An early morning jogger runs on the Fern Dell trail in Griffith Park. The once-exotic sanctuary is in deep decline, a victim of neglect, budget cuts and rampant vandalism. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
A native fern found in Fern Dell, where fern thefts have contributed to the area’s decline. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Bernadette Soter of Friends of Griffith Park holds photos of Fern Dell’s glory days. The volunteer group has launched a campaign to restore the area. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
A redwood, with its green side shoots popping out, sits in Griffith Park. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Graffiti adds to the run-down look at Fern Dell. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
The cost to fix up Fern Dell could exceed $1 million, according to Soter of Friends of Griffith Park. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Julian Martel, 3, plays with a branch on the Fern Dell trail while taking a stroll with his dad. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
