The San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, citizen-based organization, was founded in 1986, when a relatively small group of citizens coalesced to effectively communicate the Greater San Diego community's want for green open spaces to enhance its quality of life. Today, the community enjoys the San Dieguito River Park, which stretches 94,000 acres from coast (Del Mar) to crest (Volcan Mountain). The Conservancy helps to promote educational, cultural and recreational opportunities within the expansive nature park.