4 Ways to Enjoy the San Diego Estuary! 🌿 Let’s take a moment to appreciate the natural treasure that is the San Diego Estuary — the final stop of the 52-mile San Diego River where it meets the ocean. This highly sensitive habitat supports endangered and native species, stores carbon, reduces flood risk, filters pollutants, and controls erosion. Without our help though, these ecosystem services can dwindle. So how can you enjoy and help protect this special place? 1. Go Birding! 🐦 There are many native bird species that reside here, such as the endangered Least Tern and Ridgway’s Rail. Conservation efforts and community awareness are crucial in protecting these birds and their habitat. 2. Admire the Native Plants 🌼 Look out for rare species like Nuttall’s Lotus, federally listed as critically imperiled due to habitat loss and invasive species. 3. Take a Walk (and bring your furry friend with you!) 🚶‍♀️🐶 Enjoy both the fenced and paved trail system — just remember to stay off protected areas to avoid disturbing plant and wildlife. 4. Volunteer with Us! 🌱 Join one of our habitat restoration events every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month to remove invasive species and to learn more about this amazing ecosystem. 🪻Sign up at https://sandiegoriver.galaxydigital.com Together, we can protect this vital natural space! (fb)

Here is a BIG shoutout to our amazing volunteer, Alexis Gonzalez! 🙌🌿 Alexis originally joined us as a habitat restoration volunteer, but his skillset expands beyond the field. He also supports our team with graphic design, helping expand our digital reach and making even more of a positive impact for the San Diego River! Last Fall, he attended our volunteer chainsaw training, and ever since, he’s been hard at work removing large invasive trees from the riverbed. Thanks to his efforts, there is now more space for the native trees to flourish! Alexis has shown consistent dedication and passion as an environmental steward and is a natural at engaging the community with the outdoors! Thanks to Alexis for making an IMPACT and being a valued member of our team! (fb)