Environmental Education Returns to Cold Creek

The Cold Creek Preserve, located in the central Santa Monica Mountains, features some of the most intact native habitats in the region. With minimal development, a freshwater wetland spring, and decades of protection by TreePeople Land Trust and our partners, the watershed is a premier location for students to experience the natural environment of LA. A pesky pandemic has prevented us from sharing this incredible location, however, we are thrilled to announce that through a special grant, we are able to bring students from the San Fernando Valley, specifically from areas that don’t have outdoor access, to learn about and enjoy this beautiful outdoor space.

Thanks to a Whale’s Tail Grant from the California Coastal Commission, our team is developing a curriculum that starts with our upper watersheds and takes students on a journey through our streams and mountains, and follows these watercourses all the way down to the coast. Participants will enjoy scenic hikes along our trails and directly engage with the environment by participating in revegetation projects that restore native habitat and improve water quality for the region. All this will culminate in a recreational trip to the beach that’s not only fun, but will show students the full story of their local water cycle.

By Kevin Gaston

Kevin Gaston joined TreePeople Land Trust in 2015 and currently serves as our Deputy Director. Prior to joining the Trust, he worked in various roles for California State Parks and the National Park Service, and received his B.S. in Environmental Science & Resource Management from CSUCI. Kevin enjoys the mix of creativity and analytics involved with managing projects at TreePeople Land Trust. He believes in our mission because true environmental action requires local commitment and enthusiasm, and non-profit organizations are the best medium to harness that energy. Outside his work, you can find Kevin surfing, cooking, and reading in his backyard with his wife, Emily.