West Coyote Hills in Fullerton, California, spans over 500 acres of coastal sage scrub and seasonal vernal pools, supporting diverse wildlife including the threatened coastal California gnatcatcher. The land was formerly an oil field owned by Chevron, which had plans for subdivision development. Local activist Angela Lindstrom and Friends of Coyote Hills have campaigned for the establishment of a nature preserve, leading to a city-wide referendum against Chevron's plans. In recent years, under public pressure, the city acquired 24 acres to expand the nature preserve for conservation efforts.
"On a clear day, the trails winding through West Coyote Hills near Fullerton, California, offer a sweeping view of the mountains rising over Orange County's suburban sprawl."
"When it rains, vernal pools, or seasonal wetlands, form between the hills, supporting wildflowers and amphibians. Today, these wetlands are a rare habitat: More than 90% of California's vernal pools have been lost to development."
"(We have to) think about the green infrastructure that we can save for future generations," she said.
"In 2012, Friends of Coyote Hills spearheaded a city-wide referendum on Chevron's plans that proved how unpopular they were with voters."
Collection
[
|
...
]