A Learning Link to the Ballona Wetlands

Did you know that wetlands exist in every state in America and on every continent except Antarctica? Wetlands cover about 6% of Earth's surface. Almost 95% of California's wetlands have disappeared. The largest remaining coastal wetlands in Los Angeles County are the Ballona Wetlands. These wetlands once covered much of today's Venice, Marina del Rey and parts of West L.A. Only a small portion--340 acres--of a protected wetlands system remains today, located west of Lincoln Boulevard in Playa del Rey.

So, what are wetlands?

Wetlands exist wherever low pieces of land are soaked or pooled with water. A wetland can have fresh or salty water or a combination of both called "brackish."

The Ballona Wetlands is a tidal marsh. Tidal marshes are formed when saltwater from an ocean meets with land, combining with freshwater from rain and rivers.

Why are wetlands important?

Along with providing a home for wildlife, wetlands also help to prevent flooding and control erosion. Wetlands also act as filters, cleansing polluted runoff from nearby communities to make water healthier for all living things.

What's found at the Ballona Wetlands?

The Ballona Wetlands is home to many kinds of plants and animals. When birds migrate along the Pacific Coast, the Ballona Wetlands provides food sources and a resting stop.

More than 200 species of birds have been seen there.

Learn more!

Go to the free Ballona Fest this Sunday, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. You can tour the wetlands, see a Gabrielino/Tongva Indian cultural display and check out environmental and wildlife exhibits including the South Bay Wildlife Rehab and the L.A. Zoo Mobile. For directions and more info, visit http://www.ballona-wetlands.org or call the Ballona Wetlands Foundation at (310) 574-0700.

*

This information was provided by the Ballona Wetlands Foundation, 318 B Culver Blvd., Playa del Rey, CA 90293.