The San Marcos Foothills West Mesa was recently saved from development.
Over 60 volunteers showed up to map native Stipa pulchra (purple needlegrass) and Dichelostemma capitatum ssp. capitatum (blue dicks) this weekend. This was an amazing turnout but our work is far from over! We need your support every weekend in March to complete our grassland survey and protect the flora and fauna of the San Marcos Foothills. Shifts are available starting this Saturday and Sunday 3/5 and 3/6 at 9:00am and 1:00pm.
Volunteer and Learn About Native Plants
Join us to learn to identify our iconic state grass and the non-native grasses that are invading our local habit! This is a beautiful time of year to visit the Foothills and explore the local trails in the area with the community. Make sure to bring a walking pole to help distinguish different plants on the ground but don't worry, the ground is mostly flat and plant identification and training will be provided. No experience is necessary to volunteer, although plant knowledge is helpful!
Why Is CIR Mapping Native Plants?
As the stewards of the “West Mesa” CIR is mapping the San Marcos Foothills (recently saved from development by the community), we're conducting mapping of the vegetation (particularly Stipa pulchra or purple needlegrass) to collect data which will help us design future habitat restoration projects that will benefit the wildlife that live here. Your volunteer support will make a significant difference for the success of our future restoration projects!