Angeles National Forest Update

Angeles National Forest Closed to Public Through Winter

Angeles National Forest Winter of '08 | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

One of my favorite locations in all of Los Angeles, the Angeles National Forest, as you know has been through one of the worst fires in recent history. There have been a lot of questions sent my way regarding the status of the trails and roads. According to their report, access to the Angeles Forest will be limited to residents and forest workers through winter. I will be sure to keep you posted as to any changes to this plan. Below you will find answers to some other Frequently Asked Questions posted by the National Forest. For now, please see our list of parks on the right column as many of these parks offer incredibly beautiful hiking opportunities as well.

For the full report visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/station/BAER/ANF%20Station%20Fire%20FAQs%2011%2004%2009%20Final.pdf

STATION FIRE INFORMATION – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q:How and when did the Station Fire start? On Thursday afternoon, August 26, 2009, the Station Fire started on the Angeles National Forest, approximately 4 miles north of the town of La Cañada Flintridge, along the Angeles Crest Highway (State Route 2) in Southern California. The wildfire was determined to be human caused – to be the act of arson, and has the distinction of being the largest fire in Los Angeles County to-date.
Q:How many wildfires occur on each year on the Angeles National Forest?
This year there have been 162 wildfires on the Angeles National Forest, only 2 of which escaped initial attack (the Morris and Station fires). While these two fires were burning, the Forest had 21 new fire starts — all of which were caught (fully contained) at initial attack. As with all fires on the Angeles National Forest, the objective for firefighters was to put the fire out as safely and as quickly as possible.
Q:What is the size of the burned acres for the Station Fire?
The fire burned approximately 161,000 acres. Approximately 154,000 acres of Forest Service System and 6,700 acres of private lands were burned by the fire.
Q:What was the total cost of the Station Fire?
As of October 17, 2009, the cost to fully contain the fire is approximately $95,300,000.

FIRE DAMAGE

Q:How many Forest Service structures were destroyed or damaged by the Station Fire? Forest Service property that were entirely destroyed or damaged by the Station Fire are: 11 garages; 13 restroom facilities; 5 waste facilities; 1 lookout; 7 barracks; 2 communication sites; 2 pump houses; 10 water tanks; 6 bridges; 7 residences; 2 retaining walls; and 12 misc. buildings.
Q:Where is the destroyed and damaged Forest Service property located within the
burned area of the Station Fire?
All of the Forest Service structures in the Mill Creek area were entirely destroyed. Partially destroyed Forest Service structures were the Big Tujunga Fire Station and structures located in the Clear Creek, Red Box, Shortcut, Monte Cristo, North Fork, Chilao areas.
Q:How many (non-forest service) structures were destroyed or damaged by the Station
Fire?
The Station Fire destroyed approximately 89 residences and damaged 13 residences. Approximately 26 commercial buildings were destroyed and 22 commercial buildings were damaged by the fire. Outbuildings that were destroyed by the Station Fire total 94 structures and 22 structures were damaged by the fire.
Q:Were Forest Service campgrounds damaged by the Station Fire?
The Station Fire did damage many Forest Service campgrounds within the burned area of the fire.
Q:Which Forest Service campgrounds were damaged by the Station Fire?
Forest Service campgrounds damaged by the Station Fire are: Monte Cristo, Mt. Pacifico, Messenger Flats, Chilao, Valley Forge, West Fork, Devore, Millard and Gould Mesa. Forest Service picnic areas damaged by the fire are: Wildwood, Vogel Flat, Stoneyvale, Pines and Switzer.

