LASA gathered to kayak the LA River and to learn about the history and future of this “diverse,”
“vibrant” eco-system.
This was our first in-person meeting and the outdoor adventure can us a
chance to start to experience Los Angeles truly together.
Isabel shared the initial impressions of
many of us: “Before the kayaking journey this past weekend, my image of the LA River was a lot
different. I was used to the concrete, man-made side of the River near Glendale. I didn’t realize
that it was even possible this time of year for the river to be deep enough to kayak.” And
Rebecca captured the excitement and caution many started with, “I have to say, when I first
waded out into the LA River, I was skeptical of how the kayaking trip would be. I love exploring
and traveling, but I wouldn’t exactly call myself a nature girl, and as the water seeped into my
sweatpants, I wondered if I would enjoy the day. Turns out, I really did!”
Expertly guided by the team from LA River Expeditions, we took to the water after a brief lesson
on paddling and staying up-right. Sam shared, “I learned a lot from the naturalist, who taught
us which plants are edible, what to do with the environment in the river, and how the river
affects the city as a whole. He showed us that this river is a vibrant part of the Los Angeles city
ecosystem, and how the city survives off this river.” “Kayaking the L.A. river gave me more
insight into one of L.A.’s most prominent yet undervalued features,” Corina added, “Being able
to touch the water, look at the plants, and smell the environment allowed me to connect with
the river in a way that I never had before. I learned how the river has been exploited over the
years and the importance of maintaining the river.”
We kayaked in two groups and the land-based crew spent time talking with Bill Deverell about
the history of the Los Angeles as well as the role of the river in that history and in broader water
histories of Southern California. Lilly noted, “I also liked learning more about the history of Los
Angeles and how unlike other cities that created their city center near the ocean as a port, LA
was founded much more inland along the river. It was empowering to hear how it is up to our
generation to make innovative solutions to help the river flourish.”
Ava helps us conclude our September: “I felt like the river is a very accurate representation of
life in LA: Nature’s beauty mingled with urbanization.”
We look forward to our next meeting in October.