San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains 

Special Resource Study 

National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Newsletter 4, Fall 2008

The study team developed these concepts through 

research and input from agency partners, along with 

stakeholder and public comments provided during the 

scoping period. 

Please tell us what you think about the alternative concepts 

presented here. Do you like one particular concept 

more than the others? Do you like various elements of 

each of the concepts? Do you have an entirely different 

vision of how the area should be managed? 

Your comments will help us refine the 

concepts and will ultimately lead to a 

recommendation to Congress. 

We are hosting several public meetings 

this fall to discuss the study findings and 

alternative concepts. Please join us at one 

of these meetings if you can. You may also 

send us your comments by e-mail at pwr_

sangabriel@nps.gov, enter them onto our 

public comment web site at www.nps.gov/

pwr/sangabriel, or send us the enclosed 

mail-in form or a letter. 

We sincerely value your input regarding the 

future of the San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains study 

area, and thank you in advance for your participation. 

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

 Sincerely,

 Martha Crusius, Project Manager

Dear Friends:

We are happy to report our progress on the San Gabriel 

Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study and 

we invite your feedback on the proposals presented on 

these pages. Since you last heard from us, we have been 

working on resource analysis and development of alternative 

management concepts. This newsletter 

contains a summary of the preliminary 

study findings, and it presents several 

alternative concepts for protecting 

significant resources and enhancing 

recreational and educational 

opportunities in the area. Please let us 

know what you think.

The study process includes 

determining whether resources of the 

study area are nationally significant, 

suitable for inclusion in the national 

park system, and feasible for inclusion 

in the national park system. The 

preliminary study findings on 

these topics are presented on pages 3 and 4 of this 

newsletter.

The three alternative concepts presented in this newsletter 

seek to address current and future recreation and open space 

needs and protect or restore significant natural resources. 

They emphasize opportunities for collaborative management 

and partnerships, and they respect existing property rights, 

jurisdictions and authorities. They include different levels and 

types of involvement by the National Park Service (NPS). 

Each alternative concept has a different approach to 

cultural and natural resource protection, recreational 

opportunities, and management structure. 

Background, p. 2

An overview of the study process and 

the study team’s progress to date. 

How to Comment

Look for the comment form insert.

Findings, pp. 3-4

The team’s findings on significance, 

suitability, and feasibility.

The Study Area, p. 4

Study area map.

Alternative Concepts, pp. 4-7 

A: San Gabriel Mountains National 

Recreation Area, p. 5

B: San Gabriel Parks and Open Space 

Network, p. 6

C: San Gabriel Watershed National 

Recreation Area, p. 7

What’s Inside...

Preliminary Alternatives

We look forward to meeting you and 

hearing your ideas and comments at one 

of the following public meetings:

El Monte

Monday, August 31st

7pm - 9pm

City of El Monte Senior Center

3120 N. Tyler Avenue

Diamond Bar

Wednesday, September 2nd

7pm - 9pm

Diamond Bar Center Ballroom

1600 S. Grand Avenue

Santa Clarita

Thursday, September 3rd

7pm - 9pm

George A. Caravalho Activities Center

Santa Clarita Room A

20880 Centre Point Parkway

Glendora

Monday, September 14th

7pm - 9pm

Glendora Public Library

140 South Glendora Avenue

Palmdale

Tuesday, September 15th

7pm - 9pm

Larry Chimbole Cultural Center

Lilac Room

38350 Sierra Highway

Please visit 

www.nps.gov/pwro/sangabriel

for details and directions

You’re Invited!

Newsletter 4, August 2009

Study Findings Summary

Significance: Are there nationally significant resources in the study area?

San Gabriel Mountains Nationally significant for their geologic resources, high biodiversity, dynamic river systems, and the 

long history of scientific study and discovery. 

Puente-Chino Hills Nationally significant for their rare native plant communities, including coastal sage scrub habitat and 

walnut woodlands

Other portions of the study area Isolated pockets of significant resources

Suitability: Could the area help fill a crucial gap in the national park system?

San Gabriel Mountains & 

Puente-Chino Hills

The study area contains a unique combination of themes and resources not found in other national 

parks or comparably protected areas.

Feasibility: Could it be efficiently and effectively managed by the National Park Service?

Management of the entire study area as a traditional national park unit is not feasible. Portions of the study area, focused on the nationally 

significant resources, could be a feasible addition to the national park system if managed in collaboration with local partners.

