The California and Nevada chapters of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers report that last October’s Beer, Bands, and Bitterbrush Stands event brought together hunters, conservationists, vegans and volunteers from three generations to build community while working to restore habitat. This event was the culmination of several years of planning and preparation, and involved planting bitterbrush plugs as well as restoring plants of cultural significance to the Washoe Tribe.
Volunteers planted seedlings that were grown through the Sagebrush in Prisons Program, restoring and and creating habitat on public lands for mule deer, pronghorn, upland game birds, pollinator species and more.
For five days about 30 volunteers braved below-freezing temperatures while camping and planting to help restore the Hallelujah Junction Wildlife Area from the impacts of the Loyalton Fire that wiped out critical winter range on these borderlands between California and Nevada. The wildlife area extends over portions of Lassen and Sierra counties, but in the evenings participants headed into Plumas County to gather in Sierra Valley for live bands, beer, food, giveaways and gatherings around the campfire.
Organizers report that several thousand seedlings were planted during this “signature stewardship project.” The event is set to return this year, during the last weekend in October. Learn more about the California chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers at https://www.backcountryhunters.org/california.
Information submitted by Backcountry Hunters and Anglers
