Prescribed burn continues at Big Basin State Park
California State Parks and allied agencies, including Cal Fire, began a prescribed burn on April 24 in Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
The 30-acre burn is occurring in the northern end of the park near Johansen and China Grade roads, with ignitions scheduled from 8am-5pm. Burn operations are expected to occur over the next several weeks and will be continually monitored, concluding by May 9.
This burn operation is part of the prescribed fire program for vegetation management, hazardous fuel reduction, wildlife habitat improvement and other ecological benefits.
All burning depends on weather and air quality conditions; if weather or vegetation conditions are not conducive for burning and smoke dispersal, the department will reschedule the treatment.
Roads and trails will not be closed during burn operations. Smoke is not anticipated to cause any impacts. Visit parks.ca.gov/santacruzprescribedburns for more information.
‘Spring Thing Sale’ set for this weekend
Valley Churches United is hosting its Spring Thing Sale on Saturday, May 4, and Sunday, May 5, from 10am-5pm at Valley Churches United, 9400 Highway 9, in Ben Lomond.
This indoor and outdoor fundraiser includes a collection of household treasures along with antique furniture and lots of collectables. There are also Mother’s Day gift ideas, garden items, puzzles, cookbooks, kitchen items and more.
All proceeds benefit the Valley Churches United food pantry. Cash, checks and credit cards accepted. For more information, call 831-336-8258 ext. 229.
Farmers’ Markets open in Scotts Valley, Felton
Join the Scotts Valley Farmers’ Market at the Joe and Linda Alberti Boys and Girls Club for its 2024 season launch on May 4. Nestled by the club, at 5060 Scotts Valley Drive, the market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods and family activities every Saturday until Thanksgiving, from 9am-1pm.
Enjoy a Strawberry Shortcake Give Away on opening day, featuring JCG and Live Earth farms’ strawberries atop Beckmann’s Bakery shortbread. Plus, explore new vendors like Luna Dorada, an upcoming farm with flowers, lettuces, beans and other crops.
Don’t miss the Market Match Program, helping CalFresh/EBT participants double their dollars for fresh produce. Special events throughout the season include Summer Sweets (July 20), Pepper Party (Aug. 24) and Foodie, Fruity Wreath Making (Nov. 9).
Meanwhile, in Felton, the Farmers’ Market kicks off its season with a Strawberry Bonanza on May 7 at St. John’s Church parking lot. From 1:30-5:30pm every Tuesday, explore a vibrant market offering fresh produce, artisanal treats and family-friendly activities through October.
Enjoy specialties like Roli Roti rotisserie chicken and Penny Ice Creamery flavors, and don’t forget the Market Match program, doubling EBT funds for fresh produce. Also, mark the calendar for FoodShed Project events like Summertime (June 25), Applefest (Sept. 10) and Pumpkin Decorating Bonanza (Oct. 15), featuring workshops, prizes and community fun.
