A Forum For Community Issues : Favorite Places : SEPULVEDA WILDLIFE RESERVE

GILBERT HERRERA

Graphic arts production, Pasadena

“The Sepulveda Wildlife Reserve is an oasis in the middle of urban sprawl. It’s one of the great places in L.A. County for wildlife. When I found this place, it was like, “Wow,” it’s close to home, it’s peaceful and there’s a pond. I’m a birder so I bring my binoculars. There are ducks, hawks and lots of Canada geese in the winter. You’ve probably got between 100 and 200 species of birds here throughout the year.”

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The 108-acre Sepulveda Wildlife Reserve is located at the intersection of the Ventura (101) and the San Diego (405) freeways, adjacent to Woodley Avenue. It developed after the 1971 Sylmar earthquake. When clay soil was removed to repair the earthen Van Norman Dam, the borrow pit filled with water and attracted a great diversity of birds. In 1991, the pond was enlarged to 11 acres and designated a refuge for migratory waterfowl. The reserve is part of the 1,500-acre Sepulveda Dam Recreation Area, which also has walking paths, a 10-mile bicycle path, golf courses, lighted tennis courts, an archery range and boating and fishing on Lake Balboa.

Favorite Places columnist Jane Spiller welcomes suggestions for areas that are publicly accessible and free. Contact her c/o Voices.