After the Eton Fire destroyed thousands of trees, the Altadena community is now prioritizing tree preservation and seeking to save as much as possible after losing more than half of the trees during the wildfire.
Amigos de Los Rios, a nonprofit based in Altadena, works with volunteers from Altadena Green and students from Occidental College to serve homeowners to water the trees.
Claire Robinson, managing director of the nonprofit, believes it will save an estimated 14,000 trees.
“We want to be able to save as many trees as possible, and this is the time of the heat right now,” Robinson said.
According to Robinson, this is the most important time to save the remaining trees. They can help people cool and add shade, but they may not last until summer.
“It’s really a crisis. It’s not just beauty, it’s important for mental health and sense of place. It’s hot too,” Robinson said. “We are a city on Foothill. It’s very hot here. Every tree we lose, it’s just a small part of the degree. The urban forests keep us cool.”
Verne, 90, and Diana Williams, 87, lost their home during the Eton fire after living in Altadena for 55 years. The house was the highlight of gatherings from loved ones, holidays, and daily drop-ins, so they pledge to save every part of their property, including the remaining trees.
“One day, I’m very sad, and there are days when I’m willing to move forward and optimistic,” Diana said.
Although some homes don’t have irrigation systems, their water tanks can help homeowners ready to run down the trees and plant new roots like the Williams family.
“It’s very, very, very, very moving that people choose to do something positive for their neighborhood,” Verne said.
The Williams family said they have confirmed that their new home has been developed to be placed around existing trees, preventing them from being touched during construction.
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