A BLOOMING LANDSCAPE
The annual bloom of Cherry Blossoms

Los Angeles - The annual bloom of cherry blossoms at Lake Balboa, a City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks’ operated facility in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, is expected to be at its peak viewing from Friday, March 17, through Sunday, April 1 , 2006.

One of the traditional harbingers of spring, this picturesque display of natural beauty is available to visit during daylight hours. The lake is part of Anthony C. Beilenson Park, which is located within the Sepulveda Dam Recreation Area.

The more than 2,000 Japanese cherry blossom trees there are the Pink Cloud variety, which means that they are ornamental flowering trees and not fruit-producing. They were donated by an anonymous Japanese benefactor.

They originated from a single parent tree and were developed to grow in warm climates. The flower has one row of petals in a circular shape, just like those that are found on cherry trees in Japan. The Department of Recreation and Parks began planting them in 1992.

Lake Balboa/Beilenson Park offers a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy. There’s a bicycle path, a separate walking/jogging path, a plethora of picnic areas, and a children’s play area. Water enthusiasts can enjoy pedal boats, kayaking, fishing, and more.

The entrance to Beilenson Park is on the east side of Balboa Blvd., between Burbank Blvd. and Victory Blvd. For more information about the amenities, call (818) 785-5798.


MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jane Kolb: (213)928-9294, or cell, (323)816-6712