Santa Fe Dam Native Plant Garden, Irwindale

see p. 3

see p. 4

see p. 4
The National Park Service (NPS) began work on the San Gabriel 

Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study in 2005. In a special 

resource study, the NPS evaluates the natural and cultural resources of 

an area, identifies opportunities for public enjoyment and recreation, 

determines if any resources are eligible for management as a national 

park or some other form of protection, and provides a report to 

Congress and the local community with recommendations for the 

protection and public enjoyment of natural and cultural resources.

As directed by Congress, the NPS is conducting this study in 

partnership with the Rivers and Mountains Conservancy, the Angeles 

National Forest, and other federal, state, and local government entities.

As part of the scoping process, the NPS introduced the study in 

Newsletter #1 and at meetings with organizations, agencies, elected 

officials, and the public. Many communities, elected officials, agencies, 

organizations and individuals provided comments on the initial study approach, important resources that should be 

included in the study, the potential impacts of the study, the scope and size of the study area, and the range of possible study 

outcomes. A summary of these comments was included in Newsletter #2 (2005) and posted on the study website. 

Newsletter #3 (2006), also posted on the study website, described how the study approach and boundaries were revised 

in response to comments from the public, various agencies, public officials, and other stakeholders. The revised approach 

included identifying opportunities for collaborative management and partnerships among local, state, and federal 

governments. This approach forms the foundation of all three alternative concepts presented here.

The NPS study team is continuing its work on the San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study. In this 

newsletter, we present the draft resource evaluation findings, as well as several draft alternative management concepts that 

would protect significant resources and provide more recreational opportunities in the region. As at the beginning of the 

study, you again have an opportunity to provide input into the study process.

The Special Resource 

Study Process

A special resource study is prepared when 

the National Park Service is requested by 

Congress to study an area for possible 

inclusion in the national park system.

In a special resource study, a proposed 

addition to the national park system 

receives a favorable recommendation 

from the National Park Service only if it 

meets all of the following criteria:

•	 it possesses nationally significant 

natural or cultural resources;

•	 it is a suitable addition to the system;

•	 it is a feasible addition to the system; 

and

•	 it requires direct NPS management, 

instead of alternative protection by 

other public agencies or the private 

sector.

In cases where a study area’s resources 

meet criteria for national significance, 

but do not meet other criteria for 

inclusion in the national park system, the 

National Park Service may recommend an 

alternative status.

The San Gabriel Watershed and 

Mountains Special Resource Study 

seeks to bring together the NPS process 

for special resource studies with the 

realities of densely populated urban 

communities, managed by many 

different landowners, agencies, and 

jurisdictions, interfacing with large areas 

of open space and wildlands. Using 

this combined approach, the primary 

emphasis of the San Gabriel Watershed 

and Mountains Special Resource Study is 

identifying opportunities for collaborative 

management and partnerships among 

local, state and federal governments and 

other entities, in order to:

•	 Address current and future 

recreation and open space needs;

•	 Protect or restore significant natural 

resources and important habitats;

•	 Preserve historic and cultural 

resources;

•	 Maintain or improve water quality, 

water conservation and flood 

protection.

As you read through this newsletter and consider the alternative concepts, think about which ideas you like best and which 

are most likely to improve recreational opportunities and protect natural and cultural resources. Your written comments 

are welcomed and encouraged. Comments can be submitted electronically or by mail as listed below. Please consider the 

questions listed on the enclosed comment form in addition to any other thoughts and ideas you wish to share. Receiving 

your input before October 30 will allow us to learn from you and revise our approach as we develop the draft study report.

Please share your thoughts and comments by attending a public meeting, sending us the enclosed form, by e-mail 

(pwr_sangabriel@nps.gov), or through the study web site (www.nps.gov/pwro/sangabriel). You can also join the study’s 

email list by visiting the web site.

2 n San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study n Newsletter #4

Existing Agencies, Local Governments, and Private Property Rights

Based on early public comments, the NPS stated it would only consider management alternatives which respect property rights and the authorities that currently belong to existing local, state 

and federal agencies and jurisdictions: 

•	 Private Property Rights – The alternative concepts presented here emphasize collaborative projects with other 

organizations. Concepts involving land acquisition by eminent domain were not considered.

•	 Local Land Use Authorities – The alternative concepts respect and retain local land use authority of jurisdictions within the 

study area. The NPS collaborates with local jurisdictions in many areas without changes in land ownership or management.

•	 Existing Regulatory Agencies – The alternative concepts respect and retain existing decision-making and regulatory 

authorities, including authorities over flood protection and water supply. 

•	 Water and Infrastructure – The alternative concepts respect existing water rights, water supply, flood protection, drainage 

and public infrastructure.

