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Conservation

Before the Project, this section of the creek was beset by multiple problems.

Uncontrolled growth of willows and invasive plants along its banks led to incursion on adjoining agricultural land.

Runoff from farm fields led to bank erosion. Overgrowth of willows and invasive palms led to flooding during storms.

Unauthorized encampments led to trash accumulation, water pollution, illegal activity and threats to farmers, City Farm staff and students.

Major work on the project took place during 2023 and 2024 with the support of the City of San Luis Obispo, Creeklands Conservation and a grant from the California Farmland Conservation Program.

Cleanup required removal of fourteen dumptruck loads of garbage.

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Site design, planning and execution was carried out by General Contractor, Carmichael Environmental.

Erosion and flood control involved creek bank stabilization, invasive palm tree clearance, and willow trimming.

Road and gate construction allowed for controlled access.

Installation of irrigation network and planting of 1700 trees, shrubs and grasses began restoration of native riparian vegetation.

Volunteer public participation in the project was organized through collaboration with City of San Luis Obispo, Creeklands Conservation and City Farm SLO.

By 2025, this section of Prefumo Creek was transformed into a Nature Preserve including a Native Plant Conservatory and Wildlife Refuge.

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Monkeyflower and California Sagebrush

Male and Female Mallard

Great Horned Owl

Red Tailed Hawk

Red Fox

White Egret

Mountain Lion Kill

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Ongoing maintenance and further development by community volunteers and new agency partners now continues.

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Trail construction

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Removal of invasive Cape Ivy

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Weed control

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