Colorado Lagoon Happenings

Working in the Wetlands!!

2011-02-02T17:03:00.000-08:00

Somethings Creative, Tidal Influence and the Pike Restaurant are teaming up to clebrate the wetlands on February 25th. The 3rd Annual Wetlands Day Celebration will be held at the Pike Gallery near 4th st and Hermosa in Long Beach, California. This is a nature inspired art show to share with our community the Work being done in the local Wetlands. We want you there to share in the celebration.

For more information, email: info@tidalinfluence.com

Momentum and Passion

2010-11-17T15:45:00.000-08:00

Passion is what drives us and Momentum is what keeps us driving. Any grass roots effort needs a strong and consistent dose of both of these ingredients. When one is lost, the other usually suffers as a result. And there are so many hurdles that can derail your Passion and Momentum.

After being affiliated and/or involved with numerous non-profit environmental groups I have seen many organizations that could not piece together the puzzle to truly achieve their missions in a cooperative and effective manner. Often ONE individual bears the burden, or personality flaws & irreconcilable differences in visions form rifts between group members. Power struggles are far too common as well...and to be honest...all of this is understandable because this stuff is HARD!!

Its hard to be a part of something that is bigger than you. Something that doesn't necessarily need you in order to exist. Something that one day you will leave behind for others to lead. Something that doesn't pay your bills. Something that you care dearly about, but ultimately do not have control over. This is how large scale conservation efforts generally are for 'Friends' organizations.

I personally have parted ways with groups with amazing missions, that I just could no longer work with for one reason or another (Many of my colleagues can sympathize)...and then it becomes hard to find another group with an open door and a worthy mission to get involved with.

However, this was not the case for me in 2006 with Friends of Colorado Lagoon. Open door policy is an understatement...it was more like an open flood gate. Without hesitation they invited me - an unproven,naive, but excited 25 year old salt marsh ecologist - to be a part of their family. Nobody felt threatened by my credentials or youthfulness...they were all just sooo jazzed to have someone NEW interested in their project. This invitation for involvement changed the trajectory of my life dramatically and I think it also led to a Renaissance for FOCL because once I realized the gate was open, I flooded their board and volunteer roster with my friends and colleagues and students. This change in personnel was welcomed and that welcoming attitude has led to the success FOCL is experiencing today.

Colorado Lagoon is realizing its potential to be restored into a full functioning, multiple-use facility for wildlife and recreation...all because of a well organized community group that has tenacity, a willingness to learn, and a bunch of supporters who make it their goal to be well educated about the ins-and-outs of a complicated Conservation effort.

Last night at City Council I saw the Passion FOCL still has and I also saw the Momentum build like a tidal wave when the votes for an open channel were unanimously supportive. What comes next in order to implement this project is yet to be seen, but I know that FOCL will be involved every step of the way...even if I one day get distracted by life and lose involvement...FOCL will still be there as Champions of Colorado Lagoon.

When is the flock capable without the Shepard?
When there is NO Shepard and the Flock is full of leaders that know where to climb in order to find greener pastures.

Congratulations to Friends of Colorado Lagoon for being a Flock Of Passionate Leaders with the Momentum to create a Culture of Conservation!

August 11th Public Meeting on the Phase 2 (Open Channel)

2010-08-06T13:46:00.000-07:00

We need butts in the seats on August 11th at 7pm at the Bruin's Den at Little Rec to support the Colorado Lagoon's Phase 2 Restoration Design for a Tidal Creek to fully restore the connection to Alamitos Bay. The Design Alternative that creates an awesome Tidal Creek is Alternative 4A. We want 4A!Go to our website (coloradolagoon.org) and check our press release and our restoration page (coloradolagoon.org/focl/restoration.html) for more details. And you can always email me (Taylor@coloradolagoon.org) for more info. Thanks everyone, hope to see you there!

Post Acoustic Tidal Artwalk

2010-07-27T21:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone!

Wow, Acoustic Tidal Artwalk was a wonderful event and great success! Many thanks to all our volunteers who made it possible. We had a strong group of dedicated folks who put in a lot of creative energy, time and love into making ATA 2010 a special weekend at the Colorado Lagoon.

Here's some numbers for 2010:

Artist- 7

Bands- 10

Volunteers- 17

2 Nights- 6-10pm

Attendance- 500+-

Sponsoring Partners- 7

Volunteered Hours- 300+

Gallons of Hot Chocolate/Coffee/Tea served- 25

Check out the Photos Below. Watch the progression of the Set up, the event, beautiful skies, art, bands and lots of folks enjoying the Lagoon!

Set up.....

Lots of signs!

Lots of hole digging...

We can do it!!!

The Event...

The Tea Room- Sponsored by Viento Y Agua. Haley's beautiful idea under the tree!

The sky put on quite the show!

Margie Darrow spent Friday night painting for us next to the stage. Thanks Margie

Helpers...

A little Lagoon History

The evening glow

Taylor Parker having fun as always

Studio 1021- a local art studio who specialize in kid & adult art lessons.

The Tails!

Master Emcee- Eric Zahn

It was an evening for the family

Bike Valet

The tide came up and created the Tidal Artwalk- People kicked off their shoes and waded through the tide

Timothy Dunham - Nature in Windows

Danny Zapalac

Shane Bowman

Whitney Graves

Dave Pirazzi

If you are interested in getting involved next year get in contact with our Education deptartment at ColoradoLagoon.Org or go to SomeThingsCreative.com

Thanks for another great year!

~Timothy

Acoustic Tidal Artwalk 2010!!!

2010-06-28T09:41:00.001-07:00

Greetings!!

Friends of Colorado Lagoon in cooperation with Some Things Creative and Tidal Influence are proud to present:

Grab the kids, tell your neighbors and friends and come on down to South Beach of the Colorado Lagoon for the Coolest event of the summer. Be sure to bring a blanket, an appetite and be ready for some Fun!

July 9th & 10th, 6-10pm. Enter event from Colorado & Nieto. Bike Valet available

Weekly Bird Counts

2010-06-10T11:26:00.000-07:00

Incredibly there is still some wildlife down at the lagoon right now despite the large-scale construction efforts that are almost completely encircling this little wetlands right now. One of our dedicated volunteers and spring 2010 innovatorship award winners Sarah Thomas has been leading the way in developing a method for scientifically monitoring the bird species at the Lagoon. We have been recording the species abundance, species behaviors, and species habitat use for the past 3 Monday mornings and plan to continue this effort as we develop a protocal for citizen-based bird monitoring at Colorado Lagoon. Here are the abundance numbers for those counts:

May 24th

Species Name		Quantity



1	Ring-billed Gull	1
2	Killdeer	1
3	Western Blue Bird	2
4	Snowy Egret	2
5	Forster's Turn	1
6	American Crow	2
7	Lesser Scaup	1
8	Cassin's Kingbird	1
9	Black Phoebe	2
10	Barn Swallow	2
11	Western Gull	1
12	House Finch	5
13	Mallard hybrid	4
14	Pied-billed Grebe	1
15	Spotted Sandpiper	1
16	American Coot	1

May 31st

Species Name		Quantity



1	Forster's Turn	2
2	Snowy Egret	6
3	American Crow	8
4	Western Gull	2
5	Great Blue Heron	1
6	Western Blue Bird	1
7	Double Crested Cormorant	1
8	House Finch	2
9	Cliff Swallow	5
10	Pied-Billed Grebe	1
11	American Coot	1
12	Lesser Scaup	1
13	Cassin's Kingbird	1
14	Black Phoebe	3
15	Mourning Dove	2
16	Rock Pigeon	3
17	Mallard Hybrid	5

June 7th

Species Name		Quantity



1	Double Crested Cormorant	2
2	Barn Swallow	1
3	Lesser Scaup	1
4	House Finch	8
5	Black Phoebe	1
6	Hummingbird spp.	3
7	American Coot	1
8	Snowy Egret	2
9	Hybrid Mallard	5
10	Great Blue Heron	1

Our full datasheets will soon be available on coloradolagoon.org. This bird monitoring program is all part of FOCL's strides to develop a comprehensive environmental monitoring program in partnership with CSU Long Beach. The results will help quantify the success of this multi-million dollar restoration project and allow for the project to be adaptively managed...making a better Lagoon for all creatures! If you want to get involved just contact us at education@coloradolagoon.org

I also want to express how much we miss Rich Sonnenberg down at the Lagoon. His passion and dedication to birding is what inspires us to continue studying the avian populations at Colorado Lagoon, which he has done for many years. His guidance is missed and we look forward to him returning back to the Lagoon's perimeters very soon.

Beach Bummer Again...

2010-05-28T22:28:00.000-07:00

This week’s release of Heal the Bay’s annual Beach Report Card shows modest improvements in Long Beach water quality, with one notable exception – Colorado Lagoon. The lagoon received straight Fs across the board. Rain or shine, winter or summer, year after year, the story is the same.

Heal the Bay gathers water quality data from 450 locations throughout California and, once again, Colorado Lagoon features prominently in their Beach Bummer top ten list, this year moving from 4th to 6th place. This dubious distinction reflects the lagoon’s dismal water quality during summer dry weather months, when swimming and other recreational uses are at their peak. This news comes on the eve of the Memorial Day holiday weekend, traditionally seen as the start of our summer recreation season. This weekend hundreds of Long Beach children will be swimming in Colorado Lagoon, a place their parents consider safe because of the gentle sloping beach and lack of waves.

Water quality in Colorado Lagoon remains a serious health and safety issue. Despite significant progress towards cleaning up the lagoon, bacteria and algae blooms continue because the lagoon has been isolated from the rest of the bay, and the Pacific Ocean, by an ill-conceived underground culvert. This culvert restricts the tidal circulation that the lagoon needs to be clean and healthy. Tidal circulation is the life blood of an estuary like Colorado Lagoon. Restricting this life blood, while pouring more and more urban runoff each year into the lagoon has gotten us where we are today. A good analogy is asking an athlete to run in a race with the blood circulation to their legs restricted. It is a recipe for disaster.

The storm drain work being done around the lagoon this year will reduce the amount of trash and urban runoff entering the lagoon during the dry season, and this is an important step forward. But unless full tidal circulation is restored, the lagoon will continue to have bacteria and algae problems each year. The existing underground culvert will be cleaned this summer, at a cost to the city of more than $400k (paid for through a grant secured by the city and FOCL). This will lead to marginally better tidal circulation, but in a relatively short period of time the culvert will again clog with silt and marine growth. This is not cost effective and certainly not a long term solution.

The only long term solution to this health issue, and the one recommended by the EIR, is restoring the original tidal creek that used to connect the lagoon to Alamitos bay. This original connection was filled in back in the 60s to make way for a “cross town freeway” which thankfully never happened. The city, Port of LB, along with resource agencies such as National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and US Fish and Wildlife have been studying options to restore circulation to the lagoon, and the results will be released by the city in a few weeks. This data, along with public input, will help the city decide on the best way forward for restoring full circulation, also know as Phase II of the lagoon restoration.

We look forward to hearing your input on this important health and safety issue. If we make the right decisions now, Colorado Lagoon will no longer be known as one the 10 most polluted beaches in California, but instead as a safe and clean recreational asset that the citizens of Long Beach can be proud of.

Dave Pirazzi, Friends of Colorado Lagoon

PS. Thanks to Lenny Arkinstall for the use of his photos, and more importantly for his and LCWS work to remove the rafts of algae. Most of the algae seen in these photos has been removed as I post this.

Champions and Cub Scouts

2010-05-09T00:10:00.000-07:00

Today was an incredible day at the Colorado Lagoon and I would like to point out the inspiring people that helped make it so. With all of the wonderful improvements to the storm-water infrastructure occurring right now it has been difficult to host FOCL’s education activities. While we have limited our education program a bit, it is quite another task to keep our regular volunteers away from the current community-based restoration of planting plants and non-native removal. Every volunteer is a great volunteer and at each event we host it is guaranteed at least one of our veteran restoration volunteers, FOCL’s Champions, will be pitching mulch and creating habitat along the shores of the Lagoon. These people are the backbone of our community-based efforts. What makes these Champions so special? Our volunteers are innovative, intelligent, and dedicated people mostly in their mid-twenties(!), either in college or a few years outside of graduation, giving back to their community while exploring the natural world and expressing themselves with utmost compassion. They are impressive people providing the greatest proof of that care: their action. FOCL’s Champions are regular people who have found something special in a little wetland and each of them has their own reason for caring. But at the Lagoon what they share is a community built around mutual appreciation and love of the natural world that, in the last 18 months, is over 2200 volunteers strong. Today a handful of those Champions decided that taking a couple hours to wander about the Lagoon exploring birds and plants before sweating a little to nurture those same creatures was valuable to them. It is an inspiring act when those are the values chosen by people who have every opportunity to put their energies elsewhere. FOCL, the Colorado Lagoon and the surrounding Long Beach community are fortunate to have these committed Champions investing their time and energy and demonstrating what is valuable to them.

