*Please excuse the typo in our recent newsletter, in which it stated that the event was scheduled on April 19th (4/19). The correct date for the event is April 29th (4/29). We apologize for any confusion this may have caused.
Our Headwaters Assessment is an annual event where volunteers survey the headwaters of the San Diego River to collect data that dictates land management decisions in the watershed. This assessment consists of strenuous back country hiking through pristine wilderness. The San Diego River’s headwaters consists of dozens of small streams that flow together to form the 52 mile San Diego River. Volunteers observe threatened and endangered species, hydromodifications, non-native invasive species, and more.
This year we are focusing our efforts on documenting the Southwestern pond turtle (Actinemys pallida), an endemic freshwater turtle in central/southern California. Its population is rapidly declining due to the 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 'Species of Special Concern.' Knowledge of these turtle locations will help us move forward with our management plan to protect them.
The segments we will be monitoring are still being determined. The general meeting location will be near Three Sisters Trailhead in the Santa Ysabel/Julian area. Once the stream segments and leaders have been determined, we will provide you with more detailed information
This event consists of 'moderate' to potentially 'hard' hiking. Many of the streams and tributaries in the San Diego headwaters are unexplored and the terrain in some cases is challenging, uneven, and unknown. Hiking will consist of a mix of on-trial hiking, but more generally bushwhacking. Please wear a hat and sunscreen, long sleeves, long pants and sturdy close-toed shoes. In addition, please bring plenty of drinking water and snacks!
There will be a mandatory virtual training session on April 13th where volunteers will learn about the general aspects of the survey and the river segments they will survey. In addition, we will have an in-person training session on April 22nd, where you will get hands-on training. The in-person training session will go over how to record observations using hand-held GPS devices, etc. If you are not able to make it to either training sessions as the dates do not work with your schedule, we will provide you with the recording of the virtual training session. We look forward to having you join us on this once a year adventure!
