Outdoor events and educational activities have a new learning space with the opening of the scenic Swenerton Education Center (Center) located at the Escondido Creek Conservancy’s (Conservancy) Boulder Outlook office, within the Mountain Meadow Preserve (Preserve). Named in honor of longtime supporter and former principal, Jeff Swenerton, the Center represents a major milestone in the Conservancy’s efforts to connect the community with nature and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

 

“Partnering with the Conservancy over the years has given me the opportunity to combine my passion for the outdoors with my commitment to lifelong learning,” said Swenerton. “The creation of this new Center stands as a significant highlight in my journey, and I am incredibly proud of the space we built for future generations to explore, learn, and connect with nature.”

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Overlooking the rolling hills of Hidden Meadows and surrounded by flourishing native habitats, the Center provides an idyllic outdoor setting and gathering space, ideal for educational programs and intimate community events. The new facility, made possible with the support of volunteers, donors, and partners like the Escondido Community Foundation, will serve students, educators, and nature lovers alike, offering immersive experiences in the beauty of North San Diego County.

“This Center is the culmination of vision, dedication and hard work, all under the patient tutelage of Jeff Swenerton and reinforced by our fearless team,” said Ann Van Leer, Executive Director of the Conservancy. “It is a uniquely picturesque space, not only for today’s students, but for future leaders to ignite a passion for the natural world.”

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The Swenerton Education Center is located within the nearly 700-acre Mountain Meadow Preserve, formerly the site of the planned Mountain Gate development. This land was permanently preserved in 2018 through the Conservancy’s ambitious Save 1,000 Acres campaign. The acquisition was made possible thanks to strong partnerships between the Conservancy, San Diego County Parks and Recreation, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Friends of Daley Ranch, and the Palomar Audubon Society, who worked together to protect the property.
 

As part of the involved transaction, the Conservancy purchased the full property and later transferred most of it to San Diego County Parks, retaining a portion for its headquarters, and now, the education center. The entire preserve is currently managed by the Conservancy under a conservation easement and an endowment funded by the Department of the Navy, ensuring its protection in perpetuity.

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The new education center honors Jeff Swenerton, a visionary leader, former principal, and past Conservancy board member. For over 20 years, Jeff has been a cornerstone of the Conservancy’s education and outreach programs, helping launch its first outdoor education efforts and playing a key role in creating the Elfin Forest Interpretive Center Honoring Susan J. Varty. His passion, creativity, and multifaceted skillset have shaped the Swenerton Education Center into a truly welcoming space.

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“Jeff lives by the belief that no dream is too big, and his dedication to both conservation and education is a testament to keeping habitat preservation a priority,” said Ariel Reed, Education Director. “With this new Center, his legacy will continue to empower students and our community to be future champions of the environment.”

 

The Swenerton Education Center is now open and ready to welcome groups to engage with nature, learn about native habitats, and get inspired to serve as lifelong stewards of the environment.

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Established in 1991, the mission of The Escondido Creek Conservancy is to preserve and restore the Escondido Creek watershed. Flowing from the mountains above Lake Wolford in Escondido to the San Elijo Lagoon and shores of Encinitas and Solana Beach, the Escondido Creek watershed encompasses over 75 square miles of land in North San Diego County. The Conservancy’s vision is to serve as a model of vibrant urban communities and viable natural ecosystems thriving together.