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PROGRAMS
Until a restoration plan is in place, we are currently involved in the following interim activities:
LEARNING LAB
We are in the process of creating a Learning Lab, which will provide a "miniature" wetland, along with surrounding habitat, for research and study. We will be working with members of the Foundation’s Science Advisory Board, as well as student representatives from local universities, to determine the most valuable areas needed for further eco-system experimentation and exploration.
LA BALLONA BY-PATH ALLIANCE
The Ballona Wetlands Foundation was instrumental in organizing La Ballona By-Path Alliance, an effort to create a 3/4 mile pedestrian path and observation deck along the Ballona Creek berm, adjacent to the Ballona Wetlands. This would be the last link in the plan that will eventually connect all the walking and bike paths in urban Los Angeles to the beach. Our partners on this project are Environment Now, The National Audubon Society, Ballona Renaissance Project, and Friends of Ballona Wetlands. The County Dept. of Public Works will be our agency partner on this project.
ANNUAL SCIENCE SYMPOSIUM
Every year we host a two-day Science Symposium, "Restoring an Urban Coastal Wetland." The Foundation and its Science Advisory Board look forward to continuing our efforts to present an open forum for the exchange of ideas relating to the Ballona Wetlands specifically, as well as eco-systems and habitat issues in general. We are committed to bringing all the various factions to the table for exploring the best possible solutions.
BALLONA FEST
Every fall the Foundation hosts Ballona Fest, a fun filled day for the whole family. Along with wonderful food booths, and music all day, attendees have the opportunity to view more than 30 environmental exhibits. In November, Ballona Fest 2000 was a huge success with over 1600 people attending. Over 300 people took tours of the wetlands, guided by Audubon docents. We are extremely proud of this community event. The public walks away with a much greater understanding of the significance of the Ballona Wetlands.
BALLONA CREEK GATE
Subject to agency approvals, we will be installing a gate along the Ballona Creek berm to enable tours to directly access the overlook from the trail without having to leave the property.
DUNES TRAIL AND GATE
Subject to agency approvals, we will be improving the trails along the dunes, as well as installing the permanent fence and gate. We are in partnership with the adjacent homeowners to enhance a public access trail leading from Ave. 63, along the dunes, to Ballona Creek.
BALLONA WETLANDS INTERPRETIVE CENTER
The Foundation is working in partnership with members of the Gabrielino/Tongva nation and Friends of Ballona Wetlands to design and build a Cultural Interpretive Center, on land donated by Playa Vista. In a museum-like atmosphere, the Gabrielinos rich cultural history will be honored alongside exhibits depicting the biological significance of the Ballona Wetlands. This will be the hub for administration offices as well as serve as the center for educational outreach.
PICKLEWEED PRESS
We publish our newsletter, The Pickleweed Press, twice a year, as part of our community outreach program. Along with an editorial, each issue highlights a wetlands hero, flora and fauna, upcoming events, photos, poetry, and a guest writer.
