A series of anniversary hikes set to begin later this month will mark the 35th year of conservation work by the Escondido Creek Conservancy, as the organization also launches a $1 million matching fundraising campaign to expand its efforts across North San Diego County.
The “Welcome to the Watershed” hike series is scheduled to kick off Sunday, March 29, at the conservancy’s Sardina Preserve, where chaparral expert Rick Halsey will lead participants through the upper reaches of the watershed. The event is designed to highlight the area’s ecology and the role of conservation in protecting native landscapes.
The hike series is part of a broader anniversary initiative that includes what the conservancy describes as the largest fundraising campaign in its history, the organization announced in a news release. A private donor has pledged to match all contributions made in 2026, dollar-for-dollar up to $1 million, with funds intended to support land preservation, habitat restoration, water quality improvements and expanded outdoor education programs.
“With continued growth across North San Diego County, this is a pivotal moment to protect the lands and waters that sustain our communities,” Richard Murphy, president of the organization’s board of directors, said in the news release. “This matching gift campaign allows every donor to double their impact for the future of our region.”
Founded in 1991, the Escondido Creek Conservancy works to preserve the watershed that stretches from inland areas near Lake Wohlford through Escondido and San Marcos to coastal habitats at San Elijo Lagoon and Cardiff Reef. The watershed spans more than 75 square miles and connects a range of communities across the region.
Over the past 35 years, the organization reports it has helped protect more than 7,000 acres of habitat and currently stewards over 3,500 acres for wildlife and ecosystems. It has also provided environmental education to more than 30,000 students and engaged volunteers in restoration and land management projects.
Officials say the anniversary events and fundraising campaign come at a time of increasing development pressure in North County, underscoring the need to balance growth with long-term environmental stewardship.
The conservancy’s stated goal is to protect sensitive habitats, improve water quality and maintain access to natural spaces while supporting both ecological health and surrounding communities.
More information is available at escondidocreek.org/.
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