Volunteering at the Ballona Wetlands
posted by Jaclyn Jimemenz
Invasive plants, dirt and the hot sun- Oh my! Members of FLOC LA braved the elements for a good cause on Saturday, August 27th. It was a gorgeous morning in Playa Vista as we gathered at the Ballona Wetlands to learn more about the environment and help restore this coastal ecosystem. A member of the friends of the Ballona Wetlands was there to greet us and give us a little background on the history and importance that we were about to retore. We were then provided with some gardening gloves, a few wheel barrows and pieces of burlap to help with our project for the day. The goal for the day was to uproot invasive plants, including ice plants, which are harmful to this habitat. There was no need for the gym or tanning after this volunteering event. We got our work pulling nonnative plants out of the ground for hours and then carrying the huge bundles to be disposed. It was a great opportunity to learn a little bit about the nature in our backyard and do our party to help out. We were also able to meet other friends from the neighborhood who visit the wetlands on a regular basis. It was a great success: habitat restoration all while having a great time!