While the Champions were busily working on the habitat, a group – or rather, a pack— of cubs and tigers descended on the Lagoon. An intimidating number of these scouts were scouring the beaches of the Lagoon for trash trying to understand why litter is even there at all. When I met up with them each had a plastic grocery bag in one hand and a stick or rock or leaf or feather in the other. All tools necessary toward trash cleanups, for sure. This rowdy bunch met with the intention of cleaning the Lagoon and you can only imagine how excited they were to see the giant earthmovers that are currently stationed on the adjacent roads, on weekend break from the Lagoon restoration. We went on a brief nature walk to explore the colors and scents of the flowering habitat in full spring showiness and all were delighted to stand by a field of California Poppies while Forster Terns were diving in the Lagoon water, fishing for Topsmelt. We explored more and had a great time thinking about what it would be like to drive the back-hoe. And then this energetic pack met the Champions at work.

Introducing the group of scouts to the group of Champions was fun for me because, in the end, we’re all playing and we all have a purpose. The scouts came for trash and experienced the dynamic habitat while getting dirty and playing with their friends. The Champions did much of the same. The big construction equipment on-site right now is really wonderful because it is the evidence of at least 10 years of work trying to make this restoration happen. Equally inspiring and a concept that is joyously difficult to fathom is that there were two generations of people – 6 year olds and 26 year olds – that were at the Lagoon today that will now accept those earthmovers as fact, that see a hard-won restoration not as a hard-won restoration but as something that just is. These two inspiring groups of people who chose to give their Saturday to fixing the Lagoon in their own ways, now know that that’s the way the world is, a world where positive restorative activity occurs. That is very hopeful. And it is their respective evolving worldviews that is inspiring.

Taylor Parker
Education Director
Friends of Colorado Lagoon

Earth Day Planting

2010-04-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Friends of Colorado Lagoon. WE have completed our first successful planting season at Colorado Lagoon. WE have established new coastal habitat in the City of Long Beach. WE have reached a new level. WE are now the proud care takers of a 50,000 squarefoot piece of restored California coastline.
What an opportunity for a young restoration ecologist like myself to be involved with such a holistic and successful project. I have made so many new friends and colleagues. Since November 2008, people from all over the greater Long Beach area came to the Lagoon and sunk their heart and sole into 2 hours of restoration and education. Many people returned again and again, and got to watch the eastern Bank of Colorado Lagoon transform. People became my friends...friends to each other and friends of nature.
And WE all learned so much! From tree removal debates, to smoldering mulch piles, barking dogs and exodus from the WAMSEC. Through all of the challenges that come with any project, we always kept on learning. WE improved our techniques. WE accepted criticism and performed at higher levels. WE learned our native plant names. WE worked together.
I really want to thank everyone for helping me be a better restoration ecologist. Most of what I did for this project was based on my passion for nature, however a good percentage of what I did was for you, it was for people. I lead this project not only to install some of my favorite botanical species, but also to reconnect people with plants and natural living. To reconnect people with natives of California. And to connect people to their home...Long Beach, California, USA, Planet Earth. FOCL built something permanent. WE built pride in our community.
It will be so great to have conversations with all of the people that will be walking the FOCL Champions Trail along the east bank for years to come.

A Reflection of the Creative Arts program and Looking Forward

2010-04-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

In keeping with the oral/written tradition of the Colorado Lagoon I thought I would lend my hand in sharing the story of the Creative Arts program.

A few years ago no one would have thought the Colorado Lagoon would have its very own Creative Arts Department. At the time we did not know what a Creative Arts department meant or what roll it would play among our other programs. Through the use of art and music events, a web Blog and documenting the Lagoon from a unique perspective, the Creative Arts program strives to help bridge the gap between the Colorado Lagoon and the local community it serves.

The idea came out of a late night brainstorming session along with a passion for art, music and giving back to the community. As we huddled around a kitchen table, I talked with Taylor Parker and Eric Zahn from Tidal Influence who oversee the education and restoration programs respectively. I expressed my vision of bringing the arts to the Lagoon to help achieve our goals as a community organization. As a photographer I felt like the Lagoon should be documented and shared with everyone. Of course, Taylor and Eric were very supportive of the idea and told me to look at the Lagoon as a creative canvas. If I could dream and plan it, than we should do it!

And so it began...

The beginning of the Creative Arts program was marked with the launch of ColoradoLagoon.BlogSpot.com. This blog is dedicated to the Lagoon restoration, its habitants and all the great people who volunteer. It quickly became the go-to site for all things Lagoon. The community can see photos of volunteers restoring the East Bank or maybe a snapshot of Least Tern diving for food. The blog showcases photographs of our beautiful estuary taken with a unique perspective. Various volunteers have also lent their hand in writing an article or two. While the blog has continued to change over the last year it stills serves as a resource for the community.

In early 2009 the Lagoon’s education program was approached by a local restaurant owner. Aside from his successful restaurant he also owns a small gallery space in Long Beach. He believes in what we are doing for the Lagoon and opened the gallery doors to us; the space was ours to use. We had great success with our first International Wetlands Day Art show. We quickly realized the opportunity we had with the gallery as it helped pave the way for future shows and gave confidence to our Creative Arts program. To date, we are the only group the owner offers the gallery space to use, a testament to the great work we are doing for the Lagoon.

The Creative Arts Program was heading straight into our summer event, Acoustic Tidal Artwalk: A night of Art and Music in the sand. With the help from Taylor, Eric and dedicated volunteers, ATAW was the biggest public event any of us had produced and it came together beautifully. Visitors saw the work of five local photographers with pictures hung in the sand along the tide line of the Lagoon. The air was filled with musicians playing acoustic guitar, violins, bongo drums and singing. There was a hands-on education area, face painting for kids and we even had live ‘grafiti’ artist creating masterpieces on the spot. There was something for everyone, kids and adults alike.

The participation we saw from the community was unprecedented. Our goal was to reach the Lagoon’s immediate neighbors and draw folks in to let them know about the programs available at the Lagoon. Throughout the evening I met many of the 300+ visitors who attended, most were from the surrounding area and were so thankful we were taking action. I had a number of people tell me they had never seen an event like this done on the beach of the Lagoon. Needless to say, our efforts were working; the word was getting out and bridges between the community and the Lagoon were being built.

As we entered 2010 we saw the success of our 2nd Annual Wetlands Day Art Show: Our Urban Wetlands and Wildlands. It was the first time we complimented a Creative Arts event with a fundraising aspect. Over the two night show, we offered visitors an opportunity to support the local wetlands group of their choice and the response was wonderful. People truly believe in what we are doing in the community and the environment. This type of fundraising not only allows the Creative Art events to be more self sustained but continues to gives local artists and volunteers the opportunity to participate.

Now, in the midst of construction, we push on with the Colorado Lagoons summer event, 2nd Annual Acoustic Tidal Artwalk (ATAW). This is certainly an exciting time to be involved with Creative Arts as we are in the planning stages of this year’s event. We are working closely with the City of Long Beach to achieve our goals and hope to provide another large scale community event. Due to construction, the Lagoon’s South Beach will provide a new venue for its very own acoustic artwalk. This two night event, July 9th & 10th is not to be missed and will mark another great summer event at the Lagoon.

We have had over 600 folks attend our different events, an example that Creative Arts at the Colorado Lagoon has become a vibrant and fun program. For those who may not come to trash clean-ups or native plantings, this program offers volunteers and community residents a way to engage the Lagoon not previously available. Whether at a nature walk or Acoustic Tidal Artwalk I encourage everyone to experience the Lagoon from their own unique perspective.

Many Smiles and Thanks,
~Timothy

Lagoon Earth Day Planting!

2010-04-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

I am extremely excited about this Earth Day! For the first time in a while I will actually be organizing an Earth Day event on the actual Day of Earth which some people forget is always April 22nd. This actual Earth Day next Thursday I will be hanging out with my Colorado Lagoon Friends from 2pm-sunset helping people plant native wildflowers along the Lagoon's East Bank!! People are welcome to come and go as they please and I look forward to seeing people throughout their days and offering them the opportunity to pay homage to Mother Earth. It is also exciting because this is our last public planting event at the Lagoon for the season. It will be a nice conclusion to a very successful restoration project.

For you plant dorks. Here are a few wildflowers we will be planting on Earth Day:
Blue-Eyed Grass: Sisyrinchium bellum
Coast Goldenbush: Isocoma menziesii
Yerba Mansa: Anemopsis californica
California Poppy: Eschscholzia californica
Deerweed: Lotus scoparius
Sticky Monkeyflower: Mimulus aurantiacus

2nd Annual Wetlands Gathering @ Pike Gallery

2010-02-23T13:17:00.000-08:00

Tonight Tonight!!!

Colorado Lagoon Article in the LA Times!!

2010-02-01T13:16:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone-

Earlier this month a reporter from the LA Times came down and checked out our local estuary. With the restoration poised to begin, the word is getting out!

Click the link down below to check out the article with our own Adrienne in the picture!

Popular Long Beach swimming spot is poised for restoration - latimes.com

Be sure to share this with friends and family

~Timothy

TIDE Sunset walk - January 12th 2010

2010-01-15T14:21:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

Can you believe that its 2010?!?! Crazy, I know. We are going to start this new year off right and make the blog a more interactive place. You can sign on the blog and find letters from FOCL prez Dave Pirazzi, stories from other folks and of course...Pictures.

If you or someone you know may be interested in contributing to this blog please email me with your idea and we'll make it happen. We want this to become more of a community platform rather than just a lagoon report. Is there a funny story that needs to be told, a favorite photo, some news, or upcoming events, this is the place to check it out. Be sure to check out our calander of events at the website www.ColoradoLagoon.org.

For our first TIDE meeting of the year we got together and went on a sunset walk of the Lagoon. Most of us who work at the Lagoon are usually down there for a reason, for restoration, education or some sort of event. It was great to walk the whole Lagoon and just enjoy OUR urban wetland.

Here are some photos from the evening....

It was wonderful evening. Perfect temps and clouds for show
Dave Pirazzi and Eric Zahn talking about different phases of the Lagoon restoration

It actually looks like a wetland!

A motley crew for sure

Some digital camera fun

The Bio Swale. Come check out the latest addition to the lagoon restoration. You can help with plantings. Go to the Restoration Calander at www.coloradolagoon.org for dates to help!

Lots of bird watching- Adrienne and Shannon

It was a fine display of sunset and clouds

So if you're interested in being apart of the Colorado Lagoon Blog email me and we'll get you started. Be sure to check back for more frequent postings :)

~Timothy

TimothyDunham9@yahoo.com

Coastal Cleanup Day 2009 - Los Cerritos Wetlands

2009-09-22T14:37:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

OK, I know this is the Colorado Lagoon blog but I thought I could use the venue to tell you about another cleanup that took place on California Coastal Cleanup Day 2009. We all spent the morning at the Lagoon but at 1pm we headed over to 4th Annual Zedler Marsh Cleanup which is located within the Los Cerritos Wetlands. This also marked the launching of the Los Cerritos Wetlands Stewardship program. How exciting is that!?

Nearly 100 people showed up to this yearly event...

We all spent a couple hours roaming the area for trash BIG and small, everything got picked up.

There were people EVERYWHERE! It was so fun to see everyone excited about cleaning up the area, it really needed it.

More people....

And still more...

We scoured the bushes and found all sorts of things. I found some drywall, another person a rug which weighed 36lbs.

Jenny taking out the trash

'Hey, I think I see a bottle cap over there!'

Friends spent the afternoon together making a difference.

Adrienne has been working with the Los Cerritos Wetlands for several years now.Mister Taylor Parker extraordinaire

Until next year everyone, Thanks for the help!

To find out more about whats going on, go to www.LCWStewards.org

~Timothy

Coastal Cleanup Day 2009 - Colorado Lagoon

2009-09-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hey There!

Well this last weekend was a busy one to say the least. Saturday marked -

National Coastal Cleanup Day 2009

which takes place every year on the third Saturday of September (mark you calenders for next year). The day started at the Colorado Lagoon with Taylor, Eric and Adrienne showing up early to get things set up (thanks guys!). From 9-12pm we saw roughly 50 volunteers filter through!!! It was SO great to see people from around the neighborhoods coming down to do their part at their local wetland!

Those 50 volunteers collected about 150lbs of trash from in and around the area. Thanks to the weekly Trash Cleanups on Mondays from 9-11am the Lagoon's overall trash levels were pretty manageable. All the areas got cleaned up several times by the numerous people we had volunteering.

