Park Talk June 2025

RIVCOPARKS

RIVCOPARKS | PARK TALK

IN THIS ISSUE

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Celebrating Success

Park Highlight | Box Springs

RivCoParks Outdoor Explore

ARPA Projects Progress Report

Park Rangers to the Rescue

Staff Highlight | Vincent Valadez

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Volunteer Highlight | Tim Doughty

Park Safety | Heat Safety on the Trail

Arbor Day & Earth Day

Shining Stars | January - April

ASK THE GM is your go-to spot for getting in touch with your RivCoParks General Manager, all while keeping things anonymous and fun. Got a burning question, a quirky idea, or just something on your mind? This is the place to share it! No names, no worries—just open, friendly communication to make our RivCoParks team even stronger. So go ahead, ask away, and let’s keep the conversation going.

A Message From the General Manager

As we move into the busy summer season, I want to take a moment to extend a heartfelt welcome to all our new staff members. This is a time that our facilities are extra busy and we have the opportunity to create memorable experiences for lifelong impact. We’re thrilled to have you join the RivCoParks family! I also want to share my gratitude for our entire team of employees and volunteers. Your passion and dedication are what make our mission come to life in our parks across Riverside County.

Over the past few months, we’ve continued to strengthen our connection to the communities we serve; something I’m incredibly proud of. Events like Outdoor Explore have introduced hundreds of new families to the beauty of our parks through hands-on recreation education. The 50th Anniversary of Box Springs Mountain Ceremony was a powerful celebration of history, partnership, and conservation, and reminded us of the lasting impact parks have on our region. And just recently, our 5K Color Run, and Staff Wellness Run at Rancho Jurupa Regional Park brought together families and staff to promote health, wellness, and the joy of the outdoors.

These efforts are more than just events, they’re a reflection of our commitment to building community, expanding access, and inspiring the next generation of park stewards.

Thank you to each of you who contribute your time, energy, and creativity to making these moments possible. Here’s to another great season of service, connection, and outdoor adventure.

Kyla Brown General Manager | Parks Director

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RivCoParks was recognized for several of our programs and campaigns at the highest level this year, from some of the most respected organizations in parks, recreation, and public communications. These awards reflect the creativity, dedication, and impact of our team, and highlight how our work continues to stand out across the state and nation. Celebrating Success: RivCoParks Recognized with Top Statewide and National Awards BY JACQUELYN MULLER

California Trails and Greenways Conference Event: Harford Springs Restoration Volunteer Events

The Harford Springs Restoration Volunteer Events were recognized for bringing the community together to learn about restoration and help reopen the gates of Harford Springs. These volunteer events welcomed volunteers of all ages and highlighted how community involvement can lead to long-term environmental impact after fire devastation.

California Public Information Officers (CAPIO) Marketing a Special Event: Veterans Fishing Derby

The Veterans Catfish Fishing Derby was honored for its powerful marketing and outreach that helped bring attention to our commitment to veterans. Through niche storytelling and community partnerships, record breaking numbers were met to support this event. California Park and Recreation Society (CPRS) Marketing & Communications Award of Excellence: Putting People First - Careers with RivCoParks CPRS awarded RivCoParks two Award of Excellence.The“Putting People First”campaign highlighted the people who make our parks thrive and gave a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to work here at RivCoParks. Data proved it played a big role in connecting job seekers and strengthening internal pride in the work we do. Creating Community Award of Excellence: Outdoor Equity Initiative The Outdoor Equity Initiative was also recognized for its success in making outdoor spaces more accessible for all. From free gear and transportation to bilingual programming and community events, this initiative continues to open doors to nature for families who need it most. This national recognition from NACPRO spotlighted our recruitment campaign for its authenticity and impact. The videos and outreach materials gave future employees a real sense of what it’s like to join the RivCoParks team, and helped us attract talent from all backgrounds. These awards belong to the entire RivCoParks team. Whether you’re out in the field, behind the scenes, or working directly with the community, your work continues to shape our parks and programs in meaningful ways. Thank you for everything you do! National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials (NACPRO) Marketing: Putting People First - Careers with RivCoParks

