An existing preserve in Santa Ysabel is expanding after the county purchased more land for its conservation efforts.
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors announced that it has approved the purchase of about 540 acres of property for $5.1 million to expand its conservation efforts. The property connects the preserve to public lands to the north.
“Our team is very proud of this new addition to our parks system, as it strengthens San Diego County’s solid reputation for protecting natural resources and species that will be enjoyed for generations,” said Parks & Recreation director Jason Hemmens in a release.
The land will expand an existing 6,900-acre preserve intended to protect habitats for sensitive regional species, including mountain lions, mule deer, Stephens’ kangaroo rats, and Engelmann oaks.
The estimated annual cost to manage the land is $186,000, which the county said is included in the 2025–26 fiscal year’s Recommended Operational Plan.
