News

Today, The Coast News Group announced its 2025 Best of North County contest winners, which included Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. EFRR took first place in the “Best Place to Volunteer” category after an online vote that included 18 other candidates.

“This accolade is a testament to the wonderful people who make up EFRR’s volunteer community, OMWD rangers, and our strong partnership with the Escondido Creek Conservancy,” said OMWD board director Ebin Lanfried.

Volunteers with EFRR’s Trail Patrol, improve trails and engage with visitors. Volunteers also interact with the public at the Elfin Forest Interpretive Center Honoring Susan J. Varty and take part in outdoor education programs.

Volunteers are encouraged to develop their own programs, such as nature walks, guided hikes, or concerts. EFRR volunteers also engage in social events, environmental presentations, and educational field trips. Currently, EFRR has a team of 68 volunteers, some of whom have been serving since the program began in 2009.

More information on volunteering at EFRR is available by calling 760-632-4212 or visiting www.olivenhain.com/docent or www.olivenhain.com/trailpatrol.

From left to right: Park Supervisor Jeff Anderson, volunteer Keith Kelly, rangers Jonathan Zeller and Shawnn Schaub, volunteers Walter Haslop and Mike Dzurko, Escondido Creek Conservancy Land Manager Donna Leon, and volunteers Rich Riemer, Debbie Matsumoto, and Marvin Valverde at Elfin Forest Interpretive Center Honoring Susan J. Varty