The East bank where we just completed our Ice Plant removal looks amazing! The site is ready for planting in October and we can't wait to get started on that project. Be sure to come down and participate in that exciting event.

October 24th is 350 Day, a day to help bring awareness to Global climate change. In honor of this day, the community here at the Colorado Lagoon is planting 350 plants. How awesome is that!?!

Ok so here are some great photos from the Coastal Cleanup Day

The bridge. I always love this shot

Ravuth and Sokanary working together as always :)

Kelli is making the rounds and marking down.

Laurel doing her part!

Jenny, Adrienne and Mark holding down the fort

Jenny helping out at the sign-in table

Pick up trash- pick up trash- try to take a picture- pick up trash

Tim and his two kids who live in the area came down to help out for the day

Taylor and Huy pointing to various things around the Lagoon...not sure what though

Future Ecologist

It was a start to a great day. Thanks to everyone who came out and those who helped put it together. I can't wait til next year!

~Timothy

Acoustic Tidal Artwalk VIDEO!!!

2009-09-21T22:23:00.001-07:00

Check it out!!!

Tim Neilsen of Flicker Films Production came on down to the event and caught some video of the evening! I think this short film captures the essence of a grass roots, community event. We had so much fun putting this together. Whats better than having planning meetings on the beach at the Lagoon?!

The Friends of Colorado Lagoon board members came down in strong numbers to help host the evening. Thanks again to all who contributed in one way or another. Artists, bakers, painters, bike valet'ers, hands on education folks, musicians, board members and other great volunteers all came down and made the evening beautiful!

Enjoy...

Colorado Lagoon Acoustic Tidal Artwalk 09 from Flicker Films on Vimeo.

Thank you Tim Neilsen

~Timothy

Acoustic Tidal Artwalk!

2009-09-20T16:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, this summer just blew right by. It is hard to think that a only 2 months ago the Colorado Lagoon played host to the First Annual

ACOUSTIC TIDAL ARTWALK:

A night a music Art and Music in the Sand

It was a beautiful collaboration of people of the community coming together to help bring awareness to the Colorado Lagoon. The night was in full display of beautiful Art, some great local musicians, live graffiti artist, hands on art for kids and education tables that got a lot of attention. We had the great folks from LB Cyclist.org providing Valet bike parking for everyone. There was food to munch on and refreshments to enjoy.

The night went off without a hitch with upwards of 300 people stopping by throughout the evening. There were people from the immediate surrounding community and folks from other cities. Everyone was welcome and seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Take a look....

The day started at 9am with The Crew digging 38 holes along the evening tide line.

It was a lot of work but it paid off beautifully!

Mike Dees a Wilson H.S. art teacher showed his latest works. Thanks Mike!

Timothy Dunham had his latest work on display from a trip he recently took to Argentina

Story boards told of some of great adventures that took place while in the Patagonia region of Argentina.

A nice little crowd gathered to listen to some of the local musicians playing

Eric Zahn and Mike Peck

(Left to Right) Erik Elstad, Eric Zahn, Taylor Parker, Timothy Dunham

Taylor Parker, FOCL's Education Director handling the swarm of kids a the Hands on Education table.

Kayla from Color Sensations in Long Beach provided supplies and help kids paint there own work of art. Thanks Kayla!

Paul Alverez came down and put on some great Live Graffiti. He started with a sheet of plywood and turned into a piece of work. Check it out..

SAVE OUR WETLANDS!

The evening ambiance was perfect with all the lights and sounds
From the bridge
The crew! Thanks to everyone who volunteered that night, it was a great success! Things can happen in a community because of people who take the time to get involved. It was a blast!

~Timothy

Lagoon Restoration has begun!!

2009-09-11T13:46:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

It is after a long blog hiatus that I return with a very special posting. Just this last week the ground was broken on our beloved Lagoon to begin Phase 1 of the restoration. People from the city came by to give it a proper grounbreaking ceremony complete with golden shovels, mayors and FOCL board members alike. It was a morning to celebrate!

Here are a few photos of the event...

A few of the catalysts for this project

FOCL Board Members

FOCL President Dave PirazziMayor Bob FosterLaura Richardson

The Breaking of the ground...its going to a few more shovels but its a good start

So stay tuned for the return of the Colorado Lagoon Blog as the restoration gets underway. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities with this restoration, for more info check out the our website www.ColoradoLagoon.Org.

Smiles

~Timothy

Lagoon report for Wed June 24th

2009-06-19T13:45:00.000-07:00

Greetings to everyone who's reading this!

I realize it has been several weeks since I have posted on the site and I feel bad about it. Life and work have caught up with me in very busy way. I am going to do my best to post once a week. Try and give more of an overview of whats going on at the Lagoon instead of a Day to day. Work has got my schedule as such that it doesn't allow me the time that it used to. So bare with me, Thank you!These are all random shots from around the Lagoon area. With June Gloom in full effect it doesn't do much for the lighting when photographing. But I've caught a few mornings of sunshine here and there. Thankfully the afternoons have been Perfect weather, I'm sure you've all enjoyed the evenings.

So my buddy Geoff and I stopped by the Lagoon to play some frisbee and low and behold, Taylor was there. So we're tossing the frisbee around and of course, without fail it goes into the Lagoon. Since Taylor was the one who threw it into the Lagoon, he had to go after it. So check out the pictures below and see how the story unfolded...

Out comes the Frog suit....

And a long pole with a net on the end

Marching off into battle

The march continues....

The realization that this is going to take more than a frog suit to get the frisbee out from the middle of the Lagoon

What can we say, he tried.

We had to get the Canoe out and paddle against strong winds to reach our frisbee but eventually we saved it!! Phew, it was a close call.

Anyway, there are a lot of things happening at the Lagoon these days.

First off- the WAMSEC or Wetland and Marine Science Education Center is open for Fun! The hours are Thurs-Sunday 230-7pm. Come down, learn fun stuff about the Lagoon or try your best to beat Taylor at a game of Ladder Ball. We also have two new Innovators working down there as well. Eric and Shannon will be down there as well at various times to help out and have some fun!

Secondly- We are in the midst of planning our big summer event, Acoustic Tidal Artwalk on July 18th. Its a night of music and Art in the sand. There will be live music, live art, Activities for the kids, food vendors and much more. It starts at 5pm and goes til 10pm.

Well there is a quick update on whats happening at the Lagoon. I'll do my best to check back in early next week!

Take care of each other

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Wed June 3rd

2009-06-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

Hello There!

As spring time wears on we have the lovely May gray followed by June Gloom. But more importantly some really great things are happening at the Lagoon. First off the afternoons afford us some beautiful wind swept clouds. As the overcast skies finally clear we get a small glimpse into what summer is going to be like and its just around the corner!

We also have our Spring time visitors, The Terns. These are Not pictures of Terns unfortunately but I thought they were good photos anyway. I Love the reflections.

Another amazing spring time event is all of the native flowers come alive! With the help of volunteers there has been some great growth along pathway at the Lagoon. A new fence has been installed to help protect this flourishing plants. Take a stroll and take notice of these great flowers blooming everywhere. Its a treat that should not be missed.

Look at the details of these leaves with the jagged edges. Perhaps a safety mechanism?

Looking through a great new fence you can see the WAMSEC.

One of the greatest things that has been happening in the last month is all the EDUCATION that has gone on at the Lagoon. Almost 500 kids from Fremont Elementary school came down to learn about a local habitat. Students from Wilson, CSULB and Homeschool groups are all taking advantage of the great education program we have set up in our local community.

Summer Science Shack hours are Thurs-Sun 2pm-7pm open to the public.

Head down to the Lagoon, say hello to Taylor and learn something awesome. Or play ladder ball, build a sand castle, watch the Terns dive for fish, daydream, go for a walk, tell stories or simply enjoy being outside!

Many Smiles,

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Friday May 22nd

2009-05-22T08:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

It has been a busy week down at the Lagoon with over 450 kids from Fremont Elementary visiting. Taylor has been teaching them about this amazing natural habitat and all the plants and animals that call it home.

The California Poppies have been in bloom as well as the dune flowers that are starting to come back. Next time you are at the Lagoon take a look at the roped off area right next to the WAMSEC and you will see something awesome happening. Dune plants and flowers are actually growing and flourishing. It is a very cool example of what this area would be like if we weren't walking on it. I think a good compromise can be reached; the plants get to grow and we get to enjoy!A beautiful tree...

There is an fun event at Marine Stadium on Saturday at 1pm. Head on down there for music, good people and FOOD! And be sure to look for your local Lagoon person.

Got Lagoon?

Many Smiles!
~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Tuesday May 19th

2009-05-19T10:30:00.001-07:00

The sun was out in full force this morning lighting up the Lagoon and everything around. This new fence helps to protect this great native plants that were put in on Earth Day. Couldn't help but notice this lonely flower reaching for the sky!

And then I ran into Taylor who is down at the Lagoon this week teaching kids from Fremont Elementary about the Lagoon and its inhabitants. Taylor is so great with the kids and if you've ever hung around him you know that he's just a kid in a really tall persons body!! Thanks for teaching future generations, Taylor!

Enjoy the beautiful weather :)

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Monday May 18th

2009-05-18T07:51:00.001-07:00

Greetings Everyone!!!

Hello and Good morning. I realize it has been a few weeks since I have posted on the blog, it needs some attention. My work load at work has changed and I haven't had the opportunities in the morning to post. So they will be more intermittent but I'll try when I can!

This morning the Lagoon was very quiet. It was as if even the wildlife knew it was a Monday morning after a fun and beautiful weekend here in Long Beach. We are in the midst of 'May Gray' and with the overcast skies it does not do much for photograph lighting.

Can anyone identify what this pictures is.....?

I hope everyone has a great week and take care of one another!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Friday May 1st

2009-05-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

Greetings!!!

Hey Everyone! Its been a looooong week here at work and I haven't had the chance to check the blog. I've missed posting and sharing with all of you and I hope to get back to it this next week. In fact, I just read Ambers piece of Earth Day weekend and she did a Great job telling the story, Thank you Amber!

Here are a few photos from this morning. I got to the Lagoon right at slap-tide. That is the time inbetween tides changing. When I got there you can see from the pictures the water was calm and the reflections perfect. By the time I left I could see the flow coming in and ripples starting to form, it was a great experience to start the day.

Tomorrow (Saturday) There is a Long Beach Earth Day event on the corner of 7th and Park. It starts at 11am and should be a fun time for everyone. Of course FOCL will have a table out there and we'll be hanging, enjoying the day and getting the word out about our programs. Come down and join in the fun!!

Have a great weekend and I'll be back next week!

~Timothy

FOCL celebrates Earth Day: Econversations, Trash Clean-Up, Native Planting and yum yum Veggie BBQ

2009-04-27T22:34:00.000-07:00

To kick off the weekend, FOCL hosted its 3rd annual Earth Day Celebration. The party started on Friday April 24th and ended Saturday afternoon with the BEST Vegetarian Barbecue I've ever had–thanks to our volunteer cooks for the day, the food was fabulous!

Friday's festivities were something special. Lagoon lovers gathered around a bonfire to listen to three of the night's FOCL speakers, each taking us through an educational journey in honor of our little wetland. And while we listened, we grubbed on snacks and hot chocolate (Yummy!). Eric made a great host that night, he was so excited. I loved his introduction and transitions into each presenter.

Tim, FOCL's awesome Creative Arts facilitator (and creator of this lovely blog), gave the audience a visual taste of Mornings at the Lagoon, which highlighted some of the wetland's most breathtaking moments. Tim's photos were brilliant and the presentation was calming. For a moment I could forget the stress of school/work and just sit back and relax to photos of birds and plants ( and a little taste of Tim's acoustic skills–he strummed a soothing tune on his guitar). One of Tim's slides described the efforts of FOCL: Together-All hard work leads to beautiful things. Ain't that the truth! Another favorite section of mine was the slides following the category, What's under da Sea? (Tim's titles were fun!). Eric chimed in with a little information on plankton and also corrected Tim's pronunciation of "Fouling," which I thought was funny (It's okay Tim, I've pronounced it wrong too!). In the section on WAMSEC and Friends, he described the purpose of it all as a way to "laugh and enjoy nature and get the community involved." He ended his presentation with a "softer look at the lagoon,"showing some black and white photos (while he played music in the background). Summer's approaching quickly, which reminded me of FOCL's A Night of Art and Music, the next big event that all you FOCLers should look forward to. The dates are the 19th and 20th (of which month I cannot remember! Sorry guys, but someone will post that up soon).

