The Finest City

In this episode, Jen sits down with Sid Voorakkara, Port of San Diego Board Commissioner, to discuss the many programs and initiatives shaping the future of San Diego Bay. Sid shares insights into the Port Master Plan update, efforts to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, and how the Port is leading the way in innovation. He also highlights key projects, such as the blue economy incubator, waterfront redevelopment, and electrification efforts to reduce emissions. This conversation provides a deep dive into the Port's role in fostering community engagement, economic development, and climate-conscious planning. Timestamps: [2:08] Sid introduces himself and his background as a first-generation American, small business owner, and Port Commissioner. [4:49] The unique governance structure of the Port of San Diego and what makes it different from other ports. [5:56] Sid's background in social determinants of health, business development, and workforce education. [6:06] The economic impact of the Port: $14 billion in San Diego County, $25 billion in Southern California, and $26 billion statewide. [10:01] Exciting initiatives at the Port, including Harbor Drive 2.0, which aims to reduce congestion and improve waterfront access. [10:40] The Port's blue economy incubator and innovative projects like smart buoys and water quality monitoring. [12:02] Electrification efforts, including the introduction of two all-electric cranes and North America's first all-electric tugboat. [13:12] The Port's low-carbon fuel standards and the creation of a wetlands mitigation bank. [13:43] The Port Master Plan update: a 30-year roadmap for balancing development, open space, and environmental preservation. [20:44] The Port's commitment to reducing emissions and fostering a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility. [24:28] Sid reflects on his motivation to make San Diego a place his son will be proud of in the future. [25:18] Upcoming projects, including Seaport Village revitalization and the opening of the Chula Vista Gaylord Pacific Resort. About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Port of San Diego Business for Good Portside Community Academy

This episode features Greg Murphy from Fugro, a world leader in providing geo-data consulting through mapping, modeling, and monitoring information about our planet and the structures built upon it. Greg is also Vice Chair on the Board at the San Diego Maritime Museum. In the conversation, Greg talks about the innovative future of blue technologies, the importance of ocean sustainability, and San Diego's potential as a blue finance capital. He discusses the concept of blue carbon, the Port of San Diego's proactive approach to sea level rise, and exciting developments in the local blue tech industry such as offshore wind energy and cell-cultured seafood. Greg also shares insights from the International Conference on Small Island Developing States and emphasizes the importance of nature-based solutions for coastal resilience. Timestamps: [2:13] Greg discusses his background in the blue economy and involvement with the San Diego Maritime Museum and its importance in preserving maritime history. [7:07] Overview of Fugro's work and why it's relevant to coastal resilience worldwide. [7:37] Fugro is the world's leading geo-data specialist. [9:01] How Fugro supports the energy transition and creates a safe-liveable world using data. [10:01] How is the San Diego Bay looking when it comes to sea level rise? [12:20] Greg defines blue carbon and its importance in coastal ecosystems and climate change mitigation. [15:31] Why San Diego should become the blue finance capital of the world. [17:19] Why do we need blue finance? [18:24] How the Port of San Diego has supported blue tech so far. [20:00] Highlights of exciting developments in San Diego's blue tech industry, including offshore wind and cell-cultured seafood. [25:08] Oceanside's innovative "re-beach" program to address beach erosion. [26:47] The importance of resilience at the government level. About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Maritime Museum of San Diego Fugro Quotes: "I love the Maritime Museum of San Diego. The people and the culture of the organization are really what drew me in. The museum is unlike most museums, where we celebrate the everyday citizen." — Greg [4:47] "For me, maritime history is human history. Many of us have a story, but it's also about the history of technology." — Greg [5:51] "Maritime history is embedded into who we are as a people and who we are as a planet." — Greg [6:33] "Our mission is to create a safe, livable world using data." — Greg [10:02] "This whole idea of blue carbon is about converting these nature-based systems into bankable opportunities." — Greg [15:38] "Get out in nature! Take a hike. Experience the beauty that we have around us here in San Diego. Visit the Maritime Museum. I think that's one way we can all build resilience for ourselves." — Greg [27:13]

