Wallace Tucker of the Fallbrook Land Conservancy (FLC) made a presentation at the Fallbrook Revitalization Council meeting, Jan. 17, on the subject of the Walkabout Web, a proposed new trail system for the community. The plan consists of a 30-mile external loop, not including the existing numerous interconnecting trails within the loop. Tucker said it is intended to provide "more effective access to parks and preserves."

Tucker emphasized in the presentation that "nature, urban and rural factors all affect one another."

"One challenge with connecting these open spaces, is to maintain their purpose while simultaneously protecting them," said Tucker.

The FLC, founded in 1988, is one of the most successful land trusts in San Diego County, stated Vince Ross, chair of the Revitalization Council, and a co-founder of the FLC. The 10 preserves are actively used by community members. For example, Los Jilgueros Preserve has approximately 14,000 visitors annually.

A trail on Fallbrook Public Utility District land along the Santa Margarita River, one of the few free-flowing rivers in Southern California, is maintained by the FLC’s Trails Council and is projected to be part of the

loop trail.

Another part of the envisioned trail, Tucker said, could be a six-mile strip of land owned and maintained by the Metropolitan Water District for its pipeline.

The future San Luis Rey River Park along State Route 76, currently in the developmental stage, has been included in the Walkabout Web plan as well.

Tucker said one of the more difficult parts of the loop would be around the Olive Hill Road area, because of the terrain.

"About 30 years ago, a master trails plan was created," Tucker explained. "It was a blueprint of possible trails that sometimes crossed private property which created a bit of controversy in regards to easement access etc."

Tucker said, "If future issues arise in regards to Advertisement

[ Christ the King Lutheran Church ] easement access, possible fundraising may be needed in order to purchase those easements."

One of the first steps in creating the Walkabout Web, Tucker said, is to "rally together volunteers who could inspect and ground test the trails to determine if they are safe and compatible for walking."

"There is no reason why eventually we couldn’t extend the trail to Temecula," said Tucker, who also pointed out that trails which connect communities are becoming very popular.

Studies have shown that trails increase property values 10 to 20 percent and increased tourism by approximately 20 percent.

Tucker said the work at hand includes: creating maps showing potential yet realistic trails; and ensuring public access to them through agreements or purchase of easements if needed.

Tucker also noted that while many people enjoy the trails throughout the community, not all of them are members of the FLC. The non-profit organization relies on donations to continue the preservation and enhancement of the 2,025 acres that have been acquired since its formation. For more information, visit

www.fallbrooklandconservancy.org.

Fallbrook’s Walkabout Web

Trails enable residents to be happier, healthier, and wealthier (increased property values, tourism)