Summer Safety Tips
Summer fun awaits on Catalina Island! Whether you plan on hiking, biking or camping in Catalina’s wildlands, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and stay safe.
The following tips can help you be best equipped for your adventure into the interior:

1.  Remember to always bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. On a sunny, hot day, you can lose up to a liter of water an hour just by standing still. The rule of thumb in arid environments is one gallon of water a day for a full day of hiking.

2.   Poison oak is common in Catalina’s canyons and creek beds. It can be identified by having groups of three leaflets. Staying on established trails and wearing long pants and long-sleeve shirts are the best defenses. If you brush against poison oak, wash the affected area as soon as possible.

3.   Maintain distance between you and Catalina wildlife. Not only is distance between you and an animal good for habitat preservation, it also helps keep you safe. Animals like bison can be dangerous if provoked. It is recommended to stay at least 100 feet away from a bison.
4.  Remember that hiking and biking permits are required before you explore the Island’s 165 miles of recreational trails and roads.

5.  Leave no trace. Pack out what you pack in and help keep Catalina Island clean and beautiful.
No matter what your adventure into Catalina’s wildlands includes, our new Trailhead visitor center - opening later this year - will have all the information and merchandise you’ll need to be well prepared and make the most of your time on the Island.
#MyCatalinaAdventure
Social Media Contest
Only five more weeks to find the Conservancy’s #MyCatalinaAdventure Pin Drop. Post a photo with it on social media and you could win some awesome prizes! Full details here
Naturalist Training
with the Conservancy
Every third Wednesday of the month from 8-10 a.m. and 4-6 p.m., we offer Level 1 Naturalist Training at The Nature Center in Avalon. Learn about the natural history and unique ecology of Catalina Island
Upcoming Lecture Series: Invasive Seaweed
Join us on August 31 for our monthly Friday night lecture series. We will be discussing the ecology and spread of the invasive seaweed Sargassum hornei and its effect on the reefs of southern California.