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By: Anna Luo
On February 9th, members of the AAPASD Student Leadership Club (SLC) joined the Friends of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve (FLPCP) for another biweekly habitat restoration event. This particular session was a milestone, as it marked SLC's 25th restoration event with FLPCP! Even more exciting, it was the first time SLC members were able to begin restoration work on their own designated section of the site, located along the Awhee Trail.
Last summer, SLC members set the stage for this project by organizing a fundraiser which raised $120. Then, with the support of the Friends and conservation chair Mike Kelly, the funds were used to purchase 24 native plants from Native West Nursery. The selected plants included six native species: Black Sage (Salvia mellifera), White Sage (Salvia apiana), Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis), San Diego Sunflower (Bahiopsis laciniata), California Sunflower (Helianthus californicus) and California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica).
Before getting to work, volunteers received a refresher on proper planting techniques from Del Brooks, a FLPCP board member. They focused on ensuring the soil was firmly packed around each plant and carefully shaping an elevated border around the base. This technique helps retain water, allowing for gradual absorption into the soil and ensuring that the plants receive enough hydration to grow.
Then, under the guidance of FLPCP’s Del Brooks, the team worked on positioning the plants throughout the area. The general approach was to plant in clusters of three different species near existing vegetation, mimicking natural plant communities. This placement aimed to optimize survival rates and promote biodiversity within the restoration site. Volunteers also took into account where these species naturally thrive in other parts of the site, ensuring the best chances for long-term success.
By the end of the two hours, all 24 plants were successfully in the ground, watered, and flagged! As the native plants take root, they will play a crucial role in restoring the habitat, supporting local wildlife, and helping to combat the spread of invasive species like the artichoke thistle.
This event marks the launch of an exciting new project, and with their ongoing dedication and collaboration with FLPCP, SLC hopes to make a lasting impact on the Awhee Trail.
Interested in joining our next event? Find out more about this project at penasquitos.org and studentleadershipclub.org/events/restoration!
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