A federal judge in Sacramento paused BLM’s plan to remove about 850 wild horses from three Northern California herd areas, saying the agency relied on flawed population assumptions. The injunction stops September gathers while the case proceeds.

A long-shuttered West Sacramento park reopens with a splash pad, skatepark and accessible upgrades after a $7.8 million renovation.

A Sacramento man says a black bear charged at him outside his Lake Tahoe vacation home; bear spray stopped the animal but temporarily blinded him with overspray. Local experts warn visitors to secure food and trash.

California State Parks warns of elevated E. coli at Willow Creek, Nimbus Flats and Black Miners Bar at Folsom Lake. Agencies say more testing will run through the summer.

State Parks' new rules limit refunds, charge late cancellations and can bar repeat no‑shows from ReserveCalifornia for a year.

The Forest Service will gather about 450 Montgomery Pass horses beginning July 8 to protect Mono Lake wetlands, reigniting tribal and legal fights over the herd.

Tahoe National Forest moved to Stage 1 restrictions on June 26, banning campfires outside developed sites and planning night‑flying drones with infrared cameras over the July 4 weekend.

A plush toy fell into Guinness the alligator's exhibit and was swallowed; veterinarians attempted an endoscopic removal before the animal later regurgitated the toy. The zoo is urging visitors to alert staff if items enter exhibits.

Davis police searched north Davis after reports of an unconfirmed mountain lion near Wintun Place. Officers used foot patrols and a drone but did not locate the animal.

A $500,000 state grant will fund three miles of trail and three bridges to connect Hidden Falls Regional Park with Big Hill Preserve, expanding public access in Placer County.

Five orphaned black bear cubs released in November 2025 hibernated successfully and returned healthy, state wildlife officials say. The fall release was an experimental test.

The Mechoopda tribe reclaimed roughly 450 acres near Big Chico Creek in Butte County, a state‑backed land return meant to restore stewardship and protect the watershed.

Yosemite has declared the start of its 2026 fire season and is urging visitors to follow campfire, smoking and parking rules as fuels dry. Park officials warn restrictions could tighten as conditions worsen.