Tuesday, May 2, 2017




We, the undersigned, request the City of Los Angeles and the DWP (Department of Water and Power) to establish a Wildlife Sanctuary within the current boundaries of the Silver Lake Reservoirs.
By preserving the open waters of the Silver Lake Reservoirs and their surrounding acreage as a sanctuary, this will create a protected habitat for migratory birds and urban wildlife, to be enjoyed by all.
CURRENTLY:
The Silver Lake Reservoirs have been permanently taken offline from the City’s drinking water system. Water from the Eastern Sierra snowpack is being used to refill the Reservoirs, and existing ground water from the nearby Pollock Wells will be used to keep them replenished.
BRIEF HISTORY:
Silver Lake is known to naturalists as a "nature hotspot." Over 140 species of birds have been sighted here, along with the raccoons, opossums, skunks, coyotes and bobcats that have long been part of Silver Lake's ecosystem within the Reservoirs' area.
Additionally, Silver Lake has been a vital link in the Pacific Flyway for 100 years, connecting bird habitats from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego in Patagonia. The Reservoirs’ quiet, protected expanse has provided life-sustaining food and rest to thousands upon thousands of migrating birds each year; among them, the Canada Goose, the Bank Swallow—an officially threatened species in California—as well as Buffleheads, Great Blue Herons, American Pelicans, American Wigeons, White-faced Ibis, Northern Pintail, and beloved Mallard Ducks.
Silver Lake has one of the rare bodies of fresh water large enough to host many flocks alighting at once. Everyone who loves experiencing Silver Lake's nature will know that a Sanctuary will preserve the Reservoirs as a protected habitat for urban wildlife and a critical resting place for migratory birds.
THEREFORE:
We request that the City of Los Angeles and DWP immediately support the establishment of a Wildlife Sanctuary within the current boundaries of the Silver Lake Reservoirs, thereby protecting this precious place for the animals who make their homes here, and ensuring this tranquil oasis is preserved for the benefit of the community and the entire city.
Note:
• We are not requesting any city funds for this Wildlife Sanctuary.
• We fully support the amenities that currently exist around the Reservoirs, such as the meadow, the walking paths, the dog park, the recreation center, the tots playground, the basketball courts, and the pocket park on Tesla. (While not an “amenity,” we also support the neighborhood Nursery School there.)
---------- SIGN HERE https://www.change.org/p/let-s-establish-a-silver-lake-wildlife-sanctuary
This petition will be delivered to:
  • Chief Operating Officer, DWP
    Martin Adams
  • Managing Water Utility Engineer, DWP
    Susan Rowghani
  • Senior Assistant General Manager - Water System, DWP
    Richard Harasick
  • Councilman, 4th District
    David Ryu
  • Councilman, 13th District
    Mitch O'Farrell
  • Chief of Staff, CD4
    Sarah Dusseault
  • Chief of Staff, CD13
    Jeanne Min
  • Field Deputy, CD4
    Adam Miller
  • Field Deputy, CD13
    Mary Rodriguez