Contrary to opinions expressed by other readers and by this paper’s publisher [Arnold G. York’s Oct. 6 editorial “What Happened to Darwin?”], we think Legacy Park as presently configured is a valuable Malibu asset. Apart from its function as a storm water treatment system, it provides a unique opportunity to see and hear within the city the sights and sounds of a natural environment. It is an oasis of wilderness in an otherwise urbanized setting, a respite from the clamor of the highway and shopping malls surrounding it. For those who prefer manicured lawns, ball fields, picnic tables and a playground, Bluffs Park is just up the road.
Wildlife inhabits the park and sea birds perch on rocks and ducks paddle in the stream and lake. We were recently treated to the sight of two snowy egrets circling the park. Enthralled, we watched as they alighted in the nearby brush no more than a dozen yards from us. They stepped daintily through the growth, their heads bobbing atop long, graceful necks. Such sight a stone’s throw from Pacific Coast Highway and the shopping malls is incredible.
Further, along the path we passed several people scanning the terrain with binoculars, each holding a notebook. Legacy Park has become a birders destination! This is litmus test proof that the park is successful.
Please leave Legacy Park alone. Let it grow wilder, denser and more natural.
Adele and Hank Pollard