SAN DIEGO — Some of our best trails and waterways are accessible and clean all thanks to the nonprofit Nature Collective.
"The creation of healthier waterways has brought rich diversity back to this area," said Kristin Evans about the San Elijo Lagoon. Evans is the Education and Outreach Senior Director for Nature Collective.
"Often our work is done behind the scenes because we want nature to shine. We want nature accessible for all," Evans added.
The North County nonprofit restores habitats, helps create healthier waterways and promotes greater wildlife diversity. They partner with everyone, from local cities and the state to individual land owners.
"Some of it is moving sand to increase water flow, some of it is planting native plants and letting them do what they do," Evans said.
Their work has been along the Escondido Creek Watershed, all the way to the Pacific Ocean. One of their biggest projects is to protect, conserve and preserve the San Elijo Lagoon, where fresh and salt water meet and mix.
"It brings cleaner air, cleaner water, also brings restoration for ourselves and our well being, so the land benefits and so do we," Evans said.
The new three mile loop near the Lagoon is also now complete.
"There are a lot of other trailheads along this way," said Jennifer Bright, who is the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Philanthropy Director for Nature Collective.
The re-opening of the unique and now very popular Annie's slot canyon is another example of their work.
"We worked with a lot of partners to see if it could be restored, so people could see this unique geologic location and value it, for what it is," said Evans about Annie's Canyon.
She added, "We're grateful and proud to really help people be able to access nature."
Nature Collective was founded back in 1987 and to this day its focus is on conservation and science education. The goal is for future generations to appreciate and protect nature.
"You can find that serenity, you can find that space, that opportunity for mental and physical health," Bright said.
Donations are always helpful, and there are tons of volunteering opportunities. You can even become an ambassador.
Nature Collective also does school programs and family friendly events. There's a Discovery Tour happening Saturday, and their big free Fall Festival is Oct. 13 at San Dieguito County Park. Everyone is invited to come out and learn more about nature.
Click here for more information.
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