In this episode, Jen welcomes Janaira Quigley, Executive Director of Ocean Connectors, a conservation non-profit program that connects youth with coastal wildlife. In their chat, Janaira talks about the mission of Ocean Connectors and how the San Diego Bay factors into their programs. She touches on the program's teaching topics, habitat restoration work around San Diego, and the knowledge exchange program with students in Mexico, highlighting why it's important for cultivating environmental stewardship. Janaira provides some easy and affordable action items for getting involved with Ocean Connectors, to get outside and help in a safe and meaningful way. Timestamps: [2:26] The mission of Ocean Connectors is to educate, inspire, and connect youth and underserved Pacific coastal communities through the study of migratory marine life. [3:05] Ocean Connectors works primarily with students in National City and throughout the South Bay, connecting them with coastal wildlife in their communities through field trips in the San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge and Chula Vista Wildlife Preserve, as well as whale watching trips. [3:47] Janaira discusses a quote from "Temporary Paradise" that envisioned giving the sea to the people of the city to live near and enjoy. [4:25] Many communities in the South Bay remain "park poor" due to a lack of access to open spaces and coastal access. [5:16] Teaching topics at Ocean Connectors that excite the students include migratory marine life like green sea turtles, gray whales, and migratory birds. [7:18] Ocean Connectors' habitat restoration work around San Diego Bay includes hands-on field trips and kayak cleanups to restore wetland habitats. [9:10] The Port of San Diego recently approved a new master plan pending California Coastal Commission approval. [11:19] The thread of connection between Ocean Connectors programs. [13:14] Why they chose the entire second half of their programming to exist in 91 classes at 27 schools in coastal Nayarit, Mexico. [15:39] How adults and the community can get involved with Ocean Connectors, including family field trips, bird watching over coffee, and having your next birthday party with them! [20:57] Ocean Connectors membership is just $5 per month, which includes free eco-tours and great perks. About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Ocean Connectors Quotes: "We work to connect students with coastal wildlife that are directly in their communities." — Janaira [2:52] "We empower students to explore where physics, agriculture, engineering, and more fields intersect with ocean science." — Janaira [6:45] "We focus our efforts on exposing students and families to the beautiful ecosystems in their own communities." — Janaira [9:24] "You want to do something recreationally, especially if you're on vacation or something like that, but you also want to learn while you're at it, and you want to give back to the local community. So we help stretch that dollar in that way." — Janaira [16:52]

