Catalina Island Conservancy

Wildfire threats on Catalina Island are compounded by invasive species and lessons learned from past fires. Through strategic partnerships and ongoing efforts, we’re reducing risks and restoring native habitats to build a fire-resilient island. Swipe through to understand the challenges ahead. #NaturePreservation #ConservationMatters #CatalinaIsland #WildlifeProtection #WildfirePrevention

Invasive Plants: 0 | Catalina: 1. This week, our conservation team went head-to-head with the leaders of the invasive plant club, and let's just say, they lost. Here’s what went down on Catalina: 📍 Upper Cottonwood Canyon Flax-leaf broom (Genista linifolia) tried to throw a welcome back party. We RSVP’d “no” and pulled 993 plants off the guest list. Acres surveyed: 3.2 📍 Parson’s Drainage Picture us deep in the wild, hunting down plant invaders like detectives in a botanical crime drama. The suspects? - 1 Slenderleaf Iceplant (Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum) - 3 Spear Thistle (Cirsium vulgare) - 4 Petite-licorice (Plecostachys serpyllifolia) Acres surveyed: 5. 📍 Nolava Canyon Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) and flax-leaf broom thought they could stay off our radar. Spoiler: they didn’t. We cleared one pampas grass and six flax-leaf broom. Acres surveyed: 6. Swipe through to see: 1️⃣ Our defeat of the towering pampas grass. 2️⃣ Mature flax-leaf broom having its final stand. 3️⃣ A sneak peek of our survey deep in Parson’s drainage. Teamwork makes the conservation dream work. Saving Catalina’s native ecosystems, one invasive plant at a time. Who’s next on our hit list? #catalinaisland #invasiveplants #invasivespecies #conservationeducation #conservationmatters #nonprofitwork

Wildfire threats on Catalina Island are compounded by invasive species and lessons learned from past fires. Through strategic partnerships and ongoing efforts, we’re reducing risks and restoring native habitats to build a fire-resilient island. Swipe through to understand the challenges ahead. #WildfirePrevention #EnvironmentalConservation #ConservationMatters #CatalinaIsland

Membership perks so good, you’ll feel like you’re cheating the system (you’re not, we promise). ✔️ 50% off campgrounds at Black Jack, Little Harbor and Parsons Landing—perfect for the ‘I can totally sleep in a tent’ crowd. ✔️ Unlimited garden vibes at The Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden (The garden called—it’s ready for its close-up.). ✔️ Bike permits because yes, you do need a pass to enjoy the twists and turns of the Island’s 40 miles of trails. ✔️ Discounts on Eco Tours—because your idea of ‘quality time’ is a scenic ride through Middle Ranch followed by a cold one at the Airport. Join today. Because roughing it feels easier when your wallet doesn’t take the hit 🏕️ https://lnkd.in/gyg4tNsv

While no amount of planning can fully withstand hurricane-force firestorms like the Palisades and Eaton Fires, the Catalina Island Conservancy continues to prepare for wildfires through strategic collaboration.     Swipe through to see how our partnerships with L.A. County Fire and others are safeguarding Catalina Island.  #catalinaisland #firesafety #conservation #lafires

Dr. King’s dream was powered by action and fueled by hope. ‘What are you doing for others?’ Today, we honor his vision by reflecting on ways we can uplift our communities, big or small. Let’s lead with kindness, curiosity and purpose—together. Photo by Jimmy Woo https://lnkd.in/gNgGzjQE #CatalinaConservancy #MLKDay #martinlutherkingjr

Today, as we resume normal operations in Catalina Island’s interior after the severe wind and fire weather event, our thoughts are with everyone on the mainland impacted by the devastating fires of recent days.    We also extend our deepest gratitude to Catalina’s emergency personnel and Southern California Edison for their commitment to safety. From inspecting powerlines to closely monitoring the changing weather conditions, their dedication reflects the strong sense of responsibility that defines this island community.    The fires in Pacific Palisades, Pasadena and other parts of Southern California are a stark reminder of the risks we face. As stewards of 88% of Catalina Island, we remain committed to reducing wildfire threats through initiatives such as the Catalina Island Restoration Project, which includes removing invasive species for a more fire-resilient island.     Preparedness is a key part of these efforts. The City of Avalon encourages residents and visitors to stay informed. For the latest updates on emergency alerts, weather warnings, utility outages and other news in Avalon, please visit  the City of Avalon website, cityofavalon.com and sign up for text or email updates. You can also text “AVALON” to 38276.    Together, we can ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who calls this island home or visits its shores. Thank you for your continued support, and please stay safe.    Whitney Latorre  CEO and President  Catalina Island Conservancy #LAFires #LosAngelesFires #Wildfire #CaliforniaWildfires #FireSafety #DisasterResponse #EmergencyManagement #CommunitySupport

