In the year 2000, after the Madrona Marsh Nature Center was constructed, a plan was needed for landscaping around the new building. Carol Roelen submitted a letter to the City of Torrance suggesting that California native plants be used in the landscaping, and at the same time recommended hiring landscape consultant Tony Baker of Natural Landscapes to do the creative work. Natural Landscapes prepared a detailed plan utilizing only Southern California native plants specific to our local area such as chaparral and coastal sage scrub. The City accepted Tony’s proposal and the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) generously provided a grant for the project.
The Native Plant Garden was planted and ready for viewing at the Nature Center grand opening in 2001. Under Tony’s expert care, plants thrived and just one year later, the garden had flourished and plants were well established, healthy, and attractive.
After completion of the landscaping project there were MWD grant funds remaining. The Friends of Madrona Marsh suggested that Natural Landscapes write a proposal to use the remaining MWD grant funds for ongoing maintenance, watering, weeding, adding new plants as needed, and generally overseeing the garden. The Friends accepted the Natural Landscapes proposal and a year-to-year contract was initiated with Tony submitting invoices as work was completed.
In 2012, the Friends of Madrona Marsh contracted with Natural Landscapes to restore and enhance the main public entrance to the marsh. Additionally, the three small adjacent “islands” of land just inside the preserve entrance were covered with California native plants specific to our local Marsh site. Tony’s expertise can be seen in the correct use of plants and their proper placement as set forth in the guidelines for the Preserve. He continues to oversee the Native Garden and areas near the Preserve
entrance. As an added benefit, Tony cordially greets Marsh visitors and is always available to answer their questions and offer advice about native plants and natural landscaping projects. If you are visiting the Preserve, look for Tony.
Today, the Native Plant Garden and the welcoming Preserve entrance reflect Tony’s valuable knowledge, his dedication, and his skillful maintenance and care. We all should be extremely proud of his design ideas and diligent work in making the public face of the Madrona Marsh Preserve so welcoming with beautiful California native plants.