WhitingRanch.com is not directly affiliated with the county nor Whiting Ranch park. It is, however, a volunteer and community supported website dedicated to sharing our common interest in this little spot of wilderness in our backyard.
What happens next!
Despite the appearance of the blackened hillsides, natural recovery is already underway. The remaining ash contains nutrients that will aid in the regeneration of the affected plant communities.
The heat of the fire activates the germination of many native seeds. Other plants regenerate by root sprouting.
Some of the first plants to reappear on the blackened landscape will be colorful wildflowers.
Over the next few years, the native shrubs (Toyon, California Sagebrush, Buckwheat) will begin to reappear.
As various plant communities regenerate to pre-fire levels of diversity, associated wildlife will return.
What you can do to help!
Respect the wilderness. Please say out of burned areas!
The fire has left the wilderness in a fragile state. Premature access could damage plants that are trying to come back after the fire, as well as further traumatize displaced animals.
Be patient!
All land managers are working together to reopen the park to public access as soon as possible.
Check our website for updated information or call (949) 923-2245
Explore one of Orange County’s other wilderness areas while the park is healing: Aliso & Woods Canyons Wilderness Park (949) 923-2200 Caspers Wilderness Park (949) 923-2210 Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (949) 923-2235 Riley Wilderness Park (949) 923-2265
