to the editor: I was glad to see the recent coverage of Scouts returning to Camp Josepho to begin the slow work of healing the fire-damaged lands (“The Los Angeles scout troops lost their camp in the Palisades. Now they are working to heal the land.” December 9). What they are doing reflects what many of us in Pacific Palisades and Altadena have been doing since January.
Healing the earth is not an abstract job. It is physical work that must be done in a timely manner before invasive species become too costly and unmanageable a problem. It is not a destination, but a long-term journey that requires constant attention.
In addition to the Scouts' efforts, volunteers throughout the burn zone have been quietly restoring open spaces each week. Under the leadership of community groups like the Resilient Palisades Invasive Plant Removal team, residents have been removing highly flammable invasive plants, reestablishing native species, and providing safety and restoration guidance to local youth groups and schools.
This work matters more than most people realize. Ecological recovery after a fire is not only about rebuilding structures, but also about caring for the land so it can regenerate safely.
Scouts offer a clear example of how people of all ages can participate in this restoration. I hope Los Angeles continues to encourage and invest in these efforts, because our recovery depends on long-term, community-led care for the land we all share and to which we hope to safely return.
Sara G. Martí, Pacific Palisades
This writer is a board member and communications director for Resilient Palisades, a nonprofit fire recovery organization.
