Move beyond mown turf grass and include a variety of native plantings to create inviting spaces within parks.
Plantings should include native perennials, grasses, shrubs, and trees. This is an opportunity to strengthen Los Angeles’s relationship with natural systems and to develop new approaches for City-owned and -managed parks. Planting variety will help the City adapt to climate change, sustain ecosystem services, expand biodiversity, invite educational programming opportunities, and provide for the recreational use and enjoyment for generations to come. Consider partnering with local native nurseries to provide plants and specialized training for park staff and community members on native plant care and maintenance.
Promote the planting, preservation, and maintenance of canopy trees.
Established canopy trees are not easily replaceable. They are long-term assets that provide lasting environmental, social, and health benefits. In addition to expanding a diverse urban forest across parks and trails, existing trees should be carefully protected and preserved during park improvements or new facility development to sustain and maximize the value of the city’s urban canopy. The removal of non-native or dying trees should be carefully evaluated to ensure support of long-term ecological health and canopy resilience.