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Wildfire Prevention and Collaboration on Catalina Island

News

Jan 28, 2025

At times, climate change often feels distant, disconnected even, from our daily lives. But on Catalina Island and across California, its effects are vividly apparent with a whiplash effect of record rains one season and searing heat the next.

Following two years of wet winters, we are now experiencing a season with few major rain events. The growth from the previous years has fueled the devastating Palisades and Eaton Fires. The loss of lives, homes, wildlife and cherished natural spaces weighs heavily on our shared sense of community.

Though no amount of planning could fully withstand a firestorm driven by hurricane-force winds, the Catalina Island Conservancy continues to prepare for wildfire through strategic collaboration. As the steward of 88% of the Island’s roughly 48,000 acres, we partner with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Avalon City Fire, elected officials, camp and cove lessees, and Southern California Edison to implement proactive measures. Here are just some of the efforts we do year-round:

  • Guardians of the Interior: Our rangers are on the front lines, reporting any signs of fire to Los Angeles County authorities.
  • Firefighter Training: Eleven Conservancy staff, including rangers, are trained as wildland firefighters, equipped with protective gear to assist Los Angeles County Fire in case of an emergency.
  • Critical Resources: We lend support to the county with access to backhoes, bulldozers, water supply tanks and water trucks to support fire crews if needed.
  • Brush Clearance: In 2024, over 700 acres of brush were cleared from the Island interior.
  • Roads That Protect: Last year, we improved more than 350 miles of roads, which serve as firebreaks and ensure access for firefighting crews.
  • Defensible Spaces: Campgrounds and coves on Conservancy-leased land meet county requirements for cleared buffer zones to reduce wildfire risk.
  • Strategic Partnerships: For over a decade, we’ve collaborated with the Conservation Corps of Long Beach to enhance fire mitigation, erosion control, trail maintenance and habitat restoration.
  • Invasive Species Removal: More than 150 acres of flammable invasive plants were treated.
  • Public Messaging: Community outreach with visitors and members will soon emphasize fire risk awareness and safety for the Island’s interior.
  • Airport Runway Maintenance: The Conservancy ensures the local airport runway remains accessible for emergency operations.

While these efforts serve as short-term tactics to reduce the threat of wildfires on Catalina Island, science clearly tells us that the best way to mitigate such threats long-term is by restoring the island’s ecosystem to naturally protect itself. In 2024, the Conservancy proudly launched the Catalina Island Restoration Project which focuses on habitat restoration, plant regeneration and species management. By restoring native vegetation and removing invasive species, the Island will be better able to combat climate change and reduce wildfire risks on its own, helping to ensure the safety of the unique plants, rare animals and the residents that call Catalina Island home.

Thank you for your commitment to protecting our environment and community.

Best Regards,

Whitney Latorre
President and CEO
Catalina Island Conservancy