Land Conservation & Preserves
Save the Source Program
Protecting, restoring and enjoying the upper reaches of the watershed
Our Save the Source Program is dedicated to conserving critically important lands in the upper San Diego River Watershed. This is an amazing and beautiful area which is largely pristine. Much of it is in the Cleveland National Forest but there are also many privately owned lands.
We target the acquisition of private lands which are at risk of development. Once acquired, we start actively managing the land, healing damaged areas, and conducting research. The research guides our conservation efforts including acquisitions, restoration, and advocacy.
Learn about our primary areas of conservation
Eagle Peak Preserve
The Upper San Diego River is a key part of the River's ecosystem, and is considered one of the most biologically diverse areas in the entire country. Eagle Peak is our flagship preserve, consisting of approximately 1152 acres. Preserve units include Bathtub Creek, South Rim, and Eagle Peak Ranch.
Peutz Creek Preserve
The Peutz Creek Conservation Area contains two important tributaries to the San Diego River: Chocolate Creek and Peutz Creek. This area is part of a vital wildlife linkage connecting the San Diego River to Harbison Canyon and further areas to the south.
El Cajon Mountain
One of the most visible landmarks in San Diego County is El Cajon Mountain. Much of the Mountain is within the Cleveland National Forest or the County of San Diego’s El Capitan Open Space Preserve.
Cuyamaca Corridor
Stretching from Boulder Creek Road to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, there is a large area that is privately owned and largely undeveloped. It has become an important area for wildlife as they move north-south on the west slopes of the Cuyamacas.