In this episode, Kate sat down with our very own Jen Whitelaw, PR professional and former C-3 President. Jen first shares her career path from English studies to public relations and urban planning. She discusses a few of her favorite tools for reaching the public about important topics like density and sustainability through her work with organizations like C-3. Jen highlights some successful strategies for engaging diverse audiences, emphasizing the power of the public to influence how our city gets shaped. She explains why it's so important to engage the public and younger generations in advocacy work around land use issues and shaping San Diego's future, and discusses two documentary films that brought important conversations to the community. Timestamps: [2:33] How Jen's formative years living on Del Mar Mesa shaped her appreciation for conservation. [3:13] A glimpse at Jen's career history and the influence that Jen's mom's architectural career had on her own vision. [4:08] Jen's experience working at the San Diego Film Commission. [5:47] How Jen's interest in marketing and public relations originated. [7:24] Why Jen expanded her career path to urban planning and land planning, and the impact of interpreting and facilitating communication between the industry and the media. [9:23] A few of Jen's favorite tools to engage the public and community groups on land use issues. [11:41] The power of the public when it comes to advocacy. [14:31] How social media can facilitate conversation and action between the public and policymakers. [15:31] The City of Villages plan. [18:38] Was there a failure within San Diego to get the public on board? [20:26] The impetus for making "Designing for the Future" and how they distributed the film. [24:26] "San Diego Canyonlands". [27:41] The importance of developing responsibly while keeping the San Diego charm. [29:03] Synthesizing the works for a modern audience. [30:05] How Jen discovered and became involved with C-3. [31:05] Who should C-3 be engaging in advocacy work? [33:27] Overcoming the obstacles and challenges of working with more diverse audiences. [35:11] The rise of public common spaces. [36:14] C-3's influence on the practice of urban planning and development in San Diego. [38:22] Adapting C-3's structure and programming to meet modern challenges. About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Jen Whitelaw LinkedIn Quotes: "To be able to communicate effectively through writing, I can't emphasize it enough, for someone who wants to go into that field (PR), it's really, really important." — Jen [7:09] "I think that curiosity has been a theme throughout my life. I really enjoy learning about things." — Jen [8:46] "If you want to accomplish something, first, you need to make sure that people understand the subject." — Jen [11:55] "Everyone wants to be heard. When people have a voice in something and feel like they're being heard and helping to shape something, they are almost inherently on board." — Jen [12:45] "Fear is such a powerful motivator and unfortunately, there's not a lot of innovation that usually comes out of fear, it's more of a wall." — Jen [19:30] "You've got to involve the younger generations because they're going to be the decision-makers coming up, and that's such a unique opportunity and a special opportunity." — Jen [25:30] "There's power in not knowing what you can't do yet, and you surprise yourself because you just go and do it." — Jen [32:43] "[C-3's] a really important platform for giving voice to voices that aren't always part of the discussion, and aren't always well funded." — Jen [36:29]

This episode features Paula Stigler Granados, Associate Professor in the School of Public Health at San Diego State University. Paula first discusses environmental health impacts along the San Diego-Tijuana border region and insights from her recent white paper on the public health crisis caused by Tijuana River contamination. She then explores the challenges of managing growth while addressing aging infrastructure and transborder environmental issues, highlighting the need to better communicate risk and learn from past environmental trauma. Timestamps: [2:32] Paula's thoughts on the quote from Temporary Paradise, "This is a single natural region, and a connected social landscape as well, despite the barrier." [4:22] Paula's hopes for the white paper she co-wrote about the Tijuana River being a public health crisis. [6:12] The pathogens and toxic chemicals our border communities are exposed to from the raw sewage and runoff in the Tijuana River. [9:11] How those chemicals and toxicity impact our community around the San Diego / Baja border. [13:25] The importance of communicating better the risk and impact of this public health crisis. [14:02] Paula's interest in community-based participatory research. [18:09] The wealth of information and education now for future generations. [18:28] The role climate change has on vector-borne diseases such as Chagas disease. [22:09] The opportunity for the World Design Capital to highlight the intersection of design and environmental stewardship in the San Diego / Tijuana region. [25:38] Paula highlights the importance of honoring the community members in Imperial Beach and repairing and reducing environmental trauma in the future. [27:21] The environmental issues in Imperial Beach and surrounding the Border call for all voices to speak up, not just local or national ones. About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Paula Stigler Granados SDSU Paula Stigler Granados LinkedIn Quotes: "I've always felt this fluidness between Tijuana and San Diego. It's a region a lot of us are really connected to and a beautiful environment that we share here." — Paula [3:08] "I think communicating risk is incredibly important." — Paula [12:50] "I feel like this is an opportunity to talk about how we can protect our environment, our health, human and public health, as well as design infrastructure that makes it friendlier and a more walkable and healthy environment." — Paula [23:24] "I think it's important to really acknowledge how important it is to resolve this issue and to hear the voices of the people living with this on a daily basis." — Paula [26:24] "Infrastructure will always fail. So what are things that we can put into place that would at least help minimize the amount of failure that will happen?" — Paula [26:43] "I believe that the community's voices are just as important as the local leaders' voices, and they're just as important as anybody else's voice. It's going to take all of us." — Paula [27:41]

