Do you like photography? nature? Join the California King Tides Initiative documenting the year’s highest tides — levels likely to become the “new normal” as sea level rises due to global warming. King Tides will occur about 8:50 AM Fri., Jan. 20; 9:40 AM Sat., Jan. 21, and 10:30 AM Sun., Jan. 22. The idea is to (a) identify areas vulnerable to tidal flooding, erosion, or other damage and (b) gather compelling images to promote awareness and support action to deal with climate change. The project seeks photos of areas likely to flood or erode, that have infrastructure that might be affected. For information, go to www.californiakingtides.org.

Friends of Five Creeks would like to document the “heads of tide” — the farthest inland reaches of tides in creeks and channels. For information and ideas on good sites in the East Bay, click here.

The 8th annual Hidden Gems of Berkeley bike ride explores the curious, quirky, and crafted features and grassroots greening initiatives that make Berkeley unique — this year in Berkeley’s charming Northbrae and Westbrae neighborhoods. Meet at the North Berkeley Branch Library, 1170 The Alameda and Hopkins, 10 AM Sat., May 15. The leisurely ride on level and gently sloping terrain ends at 1 PM. Bring lunch, water, and the family — great for children over 10. The event is free; updated Hidden Gems of Berkeley maps available for $5 donation. Sponsored by Berkeley Partners for Parks, Livable Berkeley, East Bay Green Tours, and Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition; led by John Coveney, Marlene Fouche, and originator John Steere (for information contact John at 510 849 1969).

• The long-planned extension of the Bay Trail west along the south side of University Avenue to the Marina includes a launch pad for windsurfers near Hs Lordships Restaurant, but leaves out a controversial swath through Shorebird Park.
• Emeryville’s Doyle Street Greenway will be linked to Berkeley’s 9th Street via the old railroad right-of-way.
• The Santa Fe Right-of-Way between Delaware and the Ohlone Greenway between Cedar and Virginia will get a paved trail, and the right-of-way between University and Addison will be opened. This will create a long-distance bicycle-pedestrian connection from Bancroft (the south edge of Strawberry Creek Park) to the City of Richmond (where the trail also is being extended).

Stay tuned for planning announcements!

RAIN UPDATE:
Rain, unless heavy, will not cancel tour – walking or biking editions of it.  Bring an umbrella for walking, rain gear for the bike ride and give thanks for the rain we need.

Hidden Gems of Berkeley Ride and Walk – Experience the Treasures of Central Berkeley, Saturday May 2, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The 7th annual Hidden Gems of Berkeley Ride and Walk will feature the unique and vernacular treasures and grassroots’ greening initiatives of Central Berkeley.  As in the past, we’ll have vivid interpretive tours – by bike and by foot.  This year, we’ll explore the hidden fabric of gardens, paths, and the curious cultural and natural features and buildings of Central Berkeley (by bike) and Downtown (by foot).

Ride and walk start will be at the Civic Center fountain (off Allston between Milvia and Martin Luther King Blvd.)  Bring lunch and water.  The event is family friendly (over the age of 10).   Updated Hidden Gems of Berkeley maps will be available for a donation of $5.

Bike Tour to be led by John Steere and John Coveney; Walking tour to be led by Jen English and Georgia Silvera Seamans.  Check out www.bpfp.org for more information.   Co-sponsored by Berkeley Partners for Parks (BPFP), Livable Berkeley, and the Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition.