Annual Meeting Brings Conservation Professionals Together in San Diego

07/24/26

In June, the County of San Diego (County)’s Conservation Team within the Sustainability Planning Division helped organize and host the California Habitat Conservation Planning Coalition (CHCPC) Annual Meeting, a two-day event that brought together a wide range of conservation professionals and practitioners from throughout California. Attendees included planners, scientists, State and Federal wildlife agency staff, Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) permit holders, and other stakeholders committed to advancing collaborative conservation across California.

Day 1: Presentations on HCP and NCCP Topics

The first day of the meeting featured presentations covering issues central to HCPs and NCCPs. Sessions covered current conservation challenges, updates on species listings, regional planning efforts, and effective approaches to mitigation and adaptive management. Speakers also discussed policy developments, data-driven monitoring strategies, and the importance of interagency coordination. The day provided a valuable opportunity for practitioners from across the state to exchange lessons learned, share successes, and strengthen professional networks.

Day 2: Field Trips Showcasing Local Conservation Work

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The second day provided an opportunity to explore San Diego’s scientific institutions that support regional biodiversity.

At the San Diego Natural History Museum, participants explored the museum’s vast collections and research spaces. The group learned that the museum has more than 9 million specimens! Participants learned how specimen records, community‑science tools like iNaturalist, and molecular research support species identification and long‑term conservation planning. Participants also visited the museum’s historic library, which houses archival books and photographs documenting the region’s natural history.

The second stop was the San Diego Zoo, where attendees toured the Butterfly Conservation Lab, orchid greenhouse, and horticultural programs. Staff highlighted how specialized plant growing operations support the dietary needs of various species, such as growing eucalyptus for koalas, and how the zoo supports butterfly conservation efforts including habitat surveys and reintroduction into native habitats. These butterfly efforts are supported by partnerships and collaborative initiatives focused on species recovery.

A Collaborative and Inspiring Gathering

Across both days, the CHCPC Annual Meeting highlighted the strength of California’s conservation community. The combination of technical presentations and scientific tours reinforced the importance of shared learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and long‑term stewardship.

County Efforts to Support Conservation

Individuals walking by plants in an indoor garden

The County has successfully implemented the Multiple Species Conservation Program South County Subarea Plan for 28 years, assembling 81,914 acres of the preserve, which represents 83% of the 98,739-acre conservation goal. To read more highlights, check out the most recent annual report.

The County is currently developing the North County Multiple Species Conservation Program (North County Plan) for the northwestern portion of the unincorporated area. To learn more or subscribe to updates on the MSCP,  please visit our website.

If you are interested in learning more about County programs, receiving updates, or participation opportunities, please sign up for our Climate Action Plan e-Newsletter!