Jen welcomes Imperial Beach Mayor, Paloma Aguirre. Mayor Aguirre earned a Master of Advanced Studies in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation from Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UCSD and spent 10 years working for Wildcoast. She talks about her advocacy in the fight against sewage pollution and towards building a better present and future for Imperial Beach residents. Mayor Aguirre talks about the current environmental issues facing the city and the efforts to upgrade wastewater treatment plants. She also highlights the city's priorities around housing, homelessness, and supporting local businesses. Timestamps: [2:08] Mayor Aguirre joins the show and shares her career journey to becoming the Mayor of Imperial Beach. [2:19] Mayor Aguirre is the first Latina Mayor of Imperial Beach and the first Latina on the council. [3:04] The sewage crisis in Imperial Beach. [4:06] Why it's important for the replacement of the failing Punta Bandera treatment plant for not only Northern Baja but also for Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, Coronado, and surrounding areas. [7:47] Finding the plant is in a severe state of disrepair and needing to invest even more than the original $300 million into the infrastructure. [8:53] The collaborative and collective effort to upgrade the treatment plants. [11:46] Mayor Aguirre's background in Mexico helps her understand the cultural nuances that exist when working with our counterparts in Mexico. [13:48] What will happen when treatment plants are upgraded and Imperial Beach enjoys tourism opportunities, but also the pressure of gentrification? [16:16] Working to help the unsheltered population. [17:00] The double-edged sword of speaking about Imperial Beach's sewage crisis. [17:55] The need to uplift local businesses. [20:58] Mayor Aguirre looks forward to showing the beauty and diversity of Imperial Beach during the World Design Capital. [22:58] If you haven't been to Imperial Beach in a while, check out the new breweries and beautiful bike paths! About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Paloma Aguirre Quotes: "We're going to do everything in our power to make sure that not just the community of Imperial Beach, but the entire South San Diego community has what everybody else has in this state and nation and takes for granted. That is clean air, clean water, and a clean environment." — Mayor Aguirre [10:46] "Having been raised during my formative years in Mexico, I understand the cultural nuances when working with our counterparts in Mexico." — Mayor Aguirre [11:04] "I think it's incredibly important to make sure that we attract new businesses, new developers, new investments, but also that we keep people housed here in Imperial Beach." — Mayor Aguirre [14:23] "We need to make sure that we uplift our local mom-and-pop shops and small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy." — Mayor Aguirre [17:55] "We are such a unique city. We are culturally diverse and sorry to the rest of the cities, but one of the most beautiful regions rich in natural resources." — Mayor Aguirre [20:58] "IB is awesome." — Mayor Aguirre [22:37]

This episode features Carlos de la Mora, immediate-past CEO of World Design Capital 2024, San Diego-Tijuana. Carlos brings a rich and varied professional background to the table, including his previous experience as the Executive Director for the Urban Land Institute in Mexico and Director of Land Development at CBRE. Throughout the conversation, Carlos talks about the intention of purpose and legacy behind the World Design programming, along with a few of the activations and installations he is looking forward to. He shares more about welcoming all types of design into the fold, a little glimpse into the "secret sauce" of his leadership, and how this opportunity can help us improve cross-border relations. Timestamps: [1:47] Carlos shares his nonlinear career path, including architecture school, art exhibits, video production, and working in the Baja wine industry. [4:30] What unique responsibility does the World Design Capital selection bring? [4:48] San Diego-Tijuana is the first cross-border region to be designated as a World Design Capital. [5:12] Using this time also to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Temporary Paradise. [6:24] A few of the partners that worked to bring the concept to life, including the UCSD Design Lab. [9:36] What is the "secret sauce" that Carlos feels he adds to the mix? [10:38] How not only city design, but design in many other aspects, will be featured in 2024 programming. All expressions of design are welcome. [11:37] A few of the installations and activations that Carlos is looking forward to at the border during WDC, including one by artist Chico MacMurtrie called "Border Crossers." [15:36] WDC helps provide visibility and opportunities for connection, and it's important to use it to advance important community issues. [17:40] What kind of lasting impact does Carlos hope the World Design Capital will have on our region and cross-border relations? [18:21] Learning and gathering inspiration from other World Design cities. [22:28] Ways to get involved in the World Design Capital. About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org World Design Capital Carlos de la Mora LinkedIn Design Policy Conference

