Conservancy Times - Fall 2021

FALL 2021

CATALINA ISLAND

HITTING THE ROAD with the U.S. Marine Corps Page 4

0

MESSAGE from our president

Conservancy Times is a bi-annual publication of the Catalina Island Conservancy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1972 to protect and restore Catalina Island for present and future generations to experience and enjoy.

restored more than 1.5-miles of roads and culverts to contribute to a more sustainable road network. The Conservation team continues to monitor key species, plant native species on the landscape and remove invasive plants, all while implementing a new conservation strategic plan with an eye toward the future. In our Education department, staff have been getting ready to welcome visitors back to the Island with a refreshed Nature Center and new signage at the Garden.

One of California's oldest land trusts, the Conservancy protects the magnificent natural and cultural heritage of Santa Catalina Island, stewarding over 42,000 acres of land and 62 miles of rugged shoreline.

Though we have enjoyed connecting with you at virtual events throughout the last year, we are so looking forward to seeing you in person at our upcoming events. The 2021 Annual Catalina Island Conservancy Symposium will take place on October 8 in Long Beach and the Catalina: The Wild Side Art Show & Sale will be November 7 in Newport Beach and online.

Just over 20 miles from the mainland, Catalina Island is home to more than 60 plant and animal species found nowhere else in the world. The Conservancy operates the Trailhead visitor center, Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, Airport in the Sky and a nature center.

It provides access to 165 miles of recreational roads and trails and 50 miles of biking trails.

For more information, please visit CatalinaConservancy.org

TM

The Conservancy has made considerable strides in our mission to be a responsible steward of Catalina Island, all while navigating the new realities of what work looks like during a global pandemic. We are grateful to see visitors returning to Catalina Island and enjoying time in the wildlands. While we have been able to resume some in-person initiatives, the Conservancy is committed to continuing to expand virtual opportunities.

Thanks to a partnership between the Conservancy, the Department of Defense’s Innovative Readiness Training program and the U.S. Marine Corps, Catalina’s roads are better than ever. The Marines BENEFACTOR MEMBERS Alison Wrigley Rusack, Chair Maria Pellegrini, Ph.D. Tony Michaels, Ph.D. Trevor Fetter BOARD OF DIRECTORS Patrick McAlister, Chair Will Hagenah, Vice Chair Kellie Johnson, Past Chair Bob Breech Roger Chrisman John Cotton Victoria Seaver Dean Terry Grill Hank Hilty Calen Offield

It has been our duty and honor to protect and restore Catalina for the last nearly half century and we look forward to a bright Island future.

Tony Budrovich President & CEO

Scott Stuart Mike Sullivan Shaun Tucker

Michelle Badders Outgoing Sr. Director of Human Resources

EXECUTIVE TEAM

Leah Melber Sr. Director of Education

Tony Budrovich President & CEO Suzy Gardner Chief Development Officer Tim Kielpinski Chief Operating Officer Sue Gullickson Interim Chief Financial Officer

Deni Porej Sr. Director of Conservation Mary Beth Leonard Sr. Executive Coordinator EDITOR Jessica Boudevin GRAPHIC DESIGN Amy Trowbridge

CONTACT US P.O. Box 2739 Avalon, CA 90704 310.510.2595 320 Golden Shore, Suite 220 Long Beach, CA 90802 562.437.8555 CatalinaConservancy.org FOLLOW US ON:

06

60

04

contents Fall 2021

Hitting the Road 04 with the U.S. Marine Corps Seabird Survey 06 Endemic Fox Population 07 Remains Healthy Waging Battles Against Invasives 08

10

07 08

Considering Conservation 09

Oak Restoration at Bulrush Canyon 10

13

Inspiring Junior Naturalists 12 Discover Nature at the Garden 13

Becoming a Catalina California Naturalist 14 Connecting in the Classroom 15

16

4113

Hiking the Island of Love 16 Conservancy Events 18 Staff Updates 20 Donor Honor Roll 22

Experience Catalina with a Conservancy Membership Not a member of the Catalina Island Conservancy?

Don't miss out on special opportunities and adventures.

JOIN TODAY! CatalinaConservancy.org 562.437.8555 x1224

4

WITH THE U.S. MARINE CORPS

C

atalina Island Conservancy once again partnered with the United States Marine Corps’ 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing through the Department of Defense Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) program to bring troops to Catalina Island to restore sections of roadway, improving long-term sustainability. Sections of road exceeding 1.5 miles in length were restored, as well as five existing, failed culverts. Reducing sediment loss, uncontrolled storm water flows and improving accessibility are important for roadways that will endure long into the future.

“We want to proactively incorporate best management practices on our landscape to be stewards of the Island and sustain the natural beauty that Catalina possesses,” said Conservancy Director of Conservation Operations Laura Minuto. “The most important thing to consider is sediment loss. With the specific biology of our Mediterranean soil, once it gets disturbed it is difficult for it to come back.”

Restoring roadways for better water management means there is more water available for the plants and animals of the Island. The restoration will also improve the safety of roads during weather events.

“Some roads have been here around a century. We’re restoring them now so that water goes where it’s intended to go so that we can manage it better into the future,” said Conservancy Chief Operating Officer, Tim Kielpinski.

Planning for the operation began in earnest in midDecember 2020 with site surveys, design and more.

Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 out of Miramar

safely deployed all personnel and equipment to Catalina in April, carrying out mission-essential training while improving critical infrastructure on the Island.

“Key areas of concern were assigned to Marines, whose work follows best practices and engineering specifications that ideally suit our open space land environment on Catalina Island,” added Kielpinski.

“It was great to see the Marines out here learning and improving, and we got the benefit of having them here and receiving a very good end product.”

Nearly 50 Marines spent six weeks restoring sections of Middle Ranch Road and Airport Road on Catalina.

The logistical challenge allowed Marines, including the project lead of Marine Wing Support Squadron 373, to exercise all of their capabilities.

“This project is a great benefit to the Conservancy and the Marines. We like to call it a win-win. As a not for profit and without a tax base, the Conservancy must find creative solutions to difficult infrastructure issues on Catalina Island,” said Conservancy President & CEO Tony Budrovich.

Marines were stationed at Airport in the Sky with living facilities in the hangar at ACE Clearwater Airfield.

“The road network on Catalina Island is vital for Conservancy conservation, education and recreation programs, as well as Island resources including mail service, airport and key public safety access,” Budrovich added. “The Marines have been a fantastic partner for this roads project and our 2019 ACE Clearwater Airfield repair project, both of which will benefit Catalina Island for years to come.”

5

conservation

SECRETIVE

The

Scripps’s Murrelet Each year, Catalina Island Conservancy performs surveys of the rare Scripps’s Murrelet (Synthliboramphus scrippsi), a unique little seabird listed as threatened by the State of California with a population of only 5,000-10,000 breeding pairs.

The Conservancy typically leads two of these surveys each year, monitoring the same transect between Two Harbors and Twin Rocks in order to gauge population. This is not an easy feat. In addition to spotting birds on the water, murrelet surveys also involve catching and banding individual birds as well as looking for nests.

6

“Scripps’s murrelets are very secretive and spend most of their life out on the ocean,” said Emily Hamblen, Catalina Island Conservancy wildlife biologist.

“These tiny, flying, black and white birds hide from everything. Cats, foxes, rats and mice all pose a threat, whether to the murrelet itself or their

eggs, so the places that they choose for their nests are very hard to find. They are on the steepest slopes tucked deep in burrows.”

a couple hundred’ nesting pairs. The 2021 surveys yielded 19 newly-banded murrelets with 640 observations over 10 surveys.

Nests are difficult to find, and even more difficult to get to. Birds cannot be tagged at their nests because they will abandon their chicks, so biologists use a net to catch birds sitting on the water. Once they catch a bird, biologists gather information and affix a band to its leg.

Continuing studies of these inconspicuous birds is important because they face very real risks.

“Catching them on the water is really the only thing we can do,” said Hamblen, who added that they check each bird’s chest for a brood patch – a spot where they lose their feathers so that their eggs rest directly against the skin to transfer heat more efficiently.

Murrelets, both the Scripps’s murrelet and the Guadalupe murrelet, are spread throughout 12 or 13 islands where they breed. Though impossible to determine an exact count, biologists estimate that Catalina hosts ‘probably

“Seabirds have more challenges because they rely on both ocean and land resources,” said Hamblen. “If something goes wrong in the ocean, such as not having enough food, then the population declines. If there’s development on land and their nest crevasses are filled in, or there are more rats and mice, then they are unable to successfully reproduce.”

Though you may only see them rarely, during a channel crossing or on the water, these resilient little birds have a home on Catalina Island. The more that we are able to study them and protect sensitive areas, the better the chance they have to thrive.

conservation

ENDEMIC FOX P O P U L AT I O N R E M A I N S H E A LT H Y After a successful trapping and vaccination season, the 2020 Catalina Island fox population estimate is in! For 2020, the Conservancy estimates that approximately 1,807 of these endemic icons live on Catalina Island.

No need to be alarmed about the small population drop from last year’s record numbers. Although the fox population estimate is lower than last year, these foxes are still doing great!

“We are close to the carrying capacity of the Island, which is exactly where we want to be,” said Conservancy Wildlife Biologist Emily Hamblen. “The Island’s carrying capacity depends on the amount of food available and other resource availability, which changes each year depending on how much rainfall we get. If we get more rain, we have more food which means we have more fox pups.”

While more than 1,800 is a large number and shows a healthy population, Catalina Island foxes are still considered conservation-reliant as they are very susceptible to novel diseases and predators. In fact, each endemic subspecies of Island foxes on six of the eight Channel Islands are all considered conservationreliant. Simply put, even when at a healthy population size, they require ongoing management and intervention to ensure their survival. In the northern Channel Islands, this includes rehoming new and unexpected predators like the Golden eagles, whereas Catalina’s foxes are vaccinated due to a heightened disease risk from the large number of human and animal visitors.

In recent years, Friends of the Island Fox has contributed vital funds to enable the Conservancy to continue to monitor and assist the healthy population of Catalina Island foxes. This year, they nearly doubled their contribution, helping offset the cost of radio collars, rabies and canine distemper virus vaccines, and serology labs to test for the five common diseases: canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus, canine parvovirus, canine coronavirus and canine herpes virus.

