Shipley Nature Center
Huntington Central Park
17851 Goldenwest St.
Huntington Beach CA 92647
714-842-4772
shipleynature.org

Shipley Nature Center Shines

By C. MacDonald

As Yellow-Rumped Warblers, Song Sparrows and Red-winged Blackbirds flew overhead, children in bonnets entered Joe's Butterfly House to see Monarchs up close and personal at the annual Shipley Nature Center Open House in the northern section of Huntington Central Park West recently.

There were face paintings, story times, displays on conserving water, Amigos de Bolsa Chica, composting and the value of birds and trees. The HB Tree Society gave away senna trees and Shipley volunteers led fascinating nature tours throughout the 18-acre facility of 50,000 native plants. Former HB Mayor Shirley Dettloff spoke on the History of Shipley” and its value to the community.

We're so thrilled we had such a great turnout. People wanted to see what Shipley is all about,” Dettloff said. This is a real jewel for HB to have land devoted to native plants so children and others can learn what it was like in California 100 years ago. We're also teaching water conservation and how to use beautiful, draught-tolerant plants to beautify your yard.” The Shipley Nursery features such plants for sale and there's even a 1,500-square-foot Interpretive Center nearby.

As kids also learned about local animals and insects, while touring the astonishing habitat, they were shocked by the size and splendor of the Coastal Redwoods, the Torrey Pine Forest and Blackbird Pond in the Fresh Water Wetlands. It's so quiet and pretty here,” said Melissa Soo, 10. You'd think you were a million miles from urban life.”

You can really hear yourself think here,” said HB City Historian Jerry Person. It's a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life and take a relaxing walk amongst nature.”

The spectacular place, which is run by volunteers from the non-profit Friends of Shipley Nature Center, also came alive with the wonderful creative, soothing piano compositions of Danny Barrios. There's nothing like playing piano among the trees in this incredible, natural majestic habitat. I feel truly blessed!” Barrios said.

It was really special having him play,” said Barbara Pearson, co-organizer of the event with Jackie Jones.

You too can experience the magic of a visit to Shipley from 9-1 Monday through Saturday at 17851 Goldenwest Street (at Talbert across from Huntington Beach Central Library); 714-842-4772; ShipleyNature.org. Named for former Mayor Donald D. Shipley, the center opened in 1974.

Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.