Next, Eric made another short and sweet speech, this time going over FOCL's beginnings. The organization has been doing what they do since 1999. Since this September, about 2,232 community service hours have been calculated from an amazing 980 volunteers who have come out to help restore the lagoon. Eric said that "a lot of this (is) made possible through friends." Our friendships are still growing and expanding. I expect the number of volunteers (and hours) to grow as more and more people of all ages start to sprout up at the lagoon! I was impressed by the age range in volunteers, kids as young as five years old come out to pull ice plants and clean up trash. Some of FOCLs senior volunteers are just as strong as the youth! Go volunteers!

The next presentation was given by our own project manager and FOCL board member (and Graduate student in geography), Adrienne Bosler. By the way, Eric made a hilarious (at least to me) joke and imitation of a raptor, I was totally cracking up! I thought it was a great transition into Adrienne's slide show on Raptors in Wetlands. I learned about so many different types of birds. The kids in the audience enjoyed Adrienne's presentation, they asked a lot of good questions.

The final econversation was given by Dr. Christine Whitcraft, CSULB Wetlands Professor and FOCL board member. Christine told us about What's for Dinner at Colorado Lagoon? And all the choices sounded so tasty (mmm bacteria and seagrass!) that I headed over to the snack area to munch on some fruit and veggies.

But the greatest show of the night was, of course, the Colorado Lagoon itself. It was absolutely stunning. The water shimmered while birds glided across it like tiny shadows.

Saturday began with a bang. People showed up ready to clean up the Lagoon. We collected 20 bags of trash weighing in at 36 lbs. Great job guys! If anyone was more excited than Eric, it was the kids. They were excited about spending their morning digging up holes for the Native Planting and diving into FOCL's education display. Although the Ladderball Tournament never happened, the kids loved playing it between activities. Next time the competition should be pretty heated now that everyones' had some practice. (I've yet to play the game, but it looks like tons of fun!).

Newlyweds, Allyson and Andy (sorry if I spelled your names incorrectly) spent their "honeymoon" at the lagoon, having just been married the night before. I spent the duration of the planting talking to the adorable and enthusiastic couple. Andy was a "digging machine" that day, Allyson and I could hardly keep up with filling each hole with plants. It happened so quickly! And now there are lots of beautiful little plants around the concrete path leading from the WAMSEC, and wrapping around the sand and playground of the lagoon. Everyone who helped should feel extremely

proud for making this past weekend a successful celebration of our wetland. Thank you guys!

We missed you this weekend Taylor, I hope you had as much fun in Hawaii as we all had at the lagoon!

Oh, and please check out the article in The District Weekly, it is phenomenal: http://thedistrictweekly.com/2009/print/features/focal-point/

Take care and enjoy the rest of the week! –Amber :)

Here's some pictures from the weekend!

Enjoy :)

Lagoon Report for Friday April 24th

2009-04-24T15:27:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!!

Its been a busy week for me here at work and I haven't been able to spend as much time on the Blog as I like to. I have also been preparing for our Earth Day celebration tonight at 7pm and tomorrow at 10am.

I will be giving a photo presentation on My Mornings at the Lagoon and it will consist of photographs from different aspects of the Lagoon life in the morning. I'm very excited about this opportunity and look forward to sharing these moments with everyone.

There are also two other presentations by Lagoon folks and should prove to be a wonderful time in the sand!

Tomorrow morning we have a planting, a trash pick-up, games on the beach and a BBQ to top off the day. Come down and have some fun!!!

Smiles and Love,

~Timothy

Earth Day Report!!

2009-04-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

I thought I would let the Earth speak for itself on this great Earth Day. So here are different perspectives from all over the world.

Enjoy....

Happy Earth Day!!!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Tuesday April 21st

2009-04-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Its going to be another hot one today, drink lots of water!!! It was a gorgeous morning with some lovely clouds in the sky. I caught this duck sleeping and just as I took the picture he woke up and gave a nice, big yawn!

Another barnacle shot...

Take care of each other :)

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Monday April 20th

2009-04-20T08:02:00.001-07:00

Hello there!

Its a bright, shiny and Hot Monday morning. We are definitely having a 'heat wave' as they call it! Its a perfect time for an ocean swim, heading to the pool or slip 'n' slide in the backyard. Stay cool and drink Lots of water!

This morning we have our weekly Monday morning trash clean-ups. By the looks of it this morning, it was a busy weekend down at the Lagoon. There was plenty of trash along the shoreline as I walked around. Lets all try to do our part whenever we are down at the Lagoon to pick up a few pieces of trash. It makes a difference!

Its an exciting week as we gear up for our Earth Day event starting on Friday night and again on Saturday morning. I'll be posting the flier today or tomorrow, tell friends and family about it!

Smiles!

~Timothy

Late Lagoon Report for Friday April 17th

2009-04-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Afternoon!

Its late in the day, I realize that but I was busy at work this morning and couldn't pull away to post but here it is anyway!

So with the tides low, this is what it looks like. You have the Snowy Egert hanging out on the waters edge with his/her skinny legs. They stroll through the shallow water unnoticed to fish then with their long necks snag their food in an instant. This Egert is a regular on this end of the Lagoon in the mornings, I see it most often, I call him 'Skinny E' , we're friends.

Is that a golf ball...probably so.

I hope everyone has a great weekend and enjoys the great weather we are having!!

Cheers!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Thursday April 16th

2009-04-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

Buen Dia!

What gorgeous weather we are having here in the South land. The wind is clearing the skies of all the unwanted pollutants, it feels great outside. April 15th has come and gone, I hope everyone got through it without too much stress. If you need to relieve some stress I suggest a walk down at the Lagoon! This morning I stumbled across this beautiful leaf and some barnacles who had attached themselves to a cement block. Small, living creatures that often go unnoticed here at the Lagoon.

Be sure to CLICK on the picture and check out the detail in these Photos!

Our Earth Day event is getting closer and closer. Just a little over a week away we will be gathering together next Friday (4/24) and Saturday (4/25) to Celebrate the Earth and all that we enjoy. Please join us Friday night for some educational talks from some folks who love to spend time at the Lagoon. Then on Saturday we will be enjoying the different aspects of the Lagoon, complete with a clean-up, planting, games and veggie BBQ. This event is for the WHOLE family, so come on down and join in the fun!!

Eric suggested I get some pictures of Barnacles so this is for him and everyone to see!

Smiles and Love,

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Wednesday April 15th

2009-04-15T08:24:00.001-07:00

Good Morning Folks!

Last night the wind howled and howled and left us with beautiful blue skies and a crisp morning. I am going to have to search out these barnacles and other underwater life and maybe wear my waders as I'm sure to get muddy on the slick slopes. Here is one of the drainage systems that comes into the Lagoon, these creatures don't seem to mind and latch right on. Does anyone know the name of creature that lives inside this shell?

News from Taylor last night...

He is in Hawaii and getting ready to set sail (on a three hour tour) on the research vessel that he will call home for the next two weeks. He said he is learning a lot about fish but misses his plants terribly! He is surrounded by fish biologist and is getting 'schooled' on the ecology, geology and many other aspects of island fish. I'll try to keep you updated as we hear from him.

Have a wonderful day, its gorgeous!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Tuesday April 14th

2009-04-14T09:14:00.000-07:00

Heeeeelllllooooooo!

Good morning everyone, we are into the week and its looking gorgeous outside. Recently at the Lagoon the tide has been really low in the mornings when I arrive, this gives a completely different look to the wetland. It reveals barnacles, algae, clams and other sea life underneath the surface of the water. Most people don't realize all the ecology that takes place in this different world. So in response to the low tides and becoming more aware of this new, unseen world I'm going to shift my focus to below water life, as best as I can!

This past Saturday we had our monthly Estuary Exploration in which Eric Zahn and Chris Mull dragged a net through the water to collect different fish species found in the Lagoon. It was amazing to see that despite all the pollution that finds it way into the Lagoon these resilient creatures still thrived! We captured only the smallest fraction of whats out there but it demonstrated the importance of the work we are doing at the Colorado Lagoon. Lets keep it up!!

Here are some photos from that day...

Gathering the fish and other species
Digging through all the algae for lagoon creatures
We put them in this pool and then collected them for the fish tank
The fish tank allows everyone to see the Lagoon life up close while Eric and Chris educate everyone about each of the fish and the ecology of the Lagoon.

Be sure to check our Calender at http://www.coloradolagoon.org/ for future events. Estuary Explorations happen the second Saturday of every month from 12-2pm.

Thanks for Smiling!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Friday April 10th

2009-04-10T09:22:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday!

For those of us who work Mon- Fri, today is a good day! Of course even if you don't work Mon-Fri today can still be a great day, so lets all be happy!

With the clouds overhead, this morning was nice and calm at the Lagoon. This weekend has a few events planned starting with tomorrow, Saturday from 12-2pm we have our monthly Estuary Exploration. Come learn about the Lagoon and just enjoy hanging out with others in a beautiful place. Then on Sunday we have our infamous Ice-Plant Removal party from 11am-1pm. Come on down and help out. Its a great chance to work in the sun, get a little dirty and have a blast with everyone. We have a good time to say the least!

I hope everyone enjoys the weekend. I hear the Grand Prix is in town, always a great local event!

Take care of one another!

~Timothy

Patagonia Report

2009-04-10T08:50:00.000-07:00

Buen Dia!

People have been asking: How was Patagonia? What's it like down there? What did you do exactly?

To put Patagonia in simple terms...Its amazing!

For those of you who don't know (like myself before my trip), Patagonia is considered the Southern region of Argentina and Chile and extends all the way to the tip of S. America. It's is comprised of the Andes Mtns, far reaching Plateaus, islands, animals not found anywhere else and terrain unparalleled to anything I had ever seen. It is another world to say the least.

The wind blows constantly and the weather can change in a matter of minutes, you always have your jacket with you. The temperature is cold but the view unbelievable. I found myself staring at the beauty that was before me, it was eye-candy for the nature lover!

So here are a few photographs I took along the way. I brought my 35mm film camera as that's the medium I enjoy shooting the most. So all the colors you see have not been altered in anyway. As I like to say...It is as the moment was. Enjoy!

Magellan Penguins at El Fin de Mundo (End of the earth)

Glacier run-off near El Chalten

'Old Reliable' ....Yikes

Random, beautiful horse

Wind blown trees... the wind blows so hard and constant in this area the trees are permanently shaped this way

River and the surface of the glacier

Notice the people on the ground getting ready to venture out onto this glacier Monster-gives good perspective of the size of this massive, mound of moving ice.

Gorgeous waterfall- The blowing wind doesn't allow this waterfall to hit the ground in a normal fashion

Rock climbing in El Chalten

End of the day in Begal Canal- this is the region where in the 1500's Magellan first found the tip of S. America

Lagoon Report for Thursday April 9th

2009-04-09T08:24:00.001-07:00

Buenos Dias!

Contrary to yesterday Gorgeous weather, today has started out a little overcast. The air was calm and the tide very low when I stopped by the North arm of the Lagoon. With all the migratory birds gone for the season activity seems to be low. However, there are still the locals who hang out feeding along the shore line such as this Snowy Egert. Its too bad that all my shots of birds taking flight are of them flying away from me, perhaps I need to try a new approach...

The moon will be completely full tonight at 10:55pm, It would be a perfect evening for a night stroll around the Lagoon!

In other news...Our very own Taylor Parker will be leaving on Saturday morning as he embarks on a two week excursion that will take him to Hawaii!! Sounds tough right? After a few years of trying to get a spot he was finally chosen to do research a NOAA(National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) vessel. It is on this boat that he will work twelve hour shifts along side other folks learning and researching fish in the Pacific Ocean. He is very excited about this opportunity and cant wait to get back and share all that he has learned. I sense a presentation coming on! Good luck Taylor and take lots of pictures!!

The weather folks say we are suppose to get rain, I will believe it when I feel it. Enjoy the day!

~Timothy

Late in the day Lagoon Report Wed April 8th

2009-04-08T15:28:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon!

I do realize that this isn't the early morning report that is the usual. However, I went into work late today and got to experience part of what has turned out to be a Beautiful day! The big, puffy, white clouds over head was eye candy in the sky. The temperature was California picture perfect...so much for that supposed rain today!

There are several events this weekend at the Lagoon. First on the Calender is our Estuary Exploration on Saturday at 12pm, come out and learn more about the Lagoon and its habitat. Then on Sunday starting at 11am we have our Ice-Plant Removal. This stuff is almost gone and its been at the hands of A LOT of dedicated volunteers who want to see this invasive species eradicated from the Lagoon to make way for gorgeous native plants. Thanks to everyone who has already come out and dedicated their time!!!

Come see all the beautiful flowers in full bloom at the Lagoon...