“Friends of the Island Fox is a valued partner in this important work, with their funds helping us continue to assist this endemic, conservation-reliant species,” said Hamblen. “We know how sensitive these island populations of foxes are to new threats, whether that’s new diseases, predators or invasive species. The more attention and funding that we dedicate to these amazing animals, the more likely the population is to stay healthy, ensuring they will be around for the next generation to enjoy.”

Learn more about Catalina Island foxes, and how you can help, at CatalinaConservancy.org

7

conservation

Waging Battle Against

he Conservancy’s Invasive Plant Program (IPP) crew continues to wage the battle against invasive species on Catalina. Years of importing non-native plants to feed grazing animals and landscape homes have introduced more than 76 highly invasive species to the Island.

Without active management, these invaders could overtake native habitats, endangering native plants and animals alike.

The Catalina Habitat Improvement and Restoration Program (CHIRP), of which IPP is a part, actively treats approximately 35 species to keep them from further invading our rare native communities. One of these high-priority invasive species is flax-leaved broom (Genista linifolia), which can be identified by its yellow flowers. Because it is fast-spreading and persistent, with seeds that remain viable for more than 50 years, it presents a clear threat.

In a single day in April, the conservation team pulled 2,207 flax-leaved broom in Cottonwood Canyon. Sr. Director of Conservation Deni Porej joined the team, including four incredible interns, in the field and pulled the largest Genista of the day.

“Removing the Genista from Cottonwood Canyon will ultimately protect not only the riparian area in the canyon, but also the hillsides around it,” said Conservancy Invasive Plant Program Manager Lauren Dennhardt. “By managing invasives, we can pave the way for more native species to root in key locations around the Island.”

This day of work represents only a fraction of the work they do fighting this and other invasive species throughout the year. Thank you to the IPP crew for their hard work in protecting native habitats.

8

conservation

Catalina Island Conservancy is in the process of developing strategic plans spanning the next decade in our key mission areas of conservation, education and recreation. The plans will provide an adaptive framework that can be critiqued, tested, improved and reprioritized as new knowledge, threats and opportunities arise.

The Conservation Plan was recently completed and presents our vision for conservation on Catalina through six areas of work: Animals, Plants, Threats, Cultural Resources, Collaborations and Sustainability.

“Through the plan we show how our daily activities collectively lead to long-term desired outcomes,” said Senior Director of Conservation Deni Porej. “We hope it will help all Conservancy staff communicate and collaborate with agencies, organizations and individuals concerned with our conservation ambitions.”

The plan identified critical threats that undermine long-term resiliency, including limited surface and groundwater resources,

potential wildland fire, the impact of invasive species and the effects of climate change. The Conservancy will continue to focus on species of special concern including populations of all Catalina endemic and state- and federally-listed plant species, and key animal species including the endemic Catalina Island fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). The plan also recognizes the importance of collaboration with local universities, researchers and other partners, as well as identifying, preserving and protecting significant historic cultural resources.

“Finally, it presents the ‘big picture’ of what we want our Island to look like, which will hopefully inspire investment and partnerships on individual projects that contribute to making our vision of future a reality,” added Porej.

Many thanks to Board members Victoria Seaver Dean, Tony Michaels, and Terry Grill for their immense help developing the conservation plan. If you're interested in learning more about the plan, feel free to reach out to the Conservation department. Stay tuned for information about strategic plans for education and recreation in future issues.

9

conservation

oak restoration

in Bulrush Canyon The Conservation team, with assistance from Los Angeles Conservation Corps, recently planted 2,000 Island scrub oak (Quercus pacifica) at four sites in Bulrush watershed.

Island scrub oak is one of two oak species endemic to the southern islands of the California Floristic Province. On Catalina, scrub oak once occupied about a third of the Island’s total area, but over the last 70 years, about 31 percent of that historic range has been lost by gradual dieback. The Conservancy continues to work to restore this unique species on the Island.

The acorns used for this restoration project and methods experiment originated in Bulrush Canyon, the same watershed in which they were placed. The four sites chosen, around 3,000 sq. ft. each, represent two stress levels. The first two sites are in alluvial bottomland, which is traditionally excellent scrub oak habitat. Sites three and four are high abiotic stress, consisting of sloping, exposed mineral soil. These are all “zones where the history of grazing is such that you get into a feedback loop where plants can’t germinate so nothing is holding the soil, then you lose more soil which further impedes germination,” said Conservancy Native Plant Manager Seth Kauppinen. “It’s hard to get out of that cycle.”

10

“When this is all done, we’ll have two replicates of a fully factorial experiment...

We’ll see which method works best in which background, and we’ll have the statistical power to say it’s a real pattern.”

Each site received 500 scrub oaks planted using one of three different methods: bare plantings, planting with Tuley tubes and planting with a Waterboxx. Bare planting is fast and low-cost, but is liable to lead to high mortality. Tuley tubes are still easily installed and help protect from weather and browsing mammals, though take more time and funds than bare planting. Planting with a Waterboxx showcases a new technology.

“The theory is that the Waterboxx should promote survival. They wick water into the ground very slowly so that the plant remains stressed but receives enough water to stay alive. The result is a vigorous seedling with a deep taproot,” said Kauppinen.

Seedling survival will be evaluated at six months, one year and three years.

“When this is all done, we’ll have two replicates of a fully factorial experiment,” added Kauppinen. “We’ll see which method works best in which background, and we’ll have the statistical power to say it’s a real pattern.”

