Type: report

Article abstract: The San Diego River Watershed contains approximately 440 square miles, consists of numerous native plant and wildlife species and an estimated 900 acres of invasive non-native plants have been mapped. Stretching from the Pacific Ocean at Mission Bay to the headwaters near Julian, California, the San Diego River Conservancy (SDRC) has regional jurisdiction to partner with other governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations to preserve, protect, restore and conserve lands as well as natural and cultural resources within the watershed. Throughout the watershed, invasive non-native plants such as giant reed (Arundo donax), castor bean (Ricinus communis), saltcedar (Tamarix spp.) and Mexican fan palm (Washingtonia robusta) have displaced native riparian vegetation, degraded sensitive species’ habitats, depleted water resources, impeded infrastructure and altered fire risks putting the public health and properties at risk. SDRC started the San Diego River Watershed Invasive Non-Native Plant Control and Restoration Program in 2009 with the goal of improving these conditions. Since then, more than 50 acres have been biomassed and with funding from SANDAG’s TransNet Environmental Mitigation Program FY 2010, SDRC expanded these project areas to restore more riparian habitats.