FIRE IMPACTS

Q:How did the Station Fire impact the road system within the burned area? After the wildfire swept through the burned area, roads were left without guard rails, and regulatory and safety road signage making them unsafe for regular traffic. The damage to the surrounding land and hillsides also made the roads vulnerable to debris flow hazards during rain storm conditions. Because of this public safety danger, roads within the burned area are only open to residents, agency personnel, and construction crews. When storm forecasts for the burned area are issued, access to the Angeles Crest Highway (State Route 2), Big Tujunga Canyon Road, and Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road may be closed to all traffic except emergency vehicles and Los Angeles County personnel.
Q:How did the Station Fire impact public recreation opportunities?
The fire burned acres within both the San Gabriel and Pleasant View Ridge Wildernesses.
Q:What are the effects on wildlife from the Station Fire? How do wildfires affect wildlife? Some animals on the edge of wildfires escape the flames by fleeing into unburned areas. Those farther from the fire perimeter probably did not have time to get out of the area successfully. When an intense fire is burning, it is a very confusing and scary place, resulting in panic-stricken animals. If you imagine yourself in a thick fog trying to find your way out, you can see how confusing it would be for animals trying to escape flames and dense smoke. After the Station Fire, Forest Service personnel have found many animals that perished or were severely injured, including bear, deer, bobcats, woodrats, coyotes, and birds. Some were not touched by flames but died from super-heated gases and lack of oxygen. Others lost their lives due to flames themselves.
Q:When will the fire damaged campgrounds be open to the public? Most campgrounds can be opened to the public when the Forest Closure is ended, even though some features are fire-damaged. Damaged tables, restrooms, etc. will be repaired or replaced within approximately six to nine months following availability of funds.
Q:How severe did the fire burn the soils and watershed?
Of the approximately 161,000 acres that were burned by the Station Fire, 18,100 acres were unburned/very low severity; 25,400 acres were low severity; 100,600 acres were moderate severity; and 16,900 acres were high severity burned.

FOREST CLOSURE WITHIN BURNED AREA

Q:Is the public allowed in the burned area of the Station Fire?
The burned area of the Angeles National Forest is closed to through traffic and the general public, except for residents that live within the burned area, utility companies, and state and local agencies.
Q:How long will the Angeles National Forest be closed to the public?
The burned area will remain closed through the winter storm season to keep the public out of harm’s way from flood/mud/debris flows, falling rocks and raveling hillslopes. We need the public’s support to keep out of the burned area for safety, and for watershed protection and recovery.
Last Updated: 11.04.2009

LONG-TERM RECOVERY EFFORTS

Q: What does the Forest Service plan to do for the recovery of the burned area of the Station Fire? The Forest Service utilizes non-emergency actions that are done within 3-years or more after fire containment to improve fire-damaged lands that are unlikely to recover naturally and to repair federal structures damaged by the fire that are not critical to life and safety. These actions may include restoring burned wildlife habitat, replacing burned fences, interpreting cultural sites, treating pre-existing noxious weed infestations, and installing interpretive signs.

L.A. Times: Give the Kids a Sketch Pad and Send them Outside

Children, you have until November 30th to submit your writing or visual artwork inspired by nature to the Get to Know contest!

Check out this L.A. Times article about this wonderful program:

Give the kids a sketch pad and send them outside

November 12, 2009 |  5:53 pm

Young Californians have two more weeks to grab a paint brush, camera or pen, spend time with some of their wild neighbors and create a potential winner in the Robert Bateman Get to Know Contest.

The Canadian program was imported to California this year under the sponsorship of the U.S. Forest Service, National Wildlife Federation, California State Parks and more than two dozen other organizations that want children to have some face time with nature.

Students can submit works of art, writing or photography to the contest, which is open to   California youngsters no older than 18.

The program was launched in 2000 by Canadian artist and naturalist Robert Bateman, known for his wildlife paintings.

Winners will be awarded prizes and their entries will be published in the 2011 contest calendar and on the Get to Know website.

For entry details, go to http://gettoknow.ca/us/contest/enter.php

– Bettina Boxall

November Nature p.L.A.y. Events

November

Nature p.L.A.y. Events

“Never say there is nothing beautiful in the world anymore. There is always something to make you wonder in the shape of a tree, the trembling of a leaf.” - Albert Schweitzer |Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

We are smack dab in the middle of fall ladies and gentlemen, tots and teens! It’s time to celebrate the harvest and head out on the trails before the cold winter weather keeps us all indoors… Oh… wait… this is L.A. I’m writing about. Well, it’s time to head outdoors (as always) and see what Los Angeles nature has to offer this time of year. I can tell you it could come in the form of bugs and birds, acorns and kitchen scraps. See for yourself:

HOLY (SM)OAKS!

