Science Pub: SoCal Steelhead at Arroyo Hondo

In February 2025, decades of land and species conservation efforts culminated in the successful release of over 200 critically endangered Southern California Steelhead trout into Arroyo Hondo Creek! Rescued from mudslide-threatened Topanga Creek after the devastating Palisades Fire, they urgently needed a healthy creek to call home. After the release, these resilient fish persevered through the stress of the rescue and successfully spawned in spring.

The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County Land Programs Director Leslie Chan will tell the story of this momentous conservation success and the Land Trust’s Arroyo Hondo Preserve that protects this special watershed. Leslie has enjoyed 20 years in a career that combines her twin passions of natural resource protection and providing opportunities for the human species to develop an appreciation for nature. At the Land Trust, she oversees management of Arroyo Hondo Preserve and hosts educational programs for schools, volunteers, and community groups to learn about and get involved with local conservation efforts throughout Santa Barbara County.

No tickets or reservations needed, but note that Science Pub is a popular program. Early birds get good seats, order food and drink at leisure, and enjoy a raffle to support science education and win Museum swag. Arriving close to 6:30 may land you in an overflow room or without a seat.

This event is part of the Museum’s ongoing Science Pub series of free science talks held on the second Monday of every month. For more information about Science Pub, contact Kelsey Perry at a3BlcnJ5IHwgc2JuYXR1cmUyICEgb3Jn.

Southern California Steelhead photo by Alex Vejar / CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife

You may also like the following events from Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History:

• Next Friday, 5th September, 07:30 pm, Galactic Atmospheres & Galactic Rain in Santa Barbara
• Next Sunday, 7th September, 09:00 am, Donuts & Dinos in Santa Barbara
• Next month, 9th September, 07:00 pm, Align Your Legacy With Your Values: Lunch & Learn Webinar in Santa Barbara, California