Golf Season Officially Swings Into Gear Today

Blairsden-graeagle, CA · April 16, 2026

Good morning—the frost on the meadows is burning off quickly today, just in time for the first tee-offs of the season and a busy day of spring prep around the valley.

📰 The Lead

The Mohawk Valley Community Garden is officially waking up for the 2026 season. This morning, a dedicated group of volunteers is gathering to clear the winter debris and prep the raised beds for the first hardy plantings of the year. While our high-altitude climate usually dictates a cautious start, the recent string of sunny afternoons has pushed the soil temperature just high enough to begin the heavy lifting.

This garden isn't just about the produce; it serves as a vital social hub where neighbors swap hard-earned tips on how to keep the local deer away from the kale and which tomato varieties can actually survive a surprise June frost. For those looking to secure a plot this year, today marks the informal deadline to get your name on the list before the seasonal lottery begins. It is a quiet, muddy reminder that despite the lingering snow on the north-facing slopes, spring has firmly taken root in the valley floor.

🏙️ Local Pulse

  • Hydrant Testing Along Highway 89 The Graeagle Fire Protection District is conducting routine flow tests throughout the day. You may notice some localized water runoff in the gutters and crews working near the roadway; however, residential water pressure should remain steady for most homes.

  • Portola: Riverwalk Expansion Moves Forward The City Council finalized plans last night to connect the existing Riverwalk to the downtown district. This phase of the project focuses on improving pedestrian safety and creating a seamless path for cyclists, with construction slated to begin by late summer.

  • Golf Season Officially Begins Today Graeagle Meadows is open for the 2026 season as of 8:00 AM this morning. The course is in remarkably resilient shape after the late March dusting, and the pro shop is offering local resident discounts on gear through the end of the week.

🌤️ Today's Outlook

  • High 58°F · Low 31°F It is a beautiful day for outdoor work or a long walk, but keep a jacket handy for that 4:00 PM shadow. The temperature drops precipitously once the sun dips behind the ridges, and we are still seeing freezing temperatures overnight.

📅 What's On Around Town

  • Community Coffee Hour Graeagle Mill Works, 7485 CA-89 8:30–10:00 AM A casual chance to catch up with neighbors over a fresh brew and local pastries before the workday begins.

  • Portola: Toddler Storytime Portola Library, 111 California St 11:00 AM A short drive for the little ones to enjoy interactive reading, songs, and a simple craft project in the children's wing.

  • Quincy: Spring Seed Swap Quincy Library, 445 Jackson St 4:00–5:30 PM Bring your extra seeds or just your curiosity to this community exchange aimed at helping local gardeners find success in our unique mountain climate.

  • Clio: Thursday Night Pizza Special Clio’s Rivers Edge, 150 Clio Main St 5:00–8:00 PM A local favorite for a mid-week break, featuring wood-fired pies and a great view of the Middle Fork of the Feather River.

📸 Spotlight & Story

  • The Graeagle Store Walking across the creaky red fir floors of the Graeagle Store feels like stepping back into the town’s 1918 origins as a company town. Originally the mercantile for the Graeagle Lumber Company, it remains the community’s primary pantry and social crossroads. Look closely at the shelving and the high ceilings; much of the original woodwork remains intact, serving as a sturdy reminder of the timber industry that built this valley long before the golf courses arrived.

Blairsden-graeagle Daily Digest — compiled from local sources as of 6 AM. For breaking updates, follow your local newsrooms.

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