On Saturday 11/14 and Sunday 11/15 celebrate this little oak tree nut and the Fall harvest at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens‘ Acorn Festival from 10 am – 4pm.  Tongva, Chumash, Cahuilla and other native people will share their dances, storytelling and culture.  Activities, crafts and a marketplace add to this very special family event. Space is limited.  Pre-registration recommended: 909-625-8767, Ext. 224 or email registrar@rsabg.org.  Members free. Adult: $8/person.  Student/Senior: $6/person.  Child (3-12 yrs.): $4/each.

BUGGIN’ OUT!

On Saturday 11/21 head on over to Sooky Goldman Nature Center for Bugs and Their Adventures. Follow an entomologists’ lead as you seek, observe, and get to know the local bugs that roam Franklin Canyon. From 10 am – 1pm. FREE

And if your child’s bug fascination is not satiated with this excursion you can always head to the Invertebrate Exhibit at the Los Angeles Zoo.

Or head out on one of the many local trails (see our list of parks in the column on the right)  in search of the vertebrate-less creatures that make up 97% of the species out there!

THE BIRD IS THE WORD!

Maybe you’ve got an avid aviary fan on your hands. Well, Debs Park and Audubon Center in Notheastern L.A. is a great place to have fun while learning all about birds! You can take your child to their beautiful nature center which sits on over 300 acres of oak woodland and catch sight of one of the over 150 species of birds found at the park. Or you can take part in one of their on-going nature events. They offer programs in both English and Spanish. Most events are FREE.

ABC recently visited this special place. Here is the footage of their segment on Deb’s:

more about “Escape city for serenity at Debs Park…“, posted with vodpod

WE EAT NATURE TOO!

Perhaps you have a plot of dirt that you want your kids to turn into a vegetable garden! Or perhaps you have always wanted to start or join a community garden. Well, one of the first steps is teaching yourself and your children some important lessons in gardening. Here are two opportunities to do so:

On Saturday 11/14 Vista Hermosa Park, located just outside of Downtown L.A.,  is hosting a workshop for children in both Spanish and English on How to Create a Beautiful Garden Using Kitchen Scraps from 3:30 – 5:30pm. You’ll learn about how to use worms and food scraps to create a luscious, scrumptious garden. Meet in the Grotto Amphitheater. FREE

The Conejo Valley Botanic Garden has plenty of gardening games, lessons, and activities for your child every Sunday from 11am-3pm in their Kid’s Adventure Garden that will turn your little one’s thumb as green as a leprechaun’s.

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

Natural Haunts – Nature p.L.A.y. Halloween Events

Natural Haunts

Nature p.L.A.y. Suggested Halloween Events

"Auld Daddy Darkness creeps frae his hole, Black as a blackamoor, blin' as a mole." - James Ferguson

We’d like to recommend a couple of ways you can enjoy the mysterious, spooky fun of Halloween while surrounded by nature. So don your best costumes that will be sure to scare even the most stoic of oak trees and make your way to one of these natural haunts.

Vista Hermosa:

Halloween Inspired by Nature/Halloween Inspirado por la Naturaleza

Friday, October 30, 6:00 pm/Viernes, 30 de octobre, 6:00 pm

Spiders, pumpkins, and bats, oh my! What do all of these natural things have in common with Halloween? Come celebrate a classic October campfire with Naturalist Judy on the eve of Halloween. Meet at the Grotto/Amphitheater. 1.5 hours
Las arañas, calabazas y murciélagos, oh my! ¿Qué tienen todas estas cosas naturales en común con Halloween? Ven a celebrar una fogata en octubre con Naturalista Judy en la víspera de Halloween. Reunirse en el Anfiteatro / Gruta. 1.5 horas
All programs offered are free of charge.

Kidspace Museum:

Halloween Celebration

Saturday, October 31st 10am – 5pm

Kidspace Children’s Museum is offering $5 admission to all children (14 and under) who come to the Museum in costume on Saturday, October 31. Halloween festivities will include science experiments and art projects using candy, making edible gak, and a costume parade and contest.

Remember, you can always check out our list of parks on the right and go strut your Halloween stuff in some L.A. wilderness. Create your own natural fun!

Todos los programas ofrecidos son gratuitos.

Lessons from Nature: Sound Detective

We would like to introduce the revamped Nature p.L.A.y. website! We are expanding the variety of information we post by including regular features such as:

Lessons

News and Information

Events

Spotlight on Local Organizations

& others

We launch this new format with an exciting and easy lesson you can do with your nature-hungry child!

