California's only species of pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata pallida) suns Sept. 16 at Aliso Creek. Turtles returned to the restored creek after restoration. by the Laguna Foundation in partnership with the Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District as part of the Orange County County Transportation Authority's M2 program to preserve county natural habitats. At Aliso Creek, managed by the Laguna Canyon Foundation, pond turtles sunned on the rocks amid the lush foliage along the banks. Wildlife has returned to the area. One of the high priorities at Aliso was removing Arundel or giant reed, an invasive grass resembling bamboo that can grow up to 12 inches per day.