Check back tomorrow!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Tuesday April 7th

2009-04-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

It was a quiet morning as I hung around the west arm of the Lagoon. The fog crept across the water from the golf course as the wild life went about their business. I stood on the grass and looked out over the Lagoon and thought to myself: This goes on Every morning with or without us and how fortunate are we to have the opportunity to observe it in action.

This is similar to the realization I have when traveling to foreign lands... that there are parallel lives, communities and groups in this world who function just like we do, going on RIGHT NOW!
According to environmentalist Paul Hawken who does research on environmental/humanitarian non-profit, community based organizations, he says there are an estimate over 2million such groups functioning in the world today. These are people who are taking action in their community just like we are at the Lagoon, that is a very exciting thought! We should be encouraged by this knowing we are working along side millions of other amazing individuals all working towards the greater good of the earth and its people.

Let us be excited about the Lagoon and ALL the possibilities!

I truly hope everyone has a loving day and remember to smile!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Monday April 6th

2009-04-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

Greetings and Hello to Everyone!!!

It has been too long to be away from this blog. Its very interesting how routine becomes your life and when you don't get your daily Lagoon fix, it throws you off! Needless to say I'm looking forward to spending my mornings at the lagoon again and sharing all the beautiful things I photograph. You can expect consistent morning reports from here on out and be sure to tell your friends about it! So come along for the ride...

So much has taken place since I left for South America over three weeks ago. All the migratory birds have left the lagoon to head back to their respective homes. All the different species leave in a matter of a few day. How do they know when to leave??? I asked the same question to Taylor and he said that scientists are not certain. There is a theory that the birds have a different view of the light spectrum when looking at the sun and that when it hits a particular spot on the horizon, that's what triggers them to leave...or the way I imagine it happening;
The 'chief' bird gathers all the other species together in a communal meeting and says...'We've had a good run at this Lagoon, good fish, lots of volunteers, adequate water quality(could be better) but...Its time to take off'

Speaking of taking off check out this bird skimming the water this morning...Can someone identify this bird?

This past weekend we had our first Sustainability Bike Ride. This event was co hosted by the Long Beach Cyclist and the wonderful folks from the Lagoon. About a dozen people showed up for this educational bike ride, visiting some amazing Wetlands, a pond and beautiful marshland. With the group taking over the bike lanes we cruised around Long beach learning about different habitats, city plans, ecology and restoration. We ended the two hour excursion at the Marina Farmers Market where everyone took advantage of good, locally grown food. Due to the success and desire there will be future Sustainability rides, so stay posted!

I believe there is a TIDE meeting tomorrow night at the WAMSEC. The lovely Adrienne will be talking about 'Sex at the Lagoon' (all ages welcome). As Springs arrives, we enter into mating season for the different species living at the Lagoon. Should prove to be an interesting discussion!

You can always see our Very Comprehensive monthly calender at www.ColoradoLagoon.org, just click on the Events Calender on the left hand side.

There you have it, your Lagoon Report! I've very excited to be back behind the lens and spending time at the Lagoon. Hope to see you all down there soon!

Smiles,

~Timothy

Flyer and Map for the Sustainability Ride!

2009-03-22T22:37:00.000-07:00

Here's the preemptive route!

View Larger Map

Missing the Lagoon!

2009-03-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

Buen Dia!

I must say that while I am traveling and enjoying my time here in an amazing area, reading Ambers post definitely makes me a little home sick. I feel like I am missing out on some great things that are happening at home. Thank you Amber for painting a wonderful picture of not only your own thoughts and feelings but informing everyone about the meeting and ice plant removal that took place. You did a great job!

I can´t believe that the ice plant is almost gone, that is so amazing and exciting! That means we can continue planting those native species and our Community based restoration can keep moving forward. Exciting!!

I just wanted to post a few quick pictures of Glacier National Park here in Argentina. Hanging out and trekking over two miles onto a glacier was a very unique experience. This particular glacier can grow up to 3meters a day, so it is constantly changing. You can literally hear this massive mile wide, three hundred foot deep glacier shift under your feet, its very surreal! While hiking the wind was blowing SO hard with gust up to 60mph. The temperature was well below freezing with the wind chill. I had more layers on then ever before!

The South face of the GlacierThis is a pool in the middle of the glacier. There is constantly water running on top of, inside and all around the glacier and they carve all sorts of shapes out of this 80yr old ice. One of the guides hiked to this peak to get a better shot of the pool.

I am currently in El Calefate and tonight I will travel to El Chalten (http://www.elchalten.com/) where I will stay for the next three days. Plans of trekking to more glacier and peaks are in the works.

I miss my mornings at the Lagoon!

With many smiles,

Timothy

The Big Picture: Save Colorado Lagoon

2009-03-16T14:09:00.000-07:00

The evil Carpobrotus edulis was no match for FOCL volunteers this Sunday.

“You’re going down Ice Plant!”

I say this every time I come out to a FOCL Ice Plant Removal. And this time it looks like the Colorado Lagoon is just about free of the invasive species. There are small piles of it left, decomposing into a dark black and slimy mush. But we’ll be back to finish it off.

Good riddance!

There were 17(as I remember, but correct me if I’m wrong) of us and everyone did an amazing job. Piles and piles of Ice Plant and other debris were removed (we weren’t actually pulling anything, just throwing it all in a trash truck to be smashed up!) And it was tons of work! I was amazed at how much we accomplished. There was great teamwork and plenty of enthusiasm to keep the event upbeat and fun! It was a tough job, but everyone enjoyed themselves. There was music and laughter all around us.

It was beautiful.

At the park near the WAMSEC shack, a large group of people were out and enjoying the weather. It looked like a family celebrating (maybe a birthday) with food and playing soccer. A loose ball bounced towards me and I kicked it back. They were having so much fun.

And so was I.

To be a part of purging Colorado Lagoon of such a destructive plant is something special. I have to admit, I came to the event in the worst mood. I had an awful weekend and I was just looking for an escape. To be away from the stress and worries in my life. I wanted to look beyond myself. To look at the bigger picture. And for me, the bigger picture is saving Colorado Lagoon.

It is one of Long Beach’s greatest treasures. Who wouldn’t want to save it?

Well, not everyone does. It’s not my place to say that some community members are against saving the lagoon, but they are in disagreement on a crucial part of Phase II of the lagoon’s restoration project. And these people aren’t afraid to voice that disagreement (even if it breaks the “rules” of meeting etiquette).

The city of Long Beach hosted a community meeting at Lowell Elementary last Thursday and a lot of supporters came out. Individual members gave wonderful speeches on the lagoon and its impact on their own lives as well as the community as a whole. The amount of support and love for this wetland made me understand how precious the lagoon truly is.

Our own Taylor Parker voiced his opinion. As the last comment, he summarized all the great educational opportunities the lagoon provides for local schools.

Colorado Lagoon is a priceless learning tool.

Just last Tuesday at our second TIDE meeting, Cris walked us through some history in Native American Ethnobotany. We discovered the importance of some of the native plants and the roles they played in the traditions of the Tongva tribe. There is so much to learn! And many educators (some present at the meeting) recognize the opportunities the lagoon provides for their students.

The meeting offered the public an opportunity to learn about, and comment on, alternatives for restoring circulation to Colorado Lagoon (Phase II of the restoration). The preferred alternative (according to the Environmental Impact Report) is restoring the original Open Tidal Creek between the lagoon and Alamitos Bay. It is expected to bring permanent and full tidal circulation to the lagoon. This is crucial to the overall restoration (including the flow of clean water). And as some supporters noted in the meeting, this open channel will enhance the aesthetic beauty of Marina Vista Park and the community.

But for those in opposition, major concerns are safety and the disruption of sports/recreational activities.

Again, it’s not my place to say who is right or wrong, but I do feel like people aren’t listening to the benefits. They won’t look outside themselves and see what a great opportunity this is. To restore what man ultimately destroyed. To protect a Long Beach treasure.

There is plenty of room in the park to create field space for sports like soccer. And as for safety, the Colorado Lagoon is threatened by contaminated water, trash and other issues. These are the greatest dangers. By restoring the lagoon we can make it a safe place for people to come swim. Who wouldn’t want that?

Overall the meeting felt like a heated debate. I was disappointed that a lot of discussion was lost to complaints about email listings and other side-tracked issues. The agenda was practically spelled out for everyone. All they needed to do was be patient and listen.

But some of us turned our frustration into a positive force for change. We were all pumped on Sunday. Our passion and excitement for restoration fueled us in an unbelievable way. We were energized and ready to clean up our wetland!

I had an amazing time. My mood was lifted, tangled in tree branches and covered in wet Ice Plant. Carrying giant loads of it to the trash compactor; I smiled as it swallowed it all up. And as time progressed, I found myself sunk deep in the black decomposing mush and loving every minute of it. Knowing we were piles closer to restoring our piece of Long Beach.

-Amber Parker

*Pictures taken by Amber for Ice Plant removal. For fun, Can anyone tell me the scientific name of the birds in the pics?

Also, be sure to look out for a FOCL Facebook group. It should be up soon!

¡Ushuaia- The Bottom of the Earth!

2009-03-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

Buen Dia!!!

I am currently in Ushuaia, the southern most town in the world. Its at the very tip of south america. The Andes mountains are unlike anything i have ever seen before. They rise up from the ocean not as rolling hills or mountain tops but as jagged, snow capped peaks. They are magnificant in their stature and beauty, just beckoning a mountaineer. However these peaks are not to be taken lightly as it would be a serious climb, even for an experienced climber. They didn´t teach me this kind of climbing at REI?! The community (tourists driven) is very friendly and its surreal to think that I´m on the bottom of the earth (as it sits on its axis). It only took us 56hrs to get here from LA and my butt hurts to say the least.

I am traveling with a good friend of mine Alicia and yesterday we visited Penguin Island. It is the island where Magellen penguins nest each year. Hundreds of them fill the beach and surrounding brush where they breed and live. Tonight we travel North to El Calefate which deep in the Andes Mtns where we will stay for several days. Tomorrow we are going glacier hiking which should prove to be quite the experience. And then it is on to El Chalten, home of Mount Fitz Roy, a world famous peak.

I miss the Lagoon and have even met marine biologists also traveling who have heard of the Wetlands in Long Beach. I tried to convince them they should come check out our wonderful Lagoon but they said something about going to the Faulkland islands, whatever :)

Ciao!

Timoteo

Lagoon Report for Wednesday March 11th

2009-03-11T08:16:00.001-07:00

HEY!!!

As I woke up this morning, bright and early I came to realization that I was pretty tired and needed a good cup of coffee. So as I do every Wednesday I picked Taylor up and we went for a cup. I stopped and looked at the clouds before entering the coffee house and it reminded me of a dog that I had when I was young. The thought was so overwhelming that it brought a single tear to my eye....I loved that dog....well anyway, I got my coffee (with a little cream and sugar)and chatted the morning away with Taylor....

ANYWAY, I actually did do all that this morning (except for the tear part) and I wanted to share that with all of you. I'm in very high spirits as I prepare to leave for the next couple weeks. Its been a few years since I've gone on a big trip and am in need of a good break. I will definitely try to post while I am away.

However, last night at our Creative Arts meeting we had several people get excited about posting on the blog. So be on the look-out for messages from Amber, Eric, Taylor, Ravuth and anyone else who is interested in expressing themselves on the blog. We are always open to people writing a story and getting the word out. Just email Taylor or myself and we'll get you set up.

Also we have a new initiative in the works and that is a bike ride we are coordinating with Long Beach Cyclist.org. A group that was formed by some individuals who see bike riding as a way of life, not just recreation. We will keep you posted on times and dates of these organized Wetland Rides. Its going to be a blast!

Take care of each other and I'll write to you all soon!

Smiles,
~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Tuesday March 10th

2009-03-10T07:56:00.000-07:00

Good morning!!!

With the time change it makes getting up and seeing the sunrise a lot easier! The Lagoon was so peaceful this morning it was wonderful. I don't usually get take photos before the sunrise so it was a nice treat. I'm posting a few shots because I can't keep them to myself. Enjoy!

A lovely Snow Egert hanging out on the waters edge.

Tonight we have our TIDE and Creative Arts meetings starting at 6pm at the WAMSEC building. Even if you don't know anyone when you show up, you will leave with new friends! Come on down!

Take care of each other.

~Timothy

Lagoon report for Monday March 9th

2009-03-09T09:42:00.000-07:00

Hello Hello

I trust that everyone has made it through the time change OK. I know it was tough for me to get out of bed this morning. Then when I got to my car, I had a flat so I had to get that fixed. Which is why the report is a little late today.

Anyway, I drove up 6th street and caught the North Arm of the Lagoon. Definitely more quiet on this end as it doesn't have a busy street running next to it. The morning was nice with the sun bursting through the clouds, not too chilly but just right!

