Real Story: Gene and Connie Stannard

How long-time Portola Hills residents turned a fire-risk headache into a stunning, low-maintenance landscape — hand-laying 12,000 pounds of river rock along the way.

Emily Spradley

March 10, 2026

Table of Contents

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The Stannards have lived in Portola Hills since 1992, adjacent to Santiago Canyon's natural landscape. After fires in 2007 and 2017, a 2020 blaze threatened their property line. When their homeowners insurance faced cancellation, they took action.

The couple removed 1,325 square feet of lawn using a rented sod cutter. They hand-laid 12,000 pounds of river rock across three dry creek beds, built berms for water capture, and propagated succulents for color. Connie noted: “We did everything except the drip irrigation.”

Gene frequently declines neighbor requests for yard help, instead offering guidance. His advice: “Be smart and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

Disclaimer The Yardtopia™ Initiative does not sell landscaping materials, plants, or pet products, and receives no compensation from manufacturers, nurseries, or retailers. Recommendations are based solely on safety, performance, and suitability for Southern California conditions. Before starting any structural or landscaping project, check with your homeowner's association (HOA) for community guidelines. Always consult a licensed professional for electrical, plumbing, or structural work.

Reviewed By

Emily Spradley

B.A. Environmental Studies, CSUMB

Expertise

Environmental education and science communication

Highlights

B.A. in Environmental Studies from California State University, Monterey Bay
Former Environmental Educator at Georgia Aquarium with hands-on STEAM curriculum experience
Communications professional at one of Orange County's top marketing and creative agencies

Overview

Emily Spradley is an environmental studies professional and communications specialist who brings a rare combination of hands-on conservation experience and strategic storytelling to Yardtopia. With a background spanning environmental education, marine science interpretation, and brand communications, Emily bridges the gap between complex environmental concepts and the accessible, actionable guidance homeowners are looking for. She currently develops strategic content and brand narratives at one of Orange County's top marketing and creative agencies.

Education & Experience

Emily holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB), where her education emphasized community-engaged research, science communication, and place-based learning in California's coastal ecosystems. As an Environmental Educator at Georgia Aquarium, she developed and delivered hands-on STEAM curriculum for audiences from Pre-K through 12th grade, translating conservation messaging into experiences that inspired real environmental stewardship. She also completed an internship at Monterey Bay Aquarium and brings brand communications experience from her work with TravisMathew, a premium lifestyle brand.

Projects

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Real Story: Gene and Connie Stannard

Emily Spradley

Expertise

Highlights

Overview

Education & Experience

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