Activists In Marina Del Rey Rally To Save Hundreds Of Trees

MARINA DEL RAY (CBSLA.com) — A small but vocal crowd rallied in Marina del Rey Saturday afternoon in an effort to save hundreds of trees from being cut down.

The group of protesters gathered in the 4200 block of Admiralty Way at noon to voice their disapproval.

They say they've watched this past week as crews have cleared hundreds of trees and shrubs from Oxford Lagoon as part of a renovation project in the flood control basin area.

The renovation includes the creation of a walking path around the lagoon, as well as, improvements for runoff and flooding.

The removal of the trees and shrubs, the county says, is to make way for additional plants and, eventually, a recreation area.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe's office sent CBS2 a statement that indicated they've held dozens of community meetings and most are in favor of the cleanup effort.

Opponents, however, disagree.

"We want it restored. We want community involvement. We want the trash taken care of and removed. They should remain a bird refuge. It shouldn't become a recreational area," said Doug Fay, an environmentalist.

Since 1963, the 10-acre lagoon has been designated a bird conservation area, which provides shelter and food to nesting birds, Monarch butterflies, and other wildlife.