Ramona Grasslands Preserve Opens to Public Friday

Here's a roundup of news from San Diego County for the week:

– For the first time, the public can experience the distinctive County preserve along a trail,  as the Ramona Grasslands Preserve was opened Friday. Thanks to County Supervisor Dianne Jacob, The San Diego County Parks and Recreation Department and community and wildlife partners, who opened a four-mile trail. The Grasslands protect rare vernal pools, native grasses, endangered animals, and other rare plants.

– Defensible Space Days takes place June 10-12, where residents are asked to eliminate fire hazards within 100 feet of their homes before peak fire season in accordance with the law. At 10 a.m. on Friday, June 10, a Lakeside resident displayed how defensible space is maintained at his home, in a nod toward defensible space for protecting his home from the 2003 wildfire that destroyed several homes in his neighborhood.

– The number of pertussis (commonly known as whooping cough) cases continues to grow with four new cases at local schools.  Beginning July 1, students in grades 7 through 12 will be required to have proof of taking the pertussis booster shot before they return to public or private school. Pertussis got to a record 1,144 cases for the county, with two infant deaths. The County’s six public health centers and one vaccination clinic offer the pertussis booster shot, or Tdap, for a small fee.  The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency continues to provide the vaccine for residents with no medical insurance.

– The public enjoyed horseback rides, hikes, biking, nature, and exhibits at “Discover Otay Valley Regional Park” on Saturday, where the park had its very first park-wide community event. The event, held on National Trails Day, was meant to introduce the community the park’s natural beauty and 8.2 mile trail system.