Empowering Change: Inside the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship

For our final episode of The Cone Zone, we’ve decided to go out with a bang! In special edition, "Nature Knowledge Trivia," hosts Ava and Madi lead you through an exciting and educational competition on nature and conservation. We’ll dive into three engaging rounds: Public Figures, Books Around the Bend, and Natural History. Each round features multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Tune in to test your knowledge and discover fascinating facts about the natural world! References Aldo Leopold Foundation. (n.d.). About Aldo Leopold. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.aldoleopold.org/about/aldo-leopold Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. (n.d.). John Muir. In Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Muir Harris, A. (2022, February 3). Brad Pitt’s post-Katrina housing project went horribly wrong. The Guardian. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/feb/03/brad-pitt-post-katrina-housing-project-went-horribly-wrong NASA Earth Observatory. (2014, April 24). Killer trees: Not exactly. Earth Observatory. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/84021/killer-trees-not-exactly National Audubon Society. (n.d.). Audubon. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.audubon.org/ Robin Wall Kimmerer. (n.d.). Robin Wall Kimmerer. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.robinwallkimmerer.com/ Sierra Club. (n.d.). Sierra Club. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.sierraclub.org/ Smithsonian Institution. (n.d.). Human remains. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.si.edu/collections/human-remains#:~:text=Are%20any%20human%20remains%20on,informed%20consent%20has%20been%20obtained Smithsonian Institution. (n.d.). Research collections. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://naturalhistory.si.edu/research/collections-national-museum-natural-history University of California Museum of Paleontology. (n.d.). Plantae. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://ucmp.berkeley.edu/plants/plantaefr.html

In this episode of "The Cone Zone," host Jesus Bernal sits down with Dr. Jessica Wright from the USDA Forest Service to discuss assisted migration and its potential to help forests adapt to climate change. Dr. Wright explains how moving trees to new locations might help them survive changing conditions and talks about her research on tree genetics and the Climate Adapted Seed Tool (CAST), which helps foresters choose the best seeds for future climates. Jesus and Dr. Wright also cover the challenges of assisted migration, such as the risk of spreading pests and diseases, and compare the costs of reforestation to other carbon capture methods. They discuss how this approach could be crucial for forest health and carbon storage. Tune in to find out how these strategies are shaping the future of reforestation and forest management. Don't forget to subscribe to "The Cone Zone" and visit conezonepod.wordpress.com for more information and updates. References Hinrichs, J. (n.d.). Planting trees for tomorrow’s climate. U.S. Forest Service. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r5/home/?cid=FSEPRD1107989 Markham, L. (2021, October 4). Can we move our forests in time to save them? Mother Jones. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.motherjones.com/environment/2021/10/trees-forests-assisted-migration-fire-climate-joshua-redwoods-sequoia/ USDA Climate Hubs. (n.d.). Assisted migration (forests). Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/northern-forests/topic/assisted-migration-forests#:~:text=Assisted%20species%20migration%20 Wright, J. W. (n.d.). US Forest Service Research and Development. U.S. Forest Service. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/about/people/jessicawwright

