Note: this area was hit hard by the November 2018 Woolsey Fire. I’ve been afraid to go back, but plan to soon to document its recovery.
My husband Tom and I were amazed with the mature stands of chaparral on a hike we took last week – the Mishe Mokwa trail in the Santa Monica Mountain National Recreation Area. I think the photos below illustrate how short-sighted the belief is that chaparral is meant to burn.
For more on the importance of Chaparral, please see the California Chaparral Institute, established by a good friend of ours, Rick Halsey. He also wrote a great book on fire and chaparral – Fire, Chaparral and Survival in Southern California.
Outstanding Linda!!! Not only are the photos beautiful and able to communicate important messages, you writing and supporting documents/information are really helpful to anyone who would like to dig further.
I want to read more!
And thanks for the plug! :)
thanks Rick, Let me know when there’s new research out, or positive programs to help dispel the ‘chaparral needs to burn’ mantra… Linda
Great article on chaparral which I think it truly beautiful, and I especially am intrigued with this hike! I’ve never heard of it. Looks breathtaking!
It was our first visit to the Santa Monica National Recreation Area – beautiful, remote and the ocean and cities in easy reach. Seems there are lots of great hikes. See – the LA area has some great spots!