Join us on a quest to save the Ballona Wetlands!
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Los Angeles Zoo and Cosplay for Science have created a special quest storyline for our activity! Read the lore below…
For thousands of years, the wetlands of Los Angeles have stood the test of time in a delicate balance. Their waters are home to an incredible diversity of plants and animals with some found only along our coasts.
The multitude of plants and waterways help the landscape weather storms and dampen floods to protect the coastal inland. Tiny, microscopic bacteria that thrive in wetlands purify toxins washed down from the land and air.
But in the last few centuries, all that changed as humans from a world away claimed the land and brought with them a Blight upon the wetlands, this Blight we call “invasive species.”
Over time, the wetlands that once covered the coasts of Los Angeles were destroyed and the Blight strengthened as the wetlands diminished. The Blight has now reached the last remaining wetland of Los Angeles, Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve.
Invasive species threaten to take over and throw the balance of the wetland into chaos. If Ballona should fall, so much would be lost forever and those of us inland would pay the price.
That is why we send out this call to you, Adventurer!
We need your help to save the Ballona Wetlands! Yes you can help!
Join us on our nature quest to collect information on the Blight and find where our native species still survive. Gear up with your phone and a special spell we call iNaturalist and join us at the Ballona Wetlands.
Meet our team of seasoned scientists and adventurers to learn more about conservation and maybe even discover your own conservation identity!
Are you a brave Paladin, sworn by oath to protect our wild spaces?
Are you a tireless Ranger, ever on the lookout for threats to nature?
Are you a wise Druid, studying the unseen connections of all life?
Make your call and sign up to join the quest on this bioblitz adventure!
Registration: Registration is required. You must also sign the digital waiver.
Ages: Activities are recommended for ages 7 and up. Youths 16 and under should be accompanied by an adult.
What to wear: Close-toed shoes are required! We recommend dressing in weather-appropriate layers that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, along with a hat. Long pants are also recommended to protect against occasional prickly plants. Bring your elf ears! Costumes are welcome but “mythical quest weaponry” may be checked at the gate.
What to bring: A full water bottle to stay hydrated. There are no water fountains on site. Bring your phone with the iNaturalist app downloaded.
Arrive during your scheduled arrival time.
Covid-19 Protocols: We recommend that participants comply with applicable public health COVID-19 safety guidelines.
Cancellations: For safety, we must cancel if it’s raining. Please check the weather before arriving. If you’re not sure, please call us or check our social media for cancellation announcements.