In this episode of "The Cone Zone," we look at the Placerville Nursery's role in supplying the seeds needed for reforestation in California. The Placerville Nursery is operated by USDA Forest Service and is one of the two main nurseries responsible for growing trees here in California. Plant nurseries are a vital component of the reforestation pipeline in California, as they are directly responsible for seed storage, growth and distribution. The Placerville Nursery is a huge piece of the puzzle that is able to grow at max capacity approximately 2 million seedlings per year! However, there are pinch points in the pipeline that make that hard to achieve.  Here to help us learn more about the Placerville Nursery’s role in the reforestation pipeline is Meredith Sierra. Meredith currently works as a nursery technician at the USFS Placerville Nursery. Meredith Sierra grew up in the Sierra Nevada foothills and has spent her life protecting and caring for the environment. Meredith pursued her passion for the natural world as an Environmental Studies major at Sacramento State. After graduation, she dove head first into the workforce as a park aide, wildlife technician, watershed conservation advocate, and now as a nursery technician at the USFS Placerville Nursery.  During her 2 year fellowship at the Placerville Nursery she has hosted nursery tours and tree planting events for program partners, assisted the container horticulturist with growing over 2 million seedlings, worked with El Dorado Resource Conservation District to sell over 90,000 surplus seedlings to private non-industrial landowners across the state, and participates in a tree climbing and cone collection trainings to further her skill pool. We are thrilled to have Meredith here to dive deeper into the world of seed banking, reforestation, and nursery production!  References “Barriers to Increased Tree Seedling Production in California.” American Forests, d3f9k0n15ckvhe.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/FINAL_Reforestation-Factsheets-California.pdf.  “Placerville Nursery.” Eldorado National Forest Website , US Forest Service , 2019, www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd624914.pdf.  AArtle. “California’s Reforestation Pipeline in Action.” Sierra Nevada Alliance, 21 Sept. 2023, sierranevadaalliance.org/californias-reforestation-pipeline-in-action/. 

In this episode of "The Cone Zone," Jesus delves into the critical topic of carbon storage in forests and introduces the innovative Reforest America Carbon Program by American Forests. Ben Rushakoff, from American Forests, provides insights into how this program connects landowners with carbon finance to fund climate-smart reforestation projects. The discussion touches upon the program's objectives, partnership opportunities for corporations seeking nature-based climate solutions, and its differentiation from traditional carbon credit systems. Rushakoff emphasizes the importance of planting carbon-rich, climate-adapted forests and outlines the unique qualities of such forests. Despite the high cost of reforestation, it is hailed as the lowest-cost method of carbon removal from the atmosphere. The episode explores factors influencing reforestation costs and compares them to other carbon capture methods. Rushakoff shares perspectives on the viability of carbon storage and capture technology versus natural carbon sinks, advocating for a balanced approach. He also discusses the program's impact on forests, communities, and emissions, along with future prospects and ideal outcomes. References:  Carbon financing. American Forests. (2024, March 18). https://www.americanforests.org/project/racp/  How forests store carbon. Penn State Extension. (n.d.). https://extension.psu.edu/how-forests-store-carbon#:~:text=Forests%20are%20an%20important%20carbon,planting%20occurs%20on%20the%20landscape  Lindsey, R. (2023, April 9). Climate change: Atmospheric carbon dioxide. NOAA Climate.gov. https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/climate-change-atmospheric-carbon-dioxide  Person, Bardeen, S., & Peterson, C. (2023, November 15). Are carbon offsets actually working?. Public Policy Institute of California. https://www.ppic.org/blog/are-carbon-offsets-actually-working/  What is a carbon sink?. ClientEarth. (n.d.). https://www.clientearth.org/latest/news/what-is-a-carbon-sink/ Additional Material:  What are greenhouse gasses?  https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/overview-greenhouse-gases What is carbon finance? https://www.americanforests.org/project/racp/ What is Verra?  https://verra.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_qexBhCoARIsAFgBleuqgUNhpwWziD_ignFz1tBtf9TMFJoDv5RA_-ERNt6cH4f1_LrPt1gaAhQ-EALw_wcB The producers of The Cone Zone strongly believe in the value of open discourse, and the right to freedom of expression. We would like to remind listeners that the views and comments expressed by our guests are theirs and theirs alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions and perspectives of the Cone Zone’s project sponsors or affiliates, including American Forests, the California Climate Action Corps and California Volunteers.