Every restoration project entails a tradeoff between per-plant investment and mortality, but we can maximize the costbenefit function through site and species selection and planting method. The Bulrush experiment is part of a larger restoration project that includes plantings near in and around Little Harbor, funded by the Dorrance Family Foundation and the Harold McAlister Charitable Foundation.

11

education

inspiring 12

For the second year in a row, the Conservancy’s Education Department, with the support of Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, created learning kits for the youth of Catalina Island. This year, we focused on developing Catalina Jr. Naturalists by providing bilingual lessons and activities, species field guides, scientific tools for field study such as a collecting box, and even a flower press to preserve favorite plant specimens from around the community. Kits were provided free of charge to local families with extra curriculum materials as needed to ensure all children in the home could participate.

nature together, on their own schedule, and in whatever location they choose.”

“Our Families in Nature program is so important because it’s focused on serving our local community,” shared Senior Director of Education Dr. Leah Melber.

“We know today’s youth are tomorrow’s Island stewards and creating an appreciation for local ecology is critical. Learning kits that are bilingual and include all necessary materials allow Avalon families to explore

The Conservancy disseminated 100 learning kits that will reach over 200 children as well as their extended family. As one parent commented, “I want to be a kid in nature too!” Having taken place on July 21, the event was a perfect way to celebrate the Conservancy’s 49th birthday by better connecting the community to their Island home.

After sharing news of the event through local media, a station was set up in town to ensure easy access to the materials. Some families were there right as we started, remembering how quickly kits were claimed the summer before. In addition to the many families that came by, the Education staff reached out to local youth groups such as the city’s summer camp program to make sure all 100 kits went home with young learners.

SIGN

education

THIS IS A To go see the new interpretive signage at Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden The Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden has long been a favorite stop for visitors and locals on Catalina, with an average of more than 50,000 visitors each year. With its ample acreage and outdoor setting, it remained a popular spot even with the COVID-19 pandemic. The new Discovery Trail enhances the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden experience.

“The trail focuses on Garden highlights and shares the unique, yet sometimes subtle, beauty of our native species as well as exotic species brought here decades ago,” said Sr. Director of Education Leah Melber.

Some topics include where acorn woodpeckers store their food, how the wispy fruits of the rare Catalina Island mountain mahogany function and spread, and why some plants are protected by cages. Subject matter addresses commonly-asked questions our Garden team hears from visitors.

The Discovery Trail is designed to engage visitors not with reading signs, but to have signage guide guests to look around them for a deeper nature experience. We can’t wait for you to discover the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden in a whole new way!

13

education

continuing your

Catalina

education

T

he Catalina California Naturalist Program, presented by Catalina Island Conservancy in partnership with the University of CaliforniaAgriculture and Natural Resources-Cooperative Extension Naturalist Training Program, was optimized as an entire online course for 2021. The addition of video field trips around Catalina Island and the opportunity to listen to and question expert presenters enhanced the experience for the 36 participants.

“We were able to expand the class to include two sections for the first time, making contact with and providing resources for three dozen people,” said the Conservancy’s Community Learning Manager Hillary Holt, who led the course.

Each class met online weekly as well as participated in discussion boards on key assignments including self-guided local field trips. Holt stated that in their evaluations of the program, people cited interactions with the rest of the class as being a valuable part of the experience.

14

“Being able to meet and interact, albeit online, allowed us time to discuss things that were more intangible like the nuance of interpretation, nature journaling and phenology,” added Holt. “The art and skills of being a naturalist aren’t really something you can capture with bullet points.”

Expert speakers included Catalina Island Conservancy conservation leaders and staff, as well as presenters from partner organizations such as Institute for Wildlife Studies, University of Southern California and Pimu Catalina Island Archaeology Project at Fowler.

The course culminated with students presenting a Capstone Project, the making of which utilized the tools learned during the class. Students tackled topics such as ‘Hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail,’ ‘Bird Monitoring’ and ‘The Ecology of Urban Flora.’

“We work with naturalists to choose a project that they are passionate about and set them up with the resources they need to complete it,” said Holt, who added that the projects needed to fall within the realm of program support, interpretation or education, citizen science, and habitat conservation or restoration.

“Going virtual has allowed us to capture nature lovers of a more diverse demographic throughout the Southern California region including younger, midcareer professionals who were using the class both to develop their personal life and also apply the lessons to their current and future career aspirations,” she added.

“It is always such a joy to instruct a class that brings in so many different perspectives.”

education

E

ducation looked a little different in 2020 and early 2021. Young learners had the opportunity to participate in a variety of virtual Conservancy programs each month, with nearly 900 student contacts and an additional 2,000 visitors to our online learning resources during the 2020-2021 school year.

Through remote programming designed to complement the classroom curriculum, the Conservancy worked with kindergarten through fifth grade students at Avalon School. “Each lesson is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards and the mission of the Conservancy,” said Conservancy Environmental Education Specialist Cressita Bowman.

The Conservancy provided Avalon high school students in the career course with a hospitality video featuring information about and interviews with Eco Tour drivers and helped them practice their interview skills.

Bowman also met with the high school biology students to talk in greater depth about the pesticide DDT and its effect on Catalina.

