The Huntington Beach Wetlands Conservancy (HBWC), an organization founded in 1985, cares deeply about the coastal wetlands surrounding the suburbs of Huntington Beach (HB). The HBWC began as a grassroots movement powered by concerned citizens and slowly evolved into a highly respected organization that has successfully managed the restoration of over 120 acres of wetlands into active ecosystems. Because of this, they easily support an astounding amount of varying wildlife and plant species which help keep our environment flourishing and beautiful.
Not only are the wetlands one of the most valuable ecosystems in terms of their natural flood control functions, water quality improvement and the substantial habitat they provide for several species, but the wetlands are also quite a beautiful space to explore. Within these wetlands of HB, different species of unique plants exist that adapt well to saline conditions. These plants play an important role in maintaining soil stabilization and filtration of pollutants. As a result, the wildlife and plants help the
coastal environment stay clean and healthy.
Our wetlands also support many animal species, most being birds that depend on the wetlands for feeding, nesting and breeding. Small mammals, amphibians, and fish that live in this habitat heavily rely on their surroundings as well. Thus, we must appreciate the wetlands to their full extent and help them remain a refuge for these species of life. This explains why such a large community of volunteers help support the foundation. Although the wetlands are considered an ecological jewel of Southern California, they are also a testament to how community-led conservation is.
The organization is led by a board of directors composed of local leaders such as John Villa, the executive director, and Sabina Timothy, the assistant executive director. Their commitment and experience has been critical to HBWC’s mission, with their ability to use resources and strategies that have kept the conservancy working for almost four decades. The Board of Directors ensure they have coordination with local governments, schools and other organizations to raise awareness and involve active participation in their conservation programs.
Owen Cunningham, an twelfth grade environmental literature student at Huntington Beach High School (HBHS) said, “I believe the wetlands are important because they…preserve animals and plants and overall just help the environment. I would definitely consider volunteering [with HBWC] since I need to have some service hours due anyways and it seems like a good cause.”
Shane Braverman, a tenth grade student at HBHS said, “I think my favorite part of the wetlands would be the wildlife especially the birds, they’re really cool to see. In my opinion, it’s important to Huntington Beach because the wetlands are good for the environment and it’s just really cool to pass by on PCH.”
Community involvement has always been one of the most important aspects of the HBWC approach. The Conservancy offers many different ways for people to make a difference. From direct, hands-on volunteering to providing financial support. Regularly scheduled volunteer days allow for participation in habitat restoration, picking up litter, landscaping with native plants and direct contributions to wetland health. They do this through workshops and guided tours that educate the citizens and visitors of Huntington Beach about our wetland ecosystems and current challenges. Donations and memberships are, therefore, necessary for the projects of HBWC to finance its programs on restoration and outreach, including new conservation initiatives.
The HBWC, the Board of Directors and the community make the Huntington Beach wetlands a protected place for the natural heritage of Southern California. All in all, the HBWC serves as a prime example of what can be accomplished when individuals join efforts to protect their local environment, especially in this day and age where there is so much destruction towards the environment as a whole.
