CONSERVATION PROGRAMS

Scientists monitor water quality in the lagoon.

San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy protects and restores the resources of San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, its watershed, and related ecosystems for the benefit of current and future generations.

In support of this mission, our conservation programs are summarized below. We invite you to explore each area for more information about the conditions of the reserve:

LAND STEWARDSHIP

San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy owns several parcels within the 915-acre reserve. These areas were acquired in the last decade for the protection of threatened and endangered species. We work with private property owners and local jurisdictions to minimize development impacts on lands adjacent to the watershed.

Learn more about reserve properties acquired to support sensitive and endangered wetland species.
Become familiar with land stewardship terms.

HABITAT RESTORATION

Since the Conservancy’s founding in 1987, a biological management plan for continued restoration of the reserve has included annual breaching of the lagoon’s inlet to create natural tidal flushing. Other restoration projects focus on invasive plants control. Monthly Volunteer Restoration projects tackle disturbed areas of the reserve for invasive plants, removal of trash, trail maintenance, and other as needed during the seasons. Habitat Restoration Programs include:

SCIENTIFIC MONITORING
Day-to-day, conservancy scientists are in the field monitoring the conditions of six plant communities and supported wildlife. These field reports contribute to data critical to Southern California Coastal Wetlands Recovery Project (a collaboration of 19 agencies and five coastal counties of Southern California) and to strategic planning for San Elijo Lagoon Restoration Project. Please also visit:

CONSERVATION PROGRAMS

California Environmental Quality Workshop
Jan. 26: 9 am-3:30 pm
MiraCosta College, San Elijo Campus

Join the Planning and Conservation League Foundation for a workshop presenting the Community Guide to CEQA. Register online or call (916) 822-5633. Workshop is led by Board Member Kevin Johnson. Download PDF flier.