ENCINITAS
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OFFICE OF THE MAYOR of The CITY OF ENCINITAS
The Escondido Creek Conservancy 35t Anniversary
WHEREAS, in 2026, the Escondido Creek Conservancy proudly celebrates 35 years of active habitat restoration, environmental conservation, fostering stewardship, outdoor education, and community engagement, sustaining a lasting legacy of protecting the natural resources and open spaces that enrich North County San Diego; and
WHEREAS, since 1991, the Escondido Creek Conservancy has advocated for the restoration and preservation of local ecosystems, connecting more than 30,000 students to nature through environmental education programs has protected over 7,000 acres of wildland in perpetuity, and currently manages over 3,000 acres that span from the top of Lake Wolford down to the San Elijo Lagoon; and WHEREAS, the Escondido Creek Conservancy's conservation efforts link and protect inland natural areas, urban communities, and coastal habitats, reflecting that healthy watersheds, thriving wildlife corridors, and clean waterways are essential to the environmental health, quality of life, and biodiversity throughout San Diego; and
WHEREAS, by protecting natural spaces upstream and throughout the watershed, the Escondido Creek Conservancy helps reduce runoff and pollution entering the Escondido Creek, flowing through the San Elijo Lagoon, and entering Cardiff Reef, thereby enhancing water quality, protecting valuable coastal resources and species, as well as educating communities that upstream watersheds flow directly into the ocean; and
WHEREAS, the LeoMar Preserve in and near the City of Encinitas, now encompassing more than 278 acres, serves as a critical wildlife conservation corridor, connecting a chain of protected lands, helping to preserve native habitats such as the disappearing Coastal Sage Scrub, and support the movement and survival of rare and sensitive species, including the Coastal California Gnatcatcher; and WHEREAS, through partnerships with public agencies, foundations, private landowners, donors, volunteers, educators and various community members, the Escondido Creek Conservancy continues to advance its mission of conservation, habitat restoration, environmental education, and watershed protection from ridge to reef; and
WHEREAS, during this milestone year, a generous private donor has pledged to match every donation dollar-per-dollar up to $1 million, doubling the impact of every contribution, accelerating land conservation, transforming outdoor education and directly supporting restoration at a critical moment for our region.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Bruce Ehlers, Mayor of the City of Encinitas, along with all the City Council Members, value natural landscapes and hereby congratulate The Escondido Creek Conservancy on the celebration of its 35th Anniversary and commend the organization for its extraordinary and vital commitment to protecting open spaces, preserving wildlife habitat, enhancing water quality, connecting communities to nature, and ensuring that future generations may enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant ecological richness of our region.
Dated this 26th day of August 2026
Bruce Ehters
Mayor
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Jim O'Hara Lyndes
Deputy Mayor Council Member
Luke Shaffer