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Puente Hills Preserve News
November 2026
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Habitat Authority staff from left to right: Program Analyst Carlos Zelaya, Recreation Outreach Supervisor Veronica Roach, Executive Director, Andrea Gullo, Ecologist Michelle Mariscal
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Executive Director Message:
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Seasonal changes this autumn bring a touch of magic. Ecology is, at its heart, the study of interconnectedness, and our human community is an inseparable part of that system.
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The Habitat Authority continually dedicates itself to anticipating and meeting the needs of the community. Our recent community outreach and recreational initiatives have trained over 20 new volunteers and brought hundreds of neighbors, students and volunteers out into the open space. Moving forward, we plan to expand our community engagement, prepare for this year’s anticipated El Niño, while also maintaining year-round wildfire resilience preparations.
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November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and honor the first inhabitants of the land. It is also a time to reflect on and honor the service and sacrifices of our nation’s veterans. These public landscapes reflect their lasting legacy and enduring contributions.
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With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I am also thankful for the Habitat Authority’s partners, community groups, volunteers, dedicated staff, Board of Directors, Advisory Committees for their service, and for every visitor who treads lightly whether on foot, bike or horseback. Your shared passion ensures that these hills will be preserved for future generations. We hope to see you at an upcoming event or hike.
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Ecologist's Corner:
Autumn in the Preserve
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by Habitat Authority Ecologist Michelle Mariscal
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Western sycamore along Sycamore Canyon Trail.
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Although autumn may seem like a quieter season, the Preserve is full of activity. From migrating birds and foraging wildlife to dispersing seeds and changing foliage, nature is busy preparing for the season ahead.
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Click image for more information
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From installing straw wattles for minimizing hillside erosion, clearing culverts to allow stormwater to flow unimpeded, and scheduling important trail improvements to ensure roads remain accessible to first responders - the Habitat Authority has been proactive in efforts to prepare for foreseeable El Niño impacts! Click images for more information.
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Installing straw wattles to manage rain runoff.
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Before: clearing culverts.
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After: clearing culverts.
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Happy Retirement to Claire Schlotterbeck
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Click image for full press release
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Claire Schlotterbeck, Hills For Everyone’s Executive Director and co-founder of Chino Hills State Park, has been instrumental in her advocacy for the preservation of the Puente- Chino Hills Wildlife Corridor. Her efforts have directly protected the immense public investment in the hills by the Habitat Authority and other public agencies. Her 46 years of inspirational contributions have ignited stewardship, awe and awareness in local communities that love, enjoy and benefit from the hills.
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Year ‘round wildfire resilience efforts
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Wildfire preparedness in action: See how the Habitat Authority is reducing fire risk through facility hardening and targeted fuel modification.
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Click images below for more information.
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Zone Zero Facility Hardening
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Habitat Authority Volunteer Training Program
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Click image below for more information.
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CPR training day for volunteers.
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Community connections in action! Check out highlights from recent events with the Habitat Authority.
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Want to see more? Below are highlights and clickable social posts.
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September 26: Mid-Autumn Nature Walk
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Hispanic Heritage Celebration at Hacienda Heights Community Center
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Trick or Treat Village at Rowland Heights Community Center
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Rowland Heights Community Coordinating Council BBQ
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Trick or Treat Village at Hacienda Heights Community Center
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Whittier Garden Club presentation by Ecologist, Michelle Mariscal
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Habitat Authority Board of Directors give recognition and certificates to La Habra Heights Fire Department Chief Martin and MRCA public officer and rangers.
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Habitat Authority Board of Directors gives recognition and certificates to Mid-Autumn Nature Walk Partners: Rowland Heights Chinese Association, Future Lights Inc. and ainiCalifornia Native Nursery (not pictured).
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City of Whittier City Council awards MRCA rangers and Habitat Authority with a Certificate of Commendation for outstanding assistance and dedication during the recent fire in Whittier Hills.
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Explore, Connect & Get Involved:
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Sign up for these upcoming activities on the Puente Hills Preserve Hikers Meetup page!
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Explore:
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Click on the flyers below to link to each Meet-Up event!
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Connect:
Make a Difference: Become a Volunteer- fill out an application
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Click on the image to learn more!
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Alert LA County is an opt-in mass notification program utilized by the County of Los Angeles that allows individuals to receive emergency alerts by text, email and/or phone call. Stay alert, be prepared and sign up for emergency notifications at alert.lacounty.gov and https://www.lhhcity.org/478/Be-Informed
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Follow us on social media for latest updates!
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The Habitat Authority is a local government agency, and is qualified to accept tax-deductible charitable donations including monetary and real property. Donations such as these contribute to the purpose of the agency and provide tax benefits for the giver.
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Habitat Authority | 7333 Greenleaf Ave. | Whittier, CA 90602 US
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