Dedication and celebration at CALM

Aera Energy LLC was represented at the dedication by Public Affairs Officer Susan Hershberger. Reider displayed the plaque that will be put in place at CALM thanking Aera for its $45,000 contribution which paid for the construction of the new recreation-family commons. Reider praised Aera for its donation telling Hershberger and those attending the ceremony, “This is one great birthday present for CALM.”

Afterwards, Hershberger explained why the energy company had become involved in the project.

“Aera would like to express our appreciation to CALM for creating this beautiful area,” Hershberger said. “We wanted to enhance this already excellent wildlife and native plant venue by providing an area where families could amplify their enjoyment of the facility through recreation and relaxation.”

The new area features a large grassy area for picnics, standing playground equipment and a climbing and exploration area making use of many natural terrain structures.

Saturday, the 12th, was CALM’s birthday party, which brought visitors face-to-face with some animals that will never be found in Kern County’s native surroundings. “Zoo to You” of Atascadero presented two shows called “Animals of the Rain Forest.” Since Bakersfield is not a rain forest it was an unusual sight for visitors to cast their eyes upon such unfamiliar animals as the kinkajou, Asian fishing cat, ruffed lemur and tree sloth.

Birthday visitors also got some up close and personal views of CALM’s native ambassador animals, tethered to the arms of strolling docents, who stopped to answer questions and have pictures taken with curious onlookers.

Several activities were planned for children including making edible animal treats for CALM’s resident raccoons and bears. Tots and toddlers also had a chance to use their Crayons to create colorful impressions of paper plate tortoises.

Those who hadn’t been to CALM in a year were witness to how Digger and Dart, the brother and sister black bears, have settled into their new home at CALM, the just completed Birds of Prey habitat with its increased size and enhanced viewing area and the beautification of the Mammal Round and George Hanley Plaza.

Many remarked on the splendid springtime views of the wildflowers, natural vegetation in bloom and gently-flowing streams, a result of renovating the riparian landscape at CALM.

Greg Sanders said of the weekend, “Like I always tell people, those who haven’t seen CALM in a year - haven’t seen CALM.”

CALM is home to more than 250 animals and 2,000 plants, all native to California. Only animals injured or unable to survive in their native environment are housed at CALM. CALM is open Tuesday-Sunday, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and is located between Lake Ming and Hart Park on Alfred Harrell Highway in Bakersfield.
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