San Diego, CA, December 13, 2025
SANDAG partners with local nonprofits to restore vital coastal habitats in San Diego, focusing on the protection of endangered species like the California least tern. Key projects, including the San Dieguito Lagoon Wetland Restoration Project, aim to establish safe nesting areas and enhance public access while addressing future environmental challenges. This initiative highlights the intersection of ecological preservation and community engagement in San Diego.
San Diego, CA: Collaborative Efforts Restore Coastal Bird Habitats
San Diego, CA – In a concerted effort to protect endangered bird species, the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) has partnered with local nonprofits to restore vital coastal habitats along the San Diego coastline. This initiative aims to provide safe nesting areas for migratory birds, particularly the California least tern, which has faced habitat loss due to urban development.
Restoration Projects Underway
Key projects include the San Dieguito Lagoon Wetland Restoration Project Phase II, which began construction in January 2022 and is anticipated to be completed by summer 2024. This project focuses on establishing coastal salt marsh wetlands and associated habitats within the lagoon, covering approximately 154 acres east of Interstate 5 and adjacent to the San Dieguito River. The restoration efforts aim to create a sustainable system prepared for future sea-level rise and anticipated flood conditions, while also improving trail connectivity and public access in the San Dieguito River Park at the San Dieguito Lagoon.
Collaborative Partnerships
SANDAG’s TransNet Environmental Mitigation Program has been instrumental in these restoration efforts, acquiring and restoring more than 9,215 acres of native habitats within the region. This program works in partnership with local jurisdictions and nonprofits to protect and enhance sensitive habitats, ensuring the survival of native species and the overall health of the ecosystem.
Background Context
The California least tern migrates to San Diego every April, nesting along the coast. However, over the years, development has reduced the availability of suitable nesting sites for these birds. In response, SANDAG and local nonprofits have undertaken habitat restoration projects to create and preserve areas conducive to the terns’ nesting and survival. These collaborative efforts are part of a broader regional plan to conserve and restore habitats for various endangered species, ensuring the protection of biodiversity along the San Diego coastline.
Key Benefits of the Restoration Efforts
These restoration projects not only serve to protect endangered species but also foster greater community engagement in environmental preservation. The involvement of local businesses and nonprofits promotes a spirit of collaboration that aligns with entrepreneurial values. The ability to innovate while being mindful of ecological sustainability illustrates how local stakeholders can contribute to both economic growth and environmental health.
Community Impact
The San Dieguito Lagoon initiative and related projects are also expected to enhance local tourism and recreational opportunities. Improved trail connectivity and public access will undoubtedly attract residents and tourists alike, adding a boost to local businesses that thrive on foot traffic. This approach highlights the reciprocal relationship between economic development and environmental stewardship, demonstrating that protecting natural resources can yield tangible economic benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the San Dieguito Lagoon Wetland Restoration Project Phase II?
The San Dieguito Lagoon Wetland Restoration Project Phase II is a restoration initiative that began construction in January 2022 and is anticipated to be completed by summer 2024. The project focuses on establishing coastal salt marsh wetlands and associated habitats within the lagoon, covering approximately 154 acres east of Interstate 5 and adjacent to the San Dieguito River. The restoration efforts aim to create a sustainable system prepared for future sea-level rise and anticipated flood conditions, while also improving trail connectivity and public access in the San Dieguito River Park at the San Dieguito Lagoon.
How is SANDAG involved in habitat restoration?
SANDAG’s TransNet Environmental Mitigation Program has been instrumental in these restoration efforts, acquiring and restoring more than 9,215 acres of native habitats within the region. This program works in partnership with local jurisdictions and nonprofits to protect and enhance sensitive habitats, ensuring the survival of native species and the overall health of the ecosystem.
Why are these restoration projects necessary?
The California least tern migrates to San Diego every April, nesting along the coast. However, over the years, development has reduced the availability of suitable nesting sites for these birds. In response, SANDAG and local nonprofits have undertaken habitat restoration projects to create and preserve areas conducive to the terns’ nesting and survival. These collaborative efforts are part of a broader regional plan to conserve and restore habitats for various endangered species, ensuring the protection of biodiversity along the San Diego coastline.
Key Features of the Restoration Projects
| Project Name | Location | Start Date | Completion Date | Area Covered | Objectives |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Dieguito Lagoon Wetland Restoration Project Phase II | San Dieguito Lagoon, San Diego, CA | January 2022 | Summer 2024 | 154 acres | Establish coastal salt marsh wetlands, prepare for sea-level rise, improve public access |
| TransNet Environmental Mitigation Program | San Diego County, CA | 2004 | Ongoing | 9,215 acres restored | Protect and enhance native habitats, support endangered species |
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