•	 Angeles National Forest – Under each alternative concept, the US Forest Service will retain management of the Angeles 

National Forest

Background

We Would Like to Hear from You!

Schabarum Regional Park, Rowland Heights

Public scoping meeting in Claremont

Study Area Issues

Based on what we heard from you at the beginning of the study, the study team, in consultation with agency partners, developed 

a set of issues to be addressed by the alternative concepts. Adequate funding for resource protection and recreation objectives was 

considered to be a primary need of managing agencies. Community needs included more close-to-home recreational opportunities and 

a greater awareness of the region’s natural and cultural resources. Ecological communities and wildlife corridors between protected 

areas were identified as key protection issues. Cultural resources, including the heritage resources of the Angeles National Forest and 

sites associated with Native Americans, Hispanic, and American settlement were seen as needing further documentation, protection, 

and interpretation. Creation of a regional identity centered on the area’s unique cultural, natural, and recreational resources. 

Cooperative management of those resources and linkages was recognized as a useful strategy to address these needs. 

San Gabriel Dam
San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study n Newsletter #4 n 3

Summary of Nationally Significant Resources

Criteria for National Significance

The National Park Service (NPS) uses four basic criteria 

to evaluate the national significance of proposed 

areas. These criteria, listed in the National Park Service 

Management Policies, state that a resource is nationally 

significant if it:

1. It is an outstanding example of a particular type of 

resource.

2. It possesses exceptional value or quality in 

illustrating or interpreting the natural or cultural 

themes of our nation’s heritage.

3. It offers superlative opportunities for public 

enjoyment, or for scientific study.

4. It is a true, accurate, and relatively unspoiled 

example of a resource.

Two Regions: The San Gabriel

Mountains and the Puente-Chino Hills

Within the large and diverse landscape of the study 

area, two areas were found to be nationally significant, 

the San Gabriel Mountains and the Puente-Chino 

Hills. Because these areas have not been as heavily 

urbanized as the lowland valleys and flood plains of the 

study area, they represent important examples of the 

native southern California landscape. The San Gabriel 

Mountains are also culturally rich, with a long history of 

human use. Nationally significant cultural resources in 

the San Gabriel Mountains include the Mount Wilson 

Observatory and the San Dimas Experimental Forest.

Pacific Ocean

Los

Angeles

San Gabriel

Mountains

Puente-Chino

Hills

Nationally Significant Regions

Other Recognized Resources

In addition to these nationally recognized resources, there are many cultural resources 

that represent the settlement and growth of the Los Angeles region. These include Native 

American resources, the original site of the Mission San Gabriel Arcangel, portions of the 

Juan Bautista de Anza and the Old Spanish National Historic Trails, numerous ranchos, 

and sites related to mining, petroleum extraction, citrus and walnut production, the flood 

control system, the Pacific Electric Railway, and Route 66.

La Casa Nueva, City of Industry

The San Gabriel Mountains

The San Gabriel Mountains and foothills are 

nationally significant for their geologic resources, high 

biodiversity, dynamic river systems, and the long history 

of scientific study and discovery. Early conservation 

of the San Gabriel Mountains ensured that these areas 

were protected from the rapid development of the Los 

Angeles Basin, which began in the late 19th century. The 

active mountain system has created scenic and unusual 

landscapes that support a high level of ecological 

diversity. Within a short distance, the mountains and 

foothills feature coastal, desert, montane and subalpine communities. This diverse landscape provides 

habitat for an abundance of rare and endemic plants 

and wildlife. In addition, the San Gabriel Mountains 

contain significant waterways and riparian areas, some 

of which are eligible Wild and Scenic River segments. 

Nationally significant cultural resources include the San 

Dimas Experimental Forest, which contains some of the 

earliest and most comprehensively and continuously 

monitored experimental watersheds, and the Mount 

Wilson Observatory which includes large telescopes 

that were used in significant astronomical discoveries.

Mountain Building & Diverse Geology

•	 The San Gabriel Mountains are among the fastest 

growing mountains in the world - as much as 2 

inches a year - thus serving as an excellent location 

to learn about mountain building.

•	 One of the most geologically diverse mountain 

ranges in Southern California, the San Gabriel 

Mountains are comprised of rocks from all the 

major geologic eras, including some of the oldest 

rocks (over 1 billion years old) on the west coast of 

the United States.

•	 Several historically significant geologic discoveries 

occurred in the San Gabriel Mountains and 

along the San Andreas Fault, including major 

contributions to the development of plate tectonic 

theory. 