Enjoy!

Those who dwell, as scientists or laymen, among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. – Rachel Carson

Lessons from Nature:

Sound Detective

Objective: a) To simultaneously build an appreciation for nature and music. b) Help your child distinguish one sound from several. c) Help your child to notice sonic details in his/her natural environment. d) To allow your child to mimic and interpret what he or she hears.

At Home: Before setting out on a nature walk ask your child to tell you all that they know about music. Share what you know about rhythm, tone, melody, etc. Don’t feel you have to be a music expert. Share what you truly know or think you know.
Tell your child they are a “Sound Detective”. They are to sit quietly in one spot for thirty seconds to one minute and listen for as many sounds as they can find. You will tell them when time is up. Then ask them to share with you the sounds they found. Feel free to share the sounds you noticed as well. Now tell your child you will be going on a nature walk where this Sound Detective is going to have to be very quiet and listen for as many sounds as they can find in nature. Ask them what sounds they think they might hear while on the trail.

*On the Trail: Make sure before you begin walking that you remind them a) they are a sound detective b) they are to be very quiet because some sounds may be very soft and they don’t want to miss ANY sounds c) to remember what they hear.
As you’re walking it is time to listen! It is important that you listen as well. After about 5 minutes check in with them and ask them what they have found so far. If they seem to be focused only on certain sounds such as bird sounds remind them to listen for leaves, bugs, wind, etc.

Enjoy the discovery with your child!

*For ideas of where in the Los Angeles area to take your child please see our list of parks in the right column or contact me directly.

After the Walk: You can talk about what you heard. Ask them what they think made those sounds. Can they imitate the sound? with their voice? with their hands? with the aid of some household items such as paper, pots, sticks, rattles, etc?
You can extend this activity, if you like, to create an improvised song. Pick five sounds that you can use to create an improvised symphony! Start with a repetitive sound and add embellishment using up to four other sounds.

After you complete this activity I would love to hear about how it went! Please send me all and any feedback.

- Ilana Gustafson Turner

Nature P.L.A.Y. Update

Just as the Angeles Forest must renew

… so too must the Nature P.L.A.Y. website.

Hold tight as we transform the way we bring you news, events, lessons, and ideas about

Nature Places for Los Angeles Youth.

We will be in full swing again in October! We look forward to seeing you then!

Thank you for your continued support.

- Ilana Gustafson Turner

August Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events

August

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

"Keep this great wonder of nature as it now is. Leave it as it is. You cannot improve it." Theodore Roosevelt upon first seeing the Grand Canyon | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

This month is all about communities coming together in nature and for nature. You can spend the evening along-side other local families as you are serenaded by story, song, or lecture under the warmth of the summer evening. You can also band together with fellow concerned Angelenos to protect our California State Parks from closing (see week of 8/24-8/28). This August let’s take the opportunity to become closer to our families, our neighbors, and the land that provides the setting in which we can connect to one another.

Weekend

Saturday 8/1 from 7-8:30pm at the Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center you can hear stories and songs by Alan Salazar a Chumash/Tataviam American Indian. Bring a flashlight. All ages welcome. Info: 805-370-2301*

Sunday 8/2 head out to the South Coast Botanic Garden for some good ol’ outdoor concert fun! You can bring the entire family for a pre-concert picnic at 4:30 and then rock out to the sounds of Zak Morgan from 5-6pm. Tickets $6 children and $8 Adults in advance.  Tickets can be purchased in the Foundation Office, Monday through Friday, 9am – 4:30pm, or call Bubble Rock Productions at (310) 541-5819.  Does not include admission to the garden prior to 4:30pm.

Week of Monday 8/3 through Friday 8/7

Tuesday 8/4 learn about animals from various parts of the world with Descanso Garden’s “Family Fun for Nature Nuts”. Meet “Under the Oaks” at 5:30 to set up and munch on your picnic, then at 6pm the show will begin. This week’s show will include a trip “around the world”. $10 members, $12 general public. Children under 2 are admitted free. Seating is first-come-first-served at the time of each event.  To register, call (818) 949-7980.

