Encanto Nature Walk and Bioswale

The City of Duarte commissioned BlueGreen Consulting to design and oversee construction of the Encanto Nature Walk and bioswale. The project includes improving a quarter mile reach of trail along the San Gabriel River with interpretive signage, native plantings, and a river overlook. The trail connects to the San Gabriel River regional trail system. A 1000-foot long bioswale was constructed along the western edge of Encanto Park to solve the 11-acre site’s challenging drainage issue. Notable features include an outdoor classroom overlooking an infiltration basin, natural stone benches, colorful native habitat plantings, drip irrigation, a decorative wood bridge, and decomposed granite trails with metal edging. Custom interpretive displays include signage, information kiosk, and metal bird sculptures. The project offers educational and recreational opportunities for local residents and visitors. The bioswale improves water quality, reduces erosion, addresses local drainage issues, and provides habitat.
Client: City of Duarte
Size: 1/4 mile trail connected to the San Gabriel River regional trail system
Location: Duarte, California
Completed: 2011
Funding: San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy (RMC)

Kids navigate the new park on opening day.

Boulder lined walking path and boulder bench adjacent to the Encanto Nature Walk bioswale.

Bioswale at Encanto Nature Walk, Duarte.