Science Pub: SoCal Steelhead at Arroyo Hondo

At Dargan's Irish Pub & Restaurant, 18 E. Ortega Street

In February 2025, decades of land and species conservation efforts culminated in the successful release of over 200 critically endangered Southern California Steelhead trout into Arroyo Hondo Creek! Rescued from mudslide-threatened Topanga Creek after the devastating Palisades Fire, they urgently needed a healthy creek to call home. After the release, these resilient fish persevered through the stress of the rescue and successfully spawned in spring.

The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County Land Programs Director Leslie Chan will tell the story of this momentous conservation success and the Land Trust’s Arroyo Hondo Preserve that protects this special watershed. Leslie has enjoyed 20 years in a career that combines her twin passions of natural resource protection and providing opportunities for the human species to develop an appreciation for nature. At the Land Trust, she oversees management of Arroyo Hondo Preserve and hosts educational programs for schools, volunteers, and community groups to learn about and get involved with local conservation efforts throughout Santa Barbara County.

No tickets or reservations needed, but note that Science Pub is a popular program. Early birds get good seats, order food and drink at leisure, and enjoy a raffle to support science education and win Museum swag. Arriving close to 6:30 may land you in an overflow room or without a seat.

This event is part of the Museum’s ongoing Science Pub series of free science talks held on the second Monday of every month. For more information about Science Pub, contact Kelsey Perry at kperry@sbnature2.org.

Southern California Steelhead photo by Alex Vejar / CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife, Arroyo Hondo photo by Leslie Chan