Santa Fe Dam, Irwindale

Santa Fe Dam Recreational Area
Conservation and Outreach Project

The chapter’s conservation work at Santa Fe Dam was launched in 2023 by long time CNPS members Gabi and Cliff McLean. Upon noticing non-native plants invading the precious alluvial sage scrub habitat at the Nature Trail, beloved for its native wildflower display, and noting that no one was doing anything about it, they took action. They started removing the invasive plants themselves (with appropriate permissions). Soon after, they began recruiting other SGM-CNPS members to assist and move beyond the initial area of concern. This multi-year effort has enabled countless native species to thrive in the areas targeted for care. But much more needs to be done.

The Santa Fe Dam area, home to more than 370 plant species, as well as at least 167 bird species, 150 insect species, 11 reptile species, and several fungi, is now a rare plant community. This past year, the “wild” portion of the Santa Fe Dam Recreational Area was designated a Natural Area, thanks in part to the efforts of Mickey Long, retired Natural Area Parks Administrator and longtime CNPS advisor, as well as Cliff and Gabi.

As a Natural Area, the landscape now has a new protective status and management focus is shifting to preservation of the native habitat, education, and passive recreation. We, as SGM-CNPS members and friends, have the privilege to be part of this new stewardship focus! Our initial goals are to keep invasive species in check, particularly in areas frequented by the public, to survey and document the species and habitats, and to educate the public about the benefits and treasures of this increasingly rare habitat. Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation is very supportive of our efforts and we are working closely with the new Superintendent of the Natural Area, Hector Inzunza, to accomplish these goals.

Please note that currently the Natural Area is still in formation. Formal public announcement is expected within a couple of months, pending remodeling and reopening of the Nature Center expected in December 2026.

To learn more about this special habitat check out this PRESENTATION by Gabi McLean recorded in April 2023. (Note: The information about the San Gabriel Mountains Conservancy is outdated, as now Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation is managing the soon to be reopened Nature Center.)

Interested in Making a Difference and Joining the Habitat Care Crew?

The habitat care days at Santa Fe Dam Natural Area have started up again for 2026. Workdays are planned for the third Saturday, fourth Friday of each month.  We will be using hand tools to remove invasive plants or seeds from a designated area, so those participating can expect to be standing, bending, walking, and carrying bags or tools.

In addition to enabling the native plant habitat to flourish, this is an opportunity to flee your screens and enjoy the outdoors, experience the native flora up close and personal, learn about invasive species and best practices to control, and connect with other ecologically minded members of our community.    

You do not need to be a member to participate, nor does one need  to have any expertise in plant ID.  Join in when you can, or become a regular; we’re happy to welcome you for any of our future sessions!

How to participate:

PLEASE send an email expressing your interest to Gabi and Jennifer at sgm.santafedam@cnps.org . If we are not aware that you are coming, you may be asked to pay an entry fee to the park.

2026 Dates:  3rd Saturdays 8-10:30 a.m, 4th Fridays 8 – 10:30 a.m
– September 19 Saturday
– September 25 Friday
– October 17 Saturday
– October 23 Friday
– November 21 Saturday
– December 19 Saturday
Rain or excessive heat cancels. Please sign up so we can notify you of any changes.

Location: Santa Fe Dam Recreational Area, 15501 E. Arrow Highway, Baldwin Park, CA 91706
Please arrive at least 5 minutes early since the group will walk or carpool from our meeting place to various locations in the park.

Parking/Meeting Location: Usually we meet at the Nature Center at Santa Fe Dam. From the entrance kiosk on top of the dam, drive down to the first intersection/stop sign and turn right. Continue and turn left at the first intersection, and left again at the next intersection. The road leads right into the Nature Center parking lot where we meet. Google Map Link Occasionally, we meet at other locations. Those signed up will be emailed the appropriate location and directions.

What to bring:

• For your safety, please wear sturdy closed toed shoes, comfortable clothing covering legs and arms, and sun protection.
• Bring water. We will have some snacks.
• We supply work gloves size M and L, but you may bring your own if you prefer.
• We have some weeding tools, but you may bring your own as well.  Be sure they are disinfected with 70% alcohol before use in the area; you can do that upon arrival.
• A bucket is always handy – we will supply trash bags