SACRAMENTO – With the New Year just around the corner, the California Highway Patrol is reminding motorists of several new laws or changes to existing law that go into effect in 2014. The following are summaries of some transportation-related laws that, unless otherwise stated, go into effect on January 1, 2014.

SACRAMENTO — This New Year’s Day 2014, California State Parks will commemorate their 150th Anniversary with several First Day Hikes planned across the state. On Wednesday Jan. 1, 2014, 31 state parks will offer 38 different hikes, including hikes in the redwoods, the deserts and along the coast and beaches, as well as a paddle hike, and other activities.

SACRAMENTO – As Californians ready for their holiday travels, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) plans to make sure yours aren’t ruined by a drunk driver. CHP is set to begin its annual Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP). The two-day holiday enforcement effort is designed to help ensure the safety of the motoring public during a time when celebrations are in ...

UNITED STATES – Anyone interested in becoming a wildland firefighter should explore this recent job post from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The job announcement for Forestry Technicians, GS 3/4/5, is open from Dec. 1, 2013 to Apr. 30, 2014, but with Academy training being held in February and March, interested parties are encouraged to apply early.

Last Saturday, we set out in search of adventure, well aware of the weather conditions. The night before, Mother Nature had dumped a load on the Mother Lode, and just about every foot of hill between us and our destination was loosely draped in snow. Most people had the good sense to stay in and admire the view – an ...

Submittled by Cathy Garner Dear Friend of Wildlife, Thirty nine years have passed since Fresno Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Service (FWRRS) began working to help wildlife. Since 1974 our members and volunteers have accomplished so much in areas of wildlife rehabilitation and public education. FWRRS cares for between 800 and 1,200 animals each year and most of those are released ...

COLUMBIA — Columbia State Historic Park will be celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Annual Lamplight Tours this year, and to mark the special occasion, they have themed this year’s Tour “A Merry Mystery”, an interactive way for visitors to experience this tradition. This year’s Lamplight Tours will be held on Friday, Dec. 6, and Saturday, Dec. 7. Tickets are ...

SIERRA NATIONAL FOREST – Based on changing weather trends, increases in relative humidity and a decrease in average temperatures, the Sierra National Forest is lifting the fire restrictions that were put in effect July 2. Forest Visitors will still need to obtain a campfire permit when camping outside of designated campgrounds and follow all guidelines when having an open flame ...

CLOVIS – The Sierra National Forest is requesting public input for the 2014 State Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHV) funding/proposal submission cycle by hosting an Open House Dec. 5 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Forest Headquarters, 1600 Tollhouse Rd in Clovis. This year the State has funds available for education, operation and maintenance, law enforcement and restoration projects, and the ...

SACRAMENTO – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) announces that the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has awarded the CHP overall first place in the 2012 National Law Enforcement Challenge (NLEC). The NLEC is a nationwide law enforcement awards program that recognizes excellence in traffic safety, with the goal of reducing the number of tragedies that occur on our ...