Now that spring has begun we’ve been finding some of our favorite common wildflowers popping up alongside trails and in meadows. They are also starting to blanket hillsides in beautiful shades of orange, yellow, and purple. This is why we want to share proper picture-taking etiquette and introduce some of our favorite common wildflowers that are sometimes overlooked.
As the days get hotter, a dip in the Yuba River seems all the more inviting. Here in mid-July, flow levels have tapered off (although you should always check before you go. SYRCL recommends using the Dreamflows site) and the water isn’t as shockingly cold as it was at the start of “river season”. But river recreation is different than heading out to a lake or swimming in a pool. A river is a constantly evolving environment. Rocks shift, flows increase and decrease, water temperature fluctuates – a river is dynamic, full of change.
When recreating at the Yuba, remember to assess the situation and your abilities realistically. If the conditions are treacherous or you feel overwhelmed, it’s best to wait rather than putting yourself at further risk. Stay safe and be prepared by learning basic water safety and survival skills beforehand.
“Voices of the Yuba” is a content series created to amplify the stories and experiences of individuals from the Yuba River watershed. Each individual’s story has the power to inspire understanding and unity, cultivating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all who live here.
Maddux Eckerling is an activist and graduating senior from Ghidotti Early College High School. He graciously volunteered to share his story and thoughts on queer identity, allyship, and nature connection with the SYRCL audience.
As you plan your trip to the river, check out these important tips and resources for a safe and fun river experience with your family and friends.