On Thursday of this week I will be leaving the country as I travel down to the Patagonia region of South America. And if any of you are like I me and don't know where Patagonia is, that's OK because I didn't either when my friend asked me to go. Patagonia is the southern portion of S. America and includes Chile and Argentina. It is where the Andes Mountains are located. So on Thursday I will begin a 56hr trek down to the most southern town in the world, Ushuaia. It is the closest town to Antarctica and the beginning of my two week trip. I'll be trekking to three different towns, one of which is a little backpackers town near the world famous rock Fitz Roy. check out http://www.elchalten.com/. I'll be doing some rock climbing, glacier hiking, hanging out with penguins and other activities found in this amazing natural surrounding.

I am very excited to say the least. I am going to be bring my little digital point and shoot and I'll do my best to make a couple of posts on the blog while I travel. Meanwhile, Amber Parker who is a journalist student at CSULB and wrote a wonderful piece for the blog last month is taking over while I'm gone. I have full faith in her ability to document the Lagoon and present that to you in a new and different way than I have over the last month and half. So be sure to encourage her as she undertakes this awesome task. Thanks Amber!!!

Also tomorrow night there is a TIDE meeting starting at 6pm and a Creative Arts meeting immediately following that. Come on down, check our programs out and see if you want to get involved. It's a lot of fun!!!

Be sure to smile!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for FRIDAY March 6th

2009-03-06T09:12:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!!!

It was a GORGEOUS morning as I ventured to the East end of the Lagoon. There was a lot of wildlife enjoying the morning sun, feeding and bathing. I was lucky enough to capture this beautiful bird just hanging out watching over the rest of the birds. I don't know the name of it but it is definitely great. He or she let me get pretty close before taking off but I was prepared and set my camera to shoot really fast and got 'em taking flight. Check it out below...

Look at the precision of the wings to the water....Perfect!

So eloquent in their own way. Just going about life in this beautiful Estuary.

And then some good 'ol Mud Peckers!

Its a beautiful day after a week of some rain and clouds. Get outside this weekend and enjoy your surroundings. There is the Save our Science program at Fremont Elementary with all sorts of FUN activities including: Aquarium on Wheels with touch tanks, Telescopes at Twilight, Music and Dancing all a lot of Great people. There will also be food available for purchase. Bring the whole Family!

That is taking place Saturday from 4-6pm at Fremont Elementary on the corner of 4th and Termino

Come on down and help support the children of our community and programs that help shape their education about science.

Also, Monday mornings there are Trash Clean-ups starting at 9am. Come help keep the Lagoon beautiful for us all to enjoy. Meet at the WAMSEC building (the one with the mural)

Then on Tuesday night starting 6pm we have another installment of our TIDE program that everyone is welcome to come and learn about the plants and marsh of the Lagoon. Immediately following that is our Creative Arts meeting where we will be making signs and discussing upcoming events. We wont keep you too late...I have an early bedtime.

Lots of places and activities to be involved with the Lagoon...

Choose Your Own Adventure!

Have a wonderful weekend and I will see you on the flip side!

Many Smiles,

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Thursday March 5th

2009-03-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

GOOD MORNING!!!

I was in a rush this morning but I stopped at the corner by the fire station to get some shots of the ducks and these little guys did not disappoint!

The Sky has cleared and it felt clean and crisp this morning, it was wonderful.

The weekend weather is looking pretty good. Probably a good time to get down to the Lagoon and explore on your own.

Choose your own adventure, get outside and get active!

I love the color of the water early in the morning on this end of the Lagoon. The deep blue is so beautiful and it seems to be a little hideaway for the ducks.

Its a great day to be thankful...

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Wednesday March 3rd

2009-03-04T08:05:00.000-08:00

Buenos Dias!!

It started to rain this morning! It was so lovely as the rain just calmly and peacefully started falling and watering the earth, awesome! I didn't venture far from the car this morning for the picture because I didn't want my camera to get too wet. I haven't photographed this part of the Lagoon very often so I thought I would try it out. This is looking towards Park avenue and the golf course and you can see the tractor treads in the sand. All the mallards and other forms of wildlife were just doing their thing in the water, I guess unlike us humans (Californians) they don't freak out about water falling out of the sky!

....Ahhhhh Its raining, cover your water bottles!!!

Anyway, its going to be a good day and once we make it through today the rest of the week is downhill. Its the perfect kind weather to sit at home with some hot chocolate and a book. Unfortunately for a lot of us...we are at work.

In the midst of so much going on in the world...

Stay up and Smile!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Tuesday March 3rd

2009-03-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

GOOD MORNING!!!

First off, I apologize for no Lagoon report yesterday. I did not go into work so the Lagoon report did not happen. But here I am back today with a shot from Marina Vista Park. I love this corner so much and it always provides a great sky scape. These clouds came in Sunday and have been lingering ever since. What I love about this type of storm system is there are various elevations of clouds and the light obviously strikes them differently. You can watch them move across the sky, its great!

There are a few events this week happening down at the Lagoon. There are some schools who are coming to check things out as part of our School-year education program. On Saturday Fremont Elementary is having an event to bring awareness and support to their Science Program. There will be all sorts of interactive activities set up for people of all ages. Come down and hang out. That is from 4-6pm on Saturday!

I wanted to say a quick Thank you to Taylor for helping me out with my photography show reception on Saturday night! It was a great time had by all and everything went on without a hitch.

Have a great Tuesday!

~Timothy

2009-02-27T08:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!

Greetings all of you who are at work, sitting at home or perhaps at a coffee shop sipping some Mate. It is Friday and the weekend is here! There is a lot going on in the city this weekend including art shows and concerts. 4th Street is having their Last Saturday starting with my photography show opening at 4th Street Vine at 4pm. Stop on by and have some wine and then wonder up and down 4th street. It should prove to be a really great night!

If you haven't seen it be sure to check out the Grunion Gazette and read the wonderful article by Kelly Garrison. It is a good depiction of what we are trying to creatively and artistically do at the Lagoon.

Have a great day and beautiful weekend!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Thursday Feb 26th...An Exciting Day!

2009-02-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone!!!

It is with great enthusiasm that I post on the blog today and tell you about the article in the Grunion Gazette, a local Long Beach newspaper. Kelly Garrison of the Grunion wrote a great piece spelling out the Art initiative that is underway at the Lagoon. The Creative Arts department consists of this blog and many other programs that use creativity and the arts to look at the Lagoon differently.

Click here to read the article http://gazettes.com and click on the 'FOCL Art Walks Add To Lagoon' in the Top Stories. Its an exciting day for Lagoon as more and more people will get to hear about all the great things happening in their community.

This is a Great Egert taking flight this morning. There was a lot of activity at the Lagoon, the birds must know that an article was written about their home!

If you are interested in seeing some wonderful photography and learning more about the Lagoon come to 4th Street Vine at 2142 E. 4th St. this Sat and check out 'ella' a photography show by Timothy Dunham. There is free wine and food from 4-6pm and is bound to be a great time!

Also be sure to check out our new signs on Park/Appian way. Its the best way to get the word out about events at the Lagoon. These signs were made at our Creative Arts Innovators meeting last night. For more information about the Innovators program or any other program feel free to email Taylor.Parker@yahoo.com or check out http://www.coloradolagoon.org/

It is a beautiful morning and the sunrise was glorious. I truly hope everyone has the opportunity to get outside and take a moment for themselves!

Have a great day!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Wednesday Feb 25Th

2009-02-25T08:12:00.000-08:00

Hello Hello!

I was up early and out of the house before sunrise. On Wednesday mornings Taylor and I meet for coffee before I head into work. Sometimes we get carried away with conversation and I end up at work late. Today I said, Taylor I have to get to work on time make sure I leave the coffee shop at a reasonable time. So being the supportive friend that he is, he sets his alarm and I leave with ample time to get to work. However, today I thought it would be a great idea to walk up towards the North arm of the Lagoon and get some shots for the blog.

What ends up happening? I'm taking pictures and of course a nice gentleman walks by with his dog and we begin to talk. We have a nice conversation and I continue shooting only to realize when I get back to my car....that I'm late for work.

So here is today's shot. I don't know the name of this beautiful flower, perhaps someone would like to post a comment with the different names? I call 'em Pipe Cleaners, but that's me.

Tonight we have our Creative Arts Innovators meeting at 630. Please stop by as Taylor and I will be down there hanging out ready to get creative!

Also, Be sure to check the Grunion Gazette tomorrow for an article for about the Lagoon and all all the projects going on, should be exciting!

Have a wonderful day!
~Timothy

2009-02-24T09:38:00.000-08:00

Its Tuesday and Gorgeous! The morning brought some beautiful fog over the Lagoon and golf course. It was a nice morning with all the wildlife out playing. It's as if the Lagoon came alive compared to other recent mornings when it has been pretty quiet. I enjoyed myself as I watched all the activity before heading into work.

I had an awesome opportunity to meet the FOCL board members last night. It was great to finally see everyone in the same room. While I didn't get to talk with them individually I could sense that this was a group who was serious and compassionate about their involvement with the Lagoon. I feel privileged to be apart of something that has been going on for a while and that is only going to get Bigger! I really appreciate the their willingness to be open to new and innovative ways of approaching our community outreach for the Lagoon, good things are bound to happen!

This week we have a couple of events going happening. Tomorrow night (Wed) at 6:30pm We have a Creative Arts meeting. Come on down and join in the fun of Sign making and discussing events of how we can rock the Lagoon. We will be prompt on time so we won't take up your whole night! Its bound to be a good time, get to know your fellow innovators or just come check it out. No commitment required :)

Also on Thursday at 3pm we have an Ice-Plant destruction party. Come help us clear the way for Native Plantings. We had a very successful and productive turn out two weekends ago. Lets make it happen again!

Be sure to smile and enjoy the beautiful day!

~Timothy

2009-02-23T07:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday!

So we are back into another great week. The weather in Long Beach over the weekend was a little weird to say the least. The clouds that loomed overhead all day yesterday finally decided to drop a little rain on us last night. It hasn't been cold, not really warm either it is this in between stuff and I don't get it! The Lagoon was quiet this morning, not too much activity with the wildlife. The tractor was out cleaning the sand so maybe that was keeping all the birds at bay.

Stay tuned this week for any events that may be taking place, I will post about them here as usual. I hope everyone has a great day!

~Timothy

'ella' a Photography Show from Timothy Dunham

2009-02-20T08:30:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

'ella' features my latest photographic work from various locations including, Yosemite, Seal Beach, Puerto Rico, Long Beach, Malibu Coast and many others. It represents the different elements of my life and how I see them through a camera lens. Unique adventures, awesome landscapes and obscure content fill the walls of 4Th Street Vine- a local wine shop and bar here in Long Beach, CA. All photographs are shot on 35mm black and white and color film. I enjoy shooting film as this ensures the true essence of the moment as the images have not been altered in any way.

If you live in the area be sure to stop by on February 28Th from 4-6pm(with after party) at 4Th Street Vine and check out the work and have some free wine with us. If unable to make it on Saturday the show will be up through April and is open to the public during normal business hours.

To see a selection of my work you can always visit www.somethingscreative.com/.

It has truly been a pleasure doing the Daily Lagoon Report for this Blog. If you like what you have seen on the blog... 'ella' is that much better! Thanks for all your support and positive feedback!

Many Thanks,

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Friday Feb 20th

2009-02-20T08:07:00.000-08:00

I went down to the Lagoon a little earlier than I usually do and what a lovely morning it was. I wanted to take some time and enjoy the peacefulness before starting into a busy day. There wasn't as much wildlife out as I'm used to seeing but the ones I did see were busy feeding, bathing and enjoying the calm waters. It was a nice time indeed..

There is no major events planned at the Lagoon this weekend. HOWEVER, I think that's a great opportunity for folks to go an enjoy it at their own pace without having a reason to get down there. Go check out all the new native plants that helping to stabilize the bluff, go walk around and notice all the different bird species. Believe me, when you are there on your own time without a trash pickup to do, you can get lost in time and its wonderful.

I trust that everyone will have a great weekend, see you Monday!

Smiles,

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Thurs Feb 19th

2009-02-19T08:33:00.000-08:00

Hey There!

Wow, what a great day! There is not a cloud in the sky, the air feels good with a sweatshirt on (or a couple of layers like me if you think low 60's is cold!) Its beautiful out to say the least. I hope that it continues on for the weekend and that everyone gets outside and enjoys.