Wednesday 8/5 head to Franklin Canyon where you can howl at the moon as you stroll along this moderately strenuous “Full Moon Hike”. 8pm*

Thursday 8/6 take advantage of the opportunity to wander through Madrona Marsh as they are hosting their “Tyke Hike” – which only happens the 1st Thursday of the Month at 10am!*

Weekend

Saturday 8/8 the Sooky Goldman Nature Center is the place to learn how to “Speak for the Trees”. “I speak for the trees, for they have no tongues,” said the Lorax, and so can YOU in this playful, interactive program for kids ages 8 to 88. From 2-4pm*

Or you could send your 8-12 year-old to Headwaters Corner from 9:30am-12:30pm for their “Youth Naturalist Program” where this week they will learn all about reptiles and amphibians. A guest speaker will bring snakes, turtles, lizards and amphibians. Fee. Pre-registration required: 818-591-1701 x181.

Sunday 8/9 join the L.A. Audubon Society as they lead you on a birdwalk around Echo Park lake where you and your family can learn about the more than 60 species which call Echo Park their home for all or part of the year. Meet at the Boathouse on Echo Park Avenue at 8am.*

Then later that day you can head to Peter Strauss Ranch from 3-5pm for “Traditional American music the bluegrass way!” The Brombies will be playing bluegrass classics as you enjoy the beauty that is Topanga. For information call 818-382-4819.*

Week of Monday 8/10  through Friday 8/14

Tuesday 8/11 if your family is ready for fun then head to King Gillette Ranch from 7-8:30pm for their “Family Fun Night”. Enjoy storytelling, songs, and a nature program. Marshmallows, skewers, and, weather permitting, a campfire will be provided. Meet at parking lot to left of bridge.*

One of the best things about L.A. is the summertime combo of music in beautiful natural surroundings! On Thursday 8/13 Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is hosting Chet Jaeger’s Dixieland Jazz.  Admission: $8 adults; $6 students & seniors (65+); $4 children (3-12 yrs.) Garden Members and children under 3 yrs., admitted free.

Weekend

Saturday 8/15 spend the day at the historic and beautiful Placerita Canyon! From 11am – 12pm you can explore the grounds on a “Family Nature Walk”, bring a picnic and chow down under the oaks from 12 – 1pm, then head over to the nature center for the “Animal Presentation” from 1 – 2pm where you’ll meet some pretty awesome creatures!*

Saturday it’s also time for the “We Go ECO!” festival at Solstice Canyon from 10am-2pm. Your child will learn about the wonders of this canyon with hands-on, interactive games and lessons led by the students of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Youth Program. Info: 805-370-2363*

Sunday 8/16 your child can spend “Sunday with a Naturalist” at Vista Hermosa park from 3-5pm. Learn about nature while having fun at this downtown nature center!*

Week of Monday 8/17 through Friday 8/21

Headwaters Corner is the place to be  from 8/17 – 8/21 9am-1pm if you are an 8-11 year-old in L.A.! During this “Discovery Nature Camp” they will discover the wonders of nature with the aid of scientific tools, hands-on activities, crafts, games and listening to engaging talks by guest speakers. Each session will be centered on a different theme and include a guided hike. Pre-registration is required and enrollment is limited.

Weekend

Saturday 8/22 you can get “Wild in California” at Malibu Creek State Park. Meet the local “wild” – that is, raptors, mammals, and reptiles – from 7:30-8:30pm.*

In the morning you can head to Eaton Canyon for their Saturday “Family Nature Walk” from 9-11am. *

Sunday 8/23 head to the Conejo Valley Botanical Gardens! Every Sunday they offer activities, lessons, and fun at their “Kid’s Adventure Garden” from 11am – 3pm.*

Week of Monday 8/24 through Friday 8/28

May I suggest a visit to one of our California State Parks before they close. The Governor has proposed the closing of up to 100 of these state treasures. While you’re there talk to your child about what they see, smell, hear, feel and perhaps you can help them write a letter or draw a picture urging Schwarzenegger to keep our parks open. You can visit the California State Parks Foundation website to learn more about this issue, what you can do to help, and where to send your letters.