This episode features Serge Dedina, the executive director and co-founder of WILDCOAST, an international conservation team. Not only did Serge serve as the mayor of Imperial Beach from 2014 to 2022, but he also chaired the SANDAG borders committee for six years, demonstrating his commitment to cross-border collaboration. With a focus on transboundary planning and conservation, Serge has been a key player in addressing the cross-border sewage pollution crisis in the San Diego-Tijuana region. In the conversation, Serge shares insights into the crucial role of cross-border collaboration in addressing sea-level change and the importance of getting involved and making a difference at the local level. Timestamps: [2:01] WILDCOAST is an international conservation team that conserves coastal and marine ecosystems and addresses natural climate change through natural solutions. [2:10] Serge's journey of co-founding WILDCOAST and his history of serving as the Mayor of Imperial Beach from 2014 to 2022. [2:47] What does Serge hope to achieve in the role as Chair for C-3's Knowledge Action Network, and what hopes does he have for future civic awareness of our border region? [6:20] The border region can serve as a laboratory to get things done because there are no rules and we can take action and make up the rules to serve our community best as we go. [6:20] Serge discusses shifting the conversation away from thought partners to action partners and the punk rock DIY philosophy that helped him transform the city of Imperial Beach. [9:19] Serge talks about serving on the board of SANDAG and how cross-border collaboration has evolved on a government level. [11:22] By working with the media to communicate issues, problems, challenges, and needs, Serge has caught the attention of CNN and many other national and international media organizations. [13:43] How can we do better in solving the Tijuana sewage crisis and improving our water quality? [14:15] What would solving this issue mean for our South Bay communities and our neighbors in Tijuana? [19:31] The impact of our sea levels rising and holding the fossil fuel companies accountable. [29:05] The importance of taking positive actions at the micro level. [29:39] Instead of just tweeting and talking about things on social media, get off your device and get involved. Get active. About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org WILDCOAST Serge Dedina

In this episode, we welcome Amber Pairis, the founder and lead advisor of Climate Science Alliance. Amber's work is dedicated to increasing awareness of climate change impacts, advocating for solutions, and fostering collective action to protect both natural and human communities in the face of a changing climate. During the conversation, Amber sheds light on the Alliance's commitment to honoring indigenous stewardship and building an inclusive community of partners, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table. Amber also explores the vital role of agriculture in climate solutions and shares the milestones worth celebrating in the realm of climate advocacy. She talks about the Alliance's inspiring initiatives, including Climate Kids and the Stewardship Pathways Training Program, that are paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future. Timestamps: [1:46] Amber introduces herself and more about her role at the Climate Science Alliance. [5:24] How the Alliance formed, the funding and building of the team. [7:37] At the Alliance, the topics pivot and change based on what their partners need. [8:50] What transformational adaptation means for the Alliance and how it is the center of the community. [11:02] How the Alliance creates a space that truly listens to people and upholds value for those of many different backgrounds and perspectives. [15:53] The birth of Climate Kids and the focus to take hands-on science and bring it to create a focus on storytelling and climate literacy. [19:08] What do we have to celebrate, and what was some good news coming out of the San Diego Climate Summit? [27:08] How the Climate Summit has engaged with San Diego's indigenous population and history, and more about the tribal work groups. [30:34] How can agriculture play a role in climate solutions? [32:21] The cross-border collaboration between the Alliance and Baja California. [35:42] More about the Stewardship Pathways Training program. [40:01] Where can people give and learn more? About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Climate Science Alliance Climate Kids Amber Pairis

