Photo Friday - Rattlesnake Season

Summer is nearly here. Warm temperatures bring out the rodents and all sorts of critters who feed on them, including rattlesnakes.

In California alone, there are seven types of rattlesnakes. Please be careful when you’re hiking in and around Sunol. 

Photo courtesy of Pat Jones, SFPUC Watershed Keeper

Here are some tips to stay safe and avoid coming face to face with our reptilian friend, courtesy of  California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) website:

· Be alert.
· Wear sturdy boots and loose-fitting long pants.
· When hiking, stick to well-used trails.
· Do not step or put your hands under logs or in burrows where you cannot see.
· Do not handle any snake. Call the experts if you need it removed.
· Leash your dog when hiking in snake country.

Remember that rattlesnakes aren't usually aggressive, but they can be provoked if they feel threatened. And when out enjoying nature, you are in their home after all. 

Stay safe out there and see you around the Valley!

Photo Friday: Beyond the New Calaveras Dam

Happy Photo Friday!

Here are some beautiful aerial photos of the New Calaveras Dam and Calaveras Reservoir.  Photos are courtesy of SkyHawk Photography.  

Here is a stunning photo of the Calaveras Reservoir from the south looking north towards the New Calaveras Dam. Calaveras Reservoir helps supply drinking water to 2.7 million Bay Area residents. 

Workers completed the road that leads to the dam.

















We couldn't resist adding a picture of the new intake tower.  
  

The seismically robust New Calaveras Dam is in full operation. It can now hold its historic storage capacity of 96,850 acre feet of water (31 billion gallons).  

The dam was completed in May 2019. The team is finishing up a few minor items at the Dam, but the majority of construction activities are now complete. 

See you around the valley!