WawonaNews.com - April 2025
New Wawona Listing 2643 E Bruce Rd, Wawona, 3beds, 2baths, 1,502sqft - $1,100,000. Click here for more info.
Pine Needle Pickup Reminder
JUST A REMINDER. If you are the primary owner on a lot in Wawona, who receives trash and recycling service from Mariposa, you must submit a sign-up sheet by April 18 in order to have your pine needles picked up the week of May 5. THAT'S IN 2 DAYS!
Trish Peterson
March 11, 2025
The Pine Needle Pickup in Wawona is scheduled for the first week of May, beginning May 5, 2025.
To ensure efficient planning and execution, Wawona residents are required to complete a signup sheet. The signup sheet is available online at the following link:
https://www.mariposacounty.org/formcenter/public-works-7/pine-needle-pick-up-program-signup-sheet-73
A printable PDF version is also available and can be completed and mailed in or submitted during the event at the Wawona Library on March 22, 2025.
https://www.mariposacounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/97500/Pine-Needle-Signup-Sheet
Additionally, staff will be on hand to answer questions, provide assistance, and collect completed signup sheets on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9:00 am to Noon at the Wawona Library.
For the pickup process, pine needle piles must be accessible from the edge of a county or privately maintained roadway and placed in an area free of obstructions such as water valves, utility poles, or landscaping. Woody material accompanying the piles must be incidental, less than an inch in diameter, and no longer than two feet. It's important to note that Mariposa County will not be responsible for any damage to private property obscured by pine needle piles.
Completed signup sheets can be submitted electronically by pressing the "Submit" button on the form, sent via U.S. Mail to the Public Works address provided on the form, or dropped off at the Public Works Department during normal business hours or at the Wawona Library from 9:00 am to Noon on March 22, 2025. All completed forms must be received by April 18, 2025.
Please note that this program applies exclusively to Wawona properties subject to the quarterly solid waste services fee charged by Mariposa County, as administered by the Mariposa County Public Works Department. Completion of the Pine Needle Pickup Signup Sheet is an annual requirement.
Public Works will only collect piles that are accessible from the road and WILL NOT enter private property. Mariposa County is not responsible for any damage to personal property. Please ensure pine needle piles are placed in a clear location, free of obstructions such as water valves.
PILE REQUIREMENTS: Woody material must be incidental to the pile, less than an inch in diameter, and less than two feet long. Woody material is limited to twigs and small branches that will shed with the pine needles.
Samuel Cerveny
Deputy Director, Public Works
Phone 209-966-5356
Email scerveny@mariposacounty.org
Web www.mariposacounty.org
JUST A REMINDER. If you are the primary owner on a lot in Wawona, who receives trash and recycling service from Mariposa, you must submit a sign-up sheet by April 18 in order to have your pine needles picked up the week of May 5. THAT'S IN 2 DAYS!
Trish Peterson
March 11, 2025
The Pine Needle Pickup in Wawona is scheduled for the first week of May, beginning May 5, 2025.
To ensure efficient planning and execution, Wawona residents are required to complete a signup sheet. The signup sheet is available online at the following link:
https://www.mariposacounty.org/formcenter/public-works-7/pine-needle-pick-up-program-signup-sheet-73
A printable PDF version is also available and can be completed and mailed in or submitted during the event at the Wawona Library on March 22, 2025.
https://www.mariposacounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/97500/Pine-Needle-Signup-Sheet
Additionally, staff will be on hand to answer questions, provide assistance, and collect completed signup sheets on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9:00 am to Noon at the Wawona Library.
For the pickup process, pine needle piles must be accessible from the edge of a county or privately maintained roadway and placed in an area free of obstructions such as water valves, utility poles, or landscaping. Woody material accompanying the piles must be incidental, less than an inch in diameter, and no longer than two feet. It's important to note that Mariposa County will not be responsible for any damage to private property obscured by pine needle piles.
Completed signup sheets can be submitted electronically by pressing the "Submit" button on the form, sent via U.S. Mail to the Public Works address provided on the form, or dropped off at the Public Works Department during normal business hours or at the Wawona Library from 9:00 am to Noon on March 22, 2025. All completed forms must be received by April 18, 2025.
Please note that this program applies exclusively to Wawona properties subject to the quarterly solid waste services fee charged by Mariposa County, as administered by the Mariposa County Public Works Department. Completion of the Pine Needle Pickup Signup Sheet is an annual requirement.
Public Works will only collect piles that are accessible from the road and WILL NOT enter private property. Mariposa County is not responsible for any damage to personal property. Please ensure pine needle piles are placed in a clear location, free of obstructions such as water valves.
PILE REQUIREMENTS: Woody material must be incidental to the pile, less than an inch in diameter, and less than two feet long. Woody material is limited to twigs and small branches that will shed with the pine needles.
Samuel Cerveny
Deputy Director, Public Works
Phone 209-966-5356
Email scerveny@mariposacounty.org
Web www.mariposacounty.org
We Love You, Stacy
By Connie Wylie - It was a gorgeous Spring day outdoors at the Wawona Community Center where many Wawonans, family members, dear friends, students, teachers and their families celebrated Stacy Boydstun's remarkable life.
