The next couple of Saturdays will hold some special programs at New Melones Lake Visitors Center, with kayaking featured on April 23 and Me-Wuk heritage on April 30.
Coyote Creek inlet tells a historic story of the Mother Lode. Join Ranger Hilary to discover some of these formations on an April 23 trip up Coyote Creek. The trip will launch at 10 a.m. from the Mark Twain Day Use Area, traverse across the lake and up Coyote Creek. This will be a strenuous paddling tour. Expect to be out on the water for four hours. This outing is open to experienced swimmers with their own kayak or other non-motorized boat. Participants need to bring their own boat, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (properly fitted and serviceable), paddles, sunscreen, hat, water and lunch. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required.
Contact Ranger Hilary at 209-536-9094 ext. 221 to reserve your place at this event. Participants will meet at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center at 10 a.m.
The following Saturday, April 30, plan to join in the second Annual Me-Wuk Heritage Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This will be a celebration of the Me-Wuk culture. There will be a blessing at 9:30 a.m. and traditional dancing at 10 a.m. They will have booths set up with demonstrations of Bead work, jewelry making, basketry, flint napping, native plants, acorn preparation and storytelling. There promises to be something for everyone; activities will be at the Visitors Center.
The New Melones Visitor Center and Museum is managed by Reclamation’s Central California Area Office and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional information on activities, directions, pet restrictions or other questions, call 209-536-9543 (TTY 800-877-8339) or visit the New Melones Lake website at http://www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/newmelones/index.html.