The Scrooge of the L.A. River

Re “Ditch the L.A. River plans,” Editorial, June 3

So your writer didn’t enjoy his bike ride down the Los Angeles River bike path, and on that basis -- one man’s opinion based on limited experience -- we are supposed to ditch the river revitalization plans? What arrogance.

Hundreds of people have weighed in with their hopes and dreams for this much-abused river, but their opinions do not count? The writer reminds of me of Mr. Scrooge.

River revitalization has happened in many other places. It is not a pipe dream. And I am grateful that we have so many visionaries here in Los Angeles. Yes, it will take time and lots of money. No one ever said we would do this overnight. But if we don’t start now, then when?

Perhaps the ghosts of the Los Angeles River past, present and future need to visit to open your eyes.

Nancy L.C. Steele

Altadena

The writer is executive director of the Los Angeles & San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council.

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Your writer should get off his bike and walk, explore the pocket parks and talk to hikers and bikers who enjoy the river nature experience close to home.

Councilman Ed Reyes has shepherded the 2007 Los Angeles River Revitalization Plan with dramatic results.

The herons and egrets will not be reading your paper, nor will the mallard ducklings as they navigate through the rushes and sun-sparkled water.

Ann Walnum

Los Angeles