The Course Catalina program typically reaches three mainland schools each year. Students are taught about the unique place that is Catalina Island through an all-day field excursion and complimentary classroom instruction. Two California schools that had participated in the past, Ross Middle School and Tetzlaff Middle School, were able to join virtually and receive supplemental live online education along with pre-recorded videos. Fairmont Prep High School,

which has an international baccalaureate program, also participated in Course Catalina this year, with students from India, Africa, Vietnam and beyond learning about Catalina.

“The videos were created to help continue our partnership of bringing under-served youth to the Island during a time we could not host them in person,” added Bowman.

Island Scholars, another Avalon school based program, has a traditional focus on field excursions. Nine enthusiastic students opted into the dual monthly Zoom meeting format with assignments, supplemental videos and activities offered on the Canva for Education platform. Despite being online, students learned about the same topics covered and locations visited in a traditional learning year.

“I was blown away by the fact that this year's scholars were there not because they wanted to miss a day of school, but rather because they genuinely wanted to learn more about the Island and its ecology,” said Bowman.

“I was impressed that despite being online all day for school, they would still show up for our online meetings.”

At the end of the course, each participant received a young oak tree from the Ackerman Native Plant Nursery to take care of. In the future, Bowman hopes to be able to bring the students into the wildlands to plant their tree on the landscape.

For more information about youth education programs, visit CatalinaConservancy.org.

15

recreation

HIKING the Island of Laura and Tom Frank have a long history with Catalina, most recently culminating in their first Trans-Catalina Trail adventure. The couple met in high school. Tom brought Laura along in her senior year for her first trip to Catalina, where the Franks have been going for generations.

“We knew Catalina was steep, but we didn’t really appreciate how steep some of those climbs are,” said Tom. They took their time hiking the trail ‘backwards,’ starting at Two Harbors and taking five days to be able to camp at more beach locations.

“We sort of had our budding romance and dates early in our relationship on the Island,” said Laura. She added that Catalina is so special because “it’s easy to get to, but it really transports you.”

“It was definitely difficult, but it was enjoyable the whole time,” added Laura, who said her highlights were seeing “the sweet Island foxes” and their first bison. “What is nice about the trail is, especially as a first-time backpacker, you have support every couple of days. You start in an area with resources [whether Avalon or Two Harbors] and stop at Airport in the Sky. Every couple of days you come to a place where you can take advantage and stock up on snacks and things.”

Considering he and Laura’s formative relationship memories on the Island, Tom thought it seemed like the right thing to do to propose on Catalina.

The couple married at the Trailhead in 2019 with a ceremony on the rooftop deck and reception in the gallery at Toyon Grill.

Though their tropical honeymoon plans were derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Tom and Laura concocted a different sort of adventure to celebrate their one-year anniversary. While Tom had spent time in Avalon and at Camp Fox, hiking the TCT was “somewhat our introduction to a lot of non-Avalon Catalina, as well as backpacking.”

16

The couple prepared on hikes in their local area of San Diego, starting off with shorter trails with their packs before adding weight, distance and rugged terrain.

Tom’s biggest discovery? “Hiking poles, hiking poles, hiking poles.” Tom and Laura only got their hiking poles two weeks before their trip, but now can’t imagine hiking without them.

Tom, and now Laura, have experienced a lot of Catalina throughout the years. “A lot of things change, at the same time the important stuff stays the same, which I think is probably largely thanks to the Conservancy,” Tom said. “I think that’s why we keep going back.”

The couple is now expecting a new addition to their family and is excited to share their love for Catalina Island with the next generation.

1719

Catalina Island Conservancy

Friday, October 8 Aquarium of the Pacific Long Beach Register at CatalinaConservancy.org/Symposium

Artists

TM

John Budicin Marcia Burtt Terri Ford Wyllis Heaton Debra Huse Paul Kratter Tia Kratter Shanna Kunz Kim Lordier Jim McVicker

NOVEMBER 7, 2021 Newport Harbor Yacht Club FREE General Admission

CatalinaConservancy

18

With Support From:

Thanks to our Media Partners:

we had a BALL The Catalina Island Conservancy and more than 500 guests celebrated the 25th Annual Conservancy Ball Under the Stars on Saturday, April 10, held virtually for the first time. Registered attendees joined from more than 20 states across the country, including Alaska and Hawaii. Conservancy supporters, as well as members of Balboa Yacht Club and Newport Harbor Yacht Club, participated in remote watch parties following local COVID guidelines at their facilities or at home.

The interactive experience included Catalina Island trivia, face-to-face virtual lounges, a digital photobooth and more. Guests celebrated "Under the Stars," dressing for the occasion to recreate the Ball experience at home.

Sponsors received themed gift boxes delivered to their doorstep and an optional dinner from Bluewater Grill.

Society Beat was back once again to provide music during the pre-show and kicked the dance party into high gear at the After Party Powered by Edison International.

Through the support of dedicated individual and corporate sponsors, along with one-of-a-kind auction items, including a hand-painted Balthazar of Rusack wine, a tour of SpaceX, guided Island experiences

with Conservancy staff and wellloved Catalina signage, more than $275,000 was raised for the Conservancy’s programs.

