San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy's Volunteers Recognized

With late-afternoon views of San Elijo Lagoon stretching to the Pacific horizon, San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy honored its Birds of a Feather Gala volunteers on Sunday, October 16.

Fifty-three volunteers donated their time and resources to help the Conservancy plan and present its biennial gala, held this past September. Much-needed funds were raised for Environmental Education for all ages to experience the wonders of wetlands with naturalist-guided tours and special events.

During the volunteer celebration, more than 30 volunteers, board members, and staff enjoyed refreshments and appetizers on the deck of the LEED-Platinum San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, a venue that is available for private event rental through the County of San Diego Department of Parks & Recreation.

The celebration also featured a tree-planting event to honor Susan Welker, retired Supervising San Diego County Ranger, and recipient of the Conservancy’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Gala, honoring her 25 years of service at San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. 

With Welker’s parents, who were present, and staff and volunteers, a Del Mar manzanita was planted north of San Eljio Lagoon Nature Center and distinguished with an honorary plaque to Susan Welker. Here, her legacy will be nurtured as part of the upcoming Native Plants Interpretive Path adjacent to the Nature Center.

San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy celebrates 25 Years of Watershed Moments now through 2012. The nonprofit community landtrust protects and restores the resources of San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve for current and future generations. For more information about San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy’s 25th Anniversary programs, please visit its website at http://www.sanelijo.org or call (760) 436-3944.

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