Ray, Stacy's son, wrote a perfect tribute to honor his mother, his "best friend". Stacy's daughter Delaney read a letter composed by her sister, Austin, who remembered Stacy's love for her children and grandchildren. A touching video, put together by Stacy's 3 children was shown with Stacy playing the guitar and singing "Stand by Me" while we saw photos of her life. And throughout the celebration Stacy’s dog Lucia meandered through the crowd looking for tummy rubs.
Wawona school teachers and administrators spoke highly of Stacy's dedication to her students and her success in helping to mold "good kids", which they see as her legacy to this school. One of her youngest students spoke of the day Stacy became "my friend", not just her teacher. Friends shared memories and a poem by Mary Oliver, "Wild Geese" was beautifully read. People remembered her adventurousness, strength, creativity and her courageous end of life.
Tears and smiles were ample. Wawona school children held each other in their grief and joy to have had a teacher such as this. Food was shared by all and delicious.
We think Stacy would've loved this day. Her spirit will always be present in Wawona in the plants, trees, birds and small animals she loved.
By Connie Wylie - It was a gorgeous Spring day outdoors at the Wawona Community Center where many Wawonans, family members, dear friends, students, teachers and their families celebrated Stacy Boydstun's remarkable life.
Ray, Stacy's son, wrote a perfect tribute to honor his mother, his "best friend". Stacy's daughter Delaney read a letter composed by her sister, Austin, who remembered Stacy's love for her children and grandchildren. A touching video, put together by Stacy's 3 children was shown with Stacy playing the guitar and singing "Stand by Me" while we saw photos of her life. And throughout the celebration Stacy’s dog Lucia meandered through the crowd looking for tummy rubs.
Wawona school teachers and administrators spoke highly of Stacy's dedication to her students and her success in helping to mold "good kids", which they see as her legacy to this school. One of her youngest students spoke of the day Stacy became "my friend", not just her teacher. Friends shared memories and a poem by Mary Oliver, "Wild Geese" was beautifully read. People remembered her adventurousness, strength, creativity and her courageous end of life.
Tears and smiles were ample. Wawona school children held each other in their grief and joy to have had a teacher such as this. Food was shared by all and delicious.
We think Stacy would've loved this day. Her spirit will always be present in Wawona in the plants, trees, birds and small animals she loved.
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Kathie Heringer, July 18, 1948 — March 20, 2025
Kathie Heringer, beloved resident of Wawona in Yosemite National Park, California, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at the age of 76.
Kathie was a cherished daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born and raised in Dos Palos California, Kathie graduated from CSU Fresno and married Wayne Heringer on the grounds of the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite. She lived an incredibly full life overseas and in the States with her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by her children Trevor and Mendy, their spouses Jessica and Kevin, and her grandchildren Alejandra, Aaleyah, and Ava. In addition to her family, Kathie had a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Yosemite region. We welcome you to visit Wawona and experience her peace and joy sitting on her porch overlooking the Merced River - that was her greatest daily wish - and she is sitting there in spirit as you read this.
She leaves an incredible legacy of dedication to her friends, family and her charitable causes. She taught her family and friends the undeniable lessons of love, kindness, compassion, generosity and devotion. She was always the first to offer to help paint a friend's house, stop by and listen to a loved one who was having a difficult time, or open her house to travelers who needed a beautiful rest stop and great food. She was known for her handwritten cards and frequent presents hand-picked for each special person. For everyone who was touched by Kathie's presence in their life, we will never forget her laughter and smile; She had a true gift for valuing, seeing and loving all who were fortunate to be a part of her life.
A future private memorial service will be held in her honor in Wawona. Please email her daughter at, [email protected] for further information. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wounded Warriors Project.
Kathie’s impact in this world is immeasurable. She will be greatly missed, but know she is where she needs to be - laughing, drinking Diet Coke, eating clam dip and M&Ms, sitting in her chair overlooking the river. We love you gobbers.
To see more photos of Kathie in her obituary web page, click here.
Kathie Heringer, beloved resident of Wawona in Yosemite National Park, California, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at the age of 76.
Kathie was a cherished daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born and raised in Dos Palos California, Kathie graduated from CSU Fresno and married Wayne Heringer on the grounds of the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite. She lived an incredibly full life overseas and in the States with her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by her children Trevor and Mendy, their spouses Jessica and Kevin, and her grandchildren Alejandra, Aaleyah, and Ava. In addition to her family, Kathie had a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Yosemite region. We welcome you to visit Wawona and experience her peace and joy sitting on her porch overlooking the Merced River - that was her greatest daily wish - and she is sitting there in spirit as you read this.
She leaves an incredible legacy of dedication to her friends, family and her charitable causes. She taught her family and friends the undeniable lessons of love, kindness, compassion, generosity and devotion. She was always the first to offer to help paint a friend's house, stop by and listen to a loved one who was having a difficult time, or open her house to travelers who needed a beautiful rest stop and great food. She was known for her handwritten cards and frequent presents hand-picked for each special person. For everyone who was touched by Kathie's presence in their life, we will never forget her laughter and smile; She had a true gift for valuing, seeing and loving all who were fortunate to be a part of her life.
A future private memorial service will be held in her honor in Wawona. Please email her daughter at, [email protected] for further information. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wounded Warriors Project.
Kathie’s impact in this world is immeasurable. She will be greatly missed, but know she is where she needs to be - laughing, drinking Diet Coke, eating clam dip and M&Ms, sitting in her chair overlooking the river. We love you gobbers.
