A willow grove in northern California that was used historically by Indian basket weavers is now open to a new generation of artisans. The area along the upper Mokelumne River near Paloma has been closed for at least 78 years. But the East Bay Municipal Utility District has begun issuing permits to basket weavers like Arvada Fisher, who is Miwok. "It looks like it is going to be a beautiful, beautiful place to gather," Fisher told The Stockton Record. The gray willows at the site are prized for their strength and versatility. The plant is considered are or endangered by the California Native Plant Society. Get the Story:
Water utility permits land for cultural tradition (The Stockton Record 11/13) $rl East Bay Municipal Utility District - http://www.ebmud.com
California Native Plant Society - http://www.cnps.org