In this episode, we delve into the realm of Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge (ITEK), also known as TEK. TEK is a rich system of ecological science and ideas cultivated through generations of cultural stewardship of the land. Our guests, Ali Meders-Knight and Meleiza Figueroa of California Open Lands, provide deep insights into the significance of TEK in ecosystem restoration and land management. We explore the contrast between hands-off approaches to land management and the active land stewardship practiced by indigenous groups. Through TEK, indigenous communities employ specialized techniques such as cultural burning to prevent catastrophic fires and manage ecosystems effectively. Verbena Fields, an interactive food forest and interpretive park in North Chico, serves as a testament to the rich ecological heritage of the Mechoopda people. Ali's involvement in establishing this educational space highlights the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge for future generations. As we reflect on the future of TEK and Tribally-led workforce development, we recognize the need for greater collaboration and inclusion of indigenous perspectives in reforestation efforts. By leveraging the strengths of different groups and organizations, we can work towards a shared goal of restoring and conserving ecosystems. References: Bioneers. (2019, December 2). Lyla June on the forest as farm. Bioneers. https://bioneers.org/lyla-june-on-the-forest-as-farm-zp0z1911/ Guidelines for considering traditional knowledges in climate change initiatives. (n.d.). Guidelines for Considering Traditional Knowledges in Climate Change Initiatives. https://climatetkw.wordpress.com/ Indian Affairs (IA). (n.d.). Traditional Ecological Knowledge | Indian Affairs. https://www.bia.gov/service/fuels-management/traditional-knowledge/ Lands, C. O. (n.d.). California Open lands. California Open Lands. https://californiaopenlands.org/ Program, C. T. E. S. (n.d.). CHICO Traditional Ecological Stewardship Program. Chico Traditional Ecological Stewardship Program. https://tekchico.org/ Sommer, L. (2024, February 26). Wildfires are killing California’s ancient giants. Can seedlings save sequoia trees? NPR. https://www.npr.org/2024/02/26/1232963498/sequoias-wildfires-climate-change-replanting The producers of the Cone Zone strongly believe in the value of open discourse, and the right to freedom of expression. We would like to remind listeners that the views and comments expressed by our guests are theirs and theirs alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions and perspectives of the Cone Zone’s project sponsors or affiliates, including American Forests, the California Climate Action Corps and California Volunteers.

In this episode, we turn our attention to the impactful California Climate Action Corps (CCAC), a program that marries the vigor of AmeriCorps with a fervor for climate action. The spotlight is on the CCAC Fellowship, an 11-month journey transforming emerging leaders into the driving force behind community-level climate initiatives. The episode delves into the heart of the fellowship, emphasizing its significance in cultivating change and leaving a lasting impact. The CCAC Fellowship is not just about sending individuals into the field; it's a dynamic incubator for future leaders. The focus shifts to the diverse projects undertaken by fellows, ranging from urban greening initiatives to wildfire resilience efforts, showcasing the Corps' commitment to addressing various facets of the climate crisis. The episode features an enlightening interview with Rachel Ostrander, a seasoned Team Leader in her third year with CCAC. The conversation explores Rachel's inspiration for joining CCAC and her decision to continue with the program for multiple terms. She sheds light on the benefits, pros, and cons of the program, drawing parallels to historical initiatives like the Works Progress Administration and Civilian Conservation Corp. Join Jesus and Rachel for an inspiring journey through the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship—a movement that exemplifies the power of community, environmental resilience, and the potential within each individual to be a force for positive change. Find educational resources and additional deep dive content for this episode on our website at conezonepod.wordpress.com.  References: Elizabeth Pearce @ SymSoil. (2022, October 24). FDR’s Great Wall of Trees And The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. Medium. https://symsoil.medium.com/fdrs-great-wall-of-trees-and-the-inflation-reduction-act-of-2022-bda74eab58c3 California, S. O. (n.d.). California Climate Action Corps | California Volunteers. https://www.californiavolunteers.ca.gov/climateactioncorps/ Additional Material:  California Fire Safe Council Website: https://cafiresafecouncil.org/ Butte Fire Safe Council Website: https://buttefiresafe.net/ Ready Racoon Video: https://youtu.be/N5fE6CbZAF0?si=CQeR9aHbcq-lzJuC The producers of The Cone Zone strongly believe in the value of open discourse, and the right to freedom of expression. We would like to remind listeners that the views and comments expressed by our guests are theirs and theirs alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions and perspectives of the Cone Zone’s project sponsors or affiliates, including American Forests, the California Climate Action Corps and California Volunteers.