•	 The dramatic change in elevation, coupled with 

striking landforms such as the Devil’s Punchbowl, 

provides a highly scenic landscape of contrasts.

High Levels of Biodiversity

•	 The diverse range of plant communities in the San 

Gabriel Mountains provides habitat for 73 plant 

species and 123 wildlife species considered sensitive, 

rare, threatened or endangered. 

•	 Outstanding examples of southern California 

communities include alluvial fan sage scrub, bigcone 

Douglas-fir, coastal sage scrub, relict juniper 

communities, riparian areas, and subalpine habitat. 

Dynamic river systems

•	 River systems within the San Gabriel Mountains 

meet the eligibility criteria for National Wild and 

Scenic River designation. Free-flowing sections 

of Little Rock Creek and the north, east and west 

forks of the San Gabriel River retain high levels of 

integrity and support sensitive wildlife.

•	 Some of the best remaining alluvial fan sage scrub 

vegetation in the Los Angeles Basin is found within 

the study area.

•	 The San Gabriel Mountains are one of the richest 

areas for freshwater fishes in southern California.

Scientific research and discovery

•	 Data collected in the San Dimas Experimental 

Forest since 1933 represent some of the earliest and 

most comprehensive records from continuously 

monitored U.S. Forest Service experimental 

watersheds in the United States. 

•	 The San Dimas Experimental Forest is recognized as 

an “International Biosphere Reserve.” 

•	 The Mount Wilson Observatory, established in 

1904, includes five historically significant telescopes 

which laid the technological foundation for all large 

modern telescopes. 

architecture

•	 The San Dimas Experimental Forest contains 

structures that are excellent examples of historic 

Forest Service architecture, as well as a lysimeter 

facility that is the largest of its type ever built.

The Puente-Chino Hills

The Puente-Chino Hills in the Los Angeles Basin 

contain rare native plant communities. Although this 

area is somewhat of an island of open space surrounded 

by urbanized areas, the Puente-Chino Hills and the 

Santa Ana Mountains, connected together, encompass 

about 500,000 acres of wildlands containing significant 

biological resources. 

high levels of biodiversity

•	 The Puente-Chino Hills are part of a biologically 

diverse regional wildlife corridor that provides 

habitat for ecological communities with an 

abundance of endemic, threatened and rare plants 

and animals. 

•	 Outstanding examples of southern California 

communities in the Puente-Chino Hills include 

coastal sage scrub, one of the most endangered plant 

communities in California, and the best remaining 

stands of California walnut-dominated forests and 

woodlands south of Ventura County.

West Fork of the San Gabriel River

Walnut woodlands

Mount Wilson Observatory. Photo: Dave Jurasevich

San Dimas Experimental Forest

San Gabriel Mountains

Scale-Broom

Geologist examines Pelona Schist in the Angeles National Forest
4 n San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study n Newsletter #4

Could the area help fill a crucial gap in the national park 

system?

An area is considered suitable for addition to the 

national park system if it represents a natural or 

cultural resource type that is not already adequately 

represented in the national park system, or is not 

comparably represented and protected for public 

enjoyment by other federal agencies; tribal, state, or 

local governments; or the private sector. 

Based upon evaluation of the study area resources 

and their relative quality, character, and rarity, 

the National Park Service has determined that the 

San Gabriel Mountains and Puente-Chino Hills 

portions of the study area are suitable for inclusion 

in the National Park System. The two areas contain 

a combination of themes and resources not found in 

any national park unit or comparably managed area, 

including the unique geology, habitats, and history of 

scientific advances in the San Gabriel Mountains, and 

the coastal sage scrub habitat and walnut woodlands 

of the Puente-Chino Hills. 

Could it be efficiently and effectively managed by the 

National Park Service?

To be feasible as a new unit of the national park system, 

an area must be (1) of sufficient size and appropriate 

configuration to ensure sustainable resource protection 

and visitor enjoyment (taking into account current and 

potential impacts from sources beyond proposed park 

boundaries), and (2) capable of efficient administration 

by the National Park Service (NPS) at a reasonable cost. 

Management of the entire study area as a traditional 

national park unit is not feasible, based on its land use 

and ownership patterns. The portion of the study area 

within the Angeles National Forest is compatible with 

national park system designation provided management 

by the Forest Service continues and the NPS provides 

complementary services that enhance resource 

protection and public enjoyment opportunities. The 

only areas outside the Angeles NF that would be 

feasible for national park designation are those that 

have the potential for collaborative management with 

local, state and federal managers to protect natural 

and cutural resources, provide recreation, public 

access, interpretation and educational opportunities, 

and other compatible uses. In addition, technical 

and administrative assistance for conservation and 

recreation planning is a feasible role for the NPS.

