THOUSAND OAKS : Groups Interested in New Indian Museum

Two national conservation groups have expressed interest in developing a museum of Indian art and culture in Thousand Oaks--especially if the renowned Southwest Museum comes to town.

Representatives from the National Audubon Society and the Cousteau Society recently visited Thousand Oaks to talk about establishing a regional museum to capitalize on Ventura County’s Indian heritage.

“We want to protect endangered cultures as well as endangered species,” said Jan Beyea, vice president of the New York-based Audubon Society.

Along with the two environmental groups, a wealthy Ventura County resident who has asked for anonymity might be willing to start a small museum by donating a private collection of Indian baskets, said Councilman Frank Schillo.

“It’s a very intriguing proposal,” Schillo said.

The city has already begun trying to woo the Southwest Museum, which is considering moving its world-class collection of Indian artifacts from its cramped Highland Park facility.

Council members will tour the existing museum and invite Southwest officials to look at up to half a dozen possible sites in Thousand Oaks, including 10 acres on the Civic Arts Plaza grounds.