To see more photos of Kathie in her obituary web page, click here.
Fisher in Wawona
Rare Fisher was spotted in Wawona January 10. According to Google there are about 150 to 300 of these animals left in the Sierras. The game cam has not detected a return since that date.
Rare Fisher was spotted in Wawona January 10. According to Google there are about 150 to 300 of these animals left in the Sierras. The game cam has not detected a return since that date.
YOSEMITE-WAWONA ELEMENTARY CHARTER SCHOOL
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, CA
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of March 11.
3.3 - Approve Warrants/Payroll
3.4 – Accept Donations to YWECS
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, CA
- CALL TO ORDER
- ROLL CALL
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
- CONSENT AGENDA
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of March 11.
3.3 - Approve Warrants/Payroll
3.4 – Accept Donations to YWECS
- HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
ACTION ITEMS
- APPROVAL OF IRS FORM 990 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023
- APPROVAL OF CHARTER RENEWAL PETITION FOR SUBMISSION TO BASS LAKE ELEMENTARY DISTRICT.
- FIELD TRIP TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA APPROVAL
INFORMATION ITEMS
- STAFF REPORTS/ CHARTER FUTURE PLANNING UPDATES
- BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS PROJECTS UPDATE
- FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
- BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
- FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
- NEXT BOARD MEETING
- ADJOURNMENT
Back On The Market
7899 Forest Dr, Wawona, CA 95389 - 3 bd4 ba3,707 sqft $5,995,000. Click here for more info.
7899 Forest Dr, Wawona, CA 95389 - 3 bd4 ba3,707 sqft $5,995,000. Click here for more info.
New Wawona Listing
2646 W Bruce Rd, Wawona, CA 95389 3beds, 2baths, 1,535sqft. Click here for more info.
2646 W Bruce Rd, Wawona, CA 95389 3beds, 2baths, 1,535sqft. Click here for more info.
April 4-6 Schedule
Hi all,
Just wanted to remind you of the busy weekend events coming up.
April 4 WTPAC (Wawona Town Planning Advisory Committee) meeting with NPS and Mariposa County
9am Community Center near Wawona School
****very important to come and support WTPAC, which the County wants to eliminate****
April 5 WAPPOA (Wawona Area Private Property Owners Advocates) meeting
9 am Community Center
******very important to support WAPPOA in advocating for owner rights like water and sewer rights, trash, road repair, pine needle pick up, keeping grants that help get hazard trees and debris removed and home hardening, trying to organize neighborhoods to get Firewise designation for fire safety, supporting local events like the Barn Dances and the History Center, and supporting our local NPS and Firefighters.*****
April 5 Redwoods Homeowners Annual Meeting and dinner
April 6 Celebration of life for Stacy Boydstun, our beloved Montessori teacher who passed away this winter
1:00 - 3:00 Community Center (potluck)
***** see Evite here and reply if you will be there
Misc. Info
The mudslide/rockslide on Hwy 140 is open to traffic, so hopefully, all entrance stations won't be too crowded.
Snow is in the forecast for Sunday and Monday, March 29 and 30 - so carry chains and prepare for winter weather.
Trish Peterson
Hi all,
Just wanted to remind you of the busy weekend events coming up.
April 4 WTPAC (Wawona Town Planning Advisory Committee) meeting with NPS and Mariposa County
9am Community Center near Wawona School
****very important to come and support WTPAC, which the County wants to eliminate****
April 5 WAPPOA (Wawona Area Private Property Owners Advocates) meeting
9 am Community Center
******very important to support WAPPOA in advocating for owner rights like water and sewer rights, trash, road repair, pine needle pick up, keeping grants that help get hazard trees and debris removed and home hardening, trying to organize neighborhoods to get Firewise designation for fire safety, supporting local events like the Barn Dances and the History Center, and supporting our local NPS and Firefighters.*****
April 5 Redwoods Homeowners Annual Meeting and dinner
April 6 Celebration of life for Stacy Boydstun, our beloved Montessori teacher who passed away this winter
1:00 - 3:00 Community Center (potluck)
***** see Evite here and reply if you will be there
Misc. Info
The mudslide/rockslide on Hwy 140 is open to traffic, so hopefully, all entrance stations won't be too crowded.
Snow is in the forecast for Sunday and Monday, March 29 and 30 - so carry chains and prepare for winter weather.
Trish Peterson
Rep. Tom McClintock
Representative Tom McClintock Interview Regarding Yosemite
Mariposa Gazzette,
March 27, 2025
Rep. Tom McClintock didn’t hold back during a wide-ranging interview conducted exclusively last week by the Mariposa Gazette.
McClintock represents the 5th Congressional District of California, which encompasses a wide area of the eastern part of the state, including all of Mariposa County as well as the bulk of Eastern Madera County.
An issue of high interest in the region is Yosemite National Park and what the future holds given the shakeup in the federal government.
For the first time, someone within the federal government did say who the new acting superintendent is at the park. McClintock confirmed that person is Stephanie Burkhart.
Federal officials have not responded to multiple inquiries about who has replaced Cicely Muldoon, who recently retired from the park service.
Mariposa Gazzette,
March 27, 2025
Rep. Tom McClintock didn’t hold back during a wide-ranging interview conducted exclusively last week by the Mariposa Gazette.