Suitability

Feasibility

Angeles National Forest

Los Angeles

Palmdale

Irvine

Anaheim

Ontario

Long Beach

Orange

Glendale

Santa

Clarita

Chino

Pomona

Carson

Santa Ana

Fullerton

Pasadena

Torrance

Glendora

Brea

Upland

Burbank

Tustin

Whittier

El Toro

Downey

Yorba Linda

Arcadia

San Dimas

Monrovia

Huntington Beach

Chino

Hills

Azusa

Industry

Costa Mesa

West Covina

Walnut

Garden Grove

Norwalk Compton

Diamond Bar

Cerritos

Claremont

El

Monte

Duarte

Covina

Irwindale

Seal Beach

Altadena

Lakewood Buena Park

Inglewood

Newport

Beach Laguna Hills

La

Verne

Westminster

Acton

Cypress

La Habra

Alhambra

La Mirada

Montebello

Bell

Pico Rivera

Placentia

Vernon

South Gate

Bellflower

Hacienda Heights

Rancho Palos

Verdes

Santa

Monica

Gardena

Commerce

Fountain

Valley

Montclair

Lynwood

Monterey

Park

Baldwin

Park

Santa Fe Springs

Rowland Heights

El Segundo

Rosemead

Culver

City

Beverly

Hills

Tustin

Foothills

Paramount

E. Los

Angeles

La Canada

Flintridge

El Toro Station

Stanton

So. Whittier

La Habra Heights

San

Gabriel

La Puente

Temple

City

San

Marino

Los Alamitos

Willowbrook

Lomita

Valinda

Sierra

Madre

Artesia

Manhattan

Beach

Signal

Hill Palos

Verdes

Estates

Villa Park

S Pasadena

Vincent

La Palma

Bell

Gardens

S.El

Monte

Wrightwood

Bradbury

Westmont

San

Fernando

Littlerock

Citrus

Ladera Heights

La CrescentaMontrose

Los

Serranos

San Antonio Heights

Los Angeles

Charter Oak

W. Puente

Valley

S. San Jose Hills

W. WhittierLos Nietos

Avocado

Heights

E. La Mirada

Rolling

Hills

Redondo

Beach

Hawthorne

Angeles National Forest

|ÿ170

|ÿ2

|ÿ101

|ÿ39

|ÿ90

|ÿ57

|ÿ66

|ÿ134

|ÿ91

|ÿ91

¥5

¥210

¥210

¥10

¥605

¥710

¥10

¥5

|ÿ60

¥105

|ÿ2

|ÿ138

|ÿ14

¥405

|ÿ22

San Bernardino Cty

Orange Cty

Los Angeles Cty

Santa

Monica

Bay

P a c i f i c O c e a n

Santa Clara River

Big Tujunga Creek

Los Angeles River

San Gabriel River

San Jose Creek

Coyote Creek

Santa Ana River

Walnut Creek

Rio Hondo River

San G abriel River

Santa Anita Wash

Big Rock Creek

Little Rock Creek

Mescal Creek

 Study Area

San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

[

National Park Service, Pacific West Region

Working Map, Updated 4/2007

Study Area

County Lines

0 2.5 5 10

Miles

Rivers and Creeks

Major Roads and Highways

The alternative concepts presented in this newsletter 

were developed in cooperation with multiple land 

management agencies after an analysis of public 

comments, recreational needs, natural resource 

issues, and significant resources. The common focus 

of all three alternatives is an emphasis on cooperative 

management of existing public lands. These 

alternative concepts do not propose large federal 

land acquisitions, although small strategic purchases 

from willing sellers to support partnership objectives 

may be possible. Each alternative seeks to enhance 

the capabilities of existing agencies by leveraging 

resources, sharing information, and cooperative 

planning. 

The three alternative concepts present different 

management structures. The first (San Gabriel 

Mountains National Recreation Area) concentrates 

on providing the Angeles National Forest with the 

cooperative planning and funding tools it needs to 

meet the demands of a growing urban population. 

The second (Parks and Open Space Network), 

builds on continuing efforts by multiple agencies 

and organizations to create a regional cooperative 

planning structure focused on development and 

management of a recreational and ecological network. 

The final alternative (San Gabriel River National 

Recreation Area) establishes a watershed-based 

National Recreation Area with a greater level of 

support from the NPS.

