For years Beth Shibata (Class of '90, M.A., English/Linguistics/TESL) wondered what the mysterious patch of land in the middle of Sepulveda Boulevard in Torrance was until she saw Madrona Marsh on a broadcast of “Visiting... with Huell Howser” Growing from a single trailer across the street from the last vernal marsh in Los Angeles County to a 8,000 square foot interpretive center and research facility the Nature Center provides education on the numerous varieties of wildlife and vegetation that still exist in the South Bay area, programs that promote a sustainable lifestyle, and inspiration for artists like Shibata, a nature photographer and writer.