Anza Borrego Foundation, Sunday, December 12, 2004, 9:00 a.m .to 3:00 p.m., Instructor: Rick Halsey, Park Location: Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Fee: Members $35, Non-members $45, Class Code: Chaparral.
There are three seasons in the chaparral: spring, fall and drought. Where does winter fit in? One of the unique characteristics of our Mediterranean climate is the transformation of winter into spring. The growing season in the chaparral begins with the first rains, usually in November. We will begin our trip discussing the chaparral's relationship to fire and how too frequent fires can threaten its existence. Later we will drive to various sites within both the Cleveland National Forest and Cuyamaca State Park to observe different types of chaparral and how it has responded to the rainy season. Join us as we explore the first awakening moments of California's most extensive characteristic wilderness: the chaparral. Bring water, lunch, hat, sunscreen and wear hiking boots.  Physical difficulty: Easy. Meet: Highway 8 turnout/overlook on the eastbound side of Interstate Highway 8 about three miles east of the Viejas Casino.