McClintock represents the 5th Congressional District of California, which encompasses a wide area of the eastern part of the state, including all of Mariposa County as well as the bulk of Eastern Madera County.
An issue of high interest in the region is Yosemite National Park and what the future holds given the shakeup in the federal government.
For the first time, someone within the federal government did say who the new acting superintendent is at the park. McClintock confirmed that person is Stephanie Burkhart.
Federal officials have not responded to multiple inquiries about who has replaced Cicely Muldoon, who recently retired from the park service.
Acting Superintendent Stephanie Burkhart
According to a 2023 entry on the National Park Service website, Burkhart is the Associate Regional Director, Pacific West Region, based in San Francisco. It had been rumored that she was placed in the interim position of park superintendent, but this was the first official confirmation that happened.
But McClintock said he is focused on getting a new superintendent for Yosemite. He said he was going to attempt to meet with Doug Burgum, the new Secretary of the Interior, this week to discuss the position as well as other Yosemite issues.
“The next superintendent needs to be from the hospitality sector,” said McClintock.
Though he said he had “no names in mind,” he added that will be his message to the secretary.
Another major issue that has been discussed is the lack of information coming out of the federal government concerning various issue about national parks.
“Welcome to my world,” said McClintock, saying he, too, has had trouble getting solid information.
Though he did say the “transition” in the Department of the Interior, which oversees the park service, is part of the issue, he is also hopeful more information will be forthcoming.
He did have a message about Yosemite: “Yosemite is open to the world.”
After his meeting in Oakhurst, McClintock said he believes the local business community needs to have a say in the functioning of the park, including the proposed reservation system. McClintock is opposed to the reservation system and he outlined that in a March 14 letter to Burgum.
McClintock said business owners and community leaders had common-sense solutions to some of Yosemite’s issues.
One, he said, is if the line to get into the park is more than 30 minutes, “wave traffic through.”
Another, he said, is for gate attendants to only take admission fees and hand out literature, not to take time to talk to those entering the park which holds up the line. He said information about the park should be available at a different location. He believes simple solutions like that have fallen on deaf ears at Yosemite.
“We should add (traffic) lanes where we can. We should have been doing that all along,” he said about the park’s entrances.
McClintock also said he was told some 700 vehicles a day were being turned around when there was a reservation system and there were times when the park was not close to being full.
He also questioned the new traffic patterns that have been created in Yosemite Valley, saying it’s possible those are causing more delays and backups in the valley.
McClintock went so far as to say it’s possible that system was designed “deliberately” to cause traffic issues and bolster the argument for a reservation system.
“I am very suspicious with what has gone on with park service employees,” he said.
He called getting a superintendent who has a hospitality background a “new opportunity” and said he is hopeful that can happen.
“Yosemite is a place where all people are welcome,” said McClintock.
He believes a new direction at the park can improve the visitor experience, something he said is critical. McClintock said when there are long lines or people have to get reservations, it makes for a “terrible experience,” and people tell that to their friends and others.
But McClintock said he is focused on getting a new superintendent for Yosemite. He said he was going to attempt to meet with Doug Burgum, the new Secretary of the Interior, this week to discuss the position as well as other Yosemite issues.
“The next superintendent needs to be from the hospitality sector,” said McClintock.
Though he said he had “no names in mind,” he added that will be his message to the secretary.
Another major issue that has been discussed is the lack of information coming out of the federal government concerning various issue about national parks.
“Welcome to my world,” said McClintock, saying he, too, has had trouble getting solid information.
Though he did say the “transition” in the Department of the Interior, which oversees the park service, is part of the issue, he is also hopeful more information will be forthcoming.
He did have a message about Yosemite: “Yosemite is open to the world.”
After his meeting in Oakhurst, McClintock said he believes the local business community needs to have a say in the functioning of the park, including the proposed reservation system. McClintock is opposed to the reservation system and he outlined that in a March 14 letter to Burgum.
McClintock said business owners and community leaders had common-sense solutions to some of Yosemite’s issues.
One, he said, is if the line to get into the park is more than 30 minutes, “wave traffic through.”
Another, he said, is for gate attendants to only take admission fees and hand out literature, not to take time to talk to those entering the park which holds up the line. He said information about the park should be available at a different location. He believes simple solutions like that have fallen on deaf ears at Yosemite.
“We should add (traffic) lanes where we can. We should have been doing that all along,” he said about the park’s entrances.
McClintock also said he was told some 700 vehicles a day were being turned around when there was a reservation system and there were times when the park was not close to being full.
He also questioned the new traffic patterns that have been created in Yosemite Valley, saying it’s possible those are causing more delays and backups in the valley.
McClintock went so far as to say it’s possible that system was designed “deliberately” to cause traffic issues and bolster the argument for a reservation system.
“I am very suspicious with what has gone on with park service employees,” he said.
He called getting a superintendent who has a hospitality background a “new opportunity” and said he is hopeful that can happen.
“Yosemite is a place where all people are welcome,” said McClintock.
He believes a new direction at the park can improve the visitor experience, something he said is critical. McClintock said when there are long lines or people have to get reservations, it makes for a “terrible experience,” and people tell that to their friends and others.