Jackson Lake, Angeles National Forest Devil’s Punchbowl, San Gabriel Mountains

Introduction to the Alternative Concepts

View of the San Gabriel Mountains from the Puente Hills
San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study n Newsletter #4 n 5

Vision

This alternative concept recognizes the special character of the San Gabriel 

Mountains as a collection of nationally significant resources, a habitat connector, and 

an urban recreation area. Public awareness and appreciation of the mountains will 

be elevated through increased and improved recreation, education, and access. This 

concept also reaches beyond the forest boundary to protect connected habitats and 

educate people about the mountains.

Description of Concept

The San Gabriel Mountains would be designated by Congress as a National 

Recreation Area which would continue to be managed by the U.S. Forest Service 

(USFS). The new designation would bring additional attention to the mountains, its 

significant resources, opportunities, and resource needs. The enabling legislation 

would include additional authorities for the USFS to coordinate a regional land 

management partnership, protecting habitat connections and providing coordinated 

education and interpretation. The USFS would increase its educational and 

interpretive efforts, both in and outside of its boundaries. Expanded recreational 

opportunities, including access and trails, would be a primary focus.

Management Structure

The designated lands would continue to be managed by the USFS. The USFS would 

also coordinate a regional land management partnership.

NPS Role

The NPS would have no role in this alternative concept. The Santa Monica 

Mountains National Recreation Area would continue to partner with the USFS, as it 

currently does, on an informal basis.

Funding

Increased attention and a narrower management focus resulting from the special 

designation may encourage additional or reprioritized federal funding for resource 

restoration and protection projects, as well as improved recreation, interpretation, 

and educational facilities and programs. Legislation could authorize the USFS to 

manage lands purchased by other agencies like the San Gabriel and Lower Los 

Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy.

Castaic Mountains

Santa Ana Mountains

Puente-Chino Hills

San Bernardino Mtns

Santa Clara River

Los Angeles River

San

Gabriel River

Angeles

National Forest

Angeles

National Forest

San Bernardino

NF

Cleveland

NF

San Gabriel Mountains

Santa Monica Mtns

National Recreation Area

(NPS)

0 2 4 8 12 16 20

Miles

0 2 4 8 12 16 20

Kilometers

[

San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Study Area

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (NPS)

USDA Forest Service

San Gabriel Mountains National Recreation Area

Wildlife Corridor Connections

 South Coast Missing Linkages Project (2008)

Inspiration Point San Gabriel Mountains

A A national recreation area managed by the u.s. forest service.

San Gabriel Mountains National Recreation Area

alternative concepts

Why This is Important

The San Gabriel Mountains and foothills are nationally significant for their geologic 

resources, high biodiversity, dynamic river systems, and a long history of scientific study and 

discovery. Within a 90-minute drive of over 15 million people, the San Gabriel Mountains 

offer superlative opportunities for public enjoyment and scientific study. A national 

recreation area designation would recognize the national significance of the mountains and 

provide the Angeles National Forest with more authorities and funding to protect, interpret, 

and provide for public enjoyment of those significant resources. Authority to work beyond 

its boundaries would enable the USFS to protect biodiversity through maintenance of 

important wildlife corridors and habitat connections.

Expanded and improved recreation and interpretive services and facilities would benefit 

surrounding communities by increasing the supply of quality recreational and learning 

experiences. National recognition of the mountains would raise awareness of their 

significant resources among residents and enhance a sense of regional pride. 

Draft Alternative Concept A:

San Gabriel Mountains national Recreation Area
6 n San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study n Newsletter #4

Vision

This alternative concept protects and 

expands an interconnected system 

of parks, habitats, and open spaces, 

connecting urban neighborhoods, 

mountains, and rivers within a broader 

ecosystem. Coordinated education and 

interpretation focuses on connecting 

people to the special resources and 

stories of their mountains and watershed. 

Access to recreational opportunities 

closer to home is increased. 

Description of Concept

Under this alternative concept, a park and open space network would be developed 

through a partnership of public and private landowners and organizations. The 

partnership would be comprised of federal, state, and local land management 

agencies, along with recreation and conservation organizations. A comprehensive 

plan for a connected system of parks would be created under the partnership, 

detailing coordinated management strategies to protect and enhance natural 

resources, cultural resources, recreation, and access. The partnership would 

coordinate interpretive and educational messaging throughout the network. An 

information sharing network would be established to organize, consolidate, 

and distribute scientific information related to the region. An urban satellite 

office connected to the California Mediterranean Research Learning Center at 

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area would provide research and 

educational opportunities to communities and schools. The partnership would serve 

as a model for future efforts in other areas such as the north slope of the San Gabriel 

Mountains, the Santa Clara River, and Antelope Valley.

