHYOUR LENS YOSEMITE’S MAJESTY AS CAPTURED BY OUR SUPPORTERS

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01 Half Dome in the Fall PHOTO BY © DAVE TOUSSAINT

02 Maple Leaves Blanket the Forest Floor in Yosemite Valley PHOTO BY © KRISTAL LEONARD

03 Awaiting the Victor PHOTO BY © MIKE REEVES

04 Christmas Day Picnic on Tenaya Lake PHOTO BY © SUZY HASTY

Do you have a special memory you would like to share?

We love to see photos from your first or 100th visit to Yosemite. Our staff will select a few for printing in each issue of Yosemite Conservancy.

READER PHOTOS

Visit Yosemite Conservancy on Facebook or Flickr and share any photos of a special place you like in Yosemite.

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YOSEMITE CONSERVANCYMagazine of Yosemite Conservancy, published twice a year.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Jennifer Miller

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

STAFF :: San Francisco Office

Darlene Bellucci, Associate Director of Planned & Major GiftsKim Coull, Development DirectorEdin Draper-Beard, Executive Affairs ManagerJerry Edelbrock, Vice President & COOPatrick Heryford, Institutional Giving OfficerDebra Holcomb, Associate Director Annual Giving & Development OperationsDavid Jaeger, Donor Relations & Development Projects ManagerSara Jones, Data Entry AssistantHolly Kuehn, Development & Donor Services Asst.Jennifer Miller, Marketing & Communications DirectorAdriana Pannick, Development & Events Associate Michelle Slocombe, Marketing & Communications AssociateKit Thomas, ControllerMike Tollefson, President & CEOChristina Yu, Donor Services Assistant

STAFF :: Yosemite Office

Aline Allen, Yosemite Art Center CoordinatorTom Arfsten, Valley Complex SupervisorNicole Brocchini, Yosemite Museum Store SupervisorPete Devine, Resident NaturalistTeresa Ellis, Sales Information AssistantRachel Gibbons, Sales Information AssistantSchuyler Greenleaf, Projects DirectorMichelle Hansen, Inventory CoordinatorSuzy Hasty, Volunteer Program ManagerTodd King, Deputy GM, Retail & Publishing DirectorMichelle Kuchta, Accounting AssistantOlotumi Laizer, Sales Information AssistantBelinda Lantz, Retail Operations ManagerDenise Ludington, Accounting SupervisorNoel Morrison, Communications ManagerElvira Popken, Valley Sales SupervisorJohn Samples, Warehouse CoordinatorAngie Sberna, Accounting DirectorShelly Stephens, Inventory ManagerLaurie Stowe, Wilderness Center Manager

STAFF :: Southern California Office

Patti Johns Eisenberg, Major Gifts Officer

Autumn.Winter 2012 :: Volume 03 . Issue 02 © 2012.

Federal Tax Identification #94-3058041

DONOR GUIDE

Heather McKennyNoel Morrison

Michelle SlocombeMike Tollefson

CONTACT US

Donor Services

Yosemite Conservancy101 Montgomery Street, Suite 1700San Francisco, CA 94104800-469-7275 or 415-434-1782Fax: [email protected]

STAY CONNECTED

Learn how your gifts have supported Yosemite. Visit our website and sign up to receive our monthly e-newsletter.Visit yosemiteconservancy.org

WAYS TO SUPPORT

Friends of Yosemite

Protecting the beauty and wonder of Yosemite for future generations.Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/friends-yosemite

Sequoia Society

Making a monthly donation is an easy way to make a lasting difference.Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/sequoia-society

John Muir Heritage Society

Investing in Yosemite’s future with generous gifts of $1,000 or more annually.Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/ john-muir-heritage-society

Gifts of Stock

Make a significant contribution to protect and preserve Yosemite. We want to thank you for your gift. Please contact Darlene Bellucci at 800-469-7275 x 318 or [email protected] to notify us of your gift.

Joseph Le Conte Legacy Society

Leave a lasting legacy to Yosemite.For more information about making a legacy gift, contact Darlene Bellucci at 800-469-7275 x 318 or [email protected].

Gifts in Honor

Inspirational gifts that help provide for Yosemite’s future.Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/gifts-honor or for more information, call 800-469-7275, or email us at [email protected].

Gifts in Memory

Recognize a loved one with a special gift that protects and preserves Yosemite.Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/gifts-memory or for more information, call 800-469-7275, or email us at [email protected].

VOLUNTEER

OPPORTUNITIES

Greet park visitors, restore meadows or repair trails.Visit yosemiteconservancy.org/volunteer, or call 209-379-2317

It’s Easy to Connect With Yosemite Conservancy

DESIGN

Plumbline StudiosPRINT PRODUCTION

TradeMark Graphics, Inc.


Yosemite Conservancy101 Montgomery Street, Suite 1700San Francisco, CA 94104

Celebrate Your Yosemite.

Donate online now or mail your support with the enclosed envelope.yosemiteconservancy.org

Honor every unforgettable moment you’ve

experienced in Yosemite by sending a

year-end gift to preserve and protect this

remarkable place.

PHOTO: © MIRZA TODOROVICH.

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