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50th Anniversary

Celebration of the Forest of Nisene Marks

Sunday May 19th, 2013

50 years ago, in the year 1963, the Marks family of Salinas Valley, with the assistance of the Nature Conservancy, deeded 9,700 acres of second growth redwood trees, cool canyons and steep mountain ridges to California State Parks in memory of the family matriarch, Nisene. She was an ardent lover of nature and stipulated that the property be left undeveloped. An additional 500 acres were added to the park in 1998 by contributions through the Save-the-Redwoods League and the Sempervirons Fund.

With its legacy of ancient trees, earthquakes, rugged topography, sawmills, bustling logging camps, clear cutting, lumber trains, oil exploration, years of quiet re-growth and more earthquakes, the Forest of Nisene Marks offers the opportunity to experience miles of trails in a serene, natural setting, just minutes from the rush of civilization.

Schedule of Events:

10:30-11:30 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Official opening of the Waggoner Overlook ADA trail. Hear Supervisor Zach Friend, Supervising State Parks Ranger Bill Wolcott, & others share their stories. Meet Karl Mertz, who has been a part of the park’s history for the last 94 years. Join the bagpipe procession from the kiosk to the overlook. Honor the people who have worked to preserve this beautiful place. Live music. Meet at the kiosk parking lot.

12:00-3:00 Living History Lumberjack Demo

Log splitting, hand sawing, axe throwing, tree climbing — get a sense for the early days when The Forest of Nisene Marks was owned & operated by the Loma Prieta Lumber Company (1883-1923). Learn about new sustainable forestry techniques and all that has changed in the last century. At the Mary Easton Picnic Area.

12:00-2:00 BBQ

Hamburgers, hot dogs, & more! Suggested donation: $3.00 per person. Mary Easton Picnic Area.

12:00-3:00 Kids in the Forest

Music, storytellers, Doug the Surfing Magician, face painting, treats & crafts. Bring the kids for a fun & educational adventure. Mary Easton Picnic Area.

For more information: www.advocatesfnm.org/newsevents/50th-anniversarycelebration

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