Mission & Goals
Dictionary Hill
Open Space Advocates
MISSION STATEMENT
MISSION: Dedicated to the preservation of existing open space and natural habitat of Dictionary Hill and Bancroft Creek Canyon.
VISION: An ecological preserve in the heart of Spring Valley that protects and maintains valuable habitat resources for the shared enjoyment of everyone. This preserve, including Dictionary Hill, Bancroft Creek Canyon and adjacent open space, is a sanctuary where endangered species are protected and damaged areas restored with native plants. To the greatest extent possible it should connect to other preserved open space in proximity through wildlife corridors thereby reducing habitat fragmentation while facilitating biodiversity. It will have trails where local residents and visitors can hike in a natural environment. Programs will be developed with area schools so students may learn about ecology, history and stewardship in this special Coastal Sage Scrub Habitat.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
PRESERVATION RESTORATION EDUCATION
VALUES:
Respect natural open space
Promote community involvement
Value environmental education
Encourage nature-based physical/mental health
Promote appropriate limited-impact recreation for the general public
LONG TERM GOALS:
+ Identify and secure funding to acquire and expand preserve areas.
+ Grow the DHOSA organization.
+ Inform and involve the community.
+ Pursue grant opportunities to improve trails/protect preserve areas.
+ Develop projects to remove invasive species and restore native habitat.
+ Create viable volunteer programs to maintain and improve the preserve
+ Monitor land use planning activities and real estate transactions involving the numerous existing vacant legal lots in proximity to Dictionary Hill, the goal being to add them to an expanded future preserve.
Dictionary Hill Open Space Advocates (DHOSA) is an all volunteer group formed in 2005 whose membership is dedicated to preserving the open space and natural habitat of Dictionary Hill and Bancroft Creek Canyon. DHOSA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. To learn more about our group, please click here.
Dictionary Hill is the very heart of Spring Valley. This 1,059 foot mountain, and Bancroft Creek Canyon which lies along its northeastern slope, together comprise one of the largest remaining areas of undeveloped open space in our community.
Dictionary Hill is a unique place. Long considered too steep for develop-ment, the area supports a wealth of native plants, birds, wildflowers, small animals, and hill-topping butterflies. Trails lead from the canyon to the top of the mountain where hikers are greeted by 360 degree panoramic views. Truly a special place.
Dictionary Hill was preserved by the County Board of Supervisors with a unanimous vote November 17, 2017!!! The County purchased 175 acres for an appraised value of $5.4 million and added the land to the County's Multiple Species Conservation Plan (MSCP). DHOSA has become a partner with the County Parks and Recreation Department in monitoring activities in the new preserve and planning the development of interpretative trails and measures to revegetate disturbed areas and protect the plants, wildlife and natural habitat of this unique place.
