After the Eaton Fire decimated thousands of trees, the Altadena community is now prioritizing tree preservation, aiming to save as many as possible after losing more than half the trees during the wildfire.
Amigos De Los Rios, the non-profit organization based in Altadena is providing service to homeowners to water their trees as it partners with volunteers from Altadena Green and students from Occidental College.
Claire Robinson, managing director at the non-profit, believes that an estimated 14,000 trees can still be saved.
“We want to make sure that we save as many trees as we possibly can. And this is the time now with the heat,” Robinson said.
According to Robinson, It is the most important time to save the remaining trees as they can help cool people down and add shade, but they might not last through the summer.
“It’s truly a crisis. It’s not just beauty, which is critical for mental health and sense of place. It’s also hot,” Robinson said. “We’re a foothill city. It’s very hot here. Every tree we lose, it’s a fraction of a degree. The urban forest keeps us cool.”
Verne, 90, and Diana Williams, 87, lost their home during the Eaton Fire after living in Altadena for 55 years. As the house was the centerpiece for gatherings, holidays and everyday drop-ins from loved ones, they vow to save every part of their property, including the trees that remain.
“Some days, I’m very sad, and some days I’m moving along and going forward and being optimistic,” Diana said.
While some homes do not have irrigation systems, their water tanks can help hose down trees and support homeowners who are ready to plant new roots like the Williams family, who are grateful for the generosity of people helping rebuild Altadena.
“Very, very, very touching that people choose to do positive things for the neighborhood,” Verne said.
The Williams family said their new home is being developed to be placed around the existing trees to make sure they remained untouched during construction.