Photo: MATTHIEU DELATY / AFP / Getty Images
A state-protected bumblebee, known as the Crotch’s bumblebee, is at the center of a controversy surrounding a luxury housing project in the Verdugo Mountains. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) announced plans to conduct another environmental impact report, asking for public input until September 2. The Canyon Hills project, developed by Whitebird Inc., aims to build 221 luxury homes on the hillside above the 210 Freeway in Sunland-Tujunga. The Los Angeles City Council approved the initial environmental impact report for the project in 2005.
Local environmental group No Canyon Hills has been advocating for a new report to fully assess the project's environmental effects. The group presented evidence to CDFW in 2023 showing the presence of Crotch’s bumblebee and other protected species, such as mountain lions, within the project site. Emma Kemp, co-founder of No Canyon Hills, expressed gratitude to CDFW for conducting the supplemental report, emphasizing the importance of addressing the presence of these species.
According to LAist, the report will focus on the impact of the development on the Crotch’s bumblebee, a candidate for endangered or threatened status. The bumblebee plays a crucial role in pollinating fire-resistant plants, such as sage and wild buckwheat, in wildfire-prone areas. Tiffany Yap, a senior scientist at the Center for Biological Diversity, highlighted the bee's vulnerability due to habitat loss and climate change.
Whitebird Inc. is aware of the ongoing environmental review and looks forward to the issuance of the necessary permits. However, Doug Carstens, an attorney working with No Canyon Hills, noted that even if the report finds negative impacts, CDFW could issue an Incidental Take Permit if the project's benefits outweigh its environmental effects.
The development has faced opposition from multiple groups over the years, concerned about overpopulation, traffic, and fire safety. The project site is located in a high fire severity zone. Despite these challenges, Whitebird Inc. remains committed to the project, with plans to begin construction by October 2026.
Here's how you can submit public comment to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife on this issue. They are accepting comments through 5pm on September 2nd. Here's how to submit comments:
Submit via email: R5CEQA@wildlife.ca.gov
Subject line should read: "Canyon Hills ITP - NOP Scoping Comments"
Submit by mail:
California Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Attn: Canyon Hills ITP - NOP Scoping Comments
3883 Ruffin Road
San Diego, CA 92123