Our Mission

We advocate for the full protection of the Bolsa Chica and educate our community about its ecological value.

Our values

Integrity

We have a moral obligation to protect and conserve our coastal ecosystems for generations to come.

 

Science

Our culture is data-driven, where evidence informs our decision making and guides our action.

Accountability

We recognize our responsibility as citizens to hold public officials accountable for their actions.

 

Tenacity

We have always remained resolutely committed to our vision and purpose.

Our commitments to the community

The Amigos de Bolsa Chica recognizes that environmental health is a universal concern. We are dedicated to ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and encouraged to participate in preserving our planet’s threatened ecosystems, regardless of demographic factors, physical abilities, personal beliefs, or identities. These lands belong to every member of our community, and as stewards, we believe in equitable access for all.  We acknowledge that certain groups may require additional support to fully participate, and we are committed to providing that support.

As an organization, the Amigos de Bolsa Chica pledges to foster a base of volunteers, employees, and a board of directors that reflects the diversity of our community. We recognize and aim to address systemic issues that may create barriers to inclusion. Our commitment extends to ensuring that our educational and outreach efforts are accessible to the entire community. We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

The Amigos de Bolsa Chica acknowledges that we are a part of a long history of those who have supported the Bolsa Chica. Before the arrival of European settlers, the Tongva and the Acjachemen peoples inhabited this land and have never ceded nor forgotten their responsibilities as its caretakers. We recognize that we benefit from learning on their traditional homeland. We honor and pay respect to the Tongva and Acjachemen communities and their ancestors by affirming their sovereign rights. As guests on this land, we acknowledge their enduring stewardship. 

Although our chapter in Bolsa Chica’s history is relatively short, we are proud to continue preserving and protecting this natural and cultural landscape for future generations.

Formed for a singular purpose

Since 1976, the Amigos de Bolsa Chica has championed environmentalism in southern California from the grassroots level. Watch “Saving the Bolsa Chica” to see how it all began.

Our History

“I used to tell people that the Bolsa Chica has been in its natural state for thousands and thousands of years. The impact of man just started in the late 1800’s when the dam was built.”

— Charles Falzon, Amigos President Emeritus

 
 
1899

On October 17, 1899, the Bolsa Chica Gun Club opened its doors for the first time…

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1920

By the 1920’s, Huntington Beach had struck oil. In 1923 alone, more than 33 million…

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1940

When Japan entered World War II in 1941, the U.S. Army chose the Bolsa Chica mesa…

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Our Board of Directors

President: Mel Nutter
Vice President: John Carter
Secretary: Judith Huck
Treasurer: Brian Westcott
Immediate Past President: Charles Falzon

Board Members: Nancy Boyd-Batstone, John Carter, Barbara Delgleize, Jerry Donohue, Dean Elder, Craig Frampton, Terry Jorris, David Laksy, Vic Leipzig, Daryth Morrisey, Thomas Pfeifer, Jennifer Robins and Jim Robins

Directors Emeritus: Dave Carlberg, Margaret Carlberg, Shirley Dettloff, Charles Falzon, and Bill Stern