It's all about Volcan Mountain this week, with insight from guest Eric Jones, the President and Executive Director of the Volcan Mountain Foundation. Eric discusses the Foundation's innovative forest management strategies and its dedication to environmental education. He talks with Jennifer about how the organization preserves the mountain range through diverse ownership categories, its long-term planning efforts, and its unwavering vigilance in safeguarding this natural wonder. Eric shares how climate change has changed the conversation, and resources for those looking to actively participate in the stewardship of the mountain range and get their hands dirty in the pursuit of conservation. Timestamps: [2:48] How and why did the Volcan Mountain Foundation form, and what are the mountain ranges that it protects? [5:57] How the Foundation develops the younger generation of nature lovers and stewards of the land. [7:33] What does Eric mean by providing scientific rigor to stewardship, and what are the Foundation's plans for the future? [9:06] How the Foundation is working to build implementation capability and relationships with indigenous communities to inform land management practices. [10:26] How James Hubbell has contributed to Volcan Mountain. [11:33] The Rubenson Residency for Art and Science is an annual competitive program where scientists and artists apply for the opportunity to spend several weeks up in the mountains and be inspired by what they see. [14:02] A few of the various ownership categories and dedication to keep all communities involved. [18:42] The Volcan Mountains are one of the last places in San Diego that support animals like the mountain lion and smaller rare animals like the western spotted skunk. How is the future looking for the species that call San Diego their home? [21:59] How has the landscape level of conservation shifted due to climate change? [24:32] How is the conservation community in the backcountry responding to the Foundation's approach, and how do solar and wind farm developments factor into the mix? [26:03] A few of the many ways one can get involved with the Foundation: stewardship, volunteer opportunities, education programs, or financial contribution. [27:12] The Foundation has a healthy K-12 Education program, adult education program, Wild Crafting, and Forest Bathing. About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Volcan Mountain Foundation Volcan Mountain Preserve Rubenson Endowment for Art and Science

In keeping with the backcountry theme, host Jen Whitelaw sits down with Michael Beck, the director of the Endangered Habitats League, a nonprofit organization committed to safeguarding ecosystems and promoting sustainable land use. In this conversation, Michael shares the League's origins, tracing back to its formation in 1991 to advocate for the protection of the California gnatcatcher. Discover how the original six board members, including Michael, continue to work with the San Diego community to drive the organization's mission decades later. Michael talks about the crucial role of the backcountry in urban life, the intricate web of species conservation through San Diego's multiple species conservation program, and how growing wildfire threats impact our environmental preservation. Timestamps: [1:54] Michael talks about the creation of the Endangered Habitat League, and how it formed in 1991 to advocate for the listing of the California gnatcatcher. [2:21] Six board members are still the same six people that formed the organization and have been on the initial board from 1991. [7:00] The role of the backcountry in urban life. [11:17] Michael's role in the adoption of San Diego's multiple species conservation program, the MSCP, and his assessment of it all these years later. [15:29] The species covered; about half of them are plants and half are animals. [21:39] Winning the Calder Conservation Award, and what a business conservation partnership looks like. [26:00] The environmental stewardship beyond the San Diego region, and how it is connected to the five Southern California counties. [27:42] Why was the Endangered Habitat Conservancy started? [29:49] What might the average citizen not know or think about when it comes to preserving lands and/or the conservancy? [32:44] How has the growing danger of wildfires affected the EHL's strategies? [42:46] The Earth Discovery Institute. [51:46] People may not be able to join the board, but how else can they get involved? About C-3 Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3's leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3's role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Endangered Habitats League MSCP Natural Communities Conservation Plan Quotes: "It's an incredibly complex and ambitious effort to establish a science-based, apolitical framework that's based on ecology and biology to preserve the habitat and the viability of 85 species." — Michael [6:07] "It should be the first principle of land use planning, as well as the first principle in conservation, that everything is connected." — Michael [8:54] "You're not just protecting the footprint for that particular species that's covered, you're protecting the ecosystem within which it lives." — Michael [19:40] "The conservation community, our job is to give voice to the wildlife and to actually apply science to what needs to be done to protect these species." — Michael [22:48] "There is a lot of resilience in natural systems, but you have to remove those really persistent degrading sources of impact." — Michael [38:44]

