Tuna Canyon History Exhibit (Photo – Descanso Gardens)
Assemblymember John Harabedian (D-Pasadena) announced that the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy has approved an $800,000 grant for Descanso Gardens to support major water conservation and fire-resilience infrastructure projects at the historic botanical garden.
By News Desk
Harabedian said he advocated for the funding before the Conservancy and helped facilitate the grant on behalf of Descanso Gardens.
“Descanso Gardens is one of the jewels not only of my district but of all Southern California,” Harabedian said in a statement. “I was proud to advocate for this grant and thank the members of the Conservancy board for supporting these critical projects that will help protect our region from future disasters.”
The grant will fund several infrastructure improvements, including a water storage and fire-suppression system capable of holding up to 3 million gallons of water. The system is intended to provide a critical emergency resource for first responders during wildfire incidents.
The investment comes as wildfire preparedness remains a priority across the region. La Cañada Flintridge and many surrounding communities are designated by CAL FIRE as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, making Descanso Gardens a strategically important location for regional fire-suppression efforts. The need for enhanced fire resilience has become increasingly apparent following last year’s Eaton Fire.
Descanso Gardens CEO Juliann Rooke said the funding will strengthen the organization’s ability to address growing environmental challenges while serving the broader community.
“At a time when our region faces increasing threats from wildfire, drought and climate change, this investment provides critical resources to help us address challenges that no single organization can tackle alone,” Rooke said. “Through stormwater capture, ecological restoration and emergency water infrastructure, Descanso Gardens can serve as a living demonstration of what is possible when public agencies and community institutions work together. We are honored to partner with the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and Assemblymember Harabedian in advancing solutions that strengthen resilience today and for generations to come.”
The Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy is a state agency focused on protecting open space and expanding public access to natural areas. Harabedian serves as a legislative participant on the Conservancy’s board. The agency’s service area includes the western San Gabriel Valley and encompasses large portions of Assembly District 41.
Leave a Reply