Stewardship in Action
The Urban Corps of San Diego County plays an important role in caring for the natural resources, critical habitats, and public-use areas of Border Field State Park. Their hard work supports habitat restoration, invasive plant removal, trail maintenance, and stewardship of the park, helping prepare the park for visitors when conditions permit access.
A major part of their work is removing invasive plant species from the park’s fragile habitats. Over the past two years, Urban Corps crews have helped remove castor bean, mustard, fennel, thistles, chrysanthemum, ice plant, and, especially, Arundo donax. Through the WFRP Arundo Removal Project, they have helped remove more than 5,000 acres of this highly invasive giant reed, which can crowd out native vegetation and contribute to wildfire risk.
Urban Corps also helps maintain pedestrian, equestrian, and vehicle trails, including areas affected by seasonal flooding. When conditions allow areas to reopen, their work helps prepare and maintain trails for public use. Crews also maintain key public areas, including the picnic site at Monument Mesa and the gate near the park entrance, and participate in beach cleanups.
California State Parks is grateful for its partnership with the Urban Corps of San Diego County. Their dedication to restoring native habitats and caring for the park’s trails and public-use areas makes a meaningful difference at Border Field State Park.