This Makes No Sense At All

One dark day near Halloween, we took our grandson south, hoping for better weather. We are surrounded by regional parks, most with hiking trails, but some with historic value. Our destination was Ardenwood, a working farm from 100 years ago, now farmed by the park district. Blacksmiths, horses, cows, corn, pigs and pumpkins all are kid worthy attractions. Since Halloween was upon us, we expected some special events. Alas, the budget cuts have struck, so no special activities. The blacksmith was there, pounding away, but he didn't even have his forge going. So, after surveying the farm animals, and getting hot dogs at the little cafe, we huddled under the cafe porch roof, keeping out of the rain. What now? Well, Coyote Hills was just west of us and it had a boardwalk out into the freshwater marsh. Maybe we could surprise some ducks. Good choice. The rain stopped, and we strolled along the boardwalk, taking in the fall scene. Finally wrapped up the day by going out to the fishing ...

The Sibley Labyrinth is one of the sacred spots in our east bay hills. Hills block the freeway sounds to the east and the west. A good spot to take grandchildren for a moment with nature. BEFORE We've been gone most of the summer, hiking on the long distance trails, so it has been months since we have been to the Sibley Labyrinth. Finally a couple of friends stop by for a hike, and we include the labyrinth. I am absolutely stunned when I round the corner where the labyrinth comes into view. Instead of this scene of peace, there is a giant dam in front of us - fill for a new road cutting around the hill to the east. A major part of the hill has been removed to provide the fill. AFTER As I looked at this, I kept saying how could they do this without a hearing? Maybe something happened while we were gone, but this kind of construction doesn't go on without considerable planning. I still don't know why it was allowed to happen, but our friend was able to find out the purpo...

Back on the EBRPD Sibley to Tilden Park trail after a couple of weeks of absence, and noticed that they have done their annual trail maintenance. A twelve foot wide swath cleared and about six feet of it scraped with a small tractor down to Old Tunnel Road. Bikes are allowed on that section. After that it is about six to eight feet cleared, and not total scraping. After Fish Ranch Road, EBMUD has also done their annual mowing of a big grassy field that the trail skirts along. Still, this entire trail is still one of the most pristine available in the East Bay. My question - thought is about the effect on the seasonal creek that runs along quite close to the trail for the first mile or so. The creek still has a trickle now, and later in the summer you will notice that it flows in early morning after heavy fog, but is dry in the afternoon. The plowing of the trail pushes berms of dirt right up close to the waterway. Never into it, but a heavy rain would carry a lot of dirt right into ...