Community Events From: The San Diego River Park Foundation

Looking for a fun beautification project to impact your local community? Look no further, as San Diego River Park Foundation is always blooming with projects!

The location we are targeting is Cottonwood Grove within Mission Valley Preserve, located in the heart of Mission Valley. This 50 acre preserve is a city managed park ripe with environmental, educational, interpretive, and fitness possibilities. Our project will focus on the interpretive area where the San Diego River Park Foundation is advocating for #Connect_the_trail - We must close the critical West Valley Crossing gap in Mission Valley to fully connect the San Diego River Trail & Bikeway, creating a secure, continuous, safe path that expands public access, transportation and recreation to river-adjacent areas. Click here to find out more information on Connecting the Trail.

Activities may include trimming, pruning, weeding, path maintenance, plant sign installation, painting, bench repairs, and more! The preserve is also open for tours down to the San Diego River at this time. These events will be guided by SDRPF staff or volunteer led and all tools will be provided. Please wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get a little dirty. Sun protection and a reusable water bottle are a good idea too! You're welcome to bring your own gloves, but it is not required.

PARKING: Park near the baseball diamonds at Sefton Park. Address is 2508 Hotel Circle Place, San Diego, CA 92108

Do you cycle, skate, or scoot? Join us for a tour of the San Diego River to learn about flora, fauna, and how to become an advocate for your community.

We will begin at Sefton Park, with a stop at Cottonwood Grove for a guided nature talk, proceeded by an optional trail skate to Robb Field & back. (5.2 miles round trip total/2.6 miles one way)

Event Itinerary

10am: Roll out from Sefton Park Baseball Diamonds to Cottonwood Grove

10:15-11am: Guided nature talk at Cottonwood Grove from Cory & Learn How to be an Advocate for your Community!

11am-12:30pm: Trail Skate led by avid roller skater and SDRPF staff member Die from Cottonwood Grove to Robb Field and Back (5.2 miles round trip total/2.6 miles one way)

12:30-1pm: Meet at Cottonwood Grove, Final Thoughts, How to Stay Involved

1pm: Event concludes

Location

Sefton Park, 2508 Hotel Circle Pl., San Diego, CA 92108

Look for the San Diego River Park Foundation Banner

PARKING: Park near the baseball diamonds at Sefton Park.

NOTE: The bike path we will be using is the most rough from Sefton Park to Cottonwood Grove and gets significantly smoother between Cottonwood Grove and Robb Field. If you are skating, we highly advise you to bring gummy/soft wheels and knee pads/wrist guards at minimum.

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All Wheels Welcome

photos by @chris.parkes.photo

Help us provide free hands-on nature-based STEM learning experiences to deserving kids.

Imagine a role where you can combine your love for the great outdoors with your enthusiasm for sharing knowledge! As an Environmental Education Docent, you will have the opportunity to inspire children of all ages through engaging, hands-on experiences in nature and help them become environmental stewards.

At this information session, we will talk about helping in our educational programs that empower local students and community members to explore the beauty of the San Diego River. You will work alongside dedicated individuals who share your passion for the outdoors and contribute to meaningful citizen science efforts.

Imagine guiding a group of students as they discover the fascinating wildlife of the river, observe invertebrates up close, or learn how to identify various bird species. Your passion for nature can ignite curiosity and wonder in young minds, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the environment.

Whether you are a seasoned nature lover or just beginning your journey, there is a place for you in our volunteer community. Join us in making a positive impact, and together, we can nurture a deeper connection between people and the natural world around us. Let’s inspire the next generation to love and protect the San Diego River!

Light snacks and beverages will be provided for event attendees, thanks to our community supporters!

Care Kits include new travel sized hygiene items and non-perishable snacks for our neighbors living in the river. R.A.F.T. team members distribute Care Kits to our neighbors experiencing homelessness and use them as an engagement tool to build relationships.

Below are suggested items for women’s and men’s care. The most useful way to assemble and distribute these items is in 1-gallon plastic bags. You are welcome to personalize kits with note cards, but we ask that you refrain from including personal contact information.

Women’s Hygiene Items: Please include essentials such as dental items (i.e. toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash), anti-bacterial wipes, feminine hygiene products (i.e. pads, tampons, deodorant, razors, and shaving cream). Other helpful items include women’s socks, underwear, hand sanitizer, balm, lotion, sunscreen, shampoo & conditioner (dry shampoo is preferred), nail clippers, hair ties, and a comb.

Men’s Hygiene Items: Please include essentials such as dental items (i.e. toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash), anti-bacterial wipes, hygiene products (i.e. deodorant, razors, and shaving cream). Other helpful items include men’s socks, underwear, hand sanitizer, balm, lotion, sunscreen, shampoo & conditioner (dry shampoo is preferred), nail clippers, and a comb.

Non-Perishable Snacks: Please include snacks such as granola bars, mini cereal boxes, nuts, dried fruit, crackers, pretzels, jerky, and mini water bottles.