Weekend

Saturday 8/29 Griffith Observatory knows how to party – or at least how to throw a good “Star Party”. Head up to the beacon on the hill between 2 and 9:45pm for a gaze at the celestial beauties through the provided telescopes.*

Sunday 8/30 I have the cure for a teenager who may be in the throes of summertime boredom – park restoration! Join TreePeople and the Mountains Restoration Trust and help return Topanga Creek to its historic natural beauty. The focus will be on watering and weeding to vanquish non-native invasive plants. For more information contact Lisa Sotelo (818) 623-4879, volunteer@treepeople.org.From 9am-12pm.*

Week of Monday 8/31 through Friday 9/4

Every Wednesday through September 21st (including this Wednesday 9/2) from 5:30-7pm you can enjoy a “Summer Evening Walk” at the L.A. County Arboretum. Each evening your tour guide will focus on a different section of their expansive grounds. Meet inside the Main Entrance building. This is only for members, but you can always purchase a membership on the day of the event. Call 626-821-3233 for information and reservations.

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

July Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 2)

July

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 2)

Ahhhh! Summer is in full swing!

Now, the times may call for you to cut back on the summer travel plans but that just means more time for enjoying the abundant nature opportunities Los Angeles provides. You can create a “staycation” with outdoor concerts, festivals, nature walks, or even a local camping trip in the Angeles Forest or the Santa Monica Mountains and Beaches. Los Angeles is your oyster this summer!

LAUSD has cut summer school this year so please check out the LA Department of Parks and Recreation for alternate childcare and summer activities.

* Take action to Save 220 of our CA State Parks from closing by clicking here*

Weekend

Saturday 7/18 Vista Hermosa Natural Park is offering a free ride to King Gillette Ranch with their “Transit to Trails”. This is the perfect place to spend a Saturday with family and friends.  Pack a picnic and take a free trip to the middle of the Santa Monica Mountains from 9am-4pm. *

For a shorter excursion you can head to Franklin Canyon and learn all about “Bugs and Their Adventures” as you join naturalist Dennis “the Bug Man” on a light walk from 10am-12pm. *

Or you can spend the evening at Malibu Lagoon State Beach with the Children’s Nature Institute for their “Tikes on Trails: Moonlight Tidal Walk” from 6:30-8:30pm.

Sunday 7/19 learn all about California Native Plants at Kidspace with Naturalist Dwain Wilson from Wildwood Foundation at 11am and 1pm. Which of those plants and “weeds” that we see all the time are edible? Which can heal our ailments? Let your child unveil these mysteries.* (free with admission)

Week of Monday 7/20 through Friday 7/24

Suggestions for your week:

7/20-7/24 let your 8-11 year old child enjoy the epiphanies at Headwaters Corner’s “Discovery Nature Camp” Session 2 from 9am-4pm every day. They will “discover the wonders of nature with the aid of scientific tools, hands-on activities, crafts, games and listening to engaging talks by guestspeakers.” It will include a guided hike and fieldtrip. Pre-registration is required and enrollment is limited. Nominal fee. For more info or to register: Mountains Restoration Trust, 818-591-1701 x181

On Wednesday 7/22 Vista Hermosa park is hosting their weekly “Family Campfire Program” from 7-8pm. Go listen to stories and sing songs around the crackling flames in this beautiful park just outside the bustle of downtown.*

On Thursday 7/23 the South Coast Botanical Gardens will be the perfect setting to watch Shakespeare Festival LA perform “Romeo and Juliet”. The gardens are open at 6:15 so that you can enjoy a picnic bef0re the 8pm show begins. Call 213-481-2273 for tickets and information.

Weekend

Saturday 7/25 put on your work boots, slip on those gloves and get ready to get dirty because it’s “Farm Chore Day and Picnic” at Animal Acres Farm Sanctuary! Volunteers are asked to arrive between 9 -10 a.m. and commit to a three hour chore task. Please RSVP to info@animalacres.org if you can join them, so they can make sure they have enough vittles! *

Or head over to Deb’s Park from 1-3pm for “Art and Nature” fun. Artist Patricia González and an Audubon naturalist will lead you on a discovery of the nature of Debs Park through art.*

Sunday 7/26 get your fill of one of the most glamorous creatures in the world, the butterfly, and go visit the “Pavillion of Wings” at the Natural History Museum. They will be gracing the museum until September 7th.

