Background of the Project

The San Diego River

The San Diego River flows approximately 52 miles from its headwaters near Julian. It passes through the communities of Lakeside and Santee, continues through Mission Trails Park and Mission Valley, and meets the sea at Dog Beach in the community of Ocean Beach. The river has always been an important resource for its communities and in 2003 the State of California established the San Diego River Conservancy to preserve, restore and enhance the San Diego River Area. More information on the San Diego River. . .

Lakeside's River Park Conservancy History Lakeside's River Park Conservancy was founded in 2001. Through donations or purchases of land, restoration, and development of trails and other facilities, LRPC seeks to develop a resource that will enhance the quality of life for Lakeside residents and protect the ecology of the river. In 2006/7 wetlands and flood control were developed and in early 2008 the first phase of a trail from Channel Road to Riverford Road will be open to the public. More on the LRPC. . .

Natural and Cultural Resources

Within the project's segment of the San Diego River, there are numerous hilltop vistas overlooking the river valley. The riparian area is clearly visible by its dense canopy of sycamore, cottonwood, and willow trees and provides habitat for numerous bird and animal species. To effectively expand this limited corridor, the primary focus of riparian habitat restoration and enhancement will be in the areas adjacent to, and south of the river. This expansion will significantly enhance habitat values and natural river functions including improved water quality.

The river has historially been an important resource for the Kumeyaay, a Nation of Native Americans which includes the Barona Tribe. Later, Spanish missionaries also settled along the river, and built the first mission, Mission de San Diego Acala, along the river. Later settlers used the river for agriculture and ranching.

Today the river continues to serve as an important area of riparian habitat as well as a source of water for local residents. More on resources. . .