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of Box Springs Mountain Park Celebrating 50 Years This year marks the 50th anniversary of Box Springs Mountain Park, a landmark achievement in the history of RivCoParks and a testament to the power of community partnership and conservation leadership. Established in 1975, Box Springs Mountain Park came to life through a strong collaboration between concerned residents, local leaders, and RivCoParks. In response to community efforts to stop a proposed subdivision, RivCoParks worked quickly to preserve this vital natural area between Riverside and Moreno Valley. Thanks to the leadership of then Parks Director Pete Dangermond, Supervisor Norton Younglove, and land acquisition specialist Jack Ruth, the County secured over 2,200 acres between 1973 and 1975 using Joint Powers Authority funding and generous land donations. These early acquisitions included areas now familiar to park visitors, like Two Trees Canyon, Sugarloaf Mountain, and what is today the ranger station and staging area. The park was officially dedicated on April 5, 1975, during a public celebration that brought the community together for music, horseback rides, and shared appreciation for open space. The momentum didn’t stop there. In the decades that followed, RivCoParks continued to play a key role in expanding the park’s footprint, growing it to over 3,400 acres. It is now also recognized as the Box Springs Mountain Reserve , protected under the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan. In 1990, our department transitioned into the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District , and Box Springs Mountain Park became part of a growing portfolio of public lands dedicated to recreation, habitat conservation, and outdoor education. Today, Box Springs Mountain Reserve serves thousands of visitors each year and reflects what can be accomplished when public agencies and residents work together toward a shared vision. BY JACQUELYN MULLER

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RivCoParks Outdoor Events: Connecting Families to Nature BY JACQUELYN MULLER Explore

This year, RivCoParks hosted three unforgettable Outdoor Explore events at Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park, Hurkey Creek Regional Park, and Mayflower Regional Park. Each event drew in over 100 families for a brand new outdoor experience. These events are a key element of the RivCoParks Outdoor Equity Program, designed to eliminate barriers and expand access to nature for all Riverside County residents. At each location, participating families received free camping gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and lanterns, allowing families to experience camping for the very first time. The weekends were full of hands on outdoor education, including camp set-up workshops, stories by the campfire, and a full day of activities like kid-friendly archery, axe throwing, basketball, and hundreds of giveaways to support any camping experience.

The initiative is driven by three core goals:

• Increase access to outdoor recreation for families facing financial or social barriers.

• Raise visibility of the many sites, parks, and experiences offered by RivCoParks.

• Create memories that inspire the next generation of outdoor explorers!

Each Outdoor Explore event reinforces RivCoParks’ commitment to equity, community, and stewardship, ensuring that every family, regardless of background, can connect with nature and build lifelong memories at RivCoParks!

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Lake Skinner Projects: Sewer/Water (PK-ARPA003), Repaving Project (PK-ARPA004), and Boat Launch Repair (PK-ARPA011) • Budget: $8.3 million • Status: Under Construction • Completion Date: August 2025 PK-ARPA005: Rancho Jurupa Park Repaving Project

• Budget: $3 million • Status: Complete PK-ARPA006: OHV Feasibility Study: Phase II • Budget: $527K • Status: In progress • Completion Date: February 2026 PK-ARPA007: Tourism Recovery Program

• Budget: $417, 468 • Status: In progress • Completion Date: December 2025 PK-ARPA008: District IV Park Feasibility Study • Budget: $443K • Status: In progress • Completion Date: July 2026 PK-ARPA009: Santa Ana River Bottom (SARB) Maintenance Building • Budget: $6.2 million • Status: Under Construction • Completion Date: February 2026 PK-ARPA010: Santa Ana River Wayfinding Signage Program • Budget: $1million • Status: Under Construction • Completion Date: Summer 2025 PK-ARPA012 Santa Rosa Plateau Broadband

• Budget: $100,000 • Status: Complete PK-ARPA013: Lawler Lodge ADA Improvements • Budget: $3.2 million • Status: Under Construction • Completion Date: December 2025 PK-ARPA014: Kabian Park Improvements • Budget: $2 million

• Status: Under Construction • Completion Date: Fall 2025 PK-ARPA015: Lake Cahuilla Paving, Master Plan & Amenity Upgrade • Budget: $10.9 million

• Status: Paving is complete, amenity update is under construction and Master Plan is in progress. • Completion Date: Amenity Update will be complete August 2025, and Master Plan will be completed Winter 2026. PK-ARPA016: Hidden Valley Nature Center Improvements • Budget: $4.2 million • Status: Under Construction • Completion Date: October 2025 PK-ARPA017: Hurkey Creek Park Beautification • Budget: $1 million

• Status: Under Construction • Completion Date: July 2025 ARPA Projects Progress Report 7