Week of Monday 7/27  through Friday 7/31

Suggestions for your week:

On Tuesday 7/28 families can take a “Walk on the Wild Side”  at Descanso Gardens with foxes and giant tortoises of Africa. Rescue animals, educators and handlers will present an interactive safari of the imagination where you can learn about the habitat and survival techniques of furred, feathered and scaly beasts. Seating is first-come-first-served. $12 members, $10 non-members.

During the week there are various campfire programs to get toasty with! There is, of course the Wednesday campfire at downtown’s Vista Hermosa (See previous week’s schedule). There are also several happening at various state parks. Check the California State Park website and find one that suits your marshmallow-eating, story-hearing, sing-along-singing child’s needs.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or suggestions.

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

July Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 1)

July

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 1)

To see a world in a grain of sand, And a heaven in a wild flower, Hold infinity in the palm of your hand, An eternity in an hour. – William Blake | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

Ahhhh! Summer is in full swing!

Now, the times may call for you to cut back on the summer travel plans but that just means more time for enjoying the abundant nature opportunities Los Angeles provides. You can create a “staycation” with outdoor concerts, festivals, nature walks, or even a local camping trip in the Angeles Forest or the Santa Monica Mountains and Beaches. Los Angeles is your oyster this summer!

LAUSD has cut summer school this year so please check out the LA Department of Parks and Recreation for alternate childcare and summer activities.

* Take action to Save 220 of our CA State Parks from closing by clicking here*

Weekend

Saturday 7/4 Kidspace is celebrating Independence day with insects, arts and crafts, science discovery and more from 10am-3pm! So, before you head out to watch the explosions in the sky take the family to the museum for some low-to-the-ground bug action. Free with museum admission.

Or you could celebrate by taking the family on a summertime “Family Nature Walk”. Every Saturday Eaton Canyon offer one from 9-11am. Placerita Canyon, which just re-opened their newly remodeled nature center, offers a walk from 11am-12pm then an “Animal Presentation” from 1pm-2pm on Saturdays as well. *

Sunday 7/5 your family can help in a “Special Beach Cleanup” at Cabrillo Beach the day after July 4th festivities! From 8-10:30 am help remove litter to protect our coastal habitats. Call (310) 548-7562 for reservations.* (And if your family really enjoys beach clean-ups I would check out Heal the Bay’s list of on-going “Nothin’ But Sand” clean-ups!)

Then you can stretch those generous but sore muscles with a “Mommy and Me Yoga” class at Franklin Canyon Park from 1-2pm. It’s a beginning level class for children 3-8 years and their families. Bring a pillow, towel, and light blanket.*

Week of Monday 7/6 through Friday 7/10

Suggestions for your week:

On Tuesday 7/7 it is “Family Fun Night” from 7-8:30pm at King Gillette Ranch! Join naturalists for songs, stories, and a nature program. Bring a blanket/chair. Marshmallows, skewers, and weather permitting, a campfire will be provided. Meet at parking lot to left of bridge.*

On Wednesday 7/8 Vista Hermosa park is kicking-off their summer programming with a “Family Campfire Program” from 7-8pm. Go listen to stories and sing songs around the crackling flames in this beautiful park just outside the bustle of downtown.*

On Thursday 7/9 at the South Coast Botanical Garden your child can learn to “Make a Salad” (and eat it too) in the Children’s Discovery Garden from 10am-12pm.*

Weekend

Saturday 7/11 it’s all about “Slime and Scales” for your 3-5 year-old at the Natural History Museum from 10:15-11:15 am. They’ll hear stories, play games, and make a scaly craft to take home in celebration of the slimy and the scaly critters that call the Discovery Center home.*

If it is an 8-12 year-old you are looking to entertain, then take them to Malibu Lagoon State Beach for “Family Field Trip” from 9:30am-12:30pm. They will discover why Malibu Lagoon is home to many living things and why the Malibu Creek watershed is important. There is a fee and pre-registration required: 818-591-1701 x181.

Sunday 7/12 the Friends of the Ballona Wetlands are offering their once-a-month “Salt Water Marsh Tour” from 1-3pm. “Learn about our coastal ecosystem and explore the wonders of nature right in the middle of urban Los Angeles.” Meet in the parking lot behind Gordon’s Market at 303 Culver Blvd, Playa del Rey.*

On Sunday you could also head to the Satwiwa Cultural Center to listen to the stories and soothing flute music from Bill “Elk Whistle” Neal under the stars from 7:30-9pm. Bring a flashlight.*

Week of Monday 7/13  through Friday 7/17

Suggestions for your week:

On Thursday 7/16 you can listen to some swing jazz while surrounded by the beautiful Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Gardens from 7-9pm. $8 adults; $6 students & seniors (65+); $4 children (3-12 yrs.) Garden Members and children under 3yrs., admitted free – so, become a member!

