Sunrise light on a grove of tufa towers emerging from the water of Mono Lake with soft green and dusty-red wild grasses in the foreground, Canada geese in the shallow water with reflections of the rocky towers, and desert hills in the distance.

Crowd gathers for Save Our State Parks (SOS) Weekend at Mono Lake

In an inspirational show of support for the Mono Lake Tufa State Reserve, Bodie State Park, and all State Parks, over 100 people gathered at the Tufa State Reserve Boardwalk at Mono Lake to participate in the Save Our State Parks effort in support of State Parks around California today.

The concern for the future of State Parks runs deep in this neck of the woods, and especially after a weekend of enjoying State Parks and their knowledgeable staff during the eighth annual Mono Basin Bird Chautauqua, it felt good to raise our voices together in support of these important places.

Mono Lake Tufa State Reserve and Bodie State Park supporters gather on the Tufa State Reserve Boardwalk to show support for California State Parks.
Mono Lake Tufa State Reserve and Bodie State Park supporters gather on the Tufa State Reserve Boardwalk to show support for California State Parks.

As the group gathered, Osprey flew overhead, phalaropes fed busily in the calm water, and calls of California Gulls and Red-winged Blackbirds chimed in. Walking down the boardwalk the group passed the mother of beloved State Park Ranger Dave Marquart, who had just finished visiting the lake and was making the slow journey home. Though she was tired, she was inspired by the parade of supporters, and in an extremely touching gesture of support, turned around and walked all the way back down to join in, making it just in time for the photo.

The atmosphere on the packed boardwalk was lively and positive, as hopes run high for a solution that keeps our State Parks open, running, and strong. Click here for the Save State Parks Action Center and visit The Mono-logue for status reports.

Save Our State Parks!
Save Our State Parks!