October at Mission Trails: Wildlife, Field Trips and Fall Events
Fall is underway at Mission Trails, and our October newsletter is packed with park news, programs and ways to get involved.
This month, learn more about mountain lions and coexistence in San Diego, get an update on the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation’s major wildfire prevention and habitat restoration project and see how students are returning to the park for field trips and the fall Eco Ambassadors program.
We’re also highlighting MTRP Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Morrissey and the growth of the Foundation under her leadership, plus sharing plenty of ways to experience Mission Trails this fall. Upcoming programs include the Creepy Critters campfire program, Trail Guide walks and discovery tables, Trail Tykes, stargazing and a free concert by the Left Coast Woodwind Quartet.
You’ll also find details about our upcoming wedding venue open house, the annual Holiday Marketplace, volunteer opportunities and ways to support the nonprofit that helps bring additional resources, programs and projects to Mission Trails.
Read the full October newsletter here.
More than 60 tons of green waste removed from Mission Trails to reduce wildfire risk
More than 60 tons of green waste have been removed from Mission Trails Regional Park as part of a major, multi-year effort led by the nonprofit Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation in partnership with the City of San Diego to reduce wildfire risk, restore native habitat and protect the San Diego River watershed and nearby communities.
Since September 2024, the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation’s contractor, RECON Environmental, has carried out invasive vegetation management and habitat restoration work across approximately 756 acres of the park. Crews have removed 29, 40-yard containers of green waste totaling 62.02 tons, roughly the weight of 31 average passenger cars.
The work was made possible by a $1.8 million award from the San Diego River Conservancy and administered by the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation, which works to preserve the park’s natural habitat and provide educational and recreational programs. The project is being carried out in close coordination with the City of San Diego and illustrates the critical role public-private partnerships can play in bringing additional funding, capacity and expertise to the care of public open space.
The grant runs through fall 2027. The agreement specifically calls for reducing the risk and intensity of fire by reducing flammable fuel loads through invasive, non-native plant removal while protecting native habitat and supporting the San Diego River watershed.
Hot Trails, Hot Paws: Keeping Dogs Safe at Mission Trails
Hot summer days can turn a routine hike into a dangerous one for dogs.
Dogs often keep going because they want to stay with their people, even when they are uncomfortable. By the time a dog refuses to walk, searches for shade or starts panting heavily, their paws may already be hurting or they may be experiencing heat stress.
Before heading out, check the temperature and the trail surface. Hold the back of your hand against the ground for seven to 10 seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Ground temperatures above 125 degrees can burn paw pads within minutes, and the air near a hot trail can be significantly warmer than the temperature higher off the ground.
Bring plenty of fresh water for both you and your dog, take frequent breaks and hike early in the morning or later in the evening. Puppies, senior dogs, short-nosed breeds and dogs that are overweight, ill or have long coats may be especially vulnerable to overheating.
Watch for excessive or noisy panting, bright red or pale gums, restlessness, difficulty breathing, drooling, vomiting, sluggishness or a staggering gait. Severe symptoms require immediate veterinary care.
Heat is not the only concern. Dogs can also encounter ticks, snakes, poison oak and foxtails. Do not allow dogs to drink or swim in river water, where organisms including leptospirosis and giardia may be present.
And on the hottest days, the safest choice may be the simplest one: leave your dog at home.
The trail will still be there when it cools down.
Connect with Mission Trails Regional Park on Social Media
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