About Us
Did you know there are more types of wildlife at risk of going extinct in San Diego County then any other place in the USA? Did you know that the first permanent European settlement on the west coast of the USA was along the San Diego River and that Native Americans have lived along the River for perhaps 10,000 years or more? These two significant facts guide the San Diego River Park Foundation. We are dedicated to protecting both the historical and natural resources along this magnificent River.
Imagine 300 foot waterfalls privately owned at risk of being developed. Imagine a river with so much history being abandoned and polluted. Imagine an organization dedicated to organizing the community to make a difference not only for nature but also for the community where they live and work.
The San Diego River Park Foundation is a small grassroots 501c3 public benefit organization with a big name and an even larger dream. We invite you to join us!
Who We Are
We are an action oriented organization with a motto of "action and engagement." We work toward meaningful actions designed to create a 52 mile long river park system and to protect the open spaces around it. Our volunteers are out every week picking up trash, surveying open spaces, planting trees and much, much more. We believe that engaging people in the beauty and value of nature will create stewards for tomorrow.
Our Organization's Mission
To create the San Diego River Park, to protect the natural and cultural resources of the San Diego River Watershed and to engage the public in stewardship of these valuable resources.
Who We Serve
We like to say, "we serve people, wildlife and water." We serve the 500,000 people that live in the area that drains into the river, we serve the millions that live within a short drive to our beatiful mountains, coastal canyons and thriving estuary. We serve people of all ages, with perhaps special attention toward children.
Our Programs
1. Land Acquisition
2. Volunteer Service Program
3. River Monitoring System
4. Special Projects which celebrate the River
5. Youth Education Through Service
Upcoming Events
March 7 Fundraiser to support Volunteer Programs
March 15 - 16 RiverBlitz!
April Eagle Peak Preserve Dedication Celebration
May 10 -18 San Diego River Days
September: 7th Anniversary Celebration
Leadership Profile
Our Executive Director is Rob Hutsel, a passionate, driven leader who was one of our founders. He is a hands-on person often found knee deep in mud picking up trash or out leading tours.
Board of Directors
Joan Embery
Dr. Kurt Benirschke
Michael Beck
Jo Ann Anderson
Charlie Berwanger
Sam Duran
Janie DeCelles
James Ryan
Jim Peugh
Board of Advisors
The organization has created a committee of 68 non-governmental organizations interested in the future of the River to serve as advisors and as partners
| Year Founded : |
2001 |
| 501(c)(3) Ruling Year : |
2002 |
| Full-Time Employees : |
2 |
| Volunteers : |
3,000 |
| Annual Income : |
$338,000 |
| Amount Spent Fundraising : |
$15,000 |
What Sets Us Apart
We are the only organization dedicated to the entire San Diego River. We have a diverse board of directors including the San Diego Zoo's Wildlife Ambassador Joan Embery, a founder of the Center for the Reproduction of Endangered Species Dr. Kurt Benirschke, well known artist and architect James Hubbell, local environmentalists and community leaders.
Objectives for This Fiscal Year
Acquire 750 Acres of Land
Organize 20,000 hours of volunteer service
Initiate the exciting Discovery Center Project
To address the impacts of the recent devasting wildfires which burned 20 miles of the river
Recent Accomplishments
Acquisition of 200 acres of critical wildlife lands under the threat of development;
Initiation of restoration of 5 acres of wetlands;
Surpassing 10,000 hours of volunteer service organized in 2007
