Forest Service eyes Big Meadows project

A campground and road maintenance project at Big Meadows is under consideration by the Giant Sequoia National Monument.

The Sequoia National Forest's Hume Lake Ranger district is seeking public comments on the project, which will focus on the Big Meadows Campground along the Generals Highway east of Grant Grove.

The Big Meadows Campground currently includes five camping units with a total of 45 campsites that don't charge fees. But because there are few site markers or designated parking spurs, it has created a situation where people drive freely through the area and cause erosion.

The Forest Service proposes to better delineate campsites, establish parking spurs and stop the "campsite creep" that has been occurring at Big Meadows over the past decade.

Submit comments or questions to District Recreation Officer Carol Hallacy at challacy@fs.fed.us or (559) 338-2251 no later than Jan. 15.

News & notes

• Need a last-minute stocking stuffer for the angler on your Christmas list? Consider buying them a 2012 California sport fishing license, which cost $44.85 for residents. Licenses and gift vouchers can be purchased online at dfg.ca.gov/onlinesales.
• Badger Pass will not open for the season Friday as previously announced. The Yosemite ski resort relies 100% on natural snowfall, and there is only about 3 to 6 inches on the mountain. "We're still one good storm away from opening," said Colin Baldock, director of guest recreation for DNC Parks & Resorts.
• China Peak will begin daily operations Friday with four chairlifts and three magic carpets open. The base depths of 12 to 18 inches on open runs are mostly due to the resort's snowmaking efforts. Details: skichinapeak.com.
• Celebrate Christmas Eve by taking an easy Family Fun Walk on snowshoes through giant sequoia groves with the Sequoia Natural History Association. Details: sequoiahistory.org or (559) 565-3759.
• Take a hike Sunday to the top of Table Mountain with the Sierra Foothill Conservancy. Reserve a spot at sierrafoothill.org or (559) 855-3473.