About the Discovery Center Authority
Purpose
The Discovery Center will present the story of the San Gabriel River watershed, emphasize the importance of water resources and the natural values of the watershed, and provide educational and outdoor experiences for people of all ages. The Center will also continue the cultural, natural history and ecosystems messages; and outdoor experiences presented by the L. A. County Department of Parks and Recreation at the existing Nature Center. The following statements will guide the Authority in its development of the Center.
Mission Statement
To inspire environmental stewardship by providing accessible and engaging watershed and environmental education to the public.
Vision Statement
We envision a healthy and vibrant natural area and center where people gain the knowledge and desire to improve the San Gabriel River region.
Organization
The Discovery Center has been in the planning and conceptual design phase for over 10 years. The Discovery Center Authority, a Joint Powers Authority, was created in in order to make the Center a reality. Its member agencies are:
- Central Basin Municipal Water District
- Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation
- San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy (RMC)
- Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District
The Joint Powers Authority Agreement (29 page, 1.8 mb PDF file) is the adopted agreement that outlines what and how these organizations will work together. All member agencies have adopted this agreement.
The community was also involved in the creation of the Discovery Center via the following stakeholder committees:
- Stakeholder Advisory Committee
- Fundraising Committee
- Design/Display Committee
Our Plans
The San Gabriel River Discovery Center is being planned to complement the existing Whittier Narrows Nature Center and enhance this unique site located on Durfee Avenue within the Whittier Narrows Flood Control Basin and Recreation Area in Los Angeles County [map (external)].
The development of the San Gabriel River Discovery Center involves a highly collaborative process linking numerous federal, state and local agencies in cooperation with public institutions, private groups, and the local community. Learn more about our initial plans, our updated plans, as well as related plans for larger areas that are being developed by other organizations.
Funding
Current contributions to the project total: $9,850,000 and approximately 11.5 acres. More details