Did you know a whole tree could grow from a stick? If you, your family, your service group, or company is looking for a planting project outside, we have a great opportunity for you !
Overview
Over the next 2 years, we're planting native willow trees that will restore vital habitat, improve water quality, and create a healthier, greener space for our community.
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We have a river restoration goal of planting 6,500 willow stakes, over 6 acres in the San Diego River bed.
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And a friendship-building goal of recruiting community volunteers to do it, with training provided by River Park staff.
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How you can help
Team-building
Volunteer Days
Bring your crew out for a hands-on day planting trees along the river. Take photos, have fun, give back.
In-kind support or
sponsorships
Can't make it out or want to help further? Help us cover project costs.
We cannot do this alone, and that’s where we hope you’ll join us. Individuals, families, service groups, and local businesses are all welcome.No prior experience is required — we provide training and tools. And welcome skilled volunteers (chainsaw certification, tool operation) for support with specialized harvesting tasks .
If you and your group have skills, tools, and/or community spirit aligned with this effort, come help! Your support will directly impact our ability to meet this ambitious goal and leave a lasting legacy for the San Diego River and our community.
Progress Tracker
6500
Willow Stakes Goal
XX
Willow Stakes planted so far
XX
percent complete
XX
Volunteer hours logged
Sign Up for
Willow Staking
Instructions:
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Download the General Volunteer Waiver
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Sign and date the waiver
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Complete the form to the left,
and upload your signed waiver
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Click Submit
December Dates
Harvesting / Planting
Fri Oct 10 / Sat Oct 11
Fri Oct 17 / Sat Oct 18
Fri Oct 24 / Sat Oct 25
Fri Oct 31 / Sat Nov 1
*Dates update monthly.
Email / Call Us
Have questions, want to register, or interested in donating tools or in-kind support? Email our Volunteer Coordinator, Melissa, at Melissa@lakesideriverpark.org, or call our office during business hours.
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What to Bring
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Long pants
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Long-sleeved shirt or jacket
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Closed-toe shoes (boots preferred)
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Hat (recommended)
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Plenty of water
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Arrive on time
FAQ
Type of Work
Harvesting native willows, digging, digging, planting, and watering them into their new home.
Tools & Safety
All tools and equipment are provided; volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, bring sun protection & plenty of water.
Participation
Open to all skill levels, individuals and groups. Come for one day or more.
Scope
Purpose
This project strengthens the river’s natural systems by reestablishing dense willow habitat that stabilizes soil, provides wildlife shelter, shades the river, and improves overall watershed health.
Objectives
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Plant 6,500 native willow stakes by 2027
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Engage volunteers in hands-on river restoration
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Provide environmental education and stewardship training
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Offer group and team-building opportunities for service organizations and businesses
Approach
We use a simple, effective restoration method: harvest willow stakes, prepare them, soak them, and plant them into prepared soil. Stakes are cut ½–2 inches thick, 4–5 feet long, soaked for hydration, and planted with two-thirds below ground. River park staff supervise planting and monitor the site until the young trees are established.
This method is accessible for most volunteers, enjoyable to do, and highly successful for habitat recovery. The planting area is visible from the High Trail, so volunteers can revisit and watch their trees grow.
Sponsors
This project is done through volunteers like you, and funding support from
The San Diego River Conservancy