On this National Day of Mourning, we reflect on the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of President Jimmy Carter. His leadership left a lasting legacy in California and beyond.    President Carter’s commitment to protecting the environment mirrors the values of the Catalina Island Conservancy. In 1978, President Carter made a profound impact on our state by signing legislation that expanded Redwood National Park by 48,000 acres. This monumental addition protected ancient redwoods and vital watersheds, safeguarding them for future generations.    Carter’s dedication to conservation extended far beyond the redwoods. From championing renewable energy to advancing groundbreaking environmental policies, his thoughtful stewardship continues to inform and inspire amid the growing climate crisis.    As we honor his memory, we are inspired to carry forward his legacy by protecting unique places like Catalina Island. Through initiatives such as the Catalina Island Restoration Project, we will do what it takes to maintain one of the most important island ecosystems on Earth.     Thank you, President Carter, for your vision, courage and lasting contributions to our natural world.    Whitney Latorre  CEO and President  Catalina Island Conservancy      📷President Jimmy Carter, 1994. (Photo courtesy of the Carter Center) 

Pantone’s color of the year might be mocha mousse, but we've got manzanita. The gnarled trunk of the Catalina manzanita (Arctostaphylos catalinae) is a richer, better brown—if you ask us. Found nowhere else on earth, the Catalina manzanita develops twisting branches over time, giving it a sculptural appearance. This striking plant shines year-round but especially in summer, when its reddish-brown bark peels in thin sheets to reveal a fresh, smooth layer beneath. The bark is often cool to the touch and is thought to match the soil temperature below. It’s also a pollinator paradise, with small, urn-shaped flowers that attract bees, hummingbirds and other pollinators. If you’re planning a nature-inspired painting project, we’ve matched its bark to Pantone 483 C. Now grab a brush and get to work! #NaturePhotography #Conservation #Sustainability #Biodiversity #Ecology #EnvironmentalAwareness #PantoneColorOfTheYear #DesignInspiration #ColorTrends #ArtAndNature #BotanicalArt #NaturalBeauty #FloraAndFauna #EndemicSpecies #IslandConservation Pantone

This year has been an incredible journey for Catalina Island Conservancy as we worked together to preserve and protect the island’s natural resources. Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve achieved in 2024: Biodiversity and Education: - 38 sound devices were deployed to monitor songbirds and support biodiversity research. - Certified 418 new naturalists, empowering them to share their knowledge and passion for nature. - Engaged over 5,000 students and lifelong learners through educational programs. Wildlife Conservation: - Deployed 884 traps to monitor and vaccinate Catalina Island foxes, ensuring the health and safety of this iconic species. - Community Engagement and Growth - Hosted 21,000 visitors through Wildlands Express and Eco Tours, a 36% increase. - Raised $10.3 million in philanthropic contributions, surpassing our projections. - Grew our membership to 5,204, reflecting a 25% increase in community support. Wildfire Prevention and Habitat Protection: - Cleared over 700 acres of brush to reduce wildfire risks. - Treated 150 acres of flammable invasive plants. - Contributed 2,900 volunteer hours, demonstrating the community’s commitment to our mission. - Trained 11 staff members in wildland firefighting in collaboration with the LA County Fire Department. - 10 miles of trails widened and improved. None of this would be possible without our dedicated supporters, volunteers and partners. Help us preserve this California treasure and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Make your gift today by visiting https://lnkd.in/e3r__iKd Let’s keep the momentum going into 2025! #Conservation #Biodiversity #CatalinaIsland #WildlifeProtection #Sustainability #CommunityImpact