“We are thankful for the continued support of Catalina Island Conservancy’s key conservation, education and recreation programs and this incredible annual event,” said Conservancy President & CEO Tony Budrovich. “This digital adventure provided a great way to connect with those who love Catalina and we look forward to being able to celebrate in person sometime soon.”

recreation

President and CEO Tony Budrovich dressed in theme: "Black Tie and Board Shorts/ Ball Gowns and Bunny Slippers."

Over the past quarter of a century, the Conservancy Ball has helped to raise a net of more than $7.8 million. Like many other non-profit organizations, effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have greatly impacted Conservancy operations and supports, the extent of which is still ongoing.

“Your generosity directly supports the Conservancy in fulfilling our mission to be responsible stewards of Catalina Island, keeping Catalina Island accessible for future generations,” added Budrovich.

Please join us in person next year at the Conservancy Ball on April 23, 2022 to celebrate 50 years of protecting Catalina Island.

We are grateful to all our individual sponsors and corporate partners, especially Presenting Partner Capital Group Private Client Services and Shaun and Katy Tucker, Virtual Sponsor Gathering Partner U.S. Bank, and After Party Partner Edison International. We also would like to thank Connolly-Pacific Co., Jordahl Construction, Albus-Keefe Associates, Aon Risk Services, Inc., California Swimrun, Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp LLP, Mutual of America Financial Group, OCDM Direct Mail Marketing, and Rodriguez, Horii, Choi & Cafferata LLP.

19

Board & Staff updates

austin rusack Board of Directors

The Conservancy is pleased to welcome Austin Rusack to the Board of Directors. As part of the Wrigley-Rusack family, Austin has spent a great deal of his life on the Island and appreciates its wild beauty. He has supported the Conservancy for many years including attending the annual ball and contributing to the betterment of Catalina Island through donations to the Conservancy’s conservation and wildlife funds. He has worked in various positions for the Catalina Island Company focused on tourism-based outdoor activities. We look forward to him continuing his passionate stewardship of the Island as part of the Conservancy Board.

maureen ramer Board of Directors

We are excited to announce that Maureen Ramer is joining the Catalina Island Conservancy Board of Directors. Maureen and her husband, Phil, have been Conservancy members for more than 15 years, attending many events including the Wild Side Art Show. She has many philanthropic interests and has served in leadership positions with The Pegasus School, Sage Hill School, Palm Springs Art Museum, Orange County Philharmonic Society and Lido Isle Yacht Club. She is a retired community college educator and administrator. She and her husband are members of the Lido Isle Yacht Club and enjoy learning about wildlife and education programs on the Island.

20

hank hilty Board of Directors

and experience, particularly in the areas of real estate and market conditions, to the betterment of the Island.

“Hank normally stayed quiet in Board meetings until, with great logic and compassion, he made a statement offering a sound solution,” said Catalina Island Conservancy President & CEO Tony Budrovich. “His love for Catalina is strong, and he has made a longstanding positive impact on the Island. It has been a pleasure to work with him through the years and his presence on the Board will truly be missed.”

Henry “Hank” Hilty has been a great contributor to the Conservancy with 10 years of service on the Board of Directors. Since 2011, he has brought valued expertise

Hilty is the Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of A.F. Gilmore Company which, among other things, operates the original Farmers Market and Gilmore Bank in Los Angeles. He concurrently served as a Board Member at the Banning Museum in Wilmington, Calif.

Hilty and his wife Diane have toured Catalina Island with the Conservancy including hiking Ben Weston Beach and participating in many Conservancy events.

Michelle Badders Sr. Director of Human Resources

and high school on the Island, Badders returned after earning her degree in psychology at California State University San Marcos. The Conservancy was her first real foray into human resources.

“I truly have learned more in these last four years than at any job I’ve ever had,” she said. “Even growing up here, I don’t think I realized how much the Conservancy does,” she said. “Learning the inner workings off the maintenance department, what our education team does, how we keep up the trail system – that part is all fascinating to me.”

Senior Director of Human Resources Michelle Badders has left Catalina Island Conservancy after more than four years of leading the company’s recruitment, employee benefits, training and more. After spending junior high

Badders said that something that has not changed since she began at the Conservancy is the great staff. “It’s amazing to me how much everyone is willing to go out of their way to help each other, no matter what department they’re in,” she said. “The people never cease to amaze me.”

21

HONoR ROLL OF DONORS

Listing includes annual support from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020, exclusive of auction items donated to or purchased at the Conservancy Ball and Catalina: The Wild Side Art Show. Gifts listed in descending order of amount.

$100,000 and Above Edison International Geoffrey Claflin and Alison Wrigley Rusack Roger and Sarah Chrisman Offield Family Foundation Steve and Pat Chazen Glanville Grill Foundation Blanny Avalon Hagenah Ahmanson Foundation Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation $50,000 - $99,999 Victoria and Dorn Dean Natural Resources Conservation Service James H. Ackerman Family and Evalyn M. Bauer Foundation Harold McAlister Charitable Foundation The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation $25,000 - $49,999 Maria Pellegrini D. Scott and Tammie Stuart Patrick and Mari McAlister Mervin Moore and Dana Stuart-Moore Donald Slavik Family Foundation Mike and Gloria Sullivan John and Cindy Cotton Shaun and Katy Tucker A.G. Cox Charity Trust Tricia and Will Hagenah

