San Dimas Experimental Forest
Established in 1933, the San Dimas Experimental Forest, which consists of 17,000 acres just north of Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne, and Claremont, seems to be a mystery to most local residents. Thanks to my conversation with US Forest Service Physical Scientist Pete Wohlgemuth, this episode attempts to shed light on the history of the forest as well as some of the important research that has been conducted right here in our own backyard.
Links for this episode:
US Forest Service San Dimas Experimental Forest
“Swath of forest above San Dimas has colorful scientific history,” San Gabriel Valley Tribune, April 29, 2012
“A Little-Known Treasure in Our Mountains: The San Dimas Experimental Forest,” by Ted Trynza, Sustainable Claremont, March 18, 2016
vanessa villagran
Interesting! I knew about the forest but it was nice to learn about some details and facts. Thanks!
Isabel in San Dimas
Thanks, Vanessa! I thought it was pretty fascinating too–I definitely learned something new. Best, Isabel
Bob Walters
I lived in the forest 1947-1951. It had an impact on my development (4th thru 8th grade), providing many adventures and opportunities to interact with nature. Very rustic living with only electricity and a wood stove for comfort, not even plumbing other than a pipe from a spring. But they were good years for me.
Isabel in San Dimas
Wow, Bob, thank you for sharing! I had no idea people could live there for an extended period of time. Were your parents scientists or researchers? I would love to hear more about your experiences if you would want to share them. Best, Isabel
Nancy Allen
I lived in San Dimas Canyon from 1979 thru 1992. Rustic living, we had electricity indoor plumbing and wood stove for heating until 1989 when we finally installed propane heating unit. There was a homeowners association to maintain the waterline and dirt road as in the winter the roads would wash out with rains that would sometimes flood the canyon. Living in the main fork we would be able to walk to our cabin until the roads were put back in. In 2002 most of the cabins were destroyed in a fire in September. Winter rain and mudslides destroyed many more cabins. Now there are no cabins left.
Isabel in San Dimas
Wow, thanks for sharing about your experience!