Yosemite National Park Introduces Pilot 2025 Reservation System
March 28, 2025
Media contact: Scott Gediman,
(209) 742-3519 (cell); (209) 372-0248 (office)
[email protected]
YOSEMITE VALLEY, Calif. – Yosemite National Park will implement a 2025 pilot reservation system to improve visitor access, reduce overcrowding and ensure visitors have the opportunity to have meaningful, safe and enjoyable experiences in Yosemite. Learn how to plan your trip on our website: Plan Your Visit - Yosemite National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
Reservations will be required at all park entrance stations except Hetch Hetchy May 19 through August 31. Hetch Hetchy will be managed on a first come first serve basis, as was done in 2024.
Reservations will be required:
On weekends between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May 24 through June 15, 2025, and August 16 through August 31, 2025.
Daily between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from June 16 through August 15, 2025. Reservations will be valid for three consecutive days.
Reservations will be open for sale on www.recreation.gov April 17.
Visitors without a reservation may enter the park before 6 a.m. or after 3 p.m., or anytime via public transportation on YARTS.
Visitors with in-park lodging, camping, wilderness, or special use permits do not require an additional reservation. Simply show your reservation or permit at the entrance station and pay the park entrance fee.
Visitors participating in a commercial tour, paid program, or arriving via a hotel shuttle bus do not require a reservation but will still pay the park entrance fee.
“We’ve been implementing various forms of reservation systems since 2020, and we’re continuing to learn and adapt. We updated the reservation system this summer to ensure that all visitors -- whether plan in advance or decide at the last minute -- have the opportunity to experience the park” said Stephanie Burkhart, acting superintendent of Yosemite National Park. “We are looking to reduce long wait times at our entrance stations, difficulties finding parking, and crowded trails, so visitors
can spend more time exploring and enjoying everything the park has to offer.”
This reservation system pilot is a key part of evaluating what type of system will provide a more enjoyable experience for visitors. The park will monitor and measure how successful this reservation system is this summer, including counts of cars at gates, wait times, and available parking, to refine strategies to improve visitor experience in the future.
Elaine Hackett
NPS Congressional Liaison
1849 C Street, NW
Washington, DC 20240
Office: 202-208-7331
March 28, 2025
Media contact: Scott Gediman,
(209) 742-3519 (cell); (209) 372-0248 (office)
[email protected]
YOSEMITE VALLEY, Calif. – Yosemite National Park will implement a 2025 pilot reservation system to improve visitor access, reduce overcrowding and ensure visitors have the opportunity to have meaningful, safe and enjoyable experiences in Yosemite. Learn how to plan your trip on our website: Plan Your Visit - Yosemite National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
Reservations will be required at all park entrance stations except Hetch Hetchy May 19 through August 31. Hetch Hetchy will be managed on a first come first serve basis, as was done in 2024.
Reservations will be required:
On weekends between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May 24 through June 15, 2025, and August 16 through August 31, 2025.
Daily between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from June 16 through August 15, 2025. Reservations will be valid for three consecutive days.
Reservations will be open for sale on www.recreation.gov April 17.
Visitors without a reservation may enter the park before 6 a.m. or after 3 p.m., or anytime via public transportation on YARTS.
Visitors with in-park lodging, camping, wilderness, or special use permits do not require an additional reservation. Simply show your reservation or permit at the entrance station and pay the park entrance fee.
Visitors participating in a commercial tour, paid program, or arriving via a hotel shuttle bus do not require a reservation but will still pay the park entrance fee.
“We’ve been implementing various forms of reservation systems since 2020, and we’re continuing to learn and adapt. We updated the reservation system this summer to ensure that all visitors -- whether plan in advance or decide at the last minute -- have the opportunity to experience the park” said Stephanie Burkhart, acting superintendent of Yosemite National Park. “We are looking to reduce long wait times at our entrance stations, difficulties finding parking, and crowded trails, so visitors
can spend more time exploring and enjoying everything the park has to offer.”
This reservation system pilot is a key part of evaluating what type of system will provide a more enjoyable experience for visitors. The park will monitor and measure how successful this reservation system is this summer, including counts of cars at gates, wait times, and available parking, to refine strategies to improve visitor experience in the future.
Elaine Hackett
NPS Congressional Liaison
1849 C Street, NW
Washington, DC 20240
Office: 202-208-7331
NPS Vehicle Stickers Available in Wawona
Saturday, April 5
11:15 am-1:00pm
Wawona School
You MUST have the following with you in order to receive your sticker:
For Primary Owner:
1) Your Vehicle registration(s) – paper or digital
2) Proof of ownership in Wawona – tax bill, deed, trust – your name must be on it, and the address in Wawona
For immediate Family members (kids, grandkids, parents, grandparents – not cousins, uncles, friends):
1) The vehicle registration
2) name, address, email, and property address in Wawona
3) A written note from you with their name and relationship to you
For a long term renter:
1) Vehicle registration
2 )Copy of lease
Saturday, April 5
11:15 am-1:00pm
Wawona School
You MUST have the following with you in order to receive your sticker:
For Primary Owner:
1) Your Vehicle registration(s) – paper or digital
2) Proof of ownership in Wawona – tax bill, deed, trust – your name must be on it, and the address in Wawona
For immediate Family members (kids, grandkids, parents, grandparents – not cousins, uncles, friends):
1) The vehicle registration
2) name, address, email, and property address in Wawona
3) A written note from you with their name and relationship to you
For a long term renter:
1) Vehicle registration
2 )Copy of lease
Proposed Elimination of WTPAC
At the October 2022 WTPAC meeting, the NPS said the MOU had expired and proposed a change of wording for a new version of the MOU. The original wording was that in the event of lack of potable water in Wawona, NPS would provide potable water to all residents in Wawona. The proposed wording was that they will only provide potable water to homeowners on the NPS system. WTPAC made a motion that they would not accept the proposed change.
