Starting today, Friday, March 20, most Catalina Island Conservancy facilities and services will be closed until April 30, according to a written statement issued by the Conservancy.
“This is uncharted territory and a continually-developing situation. Effective immediately, the Conservancy is closing all visitor facilities and services through April 30,” said Tony Budrovich, Catalina Island Conservancy president and CEO.
“We are working with other major businesses on the Island including the Chamber of Commerce, Catalina Island Company, Catalina Express, the City of Avalon and Edison in order to make good decisions that help ensure the health and safety of the public, residents and all those who love Catalina. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time,” said Tony Budrovich.
The Catalina Island Conservancy continues to strive to be a responsible steward of our lands, staff and visitors. As the Conservancy monitors the latest updates from the CDC, WHO, State of California, LA County, and the city and business community of Avalon, the Conservancy is trying to make sustainable, collaborative decisions for our island and community.
The Conservancy takes the health and safety of the public, staff and residents very seriously.
Effective Friday, March 20, 2020 the Conservancy visitor facilities and services will be mostly closed to the public.
The Conservancy plans for this public closure to continue through Thursday April 30, 2020.
Closed
• Trailhead, including Toyon Grill
• Eco Tours of the interior
• Nature Center – An Educational resource
• Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden
• Airport public facilities (manager present for landing aircraft)
• DC-3 Grill take out only, fully closed effective 3/22
• Wildlands Express shuttle (Avalon to Two Harbors)
Campgrounds
• Hiking and Biking
• Biking in the wildlands is limited to current permit holders
• Hiking Trails remain open in and around Avalon for day hikes. We believe that hiking is an acceptable means of safe exercise.
• No services or food available other than markets in both Avalon and Two Harbors. Please be aware that Catalina Express will be moving to a reduced schedule effective March 19, with no boat service to/from Two Harbors after Sunday, March 22.
• Rangers will remain on patrol of the interior of the Island
• In addition, all Conservancy events, including group educational activities, Naturalist Trainings and the Last Friday Lecture Series, have been canceled for March and April.
The written statement from the Conservancy said, “We know how many of you cherish Catalina Island and the respite that nature provides. We appreciate your support and understanding during this public health crisis. We look forward to all of us being able to enjoy Catalina Island again soon and hope to share with you our dedication to our mission of conservation, education and recreation.”
