The San Diego Mountains are the start of the local watershed. Rain and snow accumulation in the higher elevations play a key role in supplying San Diego reservoirs with water. Most of the city's water supply originates from these mountains. We have a responsibility to keep the local watershed clean and to do our part to conserve water.
Here are a few ways we can actively preserve a clean water for San Diego County:
- Always properly dispose of trash and take chemicals to a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center.
- Pick up after your pet and properly dispose of waste in the trash.
- Be mindful of your water usage and avoid generating runoff (irrigation and carwashes).
- Sweep up debris and dirt instead of using a hose to wash it away.
- Never dispose of ANY wastewater in a storm drain Only swim in natural water sources that allow swimming.
- Always use public restrooms when in public parks. Leave snow where you found it.
These simple changes may not seem like a big deal, but when we do them together it will leave a lasting ripple effect.
Photo explanation: This is a picture taken from Inaja Memorial Park showing the beginning of the San Diego River watershed near Santa Ysabel (northwest of the town of Julian). To the right of the HW 78 is a steep gorge where Coleman Creek seasonally flows and starts the San Diego River. We highly recommend visitors stop at the park and enjoy the spectacular 360-degree view.
Photo by Jennifer Gutierrez