Management Structure

A partnership of land management agencies, conservation organizations and 

recreation interests would be created. The key roles of the partnership would 

be to administer the network, share information between partners, and create a 

comprehensive plan. Lands would continue to be owned and managed by the 

current owners. 

NPS Role

The NPS could provide initial planning and administrative assistance for a specified 

term. Afterward, the NPS would provide continuing technical assistance to the 

partnership on a more limited scale, including the development of interpretive and 

educational materials. The NPS would operate a California Mediterranean Research 

Learning Center satellite office in the study area. Opportunities for collaboration with 

the San Dimas Experimental Forest would be explored.

The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail and the Old Spanish National 

Historic Trail would work under existing authorities to increase interpretation, 

education, and recreational opportunities.

Funding

The partnership could establish a fundraising organization or be a coordinating 

body for existing grant programs. The partnership would leverage funds from a 

variety of sources (e.g. state bonds, Land & Water Conservation Fund) to increase 

and prioritize funds for new parks, trails, and open spaces within the network. 

Congressional funding would allow the NPS to provide initial planning assistance to 

the partnership.

Castaic Mountains

Santa Ana Mountains

Puente-Chino Hills

San Bernardino Mtns

Santa Clara River

Los Angeles River

San

Gabriel River

Angeles

National Forest

Angeles

National Forest

San Bernardino

NF

Cleveland

NF

San Gabriel Mountains

Santa Monica Mtns

National Recreation Area

(NPS)

0 2 4 8 12 16 20

Miles

0 2 4 8 12 16 20

Kilometers

[

San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Study Area

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (NPS)

USDA Forest Service

San Gabriel Parks and Open Space Network (Conceptual)

Opportunities to connect and/or expand network

Chino Hills Lashbrook Park, City of El Monte 

Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, Irwindale

B

alternative concepts

A public/private partnership of interconnected parks and open spaces.

Why this is important

This alternative concept would increase open space, provide new recreational opportunities 

in underserved areas, and foster a regional identity based on being part of a broader 

ecosystem.

In addition to expanding parks and recreation areas, the parks and open space network 

would provide additional habitat connections to significant natural resources in the San 

Gabriel Mountains, Puente-Chino Hills and the isolated pockets of rare native plant 

communities located throughout the San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles coastal plain. 

Enhanced habitat connections would strengthen regional biodiversity. Additionally, the 

parks and open space system would provide more opportunities for the public to learn 

about and enjoy the significant cultural resources of the region such as the Juan Bautista 

de Anza National Historic Trail and the Old Spanish National Historic Trail. Sites important 

to interpreting these trails could be incorporated into the network.

Draft Alternative Concept B:

San Gabriel Parks and Open Space Network
San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study n Newsletter #4 n 7

Vision

This alternative concept connects the mountainous upper reaches of the San Gabriel 

River in the Angeles National Forest with the urban communities through which 

it descends, connecting those communities to nationally significant resources in 

the watershed. A National Recreation Area (NRA) expands access to river-based 

recreation and offers new interpretation and educational opportunities, including a 

cooperative program to provide coordinated recreational access, interpretation and 

information throughout the watershed.

Description of Concept

The San Gabriel Watershed NRA would encompass the river, its upper watershed, 

associated trails and access points, and other adjacent public lands. It would be 

managed by a partnership including the NPS, USFS, and the numerous other 

agencies and organizations with land and interests in the area. The upper watershed 

portion of the NRA would continue to be managed by the USFS. In the lower 

portion of the watershed, the river corridor and related public lands would continue 

to be managed by existing owners. These organizations would work through the 

partnership to develop and implement a comprehensive management strategy 

for the watershed’s natural and cultural resources, public access and recreation 

opportunities, and interpretive and educational opportunities. The partnership 

would also develop a voluntary program throughout the rest of the watershed that 

would allow existing conservation and recreation-oriented sites to offer coordinated 

interpretation and information.

Management Structure

A formal partnership would be created to develop and implement a coordinated 

and comprehensive management strategy for the watershed. Each partner, including 

the USFS, would retain all of its land ownership, management and decision-making 

authorities. Water and flood protection would continue to be managed by those 

currently responsible.

NPS Role

The NPS would take a lead role in the coordination of the partnership, including 

providing technical, planning, and administrative services. The National Recreation 

Area outside the Angeles National Forest would be considered a “unit” of the 

National Park System, while remaining under existing ownership and management. 