I would like to share some thoughts and my experience as last night we had our very first Creative Arts meeting! We had two innovators show up along with Taylor and I. To be honest at first I was a little bummed out that more people didn't show up but I quickly realized as we got underway that, Oh My Gosh two people showed up, How exciting!! As I talked and tried to convey our passions and goals for this program I became acutely aware that three weeks ago NONE of this existed. As Taylor graciously reminds us all that even if we do something small that's more then what was being done three weeks ago. The meeting went well with A LOT of solid ideas of how we can take action NOW. We also discussed what needs to be done today, in the coming weeks and what our goals are a few months out.

I think the idea that surprised us all was, 'Why don't we have a sign on Park/Appian way advertising THE BLOG!' What a novel idea. This blog is quickly becoming a resource for volunteers, the community and a place to point interested folks, why not let more people know about it. One of my true goals is to reach out to the immediate surrounding community and help change peoples perspective of this Beautiful Wetland area and allow people to feel comfortable enough to enjoy it!

To say the least it was a great night and it left the four of us Very excited about our next meeting (next Wed 2/25 @ 630). We have some direction of what needs to happen and excited to see those activities get underway.

Here is a glance at what we covered last night. You can check out our New Colorado Lagoon Discussion Group in Google. I'll have a link for it soon. Its a place where we will post notes from meetings, express ideas, ask questions and connect with others from the group.

I don't know if you can feel the energy in the air but its vibrating and I know I'm smiling about it!

Have a great day!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Wednesday Feb 18th

2009-02-18T08:15:00.000-08:00

Buenos Dias!

The clouds have cleared away, not completely but the sun was shining bright and the Lagoon was alive! The air felt clean and crisp as I took photos this morning, it was really nice. Looks like another beautiful day here in Long Beach.

The FOCL Collective had their first TIDE meeting last night with about seven people in attendance. They all taught and learned from each other as they discussed different marsh plants. There is talk of a Long Beach Field Guide in the works, all to be put together by the Colorado Lagoon TIDE program. How awesome would it be for Lagoon to produce a document that could be used by Future generations for Education and knowledge. Thanks to everyone who is participating in that program!

Thanks again to Amber Parker for writing a truly inspirational piece about the Lagoon. She was able to truly capture the essence FOCL is trying to convey with their work at the Lagoon. If someone is interested in writing something for the blog about your own experience, PLEASE feel free to do so!

Have a great day with many smiles,

~Timothy

Words and Pictures from Taylor

2009-02-17T11:14:00.000-08:00

Wow!!!

What a great response from Amber and Tim! Thank you Tim for making this blog one of the most gorgeous things on the web and thank you Amber for your beautiful words. This weekend was so, so great and we had so many people from all over. Members of Green Deen http://www.greendeen.blogspot.com/ came to our event on Sunday to help get rid of iceplant and Adam took these photos! Thanks everyone for all of your support – can’t wait to see what we create together!

~Taylor

Here are some Photographs from the day....

THANKS EVERYONE!!!!

"Lovin’ The Lagoon" by Amber Parker

2009-02-17T09:40:00.000-08:00

A few days before heading down to the lagoon, I described to a friend why Long Beach is one of the greatest cities in California.
“There’s just something about the environment and the people,” I told her.
Each part of this city has a history. A place that inspires creative minds and encourages us all to explore our greatest passions and desires. A place that thrives on diversity.
It is the individual communities, when pieced together, which create the image of Long Beach we all know. A binding of unique qualities into one whole. A place we call home.
“This city has character.”
And the Colorado Lagoon is a huge part of that. As I stand inside the Wetlands And Marine Science Education Center (WAMSEC), I find myself saying, “This shack has character.” And not just the shack (which once stood as an abandoned snack hut), but also the entire lagoon seems to possess a personality of its own.
It is a beautiful morning at the lagoon. It’s Valentines Day and I can’t imagine being anywhere else. As if the rain had ceased just long enough to allow the members of Friends of Colorado Lagoon (FOCL), and volunteers like myself, to admire the beauty of this wetland and how much it means to us. Not to sound cheesy, but love is the only word I can describe when standing amongst this group of eager individuals. This is their piece of Long Beach. A place they love. A place they can call home.
We watch the Snowy Egrets feed and I am suddenly pleased with the amount of ecological wisdom I’ve gained since hanging out with FOCL. I’ve learned more in the short time I’ve helped out at the lagoon, pulling ice plants and planting native bluffs, than anything I was taught in my Marine Biology class. Among FOCL’s long list of goals, there is a hope of creating a community appreciation of the historic wetland. To encourage the active involvement of kids, adults and the habitual wetland dwellers.
For example, FOCL introduces its Training and Influencing Docents and Ecologists program (TIDE) for purposes of educating those who are interested in becoming ecological experts.
“[It allows] me to unload that knowledge onto other people,” says Eric.
There’s always something new to learn.
Taylor says the TIDE program is “where we teach ourselves.”
Other programs include those already in action, like Estuary Exploration and Champions Curriculum. Anyone is welcomed to come participate, especially for service learning events like ice plant removal.
Eric explains how it can be a great opportunity to rack up those volunteer hours. And for those who are in it just for fun, he says, “[it gives you that] fuzzy feeling of helping the environment.”
And there’s plenty more to come! You can expect FOCL to be really “creative” in their upcoming events and projects.
I know I’m excited!
The end of our meeting sparks an innovative chapter in the future of Colorado Lagoon. Expect tons of fresh ideas from an inventive staff and die-hard volunteers. It is our ultimate goal to improve the wetland through education, conservation and water quality monitoring. A healthier wetland is in our reach! And the possibilities are truly endless.
Colorado Lagoon has become a place to have fun and interact with the natural environment. A place where diverse interests are welcome and learning something new is never impossible. This wetland is somewhere I can identify myself. It is my own piece of Long Beach too.

MEGA Lagoon Report for Tuesday Feb 17th

2009-02-17T08:38:00.001-08:00

Good Morning!!!

Hey Everyone. After a long and much needed three day weekend I am back at the computer with a full report from the weekend. So much was going on at the Lagoon on Saturday and Sunday, it was a blast!

Also, be sure to read our FIRST blog entry from an Innovator herself, Amber Parker, a journalist from CSULB who is jumping into the fun and helping us out!

(If you are interested in writing something for the blog, feel free to do so. Type it up and email it to TimothyDunham9@yahoo.com and i'll post it for you, include pictures if you want!)

First off, here is a picture from this morning. As you can see we aren't out of this rain yet and its looking like more is to come. Long Beach received a healthy dose of it this weekend and hopefully it was enjoyed by all. The earth needs a good watering and so do we. Yesterday I picked Taylor up first thing in the morning for a coffee meeting (the best kind) and we drove down to the beach to check out the storm. Waves were actually breaking on the shores of LB, not too big but the wind was so strong it was creating waves. It was an awesome sight to see.

This weekend was home to several great events at the Lagoon. Starting on Saturday morning we had our second Innovators meeting where 15 of us gathered for another presentation about how to get more involved with all the great things happening at the Lagoon. We had some SOLID people come out who want to give of there time and see things happen.

There are follow up meetings this week for both programs at the WAMSEC (Colorado Lagoon Education building.

TIDE
Today,Tuesday Feb 17th at 6pm we will meet at the WAMSEC to start off the TIDE(Training and Influencing Docents and Ecologists) program. We will discuss upcoming classes, our resources for you and are going to have a little presentation on wetlands. Contact me, Taylor, if you want more info: Tmailto:Taylor@coloradolagoon.org or 562-331-0226.

Creative Arts
Wednesday (Feb 18th) at 7pm we will meet at the WAMSEC to kick off the Creative Arts Program. Here we're going to share thoughts, present some upcoming projects and explore ideas and resources. Contact Tim if you want more info: Tmailto:TimothyDunham9@yahoo.com or 562-673-7875.

As we have said this whole time, Come to one, come to both and don't worry if you cant make it this week. If you are unable to attend that does NOT mean you can't participate, these are just the first of many meetings to come. Be sure to tell your friends or family who you think might be interested in being apart of something Great! We want to be people of action and there are a lot of education, events and programs already underway that we need help developing. Lets put the rubber to the road and get to work.

Ok, enough talking....lets get to the fun part...PICTURES!!!

Here is a mix from the Innovators meeting and our Lagoon Exploration...

Thank you All!

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Friday Feb 13th

2009-02-13T11:22:00.001-08:00

Happy Friday...The weekend is here!!

For some reason the color of the bridge really caught my attention this morning. It was so calm and peaceful this morning as if everyone was sleeping in or preparing for the long weekend. A lot of my photos have been from the same area and that's mostly due to the fact that I'm running late for work and don't have time to hike to different areas. However, that's going to be my goal the next week is to get new and interesting parts of the Lagoon not normally seen by people driving by. I'm also open to suggestions for photo ideas.

Tomorrow is going to be a busy day at the Lagoon, hopefully it doesn't rain! We have our Innovators meeting at 10am and a lagoon exploration in the afternoon. Stop by and check things out, I'm sure there will be some characters hanging around.

Many Smiles

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Thursday Feb 12th

2009-02-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Heeeellloooooo!!!

It is really another beautiful, brisk morning down at the Lagoon. Perfect for a morning walk and I'm sure it will prove to be a wonderful afternoon! Last night we had our Innovators meeting here in the WAMSEC (Wetlands And Marine Science Education Center) so I thought I would post a picture of the rising sun on the side of the building looking towards the Lagoon. This building is our Education Hub. I didn't call it a classroom because the Lagoon, the wildlife and plant life is our classroom and an exciting one at that!

There was about 12 of us who came to the Innovators meeting and listened to Taylor give a little presentation about the direction of the Lagoon and how we can be involved. It was great to see people get excited with ideas, goals, community involvement and about Nature. There will be another Innovators (volunteer) meeting on Saturday morning at 10am. Come check it out and tell your friends or family about all the fun that's going on down at the Lagoon!!!

Here are a few pictures from last nights meeting...

Everyone Checking out what supplies and materials we have..

I forced Taylor into letting me take his picture...isn't he pretty...Pretty AWESOME!

Eric going through shelves of endless possibilities...

Cris, another amazing worker and smiling face!

Thanks for reading and looking :)

~Timothy

Lagoon Report for Wednesday Feb 11th

2009-02-11T08:22:00.000-08:00

Special Posting!!!!

Good Morning, My post today is a little different than usual. Last night while I was running around town doing my thing I drove by the Lagoon and couldn't help but see that some beautiful night pictures needed to be taken. So I stopped and set up shop near the playground and got these photographs. I hope you all enjoy as this different perspective of the Lagoon, its a different way to view the Lagoon and all its beauty!

And with the almost full moon we have right now its a perfect time for a night walk/hike around the Lagoon.

The west arm and Park street...

Even at night the Wildlife is out enjoying the Lagoon(The golf course in the background)

Looking towards the North arm..

Tonight we have our first meeting with our new Innovators program. Its an internship type setting for high schoolers, college students or others who want to take a more active roll in the Lagoon and giving them an opportunity to participate at the next level. The crew is all pumped up to get new people who are excited about making a difference in our local Wetland area! Its gonna be great. I'll be sure to let you know how it goes!

If you are interested in being apart of this Innovators program OR just want to help out, you can email Taylor at Taylor.parker@yahoo.com

THIS WEEKEND!!!

We have a Lagoon Exploration on Saturday at 12pm, come on down and see what there is to discover at the Lagoon. Learn about Migratory birds, native plants and many other fascinating facts. Also on Sunday at 11am we have an Ice-Plant Pulling Party. We need to continue clearing the bluff of this non Native plant so we can plant more sustainable and stabilizing vegetation. Come help out, its a party!

With Many smiles on this Gorgeous Day

~Timothy

Lagoon Report Tuesday Feb 10th

2009-02-10T08:04:00.001-08:00

Good Morning!

It is a beautiful, crisp, chilly morning here in Long Beach and especially down at the Lagoon. My hands were definitely cold while out shooting this beautiful flower. The Lagoon seemed to be a little more alive today with ducks and other species out enjoying the warmth of the rising sun.

I wanted to take a moment and reintroduce myself to people who may have just joined the blog. The Colorado Lagoon Blog was an idea I had to help bring more awareness to the daily beauty that can be found in and around the Lagoon. Passing by the Lagoon is part of my daily commute to work and its been a great pleasure to stop and take a photo and share that with others. As always I am open to suggestions on how to make this blog better?!

I work at the VA Hospital full time and just recently got involved with Friends of Colorado Lagoon, the non-profit governing body who helps to Educate, Restore, Preserve and bring awareness to the community about our local Wetland. I couldn't be more excited about all the new programs that are going to be implemented this year. This includes nature walks, bluff stabilization projects, Education classes, Ice-plant removal, Tidal Artwalks, 5k Run, Acoustic Summer nights and So many more!!!

Be sure to check back Daily!

With Smiles

~Timothy

Lagoon Report Monday Feb 9th

2009-02-09T08:24:00.001-08:00

Happy Monday once again....

