User:Cminesco/Cminesco/Draft of Daley Ranch Article

Daley Ranch is a conservation mitigation bank located in and owned by the City of Escondido.

Overview
Daley Ranch is adjacent to the Dixon Lake Recreation Area in north-eastern Escondido. The 3,058-acre parcel provides an environmental mitigation area that services parts of northern San Diego County. Hikers, bikers, and equestrians may access more than 22 miles of trails that do not interfere with the intended use of the land. The Ranch is divided in into three land use categories: an 87-acre Recreational Use area, a 115-acre Natural Park area, and a 2,842-acre Conservation area. All use of the Daley Ranch is monitored to maintain the habitat value of the property.

History
Originally settled by the Kumayaay and other Native Americans, Robert Daley established a cattle ranch here in 1869 and was granted a claim to 1,600-acres in 1875. By 1996 Shea Homes had controlling interested in the property and had purchased water and sewer futures from the City. The City was able to purchase both the land and the futures, resulting in significant savings of tax dollars and the establishment of the conservative mitigation bank. The City opened the Daley Ranch to the public in 1997.

Mitigation Bank
The Daley Ranch Conservation Bank is one of 12 in San Diego County. Developers may purchase conversation credits of the following categories: Chaparral and Unoccupied Coastal Sage Scrub, Coast Live Oak Woodland, and Englemann Oak Woodland.

Conservation
Habitats within the conservation areas of Escondido are potentially home to 42 sensitive plants species and 64 special status wildlife species. The specific habitats in Daley Ranch also support 7 planets and 15 animals with state and federal statuses.

Recreational Park
The Daley Ranch is open for hiking, biking, and equestrians on specifically marked trails. Restrooms and water fountains are only available at the park entrances. The city has very specific rules and regulations regarding use of the preserve.

Trails
In 2012 the City reopened the trails following the completion of paving the Ranch House Road

Ranch House
In 2005 the city voted unanimously to renovate the 1920's built Ranch House with the intention of using the building for educational purposes and community activities. The $1 million renovation was completed in 2012.

Stanley Peak
The 2000-foot Stanley Peak added 103-acres to the ranch when the city purchased the property from a private owner in 2006.

Memorial Benches
The Friends of Daley Ranch dedicated two memorial benches off Ranch House Road in 2012. The organization plans to continue to develop the area as a memorial spot and scenic view point.

Friends of Daley Ranch
The Friends of Daley Ranch(FODR) non-profit organization was incorporate in 1997. . The FODR works in conjunction with the City, The Fish and Game Department and the Army Core of Engineers to support and maintain the conservation bank. Their primary focus is on education about and responsible recreation within the Daley Ranch.