LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE (CNS) – Descanso Gardens broke ground Monday, May 18, on a series of water reclamation, wildfire readiness and habitat restoration projects designed to improve long-term sustainability and public access at the botanical garden.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place in the auxiliary parking lot at Descanso Gardens, where excavation began on a new underground stormwater capture system.
According to Descanso Gardens officials, the project will include a cistern system capable of storing about 1.5 million gallons of water and capturing up to 21 million gallons of stormwater annually from a 256-acre watershed. The reclaimed water will be reused for irrigation, lake replenishment and habitat support.
Garden officials said the project is also intended to improve wildfire preparedness by maintaining a dedicated on-site water supply for fire suppression efforts.
“Our commitment to environmental stewardship and conservation has never been stronger,” Descanso Gardens CEO Juliann Rooke said in a statement. “These projects allow us to better manage our water resources, support our ecosystems and prepare for the realities of a changing climate.”
The broader initiative also includes restoration of the garden’s lake area, including wetland habitat improvements, accessible boardwalks and upgraded circulation systems designed to improve water quality and biodiversity.
A separate Nature Discovery Garden planned near the lake will include children’s play and educational areas focused on outdoor exploration, watersheds and native ecosystems.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger praised the project.
“Descanso Gardens is a treasure for our region, and these investments ensure it will inspire generations to come,” Barger said. “I’m particularly moved by the Nature Discovery Garden, a space designed to welcome every child – whether they’re seasoned little explorers or stepping into nature for the very first time. When youth experience the wonder of nature firsthand, we plant the seeds for the next generation of environmental stewards.”
Funding for the projects includes support from LA County flood control and parks agencies, the California Wildlife Conservation Board and the California Department of Parks and Recreation, according to Descanso Gardens officials.
Completion of the projects is anticipated in late 2027.