Dunes: Restoration Provides the Real Joy

I was sad to see the article about the destruction of the El Segundo Dunes (July 31, page 3) by a “joy rider” and the response of Mr. Ward in the letters section (Aug. 11).

The Dunes Restoration program has been one of the best-run and most fun programs I’ve ever volunteered for in Los Angeles. Every three weeks Rhapsody in Green would call us and entertain us while we worked with their great jokes and good humor. Dr. Rudi Mattori would bring in local experts to provide scientific lectures, and then we all pulled together to weed and replant. Many times we would come across fascinating native species that have survived in this area. Volunteers ranged from college and high school students to families to singles from all parts of the city. I hope this program keeps going, and that the off-road “joy rider” and Mr. Ward could join us just one time and see the real joy of the El Segundo Dunes.

KATHY KNIGHT Santa Monica