Was Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring truly the catalyst? Perhaps it simply amplified a growing awareness. Today we find ourselves at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve. This natural reserve sits in Imperial Beach California and San Ysidro San Diego.
The Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve encompasses the Tijuana River Estuary. This unique location lies right on the Mexico United States border. The reserve is divided into two primary parts. These parts are the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge on the north and Border Field State Park in the south. Other jurisdictions also own land within the Reserve boundary.
This reserve is part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve system. It also serves as a Biological Field Station for San Diego State University College of Sciences.
The Tijuana River’s water flow is quite dynamic. Droughts can dry the river completely. Conversely floods can cause the area to overflow.
You can reach the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve easily. Take the Coronado Avenue exit from Interstate 5.
Bird-watching is a popular activity here. The reserve attracts as many as 370 bird species. Both native and migrating birds use this area. They use it as a stopover or for breeding. Schoolchildren often visit for nature classes and excursions. The visitor center offers activities for all ages. You can request to watch videos in English and Spanish. North and South McCoy trails provide access to bird-watching areas. They also lead to the mouth of the Tijuana River where it meets the Pacific Ocean.
Cleaning up trash and debris is an ongoing effort here at the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve. Stormwater carries debris tires and trash. They end up on the shores of the Tijuana River Valley. Goat Canyon sediment basins were built in 2005. These help manage the stormwater and debris. California State Parks maintains the reserve. They ensure the environment remains habitable for the wildlife. A nonprofit group called 4Walls once received funds to aid in the cleanup. They used trash pulled from the river. It was used for building materials. This reduced park space material costs. It also repurposed the trash to build park benches. Mexico’s Environment Ministry has also donated materials. They employed residents to replace wild undergrowth. Plants native to the area were used.
Mike McCoy and his wife Patricia fought to protect this estuary. They mobilized friends and neighbors. They rode the wave of the 1960s and 70s environmental movement.
The Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve stands as a testament. It shows what can be achieved through dedication. It is a place where nature’s resilience meets human commitment.