The NPS would have no land use authority except that it may be authorized to 

acquire limited lands from willing sellers for operational purposes. The NPS would 

be authorized to enter into interagency agreements with the other NRA partners, 

in order to share resources and manage the NRA effectively. For example, through 

Castaic Mountains

Santa Ana Mountains

Puente-Chino Hills

San Bernardino Mtns

Santa Clara River

Los Angeles River

San

Gabriel River

Angeles

National Forest

Angeles

National Forest

San Bernardino

NF

Cleveland

NF

San Gabriel Mountains

Santa Monica Mtns

National Recreation Area

(NPS)

0 2 4 8 12 16 20

Miles

0 2 4 8 12 16 20

Kilometers

[

San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Study Area

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (NPS)

USDA Forest Service

San Gabriel Watershed National Recreation Area

San Gabriel Watershed Information Sites (Conceptual)

San Gabriel River Watershed

interagency agreements, the NPS could provide educational, interpretive and other 

services, including providing “river rangers” along the river.

Funding

Lands within the NRA would remain under their current jurisdictions, with each 

land management agency continuing to fund their own operations. The NPS would 

receive federal funding for its administrative, educational, and interpretive roles. The 

partnership could establish a fundraising organization or be a coordinating body 

for existing grant programs. The partnership could leverage funds from a variety 

of sources (e.g. state bonds, Land & Water Conservation Fund) to increase and 

prioritize funding for projects in the NRA and strategic acquisitions.

Eaton Canyon Natural Area, Pasadena North Fork of the San Gabriel River

C A National Recreation Area cooperatively managed by the NPS, USFS and other land management agencies.

San Gabriel Watershed National Recreation Area

alternative concepts

Why this is important

Portions of the watershed of the San Gabriel River are nationally significant for their 

geologic resources, high biodiversity and long history of scientific study. The north, east and 

west forks of the San Gabriel River support sensitive wildlife and meet the eligibility criteria 

for National Wild and Scenic River designation. In lower reaches, the river contains some of 

the best remaining alluvial fan sage scrub vegetation in the Los Angeles Basin, and riparian 

areas which support a high diversity of wildlife including federally endangered species such 

as the Least Bell’s vireo.

These river systems also provide a significant portion of the local water supply for area 

residents, and are popular recreation destinations for the 15 million people of the Los 

Angeles basin. The San Gabriel Watershed NRA would provide the National Park Service 

and partner land managing agencies with more funding and recognition to protect, 

interpret, and provide for public enjoyment of these significant resources.

By interpreting the connections between communities and their watershed, this alternative 

would promote a sense of regional identity through a shared understanding of the natural 

processes that shape the area. Dispersed and expanded river recreation would provide new 

opportunities along the urban river corridor.

Draft Alternative Concept C:

San Gabriel Watershed national Recreation Area
Contact Information

Mail: 

National Park Service

San Gabriel Special Resource Study

Park Planning and Environmental Compliance

1111 Jackson Street, Suite 700

Oakland, CA 94607

Web Site:

www.nps.gov/pwro/sangabriel

E-mail:

pwr_sangabriel@nps.gov

Phone:

Martha Crusius, Project Manager, (510) 817-1447

What’s Inside:

Enclosed for your review are alternative concepts 

developed for the San Gabriel Watershed and 

Mountains Special Resource Study, along with draft 

findings of the ongoing study.

Findings Summary, p. 1

Background, Issues, p. 2

Significant Resources, p. 3

Other Findings & Study Area Map, p. 4

Alternative Concepts, pp 5-7

San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study, Newsletter #4

Next Steps

Planning Activity Dates

1 Scoping

Start study process. Host public meetings. Collect and analyze public 

comments.

2005 - 2006

2 Resource Analysis

Explore recreation and conservation needs. Identify nationally significant 

resources.

2005 - 2007

3 Alternatives Development & Feasibility Analysis

Identify feasible roles for the NPS and develop alternative concepts. You are 

invited to help refine and develop these concepts through written comments 

and participation in public meetings.

2007 - 2009

 We Are Here

4 Draft Report

The Draft Report will contain a more detailed description and analysis of the 

area’s resources and alternatives for the protection of significant resources 

and the enhancement of recreational opportunities. You will have an 

opportunity to comment on this draft before the report is finalized.

2010

5 Final Report/Transmittal to Congress 2011

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA TM

National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study

Park Planning and Environmental Compliance

1111 Jackson Street, Suite 700

Oakland, CA 94607

Santa Fe Dam, Irwindale