A Brief Look at the Catalina Island Conservancy

Avalon Harbor is one of Southern California's most alluring locations and is home to many of the Catalina Conservancy's events.

Founded in 1972 as a non-profit organization, the Catalina Island Conservancy hosts programs that protect and restore endangered species and threatened habitats. The island remains as the one of the oldest private land trusts in Southern California.

Before its foundation, William Wrigley bought a controlling interest in the Santa Catalina Island Company in 1919. He received the island along with the company and began improving the island with new steamships, a hotel, the Casino building and many trees. Wrigley's goal was that Catalina Island be protected for all generations to enjoy. He also started on one of the most successful chewing gum companies in the world. His son, Philip Wrigley, would continue his father's legacy by donating his family's ownership of Santa Catalina Island to the Conservancy.

In February, over 500 volunteer scuba divers collected trash and interesting treasures in Avalon Bay on Catalina Island. Prizes are given to divers who retrieve the oddest, oldest and most valuable finds.

Proceeds of the event benefited the USC Catalina Hyperbaric Chamber and the Catalina Conservancy's Robert R. Given Fund for Ocean Conservation and Educational Outreach. The event's sponsors are also a key part of the underwater cleanup's success. Many companies, including Scuba.com, proudly participated in the event. If you would find out more about the event, check out their website.