In today’s newsletter,

• San Diego featured in nature documentary

• Wildfire destroys homes in Ventura

• Catalina plane crash due to nighttime takeoff

• Johnson Valley off-road guide

• Bat fungus shows up in California

Mountain Fire burns 14,000 acres in Ventura, destroying homes

Firefighters are battling a rapidly spreading wildfire in Ventura County, known as the Mountain fire, which has already devastated numerous homes and prompted the evacuation of more than 10,000 residents. The fire erupted on Wednesday, fueled by extreme Santa Ana winds, and has burned over 50 homes and approximately 14,500 acres with no containment in sight.

Popular Southern Utah mountain bike trails at risk as trust land goes up for sale

The Utah Trust Lands Administration has listed a 3,000-acre parcel known as Zone 6 of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve for sale, raising concerns among outdoor enthusiasts. This land is home to beloved mountain biking trails, including the Zen Trail and Bearclaw Poppy, as well as popular rock climbing sites like Moe’s Valley.

Canyoneer in Zion National Park Dies in Fall

In other unhappy news out of southern Utah, a 40-year-old man died following an accidental fall while canyoneering in Heaps Canyon in Zion National Park. The canyon is a popular destination for canyoneering enthusiasts, attracting adventurers worldwide with its geological features and challenging routes.

Bat-killing fungus detected in California

The fungus is among us. (Sorry, I've been waiting years to write that.)The fungus responsible for white-nose syndrome, which has decimated bat populations across North America, has been identified in several counties throughout California this year.

America Alpine Club to stop hosting the Bishop Craggin’ Classic

The American Alpine Club (AAC) has announced that it will no longer host its Craggin' Classic Series of climbing events, including the popular Bishop Craggin’ Classic, held annually in the Easter Sierra town of Bishop, California.

The event was part of AAC’s Craggin Classic Series, which brought together climbers from across the country for 13 years to foster community and promote stewardship in the sport.

Catalina plane crash occurred after an unapproved nighttime takeoff

The pilot flying the plane that crashed and killed everyone on board on Catalina Island last month didn’t have approval to take off in the dark, according to a new report.