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Madrona Marsh

One of the last vestiges of the extensive marshland that once covered Southern California coastal plain

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What’s Happening at the Marsh

Upcoming nature experiences at the Madrona Marsh

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Discovery Zone – Explore, Discover, Wonder!

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Welcome to the Discovery Zone at Madrona Marsh — a hands-on space where young explorers can learn about nature through play, curiosity, and discovery! Kids can touch, observe, and investigate real objects from the marsh, including feathers, seeds, animal tracks, shells, and plant samples. Interactive displays and simple science activities help children learn how plants

Night Hike

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Go to https://torrance.rec.us and search “Night Hike” to register for a session.  Must be 17 or older to register. Times vary each month. No walk-ins. Visit the Madrona Marsh Preserve as the sun sets and day turns into night. Observe and listen to the sounds of animals and insects as they begin their nightly activities. Come

Junior Naturalist Camp

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Welcome to the 2026 Junior Naturalist Program for students entering grades 6–8 in September 2026. The program will take place at the Madrona Marsh Preserve and Nature Center, located at 3201 Plaza del Amo, Torrance, CA 90503. For additional information, please call 310-782-3989.   We are very excited that your child will be participating in
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Latest News & Articles

  • Remembering Bart Tendick

    I was just thinking about Bart Tendick and couldn’t help but smile. I can still see him—not much taller than his students—enthusiastically leading tours through the Preserve. It is also moving to remember his 60+-year marriage to his beautiful wife, Kathy.

 Starting in the 1980s, Bart and Kathy were instrumental in raising awareness about the biological and historical importance of the Madrona Marsh Preserve. As educators—Bart taught Biology and Chemistry…

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    Remembering Bart Tendick

Our story of conservation and community

For over fifty years, Friends of Madrona Marsh has been a critical force in preserving this unique urban wetland. We work closely with the City of Torrance to protect and celebrate this natural treasure.

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Winding pathway through native garden at Madrona Marsh Nature Center

Our Core Focus

A successful partnership of life, community, and the City of Torrance.

Protecting a vital urban wetland

Conserving native habitat and supporting local wildlife.

Engagement with Community

Offering tours and events to connect people with nature.

Community-Based Projects

Supporting local hands-on conservation efforts.

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Be Part of Our Conservation Story

Your support helps us protect and preserve this urban wetland ecosystem

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Friends of the Friends of Madrona Marsh

Local Organizations that also support nature and work with The Friends of Madrona Marsh

Palos Verdes Land Conservancy

Palos Verdes Land Conservancy

Palos Verdes / South Bay Audubon Society

Palos Verdes / South Bay Audubon Society

South Bay Parkland Conservancy

South Bay Parkland Conservancy

International Bird Rescue

International Bird Rescue

California Native Plant Society - South Coast Chapter

California Native Plant Society - South Coast Chapter