San Francisquito Canyon

San Francisquito Canyon. Drinkwater Flat. , San Francisquito Canyon is located within the Angeles National Forest. The canyon is characterized by unique geology, a perennial creek that hosts sensitive plant and animal species, and vital water infrastructure. , , The Los Angeles Aqueduct transports water through the canyon. Two hydroelectric power plants operated by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) have been producing electricity for Los Angeles since 1917. The canyon is also the site of the 1928 St. Francis Dam disaster, a tragedy which claimed hundreds of human lives. , , San Francisquito Canyon Road connects the community of Green Valley with Santa Clarita. Many designated roads and trails within the canyon are popular among hikers, cyclists, and OHV enthusiasts. , , photo captions: , The Los Angeles Aqueduct runs through San Francisquito Canyon transporting water hundreds of miles away, from the Eastern Sierra to Los Angeles. , , The 2002 Copper Fire destroyed the Hazel Del Mining Camp, a historic structure from the early 20th century. , , The 2002 Copper Fire , The Copper Fire was started by sparks from a welding torch. Approximately 20,000 acres of National Forest System lands were burned - including much of the San Francisquito Canyon watershed. The fire and subsequent flooding impacted cultural resources, plant communities, and endangered animal species found only in Southern California. The fire also destroyed homes and damaged important infrastructure including the aqueduct and transmission lines that deliver power to Los Angeles. The postfire flooding caused so much damage to the San Francisquito Canyon Road that a major reroute was required. , , In many cases, plants and streams were able to recover after the fire without any intervention. However, there are times when help is needed to ensure the recovery of healthy plant communities and streams. The U.S. Forest Service, in collaboration with numerous partners has been working to help improve fire impacted habitats in the canyon. Some of the restoration projects have included planting shrubs and trees, and removal of invasive plants and animals that pose a threat to the native species living in the canyon. There have also been pools created and barriers removed so that fish can move freely throughout the stream.