The Ellwood butterfly groves have been closed by the City of Goleta due to the danger of falling trees. Approximately one-tenth of the eucalyptus in the groves were reported dead recently. Trails through the various groves at Ellwood Mesa now have signs posted that indicate which are off-limits. Several along the outer edges to and across the mesa are open to give access to the beach.
The city will hold a public forum on tree health and trail closures on Wednesday, July 26, 5:30-7 p.m., Goleta City Council Chambers, 130 Cremona Drive, Suite B. More information, heard by the City Council from its consultants on Tuesday, is available here.