In today's episode, we explore the innovative Cone Corps program, a groundbreaking initiative by American Forests aimed at addressing climate change and revolutionizing the future of California's forests. Joining us is Bridget Mulkerin, the Manager of the California Cone Corps, who shares valuable insights into this visionary workforce development program. The Cone Corps is a vital response to the urgent need for sustainable reforestation in California. With a focus on workforce development, the program tackles one of the biggest barriers to reforestation – the shortage of conifer seeds. The goal is ambitious: restoring 1.5 million acres of forest by 2040. To achieve this, California's seedling production capacity must more than double, and the Cone Corps is at the forefront of building a skilled workforce to make it happen. Bridget takes us through the program's origins and its forward-thinking approach, addressing both immediate seed shortages and the ongoing need for skilled professionals. We reflect on the Cone Corps as not just a short-term solution but a pathway to a sustainable, resilient future.  Join us in this insightful episode, as we commend the dedication of Bridget Mulkerin and the entire Cone Corps team in shaping a greener, more resilient future for California's forests. Subscribe, share, and stay tuned for more episodes as we journey through the heart of reforestation, one seed at a time. Find educational resources and additional deep dive content for this episode on our website at conezonepod.wordpress.com.  References: A giant task: fixing California’s reforestation pipeline - American Forests. (2023, November 9). American Forests. https://www.americanforests.org/article/a-giant-task-fixing-californias-reforestation-pipeline/ Plachta, A. (2023, November 14). Meet the daring tree climbers needed to replant 1.5 million acres of California’s burnt forests. Sacramento Bee. https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article281222828.html Additional Material: What is thought leadership?  https://www.wgu.edu/blog/what-thought-leadership2012.html Community Science Resources https://www.fs.usda.gov/naturewatch/citizen-science.php Link to download Survey123  https://survey123.arcgis.com/ The producers of The Cone Zone strongly believe in the value of open discourse, and the right to freedom of expression. We would like to remind listeners that the views and comments expressed by our guests are theirs and theirs alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions and perspectives of the Cone Zone’s project sponsors or affiliates, including American Forests, the California Climate Action Corps and California Volunteers.

In this episode, the spotlight is on California's urgent restoration efforts post devastating wildfires. The Reforestation Pipeline Partnership, a coalition involving CAL FIRE, American Forests, and the United States Forest Service, addresses challenges in post-wildfire reforestation on public and private lands. Shelley Villalobos, the Manager of the California Reforestation Pipeline Cooperative, joins the conversation, sharing insights into the partnership's role in restoring California's landscapes. Tune in as Shelley and Jesus discuss the partnership's origins, challenges, collaborative efforts, and strategies for achieving the ambitious goal of reforesting 1.5 million acres by 2040. Find educational resources and additional deep dive content for this episode on our website at conezonepod.wordpress.com.  References: American Forests. (2021). Ramping up Reforestation in the United States: A Guild for Policy Makers. https://www.americanforests.org. American Forests & United States Forest Service. (2022). Challenges to the Reforestation Pipeline. https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1041655.pdf. Smith, H., & Wigglesworth, A. (2023, November 12). Experts reflect on the Camp fire in Paradise five years later - Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2023-11-08/its-been-5-years-since-californias-deadliest-wildfire-can-we-stop-it-from-happening-again Reforestation Pipeline Partnership - American Forests. (2023, November 7). American Forests. https://www.americanforests.org/coalition/reforestation-pipeline-partnership/ Fargione, J et alt. (2021). Challenges to the reforestation pipeline in the United States. Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 4. https://doi.org/10.3389/ffgc.2021.629198 DISCLAIMER: The producers of The Cone Zone strongly believe in the value of open discourse, and the right to freedom of expression. We would like to remind listeners that the views and comments expressed by our guests are theirs and theirs alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions and perspectives of the Cone Zone’s project sponsors or affiliates, including American Forests, the California Climate Action Corps and California Volunteers.