Then in January of 2025, the County Board of Supervisors was going to vote on eliminating all the advisory committees in the County, trying to "streamline" . WTPAC and WAPPOA sent emails and messages, and many people attended the meeting, saying that the Wawona Town Planning Advisory Committee (WTPAC) is different from other ones in the County, being the 3rd partner in the MOU, and should not be eliminated. The County decided to wait on the vote.
So WAPPOA had done all it could to advocate for owners rights, and decided to hire a lawyer to research the problem. The letter was sent to the County and the NPS last week and is on the agenda for the WTPAC meeting on Friday, April 4 at 9am in the Community Center. Please try to be there.
Below is the lawyer's letter:
At the October 2022 WTPAC meeting, the NPS said the MOU had expired and proposed a change of wording for a new version of the MOU. The original wording was that in the event of lack of potable water in Wawona, NPS would provide potable water to all residents in Wawona. The proposed wording was that they will only provide potable water to homeowners on the NPS system. WTPAC made a motion that they would not accept the proposed change.
Then in January of 2025, the County Board of Supervisors was going to vote on eliminating all the advisory committees in the County, trying to "streamline" . WTPAC and WAPPOA sent emails and messages, and many people attended the meeting, saying that the Wawona Town Planning Advisory Committee (WTPAC) is different from other ones in the County, being the 3rd partner in the MOU, and should not be eliminated. The County decided to wait on the vote.
So WAPPOA had done all it could to advocate for owners rights, and decided to hire a lawyer to research the problem. The letter was sent to the County and the NPS last week and is on the agenda for the WTPAC meeting on Friday, April 4 at 9am in the Community Center. Please try to be there.
Below is the lawyer's letter:
Wawona Friends of the Library Update:
March 17, 2025
Wawona Friends of the Library operates under the umbrella of the Mariposa County Friends of the Library, a 501(c)3 non-profit (EIN: 77-0092545) organization.
Mariposa Friends of the Library is delinquent in filing IRS and CA documents since the 2020 year which has disqualified them from their non-profit status until all the proper documents have been filed and accepted.
From the Mariposa Friends of the Library website page (mariposafol.org):
The Friends of the Library has suspended all operations involving receiving or dispensing of money. This is due to the fact that we are behind on our IRS filings. We apologize to the public and we are working on rectifying it.
Therefore, the Wawona Friends of the Library cannot accept and deposit dues or donations until all filings have been completed for 2021, 2022, & 2023. As Treasurer of the Wawona Friends of the Library, I am holding all checks received unless directed otherwise.
The latest information provided by the Mariposa Friends of the Library was that it could be up to 191 days before they are reinstated as 501c3 non-profit organization.
The Wawona Friends of the Library will not publish a Spring, 2025 Community Newsletter since we cannot accept dues or donations. We ask that you hold off renewing your Friends membership until the matter is resolved. We hope that we can resume with our June newsletter.
Any Park or community information that would be in the Spring newsletter will be available on the Wawona News website.
Pat Sischo
Wawona Friends of the Library Treasurer
[email protected]
March 17, 2025
Wawona Friends of the Library operates under the umbrella of the Mariposa County Friends of the Library, a 501(c)3 non-profit (EIN: 77-0092545) organization.
Mariposa Friends of the Library is delinquent in filing IRS and CA documents since the 2020 year which has disqualified them from their non-profit status until all the proper documents have been filed and accepted.
From the Mariposa Friends of the Library website page (mariposafol.org):
The Friends of the Library has suspended all operations involving receiving or dispensing of money. This is due to the fact that we are behind on our IRS filings. We apologize to the public and we are working on rectifying it.
Therefore, the Wawona Friends of the Library cannot accept and deposit dues or donations until all filings have been completed for 2021, 2022, & 2023. As Treasurer of the Wawona Friends of the Library, I am holding all checks received unless directed otherwise.
The latest information provided by the Mariposa Friends of the Library was that it could be up to 191 days before they are reinstated as 501c3 non-profit organization.
The Wawona Friends of the Library will not publish a Spring, 2025 Community Newsletter since we cannot accept dues or donations. We ask that you hold off renewing your Friends membership until the matter is resolved. We hope that we can resume with our June newsletter.
Any Park or community information that would be in the Spring newsletter will be available on the Wawona News website.
Pat Sischo
Wawona Friends of the Library Treasurer
[email protected]
Yosemite Wawona Charter School News
On behalf of Wawona School, I extend our sincerest gratitude for your unwavering support during this challenging time. Our students continue to demonstrate remarkable strength and resilience, a testament to the positive influence of their teachers and the entire community.
The school is thriving, and our students are excelling in all areas. They are actively engaged in afternoon clubs, exploring a wide range of activities including: digital art, French baking, and embroidery.
Parents and board members are currently organizing our spring fundraiser, which will include a bake sale and an online silent auction in May. We will share more information soon.
