The Problem

The Otay River Valley is a unique urban river parkway located four-miles north of the US-Mexico border. It is one of the last areas of open space in south San Diego County and is designated to the Otay Valley Regional Park (OVRP), a public open space park that stretches 13-miles. It provides important habitat for 30 threatened and endangered species such as the California gnatcatcher and Least Bell's Vireo, and endemic species of plants like Orcutt's Birds' Beak. Other interesting animals found in the park include Burrowing owls, American Kestrel, California Mountain Kingsnakes, and bobcats.

The park is also an important community asset for healthy nature-based recreation. As a park visitor you'll be able to utilize 8 miles of multi-use trails riding your horse, hiking, mountain biking, birding, fishing and picnicking next to one of the four ponds. The park operates a Ranger Station at 2155 Beyer Blvd. where you can use the bathrooms, waterfountains, and picnic tables, and learn more about the park and its wildlife from Rangers John and Kyle. 

Historically, the river valley was negatively impacted by industrial activities, illegal dumping, off road vehicles, and extensive livestock grazing; however, the OVRP has been successfully established and recovery of riparian habitat is progressing.  The long-term conservation of the Otay River Valley depends on continued community involvement in WiLDCOAST's habitat restoration projects and stewardship of this amazing community environmental resource.