Park Rangers to the Rescue! Sometimes the best examples of what we do every day come from the moments no one planned. Our staff continues to demonstrate what it means to care for the land, the people we serve, and the animals that inhabit our parks. Recently, two acts of compassion by our rangers have brought well-deserved recognition to the heart of our mission: BY JACQUELYN MULLER

Ranger Jay

Ranger Ari

At Box Springs Mountain Reserve, Park Ranger Jay Flormion responded to a call involving a domestic cat that had been abandoned along one of the trails. A trail visitor witnessed the situation and captured video of this rescue, later collaborating with the RivCoParks social media team to share the story. The reel has since gone viral, receiving over 100,000 likes, more than 300,000 shares, and attention from local media outlets. The video shows Ranger Jay coordinating with fellow ranger staff and contacting Animal Control to ensure the animal’s safe transport and care. Just days later, another act of care occurred at Hidden Valley Wildlife Area, where Park Ranger Arianna Ramos discovered an abandoned domestic bunny that had been left in a trash can on-site. Ranger Ari immediately rescued the bunny and transported it to the Riverside County Department of Animal Services for treatment and adoption. Her act of kindness gave this furry friend a second chance. These back-to-back rescues are strong examples of the deep sense of responsibility our team carries to serve Riverside County. We’re proud to recognize Ranger Jay and Ranger Ari for their outstanding service and their care for all species.

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What is your favorite RivCoParks location? Why?

What is your favorite way to spend a day off? Getting outside and swimming, hiking, biking or fishing with my two favorite ladies, my wife and daughter. What is your hidden talent? I guess its not that talented but I can walk on my hands pretty good. What are you passionate about outside of work? I am passionate about serving my family and serving God together, desiring to love God and love people! What is your favorite season for outdoor activity? Why? I love late spring when you can get away with hiking long distance without getting too hot but its also warm enough to enjoy swimming in the ocean and pools. My favorite RivCoParks location is our Sage/Aquanga properties throughout the MSHCP area. The areas are very remote and we can enjoy water falls, springs, creeks as well as lush chaparral.

Vincent Valadez Park Maintenance Worker

Describe your favorite vacation/trip you’ve ever taken. Why was it your favorite? My favorite trip was when my wife and I drove to Brookings, Oregon via PCH. It’s my favorite because it was our honeymoon and our first long trip together to a place where we both grew up going to for family vacations. What is your favorite food? My favorite food is cream cheese wantons, literally I will eat only those the entire night if they are offered at a buffet!

What is your favorite movie? My favorite movie is Rocky IV.

Who is your favorite singer or band? Favorite song? My favorite band is the Beatles. My favorite song is Do You Want to Know a Secret by the Beatles.

Staff Highlight

What is your favorite aspect about working for RivCoParks? I love that where I work I can be working one day in a remote area near the Santa Rosa Plateau and the next day deep in the beautiful chaparrals of the sage area. There is so much to explore and even here at the yard we have acres and acres of property to explore and enjoy. People go out of their way to get fresh air and explore in the wild, and here I am getting paid to work in it everyday! 9

What is your favorite aspect about working for RivCoParks? To help make the park a safe and a beautiful place to come to.

Volunteer Highlight

Tim Doughty Volunteer

What is your favorite way to spend a day off? Boating. What is your hidden talent? Being a Mac Gyver. What are you passionate about outside of work? Wife and kids. What is your favorite season for outdoor activity? Why? Summer for boating, Fall for hunting. What is your favorite RivCoParks location? Why? Mayflower, people, river.

Describe your favorite vacation/trip you’ve ever taken. Why was it your favorite? Hawaii to see past class mates best friend.

What is your favorite food? Peanut butter.

What is your favorite movie? Fiddler on the roof. Who is your favorite singer or band? Favorite song? AC/DC she’s got the Jack.

