LOS ANGELES (March 30, 2026) — On March 28, LADWP welcomed approximately 1,000 guests at Chatsworth Nature Preserve who came to celebrate the Spring Equinox, an annual event hosted by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) in partnership with the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, Santa Susana Mountain Park Association, Sky Valley Volunteers, and the Herp Connection.
The event began with a Traditional Native American blessing performed by the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, followed by remarks from Los Angeles 12th District Councilmember John Lee and LADWP officials. Attendees at the City of Los Angeles’ only designated nature preserve enjoyed live animal exhibits, face painting for kids, a bird observation station, an electric safety demo, an aqueduct demo, and guided hikes.
“Chatsworth Nature Preserve is a magical place that is only open to the public on special occasions like this one,” said Councilmember Lee. “This represents an excellent chance for members of our community to bond with nature and to enjoy a host of fun and educational experiences in a beautiful setting.”
Guided tours offered visitors an inside look at the unique ecology and rich history of Chatsworth Nature Preserve. Among the highlights were centuries old oak trees, which play a pivotal role in the preserve’s ecosystem. These oak trees, some of which can live between 200 and 300 years, serve as a critical habitat for a wide range of native birds, insects and other wildlife that call the preserve home.
“The Spring Equinox celebration at Chatsworth Nature Preserve is a joyous occasion that allows us to embrace the beauty of nature,” said Nurit Katz, Vice-President of the Los Angeles Board of Water and Power Commissioners. “It also reminds us of the responsibility we all have to protect and preserve natural spaces like this one. Together with our partners and the surrounding community, we renew our commitment to protecting our natural resources for future generations, and practicing reciprocity with all our relations.”
Chatsworth Nature Preserve was officially designated as the first and only nature preserve in the City of Los Angeles in 1997 by the Los Angeles City Council.
ABOUT LADWP:
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the largest municipal water and power utility in the nation, was established more than 100 years ago to deliver reliable, safe water and electricity to 4 million residents and businesses in Los Angeles. LADWP provides its 740,000 water customers and 1.6 million electric customers with quality service at competitive prices.
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