The first Knowledge to Action episode with urban planner Suchi Lukes in July of 2022 had so much good information to share that we think the episode is worth a revisit. Host Jen Whitelaw speaks with Suchi, who also spearheads C-3's Urban Core Knowledge Action Network. Suchi talks about her commitment to bringing together local thought leaders from planning, design, community development, and more to address San Diego's distinctive and pressing land use challenges. Timestamps: [2:19] We often identify housing as the major challenge for the urban core, but Temporary Paradise called for the revitalization of commercial corridors as a way to anchor redevelopment. Suchi talks about the nexus between bringing back our historic main streets and building up stock in the urban core. [5:00] Suchi discusses Euclidean zoning, where you have your residential center in one area, and how this creates more flexibility in our developmental regulations. [6:02] One key challenge in the urban core is the availability of land. [8:42] What part should our urban core play as we try to develop climate resistance? [11:01] Our urban areas are pretty key in helping address climate change and shaping livability. [11:59] How do we reconcile established character and preservation in some cases, with new development? [18:07] Suchi discusses the Community Land Trust Model. [19:55] There is still much inequity in our park spaces that we need to address. [22:44] We have to have a holistic vision of how lower-income and minority folks can have a full quality of life and it can't just be done through planners. It has to be multiple sectors coming together, including community members, to make sure everyone has a voice and is able to advocate for their own needs. [23:26] How can people get more involved? About C-3 In its 60 years of existence, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) has brought together local thought leaders from planning, design, policy, academia, community development, and more to address our region's distinctive and pressing land use challenges. In founding C-3 almost 60 years ago, architect Lloyd Ruocco's vision was to bring together our region's most creative minds from the arts, sciences, academia, and government to share ideas, learn new perspectives, and build fellowship around the idea of creating livable communities. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org Temporary Paradise Suchi Lukes

The conversation about River Parks continues this week, as Jen welcomes Rob Hutsel, President and CEO of the San Diego River Park Foundation. Learn about the Foundation's mission to protect and enhance the San Diego River and its impact on the river's health. Rob discusses how the Foundation formed as a grassroots organization, focusing on access, education, and enjoyment of the river for the whole community. He talks about the importance of the San Diego River as a connecting point between land and water, supporting diverse animal and plant species. Lastly, Rob covers the Foundation's initiatives, including education programs and the "One River Many Stories" project, aimed at engaging students and celebrating the river's rich heritage. Timestamps: [2:12] How "River Rob" became President and CEO. [2:33] What are the defining characteristics of the San Diego River? [3:38] Why the San Diego River has been an instrumental part of life in San Diego. [3:41] What kinds of animals and plant species rely on the river? [4:05] There are more species here in San Diego County than anywhere else in the country. [6:12] Why the San Diego River is such an important connecting point for land and water. [7:00] How did the San Diego River Park Foundation form and what was the original mission? [9:45] The relationship between the San Diego River Park and the San Diego River Park Foundation. [11:20] What role did community-based watershed management planning have in shaping the San Diego River Park vision and the evolution of your organization? [13:27] How does the Foundation bring ecosystem space management and stewardship into the picture in an accessible way? [15:31] Why is the San Diego River so special? [18:38] Biggest threats to the environment today, and how we can help others overcome confusion and apathy towards the future and taking action. [21:08] What is the River Center doing to make sure that local students of all backgrounds know about the river? [24:22] What is the "One River Many Stories" project? About C-3 In its 60 years of existence, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) has brought together local thought leaders from planning, design, policy, academia, community development, and more to address our region's distinctive and pressing land use challenges. In founding C-3 almost 60 years ago, architect Lloyd Ruocco's vision was to bring together our region's most creative minds from the arts, sciences, academia, and government to share ideas, learn new perspectives, and build fellowship around the idea of creating livable communities. Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement: C3sandiego.org San Diego River Park Foundation Rob: rhutsel@sandiegoriver.org