Recovery in Action
Pomona Corpsmembers spent several months working along the Chaney Trail in Altadena rehabilitating damaged portions of the popular hiking, horseback riding, and mountain bike riding trail.
One year after wildfire burned through Los Angeles, the Altadena community is finding new footing with the help of CCC Pomona Corpsmembers. Chaney Trail – a popular hiking spot – is getting restored, bringing recreation opportunities and a sense of normalcy back to the area.
“I want this place to be ready for people to enjoy like how they used to before (the wildfire), to recover the beauty that it once had,” said Corpsmember Juan Argomainz. “It’s an honor to be a part of a project to really help those that were affected.”
The goal of the Chaney Trail project is to reconnect the community with nature in their own backyard. Improvements will create safer access for hikers, while also supporting local wildlife which migrates through the trail corridor. It’s an endeavor that is physically demanding yet mentally rewarding.
Trail Team Work
Pomona Corpsmembers worked in small teams to tackle various elements of the trail restoration project, to ensure water flowed off trail without severely damaging it.
“I felt like I had more to give as a person,” said Corpsmember Ella Ehlert. “This is giving me a sense of fulfillment. That’s been really nice.”
More than ten miles of trail in Altadena were damaged by the Eaton Fire. With the loss of vegetation and stabilizing ground cover, several sections of the trail became rutted or washed out during the rainstorms that followed. By repairing trail tread and constructing drainage dips, young adults in the CCC are building a more resilient path that can redirect water flow and withstand future storms.
“This is my very first trail project. And to be honest, it’s been such an amazing experience,” said Juan. “I’m kind of glad that I was thrown into it, getting all the knowledge that I can.”
Like Puzzle Pieces
Pomona Corpsmember Ella Ehlert moves a rock into a place while creating a wash pan along the Chaney Trail to ensure water flows safely off the trail without damaging the tread.
The technical work – creating proper slope and drainage channels – requires patience, precision, and teamwork. Guided by LA County Parks & Recreation staff, the Corpsmembers are refining their skills and gaining deeper appreciation for sustainable trail design.
“It’s just like putting a puzzle together and making sure the pieces fit in. When you get the perfect pieces to fit, that’s so nice.” said Ella.
Once complete, Chaney Trail will serve as a place for reconnection, recovery, and healing for the community and landscape itself.
