COMMUNITY COMMENTARY:

Viewers of Huell Howser’s California’s Gold on Feb. 26 saw what a tremendous ecological and recreational asset the Back Bay is.

This oasis of natural beauty in the heart of Newport Beach is beloved by many who come to ride horses and bikes, run, hike, canoe, kayak, bird-watch or savor the delightful sunrises and sunsets over its tranquil waters. It is also the largest of only a few remaining protected estuaries in Southern California and home to many species of birds, fishes and other wildlife.

Yet, it could have been lost to development more than 40 years ago, had it not been for the efforts of many concerned and dedicated citizens including, most notably, Frances “Fran” and Frank Robinson.

These two “local heroes” began their long, hard battle in 1963 to make certain that Upper Newport Bay would remain a public treasure for future generations to enjoy forever. They were rewarded in 1975 with the creation of the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve, managed by the California Department of Fish and Game.

Fran died in 2001 at the age of 82, and her husband died two years later at 84. They touched and inspired so many people in Orange County, where they are considered the parents of the conservation movement. They exemplified how much concerned and dedicated citizens could achieve. Their contribution will be permanently recognized at a new viewing area called Vista Point, to be built at the corner of Back Bay Drive and Eastbluff Drive.

A groundbreaking ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. today.

The Vista Point location and the groundbreaking date are significant. While the Robinsons and others fought for the public interest, they were also part of the Friends of Newport Bay. This group, a predecessor to the Newport Bay Naturalists and Friends, called public attention to the ecological importance of Upper Newport Bay and undertook a lengthy advocacy of alternatives to its development. The Friends was also at the forefront of environmental education, offering monthly nature tours at the bay starting in late 1968. The site will be Vista Point, and the groundbreaking will coincide with the last Friends Tour of the winter migratory bird season.

If you are interested in learning more about Back Bay life and the Native Americans who lived here for several thousand years, please join us at the corner of Back Bay Drive and Eastbluff Drive. Free, docent-led tours groups depart from the lookout every 15 minutes from 9 to 10:15 a.m. for a short walk along Back Bay Drive. At education stations along the way, subject specialists use exhibits to illustrate their talks.

For more information, please visit newportbay.org.

ROGER MALLETT is a member of Newport Bay Naturalists and Friends