22

$10,000 - $24,999 Capital Group Cal Fire Elliott Family Foundation Ken Putnam Wendy P. McCaw Foundation Earl B. Gilmore Foundation Randy and K.C. Boelsems

Western Los Angeles Council, Boy Scouts of America California Fire Foundation John and Dana Hagenah W.M. Keck Foundation The Hexberg Family Foundation James and Deena Warmington, Jr. Anonymous Julie Ann Wrigley Seaver Institute Andrew and Julia Rose Bonin Howard Higholt David and Elise Swain Doug and Judy Levi Frank and Joann Randall Gardner Grout Foundation Jim and Diane Connelly Stephen and Ann Hinchliffe Stephen and Sue Chandler Steve and Katie High The Louis and Gladyce Foster Family Foundation U.S. Bank $5,000 - $9,999 Rhon Williams and Vickie Ruch Lynne Brickner and Gerald Gallard The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation Larry and Terry Grill Jack and Shirley Herron Thornton S. Glide, Jr. and Katrina D. Glide Foundation REI Geraldine Knatz and John Mulvey Los Angeles County Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn Richard and Elizabeth Steele Fund Alex and Janet Boggs Anonymous Target

Diane Wilkinson Gary and Sandi Hill James Schmidt and Carol More Hans and Dianne Bozler Adrianne Geiger-Dumond, Ph.D. Brett and Trish Bashaw Christian G. Spenker Connolly-Pacific Co. Lamb Family Foundation David and Kathleen Renton Donald and Mary Ann Schoellerman James W. and Anne D. Johnson Family Foundation Johnny Carson Foundation Jordahl Construction John and Julie Dixon Rodriguez, Horii, Choi & Cafferata LLP The Sandra Anne Barr Living Trust Tom and Dana Jacobs $2,500 - $4,999 Friends of the Island Fox, Inc. Bob and Beth Huston David and Virginia Taylor Brad and Karen Baker Merl and Luz Seastrom, Sr. Tim and Sheila Collins Steve and Stephanie Hathaway Crevier Family Fund MATT Construction Zegar Family Fund Bruce and Lisa Gelker Steve and Amanda Calhoun Christopher and Teri Carlson Janice Rutherford Hinds Jessica J. Hibbs Andy and Gaye Saxon Ann Muscat and Jack Baldelli Aon Risk Solutions Ken and Christine Zampese Dennis Jenkins Epson America, Inc.

G.T. and Shannon Frost Graham S. Tingler Greg and Glenda Vanni Bob and Gaye Harris Foundation J.K. and Robin Leason John and Barbara Anglin David Lindquist and Karen Bohan Philip and Holly Shuluk Kevin and Renee MacLeod John and Laurie Romanak Lou and Kyria Waugaman Mitchell, Silberberg & Knupp, LLP Mutual of America The Dubois Family Charitable Fund Georges and Patricia McCormick Richard Woodward Robert Voit Ron and Cheryl Roberts Ruth Caryl Blair Scott and Sue Redsun Stephen and Barbara Barnard Tami Honey Terry Chapman Terry and Debbie Maddox Brian Bissell Todd and Lynne Whitehouse Todd and Tatiana James Tom and Gerda Sparks Trent and Linda Anderson Mary Maguire Terrence Wooten and Danielle Cooper $1,000 - $2,499 Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and Library Del Rey Yacht Club Robert's Home Audio & Video, Inc. Walter Larkin and Susan Clare Gerald Petersen and Gillian Groves Mimi Jones

Kleiner Cohen Foundation Whole Foods Market David and Jeanne Albus Larry and Pam Fortmuller J Bradford and Sarah Barnes Bob and Mai Breech Rick Ingold and Dean Kiser Robert and Sharon Coors Todd and Jean Walker Worthy Forest McCartney Mike and Elizabeth Rabbitt Elliott and Elisa Olson Hank and Diane Hilty Lee Harrison Richard and Becca Waycott Julie and Robert Woolley San Diego Yacht Club Larry and Susan Twomey Eric and Berry Piper OCDM Port of Long Beach Smith-Emery International Stephen Osterman TerraTech, Inc. Tonnage Industrial Ben and Denise Carter Bruce and Katherine Choate Daniel Flynn and Emily Vogler Steve and Lauren Tabor David and Rose Ellen Gardner The Hancock and Julia Banning Family Tyler Thompson Ann Tuskes Alice Badger Allison and Robert Price Family Foundation Cliff Hague Elizabeth Ballentine Elizabeth Moore Frederic and Lucille Ripley Fred Ryan George Suematsu Hemborg Ford Howard and Jeanne Tuttle Jim and Sally McClure

James and Joyce Brown Ryan Family Charitable Foundation Kurt Ransohoff Larry and Jean Tistaert Martin and Bernardine Curtin Nina Whiddon Richard and Geraldine Peckham Roger and Sandy DeYoung Stephen Henry and Rudy Oclaray Susan Latorre Tom and Anita Petersen Tobin Campbell Tod and Linda White William and Kathleen Mudd $500 - $999 Leonard and Brenda Pieroni Curt and Alita Rethmeyer Daniel and Elizabeth Barnes Nelson and Lisa Jones, Jr. Doug and Jeanie Shelton Ed and Mikelle Watson Greg and Madeline Hayward Harvey and Patty Wills Karl and Cheryl Kimme Lee and Loraine Coller Robert Strang Mr. and Mrs. Roy H. Jones Stephen Paljieg and Denise Archambault Marvin Tiano Diana and John James Griffith Jones Dennis and Peggy Moran Gerald and Sue Vickers Joe and Gigi Scully James and Kimberly Watson Stan Williams Andrew Hoover Austin Rusack Barbara Cambilargiu Ben Abrams and Mary Jo Negle Christopher Hilty and Katie Best