For any inquiries about the school, or how to get involved, please visit our website at www.yosemitewawonacharter.org
Thank you again for your continued support.
Savannah Pina
Yosemite Wawona Charter School Board Member
On behalf of Wawona School, I extend our sincerest gratitude for your unwavering support during this challenging time. Our students continue to demonstrate remarkable strength and resilience, a testament to the positive influence of their teachers and the entire community.
The school is thriving, and our students are excelling in all areas. They are actively engaged in afternoon clubs, exploring a wide range of activities including: digital art, French baking, and embroidery.
Parents and board members are currently organizing our spring fundraiser, which will include a bake sale and an online silent auction in May. We will share more information soon.
For any inquiries about the school, or how to get involved, please visit our website at www.yosemitewawonacharter.org
Thank you again for your continued support.
Savannah Pina
Yosemite Wawona Charter School Board Member
Yosemite Hospitality (Aramark): Update
We anticipate running all services as normal:
-Glacier Point: Friday May 9th-Sunday October 26th weather and conditions permitting
-Golf Shop is anticipated to be relocated to Wawona Store 8am to 6pm
-Golf course opening May 9th October 26th conditions permitting 8am-6pm
-Stables May 26th through September 7th conditions permitting
-Wawona Store hours 8am to 8pm 7days a week
-We do not anticipate running a food truck and with the land assignment change the pool will not be open for the duration of the renovation.
Rachel Miller
We anticipate running all services as normal:
-Glacier Point: Friday May 9th-Sunday October 26th weather and conditions permitting
-Golf Shop is anticipated to be relocated to Wawona Store 8am to 6pm
-Golf course opening May 9th October 26th conditions permitting 8am-6pm
-Stables May 26th through September 7th conditions permitting
-Wawona Store hours 8am to 8pm 7days a week
-We do not anticipate running a food truck and with the land assignment change the pool will not be open for the duration of the renovation.
- The post office hours will remain as normal Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm
- Shuttle service in the Wawona area is not anticipated this year
Rachel Miller
Tom Bopp at The Redwoods in Yosemite
We are excited to welcome pianist and singer Tom Bopp, who will be performing concerts at The Fireside Room on a few occasions this upcoming year, here at The Redwoods! We are still working on the details and exact dates/times, but could not wait to share the news with the Wawona Community! The events will be FREE of charge, however donations will be accepted.
We are also gearing up for peak season as bookings are coming in and our cabin rentals calendar is filling up. As usual, at The Redwoods we will host our Annual Homeowners Events on Friday, April 4th and Saturday April 5th.
As always, for any comments, questions or concerns, please stop by our front desk daily between 8am-430pm or call us at 209-375-6666. Wishing everyone a wonderful Spring and Summer Seasons!
Yuli Gotsev
Marketing Manager
The Redwoods In Yosemite
We are excited to welcome pianist and singer Tom Bopp, who will be performing concerts at The Fireside Room on a few occasions this upcoming year, here at The Redwoods! We are still working on the details and exact dates/times, but could not wait to share the news with the Wawona Community! The events will be FREE of charge, however donations will be accepted.
We are also gearing up for peak season as bookings are coming in and our cabin rentals calendar is filling up. As usual, at The Redwoods we will host our Annual Homeowners Events on Friday, April 4th and Saturday April 5th.
As always, for any comments, questions or concerns, please stop by our front desk daily between 8am-430pm or call us at 209-375-6666. Wishing everyone a wonderful Spring and Summer Seasons!
Yuli Gotsev
Marketing Manager
The Redwoods In Yosemite
Wawona Pine Needle Pickup
Spring is fast approaching, and with it comes the Pine Needle Pickup in Wawona. Scheduled for the first week of May, beginning May 5, 2025.
To ensure efficient planning and execution, Wawona residents are required to complete a signup sheet. The signup sheet is available online at the following link:
https://www.mariposacounty.org/formcenter/public-works-7/pine-needle-pick-up-program-signup-sheet-73
A printable PDF version is also available and can be completed and mailed in or submitted during the event at the Wawona Library on March 22, 2025.
https://www.mariposacounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/97500/Pine-Needle-Signup-Sheet
Additionally, staff will be on hand to answer questions, provide assistance, and collect completed signup sheets on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9:00 am to Noon at the Wawona Library.
For the pickup process, pine needle piles must be accessible from the edge of a county or privately maintained roadway and placed in an area free of obstructions such as water valves, utility poles, or landscaping. Woody material accompanying the piles must be incidental, less than an inch in diameter, and no longer than two feet. It's important to note that Mariposa County will not be responsible for any damage to private property obscured by pine needle piles.
Completed signup sheets can be submitted electronically by pressing the "Submit" button on the form, sent via U.S. Mail to the Public Works address provided on the form, or dropped off at the Public Works Department during normal business hours or at the Wawona Library from 9:00 am to Noon on March 22, 2025. All completed forms must be received by April 18, 2025.
Please note that this program applies exclusively to Wawona properties subject to the quarterly solid waste services fee charged by Mariposa County, as administered by the Mariposa County Public Works Department. Completion of the Pine Needle Pickup Signup Sheet is an annual requirement.
Public Works will only collect piles that are accessible from the road and WILL NOT enter private property. Mariposa County is not responsible for any damage to personal property. Please ensure pine needle piles are placed in a clear location, free of obstructions such as water valves.