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Check the Weather Before You Go Always look at the weather forecast before your hike. If it’s going to be 90°F (32°C) or hotter, or if there are heat warnings, consider changing your plans. If temperatures are 95°F (35°C) or above, it is safest to reschedule, but if you do go, take extra precautions to stay cool and hydrated. Water: Your Essential Gear Bring more water than you think you’ll need, whether you’re hiking in the desert or mountains. Drink small amounts often, do not wait until you’re thirsty . Shade and Rest: Take Breaks When the sun is strong or the wind picks up, find a shady spot to rest. Taking breaks helps prevent overheating and keeps your energy up . Dress for the Elements Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat in the desert. In the mountains, dress in layers and always use sunscreen to protect your skin . Time Your Hike Wisely Start your hike early or later in the day to avoid the hottest hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Avoid strenuous activity when it’s above 90°F (32°C) and be extra careful over 95°F (35°C). Listen to Your Body If you notice dizziness, muscle cramps, or a headache while hiking, stop immediately to rest and hydrate, as these are early signs of heat illness . Hike with a Buddy and Stay Connected Hiking with a friend is safer, especially in extreme conditions. If hiking alone, inform someone of your route and expected return time . Know When to Turn Back If the weather changes or you start feeling unwell, don’t hesitate to turn back. Your safety is always more important than finishing the trail . In Riverside County, the sun is just as strong for everyone - whether you’ve hiked these trails for years or it’s your very first time. These trails are safest when you take your time, pay attention to how you feel, and respect the heat. The wisest hikers know enjoying the journey means knowing your limits and looking out for yourself and others along the way. BY CINDY MUÑOZ Heat Safety on the Trail! Simple Tips For All Hikers Hiking in Riverside County: Stay Cool, Stay Strong

The sun will rise and set whether we walk or rest. Choose safety and honor your limits, for caring for yourself today ensures you’ll wander these trails again tomorrow.

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Arbor Day & Earth Day 2025 Here at RivCoParks our mission is: BY JANAE PULIDO

“To preserve land with sensitive habitat or rich heritage within Riverside County, and provide opportunities for the community to enjoy equitable access through recreation and education.” Few months represent that mission quite like April, encompassing Earth Month, Earth Day and Arbor Day collectively. Environmental awareness is heightened and people from all around the world come together to learn about how to preserve our valuable resources. Here are some highlights from our Parks events and activities: Gilman Historic Ranch & Wagon Museum Gilman offered a nature walk, games, hands-on snake interactions, and a wooden snake craft. Staff were happy to welcome first-time visitors. Patrons were especially happy to find weekday activities for their little ones, encouraging them to come back to explore the ranch, visit the native garden, picnic and hike the trails.

Jensen-Alvarado Historic Ranch Jensen Ranch hosted a school group of energetic 1st graders! As usual, the group enjoyed their time at the ranch and teachers were especially grateful for craft packs for the kiddos to take home. Check out the hands-on craft, “Wooly Sheep”, to the left.

Santa Rosa Plateau Visitor Center Four families joined Santa Rosa Plateau for animal necklaces and Earth Day word searches. The kids were excited for a surprise activity, not realizing they visited on a special day.

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Idyllwild Nature Center Despite the cold and snow, Idyllwild welcomed about 35 visitors. Staff handed out tree seeds and twig pencils, set up a rainbow leaf scratch art project, and showcased tree elements up-close at a microscope station. That weekend the nature center also planted a Chapparal Whitethorn and California Black Oak.

Lake Skinner Recreation Area Members from the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc joined the staff at Skinner to commemorate Arbor Day with 3 trees. The alumni group had a blast and they look forward to coming back for more trail projects!

Hidden Valley Wildlife Area For the 2nd year in a row, Target kindly donated funds towards our District Arbor Day event! We hosted a tree planting ceremony on April 23, 2025. Target representatives were honored with a certificate, and they planted a tree near the scenic view of the valley below.

On April 26th, 31 volunteers joined us for our 2nd annual Arbor Day tree planting at Hidden Valley. We planted over 200 trees, plants and shrubs, with additional plants added the following week. Whether volunteers planned ahead to join us, or they stopped by out of curiosity on their Saturday morning bike ride, their enthusiasm and hard work was inspiring. Everyone joined us afterwards for hot dogs, fresh off the grill! We’re excited to see what next year’s festivities will bring!

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RivCoParks Recognitions January - April 2025

Cynthia DeLanty Volunteer of the Month January 2025

Ryan Mark Employee of the Month January 2025

Chris Sanchez Employee of the Month February 2025

Michael Goeken Employee of the Month April 2025

Nola Columbaro Volunteer of the Month March 2025

Ana Sawyer Employee of the Month April 2025

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daptable ommunity-Centric

The District recognizes the accomplishments of employees and volunteers that exemplify the District’s values. Individuals and groups were chosen based upon their demonstration of:

nclusion utstanding

Josh Hankard Volunteer of the Month February 2025

Alison Conner Employee of the Month March 2025

Click here to nominate the next Shining Star!

Kelly Fox Volunteer of the Month April 2025

Adam Wilson Volunteer of the Month April 2025

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RIVCOPARKS | PARK TALK

RivCoParks.org • @RivCoParks • 800.234.PARK (7275) 4600 Crestmore Road, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509