On Friday 7/17 it’s “Twilight Night: Dino Night” at Kidspace! “Kids and families go back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Kids can make a fossil and go on a fossil hunt, also make a cool dinosaur mask. Play the Stegosaurs Stomp, get a dino tattoo and have a roaring good time! BBQ dinners will be available for purchase.” Admission to event $5.

(Part 2 on its way!)

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or suggestions.

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

June Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 2)

June

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 2)

"Summer afternoon, summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language." Henry James | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

Yay for Dads! Yay for Summer! This month rings in the Summer Solstice and gives Father’s yet another good reason to go outside with the kids – Father’s day! Kick off the socks and slip into your flip-flops it’s time to romp under the trees, through the sand, within the ocean, over the warm hills,  (plug in your own preposition + place here)!

* Take action to Save 220 of our CA State Parks from closing by clicking here*

Weekend

Saturday 6/20 there are many reasons you should visit one of our local CA State Parks – it’s Father’s Day weekend, Summer Solstice, and CA State Parks Foundation is hosting SOS Weekend. They are asking that you go and enjoy a state park you bring along a sign that reads “Save Our State Parks!”, take a picture or video of your family holding the sign, and then send it to CA State Parks Foundation. They will compile them all and send them to Sacramento. Los Angeles State Historic Park and Pio Pico State Historic Park are both holding events in honor of SOS weekend. Check the foundation’s website for further details.

Also on Saturday the beautiful and historic Placerita Canyon is having an “Open House and Family Festival” in honor of the re-opening of their Nature Center from 10am-3pm. There will be animal presentations, panning for “fools gold”, food, drinks, and activities.*

Sunday 6/21 is Father’s Day and I am sad to say that none of the parks or museums that hosted a Mother’s Day event in May are hosting an event in honor of the patriarch. So, I have some suggestions for ways you can honor those hard-working, loving, giving men we call Dad (or Papa, Daddy, Father, etc).

1. Take him to a State Park and have a picnic. (Don’t forget your SOS signs!)

2. Ride your bicycles along the L.A. River.*

3. Wake up early and go bird watching at Ballona Wetlands or Malibu Lagoon SB.*

4. Spend the day in Griffith Park – you can play a round of golf or tennis, visit the zoo, observatory, Travel Town or Autry museum, ride on the merry-go-round, a pony, or the miniature train, or just throw a frisbee and have a barbeque.*

5. Hike in the Angeles National Forest above La Canada Flintridge and have lunch at Newcomb’s Ranch.*

Week of Monday 6/22 through Friday 6/26

Suggestion for your week:

Headwaters Corner is beginning their first session of “Nature Discovery Camp” for children ages 8-12 from 6/22 – 6/25 9am-3pm. This week’s topics will be stream ecology, reptiles and amphibians, Native American culture, and include a Malibu Lagoon field trip. Reservations are required and there is a nominal fee per child. Contact Susan Haugland at 818-591-1707 ext.181 for information and reservations. (Their next session will be 7/20 – 7/24.)

Weekend

Saturday 6/27 enjoy a beautiful docent-led “Family Nature Walk” through the magical Eaton Canyon from 9-11am.*

Sunday 6/28 the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden’s “Kid’s Adventure Garden has plenty of fun-filled activity to keep your energetic and curious child happy from 11am-3pm.*

Or you can follow our feathered friends with “Birdwatching for Young Children” at Malibu Lagoon SB from 10-11am. They provide binoculars!

Week of Monday 6/29  through Friday 7/3

Suggestion for your week:

Deb’s Park and Audubon Center is offering week-long nature-themed camp sessions for children ages 6 – 10, from 9am-4pm Monday through Friday. Cost is $200 per first child and $150 any additional children. There are also sessions on 7/6 – 7/10, 7/27 – 7/31 and for children ages 9 – 12 from 7/13 – 7/17. Check the website for further details.

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner