(Dec. 2, 2003) -- LB Parks, Recreation and Marine advises that parts of the El Dorado Nature Center's one-mile trail may be closed from December 15 through December 30, 2003 while Southern California Edison crews remove selected eucalyptus trees under power lines along the Center’s western perimeter.

A written release says:

"Each year Edison crews conduct a pruning program to prevent sagging power lines from sparking on the trees and causing fire. In this year’s assessment by Edison, City Arborists and Nature Center Naturalists, trees that were in danger of falling along the trail or that would have to be continually cut to comply with fire safety height requirements were identified. The team noted that damage to habitat, wildlife, and irrigation systems now warrants the removal of those trees that exceed height requirements for planting under power lines."

El Dorado Nature Center naturalist Mary Blackburn says in the release, "We are pleased that Edison has joined with us to act in an environmentally conscious manner and that they will work with us to replant trees and shrubs appropriate to our master plan and their safety requirements."

Parks and Rec says the work should be completed by year end "to eliminate interference with breeding birds and allow for winter planting of the southern California native plants that will provide cover for nesting birds, a foraging area for raptors, songbirds and mammals, and a link to historic San Gabriel River habitat."