Environment
In the Second District, there is a strong commitment to leadership on environmental issues. The environmental crisis is felt most by the poorest among us, and many neighborhoods in the Second District have been burdened by decades of environmental injustice. Creating a more sustainable future can likewise bring great benefit to those most in need: new jobs in the green economy; more efficient products that save money; safer neighborhoods and programs for youth; better health; and investments to rebuild our cities and neighborhoods.
By preparing the County and its municipal partners for the inevitable change brought by new regulations and environmental crises, our residents and businesses can capitalize on new opportunities and prosper in a more sustainable way.
Top Stories

Supervisor Ridley-Thomas Helps Break Ground on Project To Plant 400 Trees in Florence-Firestone Area
Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas joined Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (D-39) and community stakeholders to break ground on a Greening Project to plant over 400 trees in the Florence-Firestone area.
The Supervisor, Congresswoman Sanchez, and Supervisor Gloria Molina partnered with the Los Angeles Conservation Corps to conduct the tree planting project in Florence-Firestone, and expect to plant 400 trees by December 31, 2009.
This project was made possible after Congresswoman Sanchez secured federal funding for the Los Angeles Conservation Crops to hire Florence-Firestone youth, ages 16-24, to work on public works projects identified by community leaders. Supervisors Ridley-Thomas and Molina ensured that funding was available to purchase the California-native trees that will be planted.
Joining the Supervisor Ridley-Thomas and Congresswoman Sanchez were representatives of the Los Angeles Conservation Corps and faculty and students at the Green Dot Amino Pat Brown Charter School.
Onsite to plant the first tree, Supervisor Ridley-Thomas noted, “Trees help to define and foster a sense of community and showcase environmental stewardship. However, this project involves more than just greening. It provides giving youth an opportunity to work, and with that, a sense of responsibility and investment in their community.”
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Supervisor Ridley-Thomas Spearheads "Teach Me to Camp"
Program at Kenneth Hahn Park
Last weekend, families from parks throughout the Second District participated in a "Teach Me to Camp Program" conducted by Outward Bound. This program consisted of a weekend camping trip that was designed to provide urban families with an opportunity to experience nature and gain camping and life skills.
Outward Bound provided all the necessary equipment and delivered a program dedicated to teaching first-time campers proper use of camping equipment, environmental awareness and family teambuilding. The program was sponsored by the Baldwin Hills Conservancy and the Baldwin Hills Regional Conservation Authority.
The weekend festivities included a tour of the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overloook State Park and a visit to the Ballona Creek Wetlands before the families established their base at the Olympic Forrest at Kenneth Hahn Park. Over the course of the weekend, the families participated in several team building exercises, hiked the trails and pitched their own tents. The families all made a commitment to plan their own camping trips in the future.
During his visit , Supervisor Ridley-Thomas was able to see the fun firsthand. "It is though opportunities like this that families are inspired and strengthened".
Stay tuned for additional camping opportunities in the Second District!

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