Friends of Ballona Wetlands facts for kids
The Friends of Ballona Wetlands (FBW) is a group in California that works to protect nature. It started in 1978. Friends, scientists, and neighbors created it. They saw how important the Ballona Wetlands were. These wetlands are the last natural tidal area in Los Angeles County.
The group works to keep the wetlands safe and healthy. They also teach people about why wetlands matter. FBW partners with other important groups. These include the California Coastal Conservancy and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). They also work with Loyola Marymount University (LMU) and Heal The Bay.
In 2003, the CDFW bought the Ballona Wetlands. This made the wetlands public land. It also made it easier for people to visit and learn about them.
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Saving the Ballona Wetlands
The Friends of Ballona Wetlands group was started in 1978. Ruth Lansford was their first president. At that time, a company called Summa Corporation owned the wetlands. This company wanted to build many new buildings there.
The Ballona Wetlands used to be much bigger. Over 900 acres were lost in the 1960s. This happened when Marina del Rey was built. The Friends group did not want more of the wetlands to be destroyed.
Protecting the Land
The Friends of Ballona Wetlands took legal action. They filed a lawsuit to stop the building plans. This was a long fight, lasting many years. But their hard work paid off.
In 2005, the Ballona Wetlands became a California State Ecological Reserve. This means the land is now protected by the state. It cannot be built on. This was a big win for the wetlands and for nature.
What Friends of Ballona Wetlands Does
The Friends of Ballona Wetlands group does many things to protect the wetlands. They work to make sure the wetlands stay safe and healthy for plants and animals.
Speaking Up for Nature
The FBW group often speaks at government meetings. They share their ideas about how to protect the wetlands. They also give their thoughts on projects that could help restore the wetlands. This means making the wetlands even healthier.
Science and Education
The Friends group takes part in science meetings. They learn about new research on wetlands. They also support the Ballona Discovery Park. This park is near Loyola Marymount University. It helps people learn about the land's history, including a Native American cemetery.
In the past, FBW worked with an artist named Marina DeBris. She created art to teach people about pollution. This helped show how trash can harm our environment. The group also worked with Otis College of Art and Design. Students and teachers from the college helped with community projects, including some for the wetlands.
