Volunteer: Hike with a Purpose: Headwaters Assessment, Virtual Training - Thursday, 4/2/26Our Headwaters Assessments are an annual survey in which volunteers explore the headwaters of the San Diego River and collect data for our organization and other land managers, such as the U.S. Forest Service. Similar to last year, we are focusing our efforts on documenting the Southwestern pond turtle (Actinemys pallida), an endemic freshwater turtle in central/southern California, along with other threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. Our assessment in April involves strenuous hiking through pristine wilderness, encompassing varied terrain and requiring bushwhacking. During this virtual event, we will cover the basic protocols and procedures for our annual Headwaters Assessment. Volunteers will learn how to observe and record threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. We will also discuss the segment locations that we will be surveying on April 18th. Additionally, we will provide information on basic safety and best practices to minimize your impact while hiking in these pristine areas. The virtual training session will last for one hour. We hope to see you there! If you are unable to attend the in-person training, we have a recorded virtual training available. Follow this [link] for the recording and the presentation from last year.
Program: Research Our Headwaters Assessments are an annual survey in which volunteers explore the headwaters of the San Diego River and collect data for our organization and other land managers, such as the U.S. Forest Service. Similar to last year, we are focusing our efforts on documenting the Southwestern pond turtle (Actinemys pallida), an endemic freshwater turtle in central/southern California, along with other threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. Our assessment in April involves strenuous hiking through pristine wilderness, encompassing varied terrain and requiring bushwhacking. During this virtual event, we will cover the basic protocols and procedures for our annual Headwaters Assessment. Volunteers will learn how to observe and record threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. We will also discuss the segment locations that we will be surveying on April 18th. Additionally, we will provide information on basic safety and best practices to minimize your impact while hiking in these pristine areas. The virtual training session will last for one hour. We hope to see you there! If you are unable to attend the in-person training, we have a recorded virtual training available. Follow this [link] for the recording and the presentation from last year.
Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Apr 2, 2026 Zip Code: 91709 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Hike with a Purpose: Headwaters Assessment, In-person Training - Saturday, 4/4/26Welcome to our annual Headwaters Assessment, where volunteers venture into the headwaters of the San Diego River to gather valuable data for our organization and other land managers! This year, our focus is on documenting the Southwestern pond turtle (Actinemys pallida), an endemic freshwater turtle found in central and southern California, along with other threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. During this in-person training event, we will cover basic protocols and procedures for conducting and recording observations. Volunteers will learn to use handheld GPS devices and cameras for recording observations. Additionally, we will introduce Avenza, a powerful smartphone tool for recording GPS tracks, adding placemarks, photos, measuring distances, and more. Volunteers will be trained to document various aspects, including threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. We will also discuss general safety guidelines and methods to minimize environmental impact while hiking in these pristine areas. The in-person training session will run for two hours, from 9 AM to 11 AM on April 4th. The meeting location is the Mast Park parking lot in Santee, located at 9125 Carlton Hills Blvd, Santee, CA 92071. Please remember to wear a hat, sunscreen, long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy closed-toed shoes. Don't forget to bring water and your smartphone. We look forward to seeing you there! If you are unable to attend the in-person training, we have a recorded virtual training available. Follow this [link] for the recording and the presentation from last year.
Program: Research Welcome to our annual Headwaters Assessment, where volunteers venture into the headwaters of the San Diego River to gather valuable data for our organization and other land managers! This year, our focus is on documenting the Southwestern pond turtle (Actinemys pallida), an endemic freshwater turtle found in central and southern California, along with other threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. During this in-person training event, we will cover basic protocols and procedures for conducting and recording observations. Volunteers will learn to use handheld GPS devices and cameras for recording observations. Additionally, we will introduce Avenza, a powerful smartphone tool for recording GPS tracks, adding placemarks, photos, measuring distances, and more. Volunteers will be trained to document various aspects, including threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. We will also discuss general safety guidelines and methods to minimize environmental impact while hiking in these pristine areas. The in-person training session will run for two hours, from 9 AM to 11 AM on April 4th. The meeting location is the Mast Park parking lot in Santee, located at 9125 Carlton Hills Blvd, Santee, CA 92071. Please remember to wear a hat, sunscreen, long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy closed-toed shoes. Don't forget to bring water and your smartphone. We look forward to seeing you there! If you are unable to attend the in-person training, we have a recorded virtual training available. Follow this [link] for the recording and the presentation from last year.
Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Apr 4, 2026 Zip Code: 92071 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Water Quality Monitoring: West County - Thursday, 4/16/26This event will take place in West County/City of San Diego. Want to make a real impact and explore the San Diego River up close? Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers.
Google: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Apple: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Program: Research This event will take place in West County/City of San Diego. Want to make a real impact and explore the San Diego River up close? Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers.
Google: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Apple: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Apr 16, 2026 Zip Code: 92110 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Water Quality Monitoring: East County - Friday, 4/17/26This event will take place in East County.
Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers. Meet Location Map Links: Google: Mast Park East Meeting Location Apple: Mast Park East Meeting Location Program: Research This event will take place in East County.
Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers. Meet Location Map Links: Google: Mast Park East Meeting Location Apple: Mast Park East Meeting Location Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Apr 17, 2026 Zip Code: 92071 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Hike with a Purpose: Headwaters Assessment - Saturday 4/18/2026Join us for this amazing backcountry adventure as we explore the beauty of the San Diego River's headwaters and collect important conservation data! Do not miss this once-a-year opportunity that is truly one of the most unique and beautiful hikes you will take in San Diego. Our Headwaters Assessment is an annual event during which volunteers survey the headwaters of the San Diego River to gather data that informs land management decisions in the watershed. This assessment involves strenuous backcountry hiking through pristine wilderness, encompassing varied rough terrain and requiring bushwhacking. The San Diego River's headwaters comprise dozens of small streams that converge to form the 52-mile-long San Diego River. Volunteers observe threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. We also collect eDNA samples on each of the sections we survey, which will be used to identify fish species, such as rainbow trout! Similar to last year, our focus is on documenting the Southwestern pond turtle (Actinemys pallida), an endemic freshwater turtle in central and southern California. Its population is rapidly declining due to illegal capturing and collection, as well as threats posed by non-native species. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has classified this species as a 'Species of Special Concern.' Knowledge of the turtle's locations will aid in our management plan to protect them. Join us to take action for the San Diego River and its wildlife! Location: The segments we will monitor are still being determined. The general meeting location will be near Three Sisters Trailhead and Cedar Creek Trailhead in the Santa Ysabel/Julian area. Once the stream segments and leaders are determined, we will provide more detailed information. About the Hike: This event entails moderate to potentially strenuous hiking. Many of the streams and tributaries in the San Diego headwaters are unexplored, and the terrain can be challenging, uneven, and unfamiliar. What to Bring: Hiking will involve a mix of on-trail hiking and bushwhacking. Please wear a hat and sunscreen, long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy closed-toed shoes. Additionally, bring plenty of drinking water and snacks. Training: There will be a mandatory virtual training session on April 2nd (Please RSVP here!), during which volunteers will learn about the survey's general aspects and the river segments they will survey. It will be recorded, so if you can't make the live session, you are required to watch the recorded presentation. Additionally, a highly encouraged in-person training session will take place on April 4th at Mast Park (Please RSVP here!), providing hands-on training on recording observations using handheld GPS devices, etc. If you are unable to attend either training session due to scheduling conflicts, we have a recorded virtual training available. Follow this [link] for the recording and the presentation from last year.
Program: Research Join us for this amazing backcountry adventure as we explore the beauty of the San Diego River's headwaters and collect important conservation data! Do not miss this once-a-year opportunity that is truly one of the most unique and beautiful hikes you will take in San Diego. Our Headwaters Assessment is an annual event during which volunteers survey the headwaters of the San Diego River to gather data that informs land management decisions in the watershed. This assessment involves strenuous backcountry hiking through pristine wilderness, encompassing varied rough terrain and requiring bushwhacking. The San Diego River's headwaters comprise dozens of small streams that converge to form the 52-mile-long San Diego River. Volunteers observe threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more. We also collect eDNA samples on each of the sections we survey, which will be used to identify fish species, such as rainbow trout! Similar to last year, our focus is on documenting the Southwestern pond turtle (Actinemys pallida), an endemic freshwater turtle in central and southern California. Its population is rapidly declining due to illegal capturing and collection, as well as threats posed by non-native species. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has classified this species as a 'Species of Special Concern.' Knowledge of the turtle's locations will aid in our management plan to protect them. Join us to take action for the San Diego River and its wildlife! Location: The segments we will monitor are still being determined. The general meeting location will be near Three Sisters Trailhead and Cedar Creek Trailhead in the Santa Ysabel/Julian area. Once the stream segments and leaders are determined, we will provide more detailed information. About the Hike: This event entails moderate to potentially strenuous hiking. Many of the streams and tributaries in the San Diego headwaters are unexplored, and the terrain can be challenging, uneven, and unfamiliar. What to Bring: Hiking will involve a mix of on-trail hiking and bushwhacking. Please wear a hat and sunscreen, long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy closed-toed shoes. Additionally, bring plenty of drinking water and snacks. Training: There will be a mandatory virtual training session on April 2nd (Please RSVP here!), during which volunteers will learn about the survey's general aspects and the river segments they will survey. It will be recorded, so if you can't make the live session, you are required to watch the recorded presentation. Additionally, a highly encouraged in-person training session will take place on April 4th at Mast Park (Please RSVP here!), providing hands-on training on recording observations using handheld GPS devices, etc. If you are unable to attend either training session due to scheduling conflicts, we have a recorded virtual training available. Follow this [link] for the recording and the presentation from last year.
Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Apr 18, 2026 Zip Code: 92070 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Water Quality Monitoring: West County - Thursday, 5/21/26This event will take place in West County/City of San Diego. Want to make a real impact and explore the San Diego River up close? Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers.