PILE REQUIREMENTS: Woody material must be incidental to the pile, less than an inch in diameter, and less than two feet long. Woody material is limited to twigs and small branches that will shed with the pine needles.
Samuel Cerveny
Deputy Director, Public Works
Phone 209-966-5356
Email scerveny@mariposacounty.org
Web www.mariposacounty.org
Spring is fast approaching, and with it comes the Pine Needle Pickup in Wawona. Scheduled for the first week of May, beginning May 5, 2025.
To ensure efficient planning and execution, Wawona residents are required to complete a signup sheet. The signup sheet is available online at the following link:
https://www.mariposacounty.org/formcenter/public-works-7/pine-needle-pick-up-program-signup-sheet-73
A printable PDF version is also available and can be completed and mailed in or submitted during the event at the Wawona Library on March 22, 2025.
https://www.mariposacounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/97500/Pine-Needle-Signup-Sheet
Additionally, staff will be on hand to answer questions, provide assistance, and collect completed signup sheets on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9:00 am to Noon at the Wawona Library.
For the pickup process, pine needle piles must be accessible from the edge of a county or privately maintained roadway and placed in an area free of obstructions such as water valves, utility poles, or landscaping. Woody material accompanying the piles must be incidental, less than an inch in diameter, and no longer than two feet. It's important to note that Mariposa County will not be responsible for any damage to private property obscured by pine needle piles.
Completed signup sheets can be submitted electronically by pressing the "Submit" button on the form, sent via U.S. Mail to the Public Works address provided on the form, or dropped off at the Public Works Department during normal business hours or at the Wawona Library from 9:00 am to Noon on March 22, 2025. All completed forms must be received by April 18, 2025.
Please note that this program applies exclusively to Wawona properties subject to the quarterly solid waste services fee charged by Mariposa County, as administered by the Mariposa County Public Works Department. Completion of the Pine Needle Pickup Signup Sheet is an annual requirement.
Public Works will only collect piles that are accessible from the road and WILL NOT enter private property. Mariposa County is not responsible for any damage to personal property. Please ensure pine needle piles are placed in a clear location, free of obstructions such as water valves.
PILE REQUIREMENTS: Woody material must be incidental to the pile, less than an inch in diameter, and less than two feet long. Woody material is limited to twigs and small branches that will shed with the pine needles.
Samuel Cerveny
Deputy Director, Public Works
Phone 209-966-5356
Email scerveny@mariposacounty.org
Web www.mariposacounty.org
YOSEMITE-WAWONA ELEMENTARY CHARTER SCHOOL
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, CA
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of February 11.
3.3 - Approve Warrants/Payroll
3.4 – Accept Donations to YWECS
Sean Wisner - $10,000 donation
Pledgeling Foundation - $595.11
ACTION ITEMS
January 31.
INFORMATION ITEMS
Second Interim Budget Report
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, CA
- CALL TO ORDER
- ROLL CALL
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
- CONSENT AGENDA
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of February 11.
3.3 - Approve Warrants/Payroll
3.4 – Accept Donations to YWECS
Sean Wisner - $10,000 donation
Pledgeling Foundation - $595.11
- HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
ACTION ITEMS
- APPROVAL OF 2025-26 INDEPENDENT AUDIT FIRM SELECTION
- APPROVAL OF THE 2nd INTERIM BUDGET REPORT
January 31.
- APPROVAL OF CONTRACT WITH ARC FOR FACILITY USE DURING THE SUMMER.
INFORMATION ITEMS
- STAFF REPORTS/ CHARTER FUTURE PLANNING
- BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS PROJECTS UPDATE
- FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
- BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
- FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Second Interim Budget Report
- NEXT BOARD MEETING
- ADJOURNMENT
Yosemite High School Nite On The Town Music Concert
I’d like to invite all Wawona area supporters to the Yosemite High School Music Program’s Annual Nite on the Town event. YHS has an amazing music program. The new young music director Megan Rice has enlivened the program and has already had a real impact on the community. Her students have auditioned for and are now attending prestigious university music programs.
Our sons have both participated in the program. Our second is a freshman now and will be playing trombone at the event.
Nite on the Town is a concert highlighting all the ensembles including wind, jazz, concert, choral, drums, strings and soloists. This year it overlaps with the WAPPOA meeting the first weekend of April, so I thought the members might like to be invited. Tickets are still available and the details are on the flyer below.
Katie Henderson
I’d like to invite all Wawona area supporters to the Yosemite High School Music Program’s Annual Nite on the Town event. YHS has an amazing music program. The new young music director Megan Rice has enlivened the program and has already had a real impact on the community. Her students have auditioned for and are now attending prestigious university music programs.
Our sons have both participated in the program. Our second is a freshman now and will be playing trombone at the event.
Nite on the Town is a concert highlighting all the ensembles including wind, jazz, concert, choral, drums, strings and soloists. This year it overlaps with the WAPPOA meeting the first weekend of April, so I thought the members might like to be invited. Tickets are still available and the details are on the flyer below.
Katie Henderson
Click on the image above for full details
Join us on Sunday, April 6th, for Stacy’s Celebration of Life at the Wawona Community Center. This will be a potluck event; bringing a dish is not a requirement, only love and fond memories are required. There will be time to share those favorite memories, stories, and honor a very special person who will be greatly missed.
Stacy's family
Stacy's family