Cinde MacGugan-Cassidy and Mike Cassidy Cindy and David Odegard Hunter Rusack Jackson Finlay Jaime and Lynn Coulter Jeanne Beesley and Andrew Tao Michael and Kimberly Mason Parker Rusack Richard and Annetta Townsend Steven and Marta Rocha Michael and Therese Hotvedt Zach and Amelia Erickson Betty and Ralph Ketchum John and Kellie Shultz Bill and Meg Powers John Draper Michael Kilbride Thomas Chang and Claudia Monroy Frank and Kathy of Avalon Gerald and Denise Motter Carl and Kary Fuller Geoff and Barbara Coster John and Nancy Celick Laura and Charlie Tomlinson Allan and Dorothy Abrahamse Barbara Wieland Clifford Russell Daivd and Michele Wilson David and Donna Shockley Elizabeth Madden Gordon Barienbrock Gregory Njoes James Satterberg John and Cyndi Ganahl Judith Longyear Nanci Nishimura, Esq. Otten Foundation Jerry and Pamela Secor Fuscoe Engineering Paul and Polly Stemler Paul and Jackie Neil Peter LaDow

Peter and Cathy Savage Phyllis Ann Rudy Devyn Stewart Scott and Leslie Deardorff Susie and Vicken Haleblian Terry and Elizabeth Schaack Thomas and Evan Corkett Tim and Karen Strelitz Winston and Carlita Fuller

Photo Credits: Cover photo: Jessica Boudevin; Pg. 2: Energized.Edison. com; Pg. 3: (top to bottom, left to right) Glen Gustafson, Catalina Island Conservancy, Laura Frank, Bill Bushing, Jessica Boudevin, Joseph Vickers, Laura Frank; Pg. 4 Glen Gustafson; Pg. 6: Emily Hamblen; Pg. 7: Chelsea Mayer; P.g 8: Jes Stackhausen, Catalina Island Conservancy; Pg. 9: Jes Stackhausen, Ben Dion; Pg. 10: Ben Dion, Jes Stackhausen; Pg. 11: Ben Dion, Damian Morando, Jessica Boudevin, Jessica Boudevin; Pg. 12: Cressita Bowman; Pg.13: (top to bottom, left to right) Jes Stackhausen, Joseph Vickers, Joseph Vickers, Jes Stackhausen, Joseph Vickers; Pg.14; Catalina Island Conservancy, Jack Baldelli, Jes Stackhausen, Jack Baldelli, Ben Dion; Pg.16-17: Laura and Tom Frank (all); Pg.18: Jes Stackhausen, background paintings by Laurie Kersey and John Cosby; Pg. 19: Jes Boudevin, Balboa Yacht Club, Andy Saxon; Pg. 20: Photo provided

by Austin Rusack, photo provided by Maureen Ramer; Pg. 21: Photo provided by Hank Hilty, Steve Tabor; Pg. 22-23: Jes Stackhausen

23

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID SANTA ANA, CA PERMIT NO. 949

Conservation. Education. Recreation.

P.O. Box 2739 Avalon, CA 90704

CONSERVANCY CALENDAR 08 07 23 OCTOBER

Annual Catalina Island Conservancy Symposium Join Conservancy biologists, educators and invited researchers and scientists for discussions of Catalina Island natural history and scientific discoveries at this day-long series of presentations at Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.

Catalina Island Marathon Experience spectacular views while you run through the wildlands of Catalina Island! For more information or to sign up, please visit RunCatalina.com OCTOBER

09

Join us in our mission!

11th Annual Catalina: The Wild Side Art Show This year's show at Newport Harbor Yacht Clubs features 10 nationally-acclaimed plein air artists who will display their interpretations of Catalina's rugged wildlands and scenic beauty.

Proceeds from the sale of these unique paintings support the Conservancy's conservation, education and recreation programs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO CATALINACONSERVANCY.ORG OR CALL 562-437-8555

NOVEMBER

@CatalinaConservancy

Catalina Island Conservancy Ball The 26th Annual Conservancy Ball is back on the Island in the historic Avalon Casino! Join us for one of the biggest events of the year on Catalina Island.

The event is celebrating the Conservancy's 50th Anniversary and promises to be another exciting and elegant evening of dining, dancing, and fun benefitting the Conservancy. For more information, visit CatalinaConservancy.org/ball or call 562.437.8555 x1239.

APRIL

@CatalinaConservancy

Catalina's Future, YOUR LEGACY Join Catalina Island Conservancy's Legacy Society and help us protect Catalina Island for future generations.

Please let us know if you've included Catalina Island Conservancy in your will so that we may recognize your support.

Your legacy gift ensures continued protection of Catalina's wildlands and natural treasures.

To learn more about the Conservancy's Legacy Society, contact Suzy Gardner at sgardner@ catalinaconservancy.org or call 562.437.8555 x1228.

@CIConservancy