The California State Department of Fish and Game has designated this wetland as top priority for acquisition, the U. S. Department of Fish and Wildlife has designated it for restoration and it is among the southern California wetlands nominated for designation as wetlands of international importance. In 1979, the San Dieguito Lagoon restoration east of the Grand Avenue bridge won regional and national acclaim. In 2000, The San Dieguito River Valley Joint Powers Authority approved a major restoration plan, financed by Southern California Edison, that will create a tidal prism in order to have a properly functioning lagoon with the constrained configuration that exists today. By virtue of its very location within the sensitive ecosystem of the San Dieguito River Valley, the 22 nd DAA should be exercising responsible stewardship of this fragile, diverse habitat. A floodplain is critical to fisheries.
Wetlands are biologically the most productive ecosystem in the world.
Floodplains provide important recreational sites. San Diego County is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. People need a break in urbanization. We need a place for quiet recreation and the enjoyment of fast-disappearing natural resources. Floodplains provide habitat for plants and animals.