California is set to open its first new state park in a decade this summer. Dos Rios, a 1,600-acre tract located in the Central Valley, will officially open its gates to the public on June 12th. The park is situated near the confluence of the Tuolumne and San Joaquin rivers, surrounded by vast almond orchards and dairy pastures. Visitors to Dos Rios will have the opportunity to enjoy hiking and picnicking, with plans in the future for swimming and boating access.
In addition to the park opening, the state has announced ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions on natural lands. The plan outlines actions such as reducing wildfire risks, expanding forest cover, and restoring wetlands, aiming to bring the state closer to achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.
The targets were developed through a collaborative effort between the state Natural Resources Agency and other agencies, and are part of a larger effort to address climate change using California’s natural lands. The state has already invested approximately $9.6 billion since 2020 on these efforts, recognizing the importance of both reducing emissions and improving the health of landscapes.
Ali Manzo, a Central Valley native and California State Parks interpreter, emphasized the significance of Dos Rios as a community treasure. She believes the park will provide opportunities for people to connect with nature and develop a deeper appreciation for its value.
The Earth-Day announcement of the new park and emissions targets aligns with California’s ongoing efforts to combat climate change. The state remains committed to finding innovative and comprehensive solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change, both through the preservation of natural lands and the reduction of emissions across various sectors.
