City Spotlight: Riverside is Surrounded by Protected Habitats

Nov 28, 2022 | City Spotlight, MSHCP

Collage of landmarks in Riverside

Mount Rubidoux, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, Hidden Valley Wildlife Area, and more… Throughout the City of Riverside, you are near habitats that MSHCP-protected species need to thrive. On the western end of the city, the Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is home to essential species such as the yellow-breasted chat and the white-faced ibis, among other wildlife. This protected area also has bike, pedestrian, and equestrian trails for recreation near the Santa Ana River (the city’s namesake).

Closer to downtown, Mount Rubidoux is a beacon for the region, offering a mix of nature and history. Protected species include the granite spiny lizard and the least Bell’s sparrow.

Image of Granite Spiny Lizard
Image of Least Bell's Sparrow

The Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park near UC Riverside offers chances to see smooth tarplant or the Belding’s orange-throated whiptail, among several other species protected by the MSHCP. Wake up early to experience this park at its finest.

Within the city of Riverside, 132 acres of additional MSHCP reserve lands are protected. The city has surpassed the goal of conserving 125 acres and continues to find other ways to expand its conservation. The city has also worked closely with the RCA on transportation projects like the Van Buren Boulevard Bridge at the Santa Ana River, the 91/Perris Valley Line extension, and the Magnolia Avenue interchange with the 91. The MSHCP has helped streamline the environmental approval processes for these infrastructure projects and others.

As the “City of Arts and Innovation,” Riverside offers not only a canvas for creativity, but also a great place for protected MSHCP species to call home.