Partners in Preservation: The Fallbrook Trails Council
Decades of Grassroots Stewardship Along the Santa Margarita River
Trail improvement project at Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve in partnership with Fallbrook Trail Council
Long before The Wildlands Conservancy became stewards of the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve, local residents were already at work protecting and enhancing its trails. Since 1999, the Fallbrook Trails Council (FTC), now a nonprofit 501(c)(3), has played a central role in maintaining, preserving, and advocating for this unique river corridor, which follows the last continuously flowing river in Southern California.
Originally owned by the Fallbrook Public Utility District, this land was once earmarked for development. Instead, it became a beloved community space—home to endangered species, rich riparian habitat, and 18 miles of multi-use trails. FTC stepped up to build and maintain the system, supporting everything from trail construction and erosion control to habitat protection and user safety. Their volunteers have logged over 15,000 hours of hands-on work.
When The Wildlands Conservancy acquired the 1,384-acre preserve in 2018, FTC retained deeded easements to the trail system, a testament to the council’s enduring role. Since then, FTC and Wildlands have worked side by side to support public access while safeguarding ecological integrity. Together, we’ve implemented system-wide signage and continued trail improvements made possible through San Diego County grant funds and FPUD’s water tax-funded grant program.
"I have been riding these trails since 2001 and have been honored to assist in the preservation and improvement of this true jewel of Fallbrook. It is rare to find such a beautiful trail system open for all to enjoy. With our partnership this area will be here for many more years to come." — Lita Tabish, Fallbrook Trail Council
Whether you’ve explored the shady river trails or helped clear a path after a storm, the results of this collaboration are clear: a vibrant, well-loved preserve where public access and conservation coexist.
"The Fallbrook Trails Council brings deep local knowledge, decades of experience, and an incredible volunteer ethic to this partnership. Working with them over the years has helped make noticeable improvements to the quality of the trail system that ultimately serves our goal to protect natural resources and offer visitors a one-of-a-kind trail experience."
— Zach Kantor-Anaya, South Coast Regional Director
The Wildlands Conservancy x Fallbrook Trail Council