Southern Sierran
Tour highlights the majestic, endangered Santa Clara River

by Lynne Plambeck

Have you heard about the Santa Clara River, L.A.’s last free-flowing, unchannelized river? How about the huge 21,000 unit Newhall Ranch project that threatens to change the river forever? Do you want to see why American Rivers listed the Santa Clara as one of the most endangered rivers in the nation in April of this year?

Come see for yourself what we stand to lose. Join us Sept. 17 from noon to 4pm for a tour of the western reaches of this beautiful river.

The Santa Clara’s headwaters spring from the San Gabriel mountains, flow through 116 miles of rapidly developing areas in Santa Clarita and farmland in Ventura County, finally emptying into the Pacific Ocean in Ventura.

You’ll see the river as it passes through the Santa Clarita area, learn where endangered amphibians and fish live, and see the site of the Newhall Ranch project. We will pass through magnificent farmland, explore Piru Creek (a tributary), and stop at Cumulos Ranch, one of the oldest farms on the river, established in the 1870s. You will see the effects of the heavy spring storms on this waterway and why it is critical that we not impede the river’s course.

At each location, we will discuss the conservation issues affecting this beautiful river. How do we protect endangered species from encroaching development and urban runoff? How can we protect the agricultural economy of Ventura County, and what are the agricultural impacts on the river? Where does the water come from and how will we have enough for both humans and nature in the future?

Tour costs $8 per person; fee includes lunch. To make a reservation, contact contact Annie Schulzinger 213-387-4287 x208 or sierraclubannie@yahoo.com.

The Santa Clara River is one of only two remaining natural river systems in Southern California. The river itself is severely endangered, and so are several of the the river’s natural residents, including 14 bird species and six plant species.

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