Celebration Of Ernest E. Debs Park's Biodiversity Planned

HIGHLAND PARK, CA – The National Parks Service will be hosting three events for National Trails Day on June 2 in Los Angeles County, including one in Highland Park. Thousands of people gather nationwide each year to work on protecting and maintaining public trails for the annual event held on the first Saturday of June, according to a Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA) press release.

The 500 miles of trails in the recreation area are the main attraction for most of the SMMNRA visitors, according to park ranger Ryan Stead.

“We’re looking forward to working together with the public to improve our trail system on National Trails Day," Stead said.

Details for the three events are below:

• Los Angeles: At Ernest E. Debs Park, visitors will learn about the rich biodiversity that lives within the park and how to help care for it. Volunteers will weed, water and mulch recently planted native plants and help create a thriving bird friendly community. Please park along Griffin Avenue (not the upper parking lot) and walk up to the visitor center – the event goes from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Address: Audubon Center at Ernest E. Debs Regional Park, 4700 Griffin Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90031
• Malibu: One of the most threatening weeds in the Santa Monica Mountains is carnation spurge (Euphorbia terracina), which not only pushes out native plants, but are toxic to animals and humans. Controlling weeds help keep the trails beautiful, and rangers are currently attacking the problem at Zuma Canyon. Meet at the Bonsall Drive parking lot – the event goes from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Address: Zuma Canyon, end of Bonsall Drive, Malibu, CA 90265
• Calabasas: Rangers will lead volunteer crews in maintaining the roads and trails at Malibu Creek State Park. Activities will include installing water diversions, removing vegetation, and bridge repair. This event is supported by California State Parks, the Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council, and the Santa Monica Mountains Task Force of the Sierra Club. Meet at the main parking lot – the event goes from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Address: Malibu Creek State Park, Las Virgenes Rd and Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA, 91302

Volunteers should dress in layers, the press release said. A reusable water bottle, protective footwear, pants, sunscreen are recommended. Long sleeves are suggested. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. Participants must be at least eight years old and minors must be accompanied by an adult. RVSPs are appreciated, but not required. Email ryan_stead@nps.gov or call 805-418-3176.

Image via Shutterstock