The Escondido Creek Concervancy

The Escondido Creek Conservancy (TECC) is a non-profit, public benefit, corporation, incorporated in 1991, dedicated to the preservation, restoration and protection of the natural open space within the Escondido Creek watershed. TECC believes the natural lands within the watershed are an irreplaceable natural asset with great community value. We support educational  programs and compatible outdoor recreation within the watershed for the benefit of all residents of the area. TECC has formed alliances with landowners, government agencies, and education and community groups to increase awareness of the invaluable resources intrinsic to the Escondido Creek watershed. TECC's Board of Directors is comprised of committed local volunteers with expertise in business, science, land use planning, education, recreation, and restoration of natural landscapes.

In March of 2008, TECC, in cooperation with The Olivenhain Municipal Water District (OMWD), broke ground on the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve Interpretive Center.  Construction is in progress and the building is scheduled to be completed in October of 2008.

The Interpretive Center is located at the Eflin Forest Recreational Reserve (EFRR) on Harmony Grove Rd. between the communities of Harmony Grove and Elfin Forest.

The EFRR is a  spectacular 750-acre open space park and recreational area which was developed by OMWD, in partnership with the San Diego County Water Authority (Authority) and the U.S. Department of the Interior-Bureau of Land Management.

One of San Diego County 's most precious natural resources, the Reserve currently offers approximately 13 miles of hiking, mountain biking, equestrian trails, primitive picnic areas, and scenic mountain viewing points. In addition, the natural beauty of the Reserve includes such native plant communities as oak riparian, oak woodland, coastal sage scrub and chaparral.

Owned by the Authority and operated and managed by OMWD, the Reserve has been designed to unify the interests of domestic water supply development, natural resources management and recreational opportunities. Park Rangers conduct guided group tours and student exploration programs to help promote environmental awareness and preservation of local watersheds. All wildlife and natural resources at the Reserve are fully protected so that future generations may also enjoy these wonders.