It was a beautiful weekend filled with rain, wonderful clouds and storms alike. I heard Long Beach got rain both Saturday afternoon and Sunday. I went camping at the North end of Malibu near Point Mugu at Sycamore Canyon with my lovely girlfriend Gina. We had perfect weather and surprisingly no rain. I took a lot of pictures of all the amazing plants and canyons in the Santa Monica Mtns. If you have never had the chance to make it up that way, I strongly suggest you make the trip, it is well worth it!

Anyhow here is your daily shot of the lagoon. Huge clouds lingering overhead kept a lot of wildlife at bay this morning, things were quiet. Enjoy!

Here are a few shots of the Malibu coast...

Tim and Gina out on an adventure

Looking East...

Looking South from Point Mugu

~Timothy

I FOUND MY CAMERA - Wetlands Day Photos

2009-02-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

Greetings!!

It was to my wonderful surprise this evening when I stop by to see Eric and he presented me with my camera! Apparently I had wrapped it up in my dress shirt and stored it in his car before heading to the Pike on Monday night to continue the festivities. It was only today while cleaning his car that Eric made the discovery. Thank you Eric!

So I made the determination that I had made a wise choice in storing my camera in his truck versus taking to the Pike. However, a crucial point of that decision was forgotten and that point is being able to recall said decision. I'm sure it had nothing to do with the wonderful wine served at the show.

So it is with great excitement that I am able to post a few shots from the...

Wetlands Day Gathering at the 4th Street Gallery

The Welcoming Committee!
Everyone enjoying themselves...

Some of the beautiful photography and plant displays

An assortment of mediums were used to help bring awareness to our Wetlands.

Many laughs were shared by everyone throughout the night

Timothy Dunham, one of the contributing photographers

And of course the lovely Adrienne who helped put this show together...

Many Thanks to all the others who helped, You guys are awesome!

For more information about Lagoon or any of the contributing photographers or Sponsors just drop us an email at ColoradoLagoon@yahoo.com or visit http://www.coloradolagoon.org/ and we'll get back to you.

It was a great way to kick off all the amazing changes going on at the Lagoon, Come check it out!!

With many smiles,

Timothy

Lagoon Report: Friday Feb 6th

2009-02-06T15:12:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon!

Better late than never I say about the Lagoon report. I was extremely busy here at work this morning and didn't have a chance to post But here it is anyway. The sand was really soggy/muddy this morning from the rain and all the birds were happily splashing in the Very high tide. The rain has brought a needed watering of the earth, its quite pleasant. Be sure to check out blossoming flowers that are sure to spring up after the rain!

Also be sure to take a look at http://www.coloradolagoon.org/ as it has gotten a recent face lift and is look great!

The crew spent quite a few hours last night discussing the Lagoons Education program and there are a lot of exciting things on the horizon for our local wetland. Be sure to stay tuned!

I will post if I can otherwise Have a great weekend!

Timothy

Lagoon Report for Thursday Feb 5th

2009-02-05T09:44:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!

It was a beautiful morning with these clouds really showing off as the sun rose through them. Apparently we are getting rain this weekend (I'll believe it when I feel it) and these clouds probably have something to do with it. Either way it made it easy to snap a few shots from the lagoon looking East.

Still no word about my digital camera but i'm still holding out that it will show up. Meanwhile I will use my little point and shoot and keep hoping! But I'm not letting it get me down as its just a camera (a very expensive camera) but just a camera nonetheless.

Have a wonderful day and smile!

....Its almost Friday!

Timothy

Lagoon Report: Wednesday Feb 4th

2009-02-04T08:36:00.000-08:00

Good morning to one and all!

So I have some unfortunate news...I seem to have lost my camera. The last time I saw it was at the gallery on Monday night for the Photography Show. I had it until the end of the night and was unable to locate it yesterday when I returned. I am trusting that some wonderful person picked it up for safe keeping. Until it finds its way back to me the morning Lagoon picture may be postponed. I will see about using my little digital point and shoot to get some good shots. If anyone has ANY news or ideas about where it may be, please contact me or anyone involved in the Lagoon so I can continue my work at the Lagoon. Thank you!

The Camera,
Black- Canon Rebel Xti with a 75-200mm lens and a Lowepro bag(also black color).

Call me at 562.673.7875
email- Timothydunham9@yahoo.com

Thanks for your help and I hope everyone has a beautiful day!

Timothy

Lagoon Report for Tuesday

2009-02-03T09:49:00.000-08:00

*Due to technical difficulties (aka, I left my camera at the gallery last night) I was unable to get a picture of the Lagoon this morning. However I still wanted to post a beautiful picture and a message and let everyone know how the Wetlands art show went last night.

The Wetlands Day Gathering at the 4th Street Gallery was a Blast!!!

It was hard to figure the numbers as people ebbed and flowed throughout the night but I would say at least 100 people came through the doors! Everything went off without a hitch, Thanks to the hard work of all the people involved. Those people being... Sasha, Adrienne, Cris, Tim, Eric, Taylor, Jaime, Chris and all the other folks who helped out! It was so amazing to see a group of people come together with a goal of bringing awareness to the Wetlands in the area.

The Photography looked great in the gallery, Mike Dees, Dave Pirazzi and myself all had pictures of plants, birds and beautiful nature shots displayed. It was eye candy for the nature lover! I had never met these other talented photographers so for me it was a great pleasure to talk with them and share in the experience. We all agreed that photographing the Lagoon and sharing our perspective with others was something we all truly enjoyed.

Dave is the Friends of Colorado Lagoon Prez and you can see more of his work here- http://www.coloradolagoon.org/focl/gallery.html. You can also go to http://www.somethingscreative.com/ to see a selection of my work. I know I look forward to working with Dave more as I continue to get involved with the Lagoon, I was even invited to the next board meeting!

The night was wonderful and filled with an awesome slide show put together by Eric, wine provided by Pike Restaurant and Music to keep things moving. Many thanks to everyone who came out to support the Wetlands and for making it a really fun night!

With Smiles,

Timothy

Lagoon Report for Febuary 2nd

2009-02-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday!

Not gonna lie, its Monday morning and the weekend was just not long enough. I'm sure there are others out there who would agree with me :)

However, Monday morning lent itself to a very calm morning down at the Lagoon. The sun was just coming over the trees when I arrived and there was a slight fog clearing the way for a beautiful shot of the bridge and others creatures enjoying the peace and quiet.

The Wetlands Day Photography show at the Pike Gallery Tonight!!

The gallery was open on Saturday night for '4th street Last Saturday' and we had a good handful of people stop by the space and check out whats going on. Be sure to tell your friends and come enjoy wine, finger food, beautiful photographs, music, a short presentation about the Wetlands and how you can get involved!!

The Crew wants to Thank Sasha, Jamie for all their help and enthusiasm about this Wetlands show, its great working with people who want to see something happen. And also to Chris the owner of the Pike Restaurant who got the space for us to do this, Thank You! Be sure to head to the Pike for a drink or dinner and show our patronage to a business striving to make a difference.

This is the first show and we all want it to be a great success to help bring awareness to the local Wetland areas!

See you all tonight!

Timothy

Lagoon Report: Friday 1/30

2009-01-30T07:55:00.000-08:00

The Crew spent a few hours last night getting the Wetlands Day show ready and its looking Great!! Stop by Saturday night for a sneak peak or Monday for the Real Deal.

Hope everyone has a Beautiful Day!

Its Friday!!!

Lagoon Report: Thursday 1/30

2009-01-29T08:18:00.001-08:00

I was able to get to the Lagoon about fifteen minutes ealier than I usually do and caught the sun before it got too high in the sky. The Golden (half)hour was striking the water and bridge beautifully. With all the usually suspects out enjoying the warmth of the rising sun as I'm sure the temp was a bit chilling around the Lagoon last night.

Today The Crew is starting to put together the Wetlands Day for Monday Feb 2nd. The hanging of the pieces and configuring of the room is always a fun time of putting together an art show. The Pike Gallery will be open on Saturday evening for Last Saturday on 4th st. With the main oppening on Monday.

Smiles,

Timothy Dunham

Wetlands Day at Pike Gallery

2009-01-28T15:03:00.001-08:00

Come to the Pike Gallery, located next door to the Pike Restaurant on Monday Feb 2nd for some GREAT Wetland photography by Local photographers. Free food and drink will be provided by the Pike restaurant. Come hang out, eat, drink, get information and find out whats happening in your Own backyard at the Colorado Lagoon. There will be a short presentation with amazing slides, Music and good people.

It should prove to be a wonderful way to spend your Monday evening with doors opening at 6pm.

See you there and tell your friends!

Daily Colorado Lagoon Picture and Report: Wed 1/28

2009-01-28T08:54:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone!!!

I would love to share one of my ideas and goals for this blog if you don't mind...

I have the privelage of driving or biking past the Colorado Lagoon every morning on my way to work. And for the two years I have been taking this route it has always been my favorite part of going to work. As a nature lover and photographer I have my camera with me everywhere I go. It dawned on me that I should share my commute and the Lagoon with others by taking a picture on my way in and posting it here. What a great way to allow folks to share in the lagoon who do not commute that way or simply don't ever find themselves up and at the lagoon at 7:15 in the morning.

It is my goal to post a picture every morning but please bare with me as sometimes when I get to work, I have to get to work. As an Cardiovascular Technologist in the operating room at the VA Hospital work can be demanding but I often have a few moments when I first arrive. Sometimes it may just be a picture but if can add a comment about the lagoon that morning I will. To be honest, this blog is completely new to me and I'm just getting started with it. I would love your feedback, comments and thoughts as a reader. If you have a suggestion just drop me an email or leave a comment.

I look forward to sharing my morning commute with this community and helping other to experience the lagoon on a daily basis. Also, I have a lot to learn about the Lagoon, birds and plants and really don't know the names of these things. I will post the picture if someone would post a comment with the name or an explanation then everyone has the chance to learn!

Thank you so much for this opportunity!

Timothy Dunham

-Director of Creative Thought

Bluff Stabilization Project

2009-01-26T10:57:00.001-08:00

Many Thanks to Everyone who came out for the FIRST Bluff Stabilization Party! Without volunteers like these taking an interest in helping to improve the Colorado Lagoon, things would never get done!

The clouds were looking rather ominous but held back so we could get our work done. It was a perfect day to be working outdoors with everyone getting their hands dirty.

We got started first thing in the afternoon with about 50 different Native Plants that needed to be put into the ground. We had over a dozen Amazing folks show up to help out. Everyone dug in deep and got the job done!

Here are some shots from the day...

I think this guy loves his plants!

Leila clearing the way

Ravuth digging away

Wendy and Geoff pulling Ice Plant

Kerry with his gentle touch

Adrienne working away

Eric racking the Ice Plant

Taylor teaching Geoff about how certain plants will grow and how they will help to stabilize the bluff

Sokanary with a little guy waiting to be put in the ground

Sue making sure these new plants have enough to drink

The most delicate moment.....

It was truly a great day and an example of when people come together for a higher purpose outside themselves great things can happen. Be SURE to check back for future Planting parties and Bluff clearing projects. We usually work for a few hours and have a FUN time doing it!

Thank You for your Help and Support!

The Crew.

Parting Shot...

Nature walk with Sierra Club

2009-01-25T08:08:00.001-08:00

The Day started out pretty early with a Nature walk hosted by the Sierra Club. John Fries from the Sierra Club along with Eric Zahn and Adrienne Bosler of FOCL (Friends of Colorado Lagoon) took about 15 nature loving folks on a three hour excursion (Gilligan Island music). This wonderful walk included the Colorado Lagoon, Marine Stadium area and the beautiful Jack Dunster preserve.

(John Fries of the Sierra Club talking about the Colorado Lagoon being reconnected to Marine Stadium)

Both Eric and Adrienne have done a tremendous amount of work both at the Lagoon and Jack Dunster and were able to provide an educated look at the different areas. Everyone had the opportunity to learn everythings from Native plants, bird species, restoration projects and a history of the area. For most of us on the walk we were new to the areas and had No idea so much was going on in Long beach- our own backyard!

(Eric Zahn talking about migratory and local birds who call the Colorado Lagoon home)

(Adrienne Bosler talking about Native plants in the Lagoon/Jack Dunster areas)

Photographs from the walk!!!

Some of the Native plants, Migratory and Local birds we saw on the walk...

Photographs of Native Plants

Be SURE to check back to the blog for future walks planned. These walks are an easy stroll that all ages and abilities can enjoy. Its a great way to spend a Saturday morning, get out in nature and learn about your local area.

Many Thanks to John, Eric and Adrienne for hosting a wonderful Nature Walk!!!

Parting Shot...