Google: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Apple: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Program: Research This event will take place in West County/City of San Diego. Want to make a real impact and explore the San Diego River up close? Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers.
Google: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Apple: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On May 21, 2026 Zip Code: 92110 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Water Quality Monitoring: East County - Friday, 5/22/26This event will take place in East County.
Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers. Meet Location Map Links: Google: Mast Park East Meeting Location Apple: Mast Park East Meeting Location Program: Research This event will take place in East County.
Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers. Meet Location Map Links: Google: Mast Park East Meeting Location Apple: Mast Park East Meeting Location Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On May 22, 2026 Zip Code: 92071 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: El Capitan Mountain Hike and Wildlife Camera Retrieval - Saturday, 5/23/26Join us this Memorial Day Weekend for a wild and rugged hike into one of San Diego’s most iconic landscapes! This isn’t just a workout—it’s a rare chance to retrieve wildlife cameras that have been quietly capturing the secret lives of mountain lions, gray foxes, mule deer, and even elusive ringtail cats for over three months. We’ll ascend to the top of our property near El Capitan Mountain, hiking a challenging 11-mile out-and-back trail with a total elevation gain of 3,579 feet. Please Note: This hike is strenuous and should only be undertaken by individuals who are comfortable hiking up steep terrain. This hike is rated “Hard” on AllTrails and is not for the faint of heart—but it is for those who love nature, want to contribute to conservation, and are up for an unforgettable experience. For more information about the hike, please follow THIS LINK to the AllTrails website. Once we recover the cameras, we’ll preview some of the photos on-site to see which animals have passed through—offering an exciting look at our local wildlife in action. Why Join?Take part in real science by helping retrieve valuable conservation data Hike a strenuous but stunning trail with breathtaking views of the San Diego River watershed Celebrate Memorial Day weekend in a meaningful way—by giving back to nature Experience one of San Diego County’s wildest, most remote areas, guided by our expert team Get a behind-the-scenes look at how wildlife monitoring happens This Event Is Part of the Warrior Hike ChallengeIn partnership with the County of San Diego’s Warrior Hike Challenge, this event honors the strength and resilience of our military community. Hikers of all backgrounds are invited to test their stamina on what’s known as one of the toughest trails in San Diego. Program: Research Join us this Memorial Day Weekend for a wild and rugged hike into one of San Diego’s most iconic landscapes! This isn’t just a workout—it’s a rare chance to retrieve wildlife cameras that have been quietly capturing the secret lives of mountain lions, gray foxes, mule deer, and even elusive ringtail cats for over three months. We’ll ascend to the top of our property near El Capitan Mountain, hiking a challenging 11-mile out-and-back trail with a total elevation gain of 3,579 feet. Please Note: This hike is strenuous and should only be undertaken by individuals who are comfortable hiking up steep terrain. This hike is rated “Hard” on AllTrails and is not for the faint of heart—but it is for those who love nature, want to contribute to conservation, and are up for an unforgettable experience. For more information about the hike, please follow THIS LINK to the AllTrails website. Once we recover the cameras, we’ll preview some of the photos on-site to see which animals have passed through—offering an exciting look at our local wildlife in action. Why Join?Take part in real science by helping retrieve valuable conservation data Hike a strenuous but stunning trail with breathtaking views of the San Diego River watershed Celebrate Memorial Day weekend in a meaningful way—by giving back to nature Experience one of San Diego County’s wildest, most remote areas, guided by our expert team Get a behind-the-scenes look at how wildlife monitoring happens This Event Is Part of the Warrior Hike ChallengeIn partnership with the County of San Diego’s Warrior Hike Challenge, this event honors the strength and resilience of our military community. Hikers of all backgrounds are invited to test their stamina on what’s known as one of the toughest trails in San Diego. Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On May 23, 2026 Zip Code: 92040 Allow Groups: No |
Volunteer: Water Quality Monitoring: West County - Thursday, 6/18/26This event will take place in West County/City of San Diego. Want to make a real impact and explore the San Diego River up close? Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers.
Google: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Apple: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Program: Research This event will take place in West County/City of San Diego. Want to make a real impact and explore the San Diego River up close? Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers.
Google: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Apple: SDRPF Office Meeting Location Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Jun 18, 2026 Zip Code: 92110 Allow Groups: Yes |
Volunteer: Water Quality Monitoring: East County - Friday, 6/19/26This event will take place in East County.
Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers. Meet Location Map Links: Google: Mast Park East Meeting Location Apple: Mast Park East Meeting Location Program: Research This event will take place in East County.
Our dedicated team collects samples at 9 locations in East County and 7 locations in the City of San Diego, led by our fantastic volunteer leaders. Volunteers drive between locations and take short walks to each sampling site. If you are over 18, carpooling options may be available, or you can drive your own car. RSVP is required to ensure we have the right number of volunteers. Meet Location Map Links: Google: Mast Park East Meeting Location Apple: Mast Park East Meeting Location Program: Research Community Event Type: Volunteer Date: Happens On Jun 19, 2026 Zip Code: 92071 Allow Groups: Yes |