By SDCN Staff
Escondido, CA–The Escondido Creek Conservancy raised over $100,000 for its second annual Outdoor Education programs at an event on October 25, organizers said.
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and a $50,000 matching gift, the conservancy will expand access to outdoor learning opportunities for more children and families throughout the Escondido Creek watershed.
Nearly 100 guests gathered at Mountain Meadow Preserve for a day filled with family-friendly, eco-conscious activities, including gentle yoga, interpretive hikes, nature art, local vendors, and special presentations. Highlights included a workshop on smartphone photography in nature and a keynote presentation on California Mountain Lions by Fernando Nájera, DVM, Ph.D., director of the UC Davis California Carnivore Project.
“Building on the success of last year’s event, which raised $50,000, we are thrilled to double our impact for 2025,” said Ariel Reed, Education Director. “With grants being the primary source of funding for our outdoor educational programs, support for this year’s event is even more critical to sustaining these activities, which reach over 7,000 North County community members annually.”
Funds from the 2024 event supported the launch of two new educational initiatives: the High School Habitat Restoration Field Trip Program and the Adopt-A-Plot Habitat Restoration Program, which collectively served 200 students just in their first year. Proceeds also helped construct the new Swenerton Education Center at Mountain Meadow Preserve and sustain long-term programs like the Third Grade Habitats Field Trips, which engage nearly 2,000 students each year.
“This event offered guests the perfect opportunity to experience one of our beautiful preserves and connect with other nature-loving community members, all while supporting environmental education,” said Ann Van Leer, Executive Director. “Our goal is to expand access to these programs and engage more schools, students, and families across North County to help preserve native habitats and landscapes along the Escondido Creek watershed.”
At this year’s event, the Conservancy also celebrated the official opening of the Swenerton Education Center, which debuted on August 15. Named in honor of longtime supporter, former principal, and past board member Jeff Swenerton, the center offers a scenic outdoor space for events and hands-on conservation learning. The milestone project exemplifies the Conservancy’s mission to connect the community with nature and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
Established in 1991, the mission of The Escondido Creek Conservancy is to preserve and restore the Escondido Creek watershed. Flowing from the mountains above Lake Wolford in Escondido to the San Elijo Lagoon and shores of Encinitas and Solana Beach, the Escondido Creek watershed encompasses over 75 square miles of land in North San Diego County. The Conservancy’s vision is to serve as a model of vibrant urban communities and viable natural ecosystems thriving together.
