Resources

Natural Resources

Within the project's segment of the San Diego River, a narrow riparian wildlife corridor exists. 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 following species have been observed in the project area: four species of amphibians - one of them is listed as endangered, the Arroyo Toad (Buffo californicus), seven species of reptiles, six species of mammals including a species of special concern - the San Diego back-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus bennettii), and 65 avian species.

Two bird species are on the endangered species list - the least Bell's vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) and the southwestern willow flycatcher (Epidonax traillii extimus), and four others are considered sensitive - the double crested cormorant (Phalocrocorax aurtitus), Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii), yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia), and the yellow-breasted chat (Icteria virens).

Yellow-breasted chat

Cultural and Historical Resource

The Kumeyaay, a Nation of Native Americans which includes the Barona Tribe, has historically utilized the San Diego River as a resource. It was an integral part of their daily community living, used for hunting, fishing and food gathering, and tribal rituals. Spanish missionaries also settled along the river, as it was an important drinking and irrigation water source.

Mission de San Diego Acala was the first mission built in the U.S. (then Spanish territory); it was built on the San Diego River, as was the missionary's first irrigation dam, or Padre Dam. Pioneers and settlers used the San Diego River Valley extensively for farming, cattle ranching, and sand mining, uses that continue today along the river and into the back country of the County.

Scenic Resources

There are numerous hilltop vistas overlooking the river valley as the San Diego River runs through Lakeside. The riparian area is clearly visible by its dense canopy of sycamore, cottonwood, and willow trees. Adjacent to the river however, are sand mining operations which currently create an alternate landscape.

As sand mining operations come to a close, Lakeside's River Park Conservancy plans to improve the health and scenic quality of the river valley. In addition to habitat restoration, acquired parcels on the north side of the river will function as community park, with space for both active and passive recreation.