As part of the project, 155 older avocado trees were removed and replaced with improved rootstocks planted at a higher density. This approach is designed to increase resilience and use less water. A nearby control site allows the team to compare conditions, with soil moisture and water use monitoring at both locations. Early results show an estimated water savings of 108,680 gallons compared to the control site. Full seasonal data will be available later this year.

On April 15, partners and community members met at the orchard for a demonstration day. About 40 participants attended, including staff from the Mission, Upper San Luis Rey, Greater San Diego County Resource Conservation Districts, County of San Diego, City of Escondido, Rancho California Water District, Fallbrook Public Utility District, and 22 local growers.

Attendees had the opportunity to see the updated orchard layout, discuss lessons learned during the transition, and hear about the tools used to monitor water savings and soil health. This is one of many projects the CSLM grant funds to support the County’s broader climate-smart agriculture efforts that also improve soil health, store carbon, and build resilience to climate change impacts.