AGUA HEDIONDA LAGOON FOUNDATION

Haunted Corn Maze Recap 2025

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 19:42:44 GMT

There is no better way to celebrate all the spooky goodness fall brings than by kicking off the annual Haunted Corn Maze in partnership with the Carlsbad Strawberry Company . Thousands of people braved the maze each night—and most made it out alive. Thank you to everyone who stepped foot in the maze. Not only did you lead with bravery, but your admission directly supported environmental education in our community for the upcoming year.

A loud, bloody, screaming thank you to every volunteer who made the maze the place to be this season. Your dedication to your roles, your top-tier jump-scare methods, and the miles you ran with a chainsaw were inspiring and unforgettable. Thank you as well to those who braved the maze in another way as volunteer security guards, assisting maze-goers and volunteer scarers whenever needed. Keeping everyone safe is our top priority, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

Thank you to the Carlsbad Strawberry Company for hosting us again this year. Each season grows bigger, and each season we grow more grateful for the opportunity to work together.

Lastly, thank you to everyone who donated towards supporting our volunteers for this event!

In-Kind Donors:

Albertson’s
Black Rock Coffee Bar
Chespiroz Food Truck
Grand Pacific Resorts
Green Cheek Beer Co
Little Fox
Open Water
Padres
Vons

Taco 'Bout Great Volunteers

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 20:03:16 GMT

On September 23rd, we gathered at the Discovery Campus to celebrate the people who make everything we do possible — our incredible volunteers! The Taco ’bout Great Volunteers appreciation event was our way of saying a heartfelt thank you to the long-term, dedicated individuals who have poured their time, passion, and care into the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation (AHLF).

The evening featured a delicious catered dinner from Rubio’s and Veggie Grill , complete with sweet desserts and a refreshing variety of drinks from local favorites. Volunteers enjoyed a relaxed evening surrounded by friends old and new, sharing stories about their experiences supporting the lagoon’s programs, events, and daily operations.

As a small token of our gratitude, each volunteer took home a succulent plant and Mexican candy , symbolizing the growth, resilience, and sweetness they bring to our community.

To top off the night, everyone joined in a lively round of trivia , featuring a mix of environmental and AHLF-related questions. The competition was friendly but fierce, as teams put their knowledge to the test for fun prizes — and, of course, bragging rights as lagoon trivia champions!

The Taco ’bout Great Volunteers event was more than a celebration — it was a reminder of the power of community and the impact of giving back. From maintaining the trails and habitats to supporting educational programs and special events, our volunteers make a lasting difference every single day.

To all our volunteers: thank you for your time, your energy, and your heart. You truly make the lagoon thrive.

See all photos here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1GG0IlYS6LwHvlTnrX_WLcuO6Iym3gDaT?usp=drive_link

Plastic Beach Recycling Partnership

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:32:37 GMT

We are thrilled to announce a new sustainable edition to the Discovery Campus. In partnership with Plastic Beach , AHLF is determined to make an impact on the billions of single use soft plastics that end up in landfill each year.

Since these types of plastics cannot be recycled in typical Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) or Recycling Centers, Plastic Beach has worked to collect and properly dispose of over 50,000 pounds of plastic since its founding.

Discovery Gala 2025 ~ Barbie's Dream Lagoon

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 17:37:15 GMT

Discovery Gala 2025 ~ Barbie’s Dream Lagoon truly felt like stepping into a pink-and-blue glitter world—overflowing with magic, cocktails, dancing, and dazzling games.

The evening began with an intimate VIP Patron Party at the Water Tower, honoring our 2025 Hero on a Quest awardee: Carlsbad Educational Foundation . With live music by violinists Amanda Wirtz and Claire Braby and breathtaking ocean views, it was a sparkling kickoff to the night. Thank you to VIP Sponsor, Grand Pacific Resorts , for making this celebration possible!

As cocktail hour began, the excitement grew. Guests—dressed in their best pinks and blues—were welcomed with live music from Whit Aadland at check-in and Gin N’ Tonix on the terrace. Along the way, they walked through a hallway tribute to our very own AHLF Barbies and Kens—the incredible individuals who bring the Dream Lagoon to life.

Drinks flowed, “shell-fies” were snapped with Mermaid Barbie (Lavender Moon Goddess) and the sparkling Barbie & Ken backdrop… and then came the first surprise of the night: a flashmob performance by the AHLF team! A playful nod to the disco dance in the 2023 Barbie movie, it set the stage for an unforgettable four-course dinner.

The Live Auction brought paddle battles for trips to Hawaii, Palm Springs, and more. Tears followed during the Impact Video , sharing our vision for Discovery Island —a classroom and exhibit space ensuring environmental education can thrive rain or shine. Watch the video »

New this year, donors who gave $100 during Raise the Paddle were entered into a secret prize drawing featuring a stay at Omni La Costa, local dining gift cards, and diamond stud earrings. Congratulations to Tim Stripe , our lucky winner!

We also honored our very own “Barbie and Ken”—Heather and Jimmy Ukegawa . Joined on stage by their son Jade, with daughter Mia delivering heartfelt remarks, the Ukegawa family was celebrated with proclamations from Mayor Keith Blackburn and county, state, and federal representatives—recognizing their unwavering dedication to community and environmental education.

And of course… the catwalk! Our Barbies and Kens lit up the runway, showcasing opportunity drawing items with fabulous style.

To close out the night, guests returned to the terrace where the Mojo Dojo Casa House (casino + horse race game) and Barbie’s Disco (DJ Barbie + glitter tattoos) kept the energy alive until the very end.

A night of sparkle, joy, and purpose—thank you to everyone who made Discovery Gala 2025 ~ Barbie’s Dream Lagoon a dream come true!

Photo Gallery Here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ic1xcFYDvOMPNFSC6tt0tgaSeMVAAFtN?usp=sharing

Thank You Gala Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor: NRG Energy

VIP Patron Party Sponsor: Grand Pacific Resorts

Program Sponsor: The Henry

Valet Sponsor: BMW of Carlsbad

Invite Sponsor: Vigilucci’s Restaurant Group

Specialty Cocktail Sponsor: DUAL North America

VIP Cocktail Sponsor: Hale & Associates

Paddle Sponsor: The Silva Group (Lynnell Talone Honda)

VIP Patron Party Invite Sponsor: RDQ Inc.

Bar Sponsor: Pangea Biological and Withum

Entertainment Table Sponsor: California Watersports, Cbar, Dudek, Inspectors of the Election

Avian Adventure Day 2025

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 23:05:48 GMT

65 Participants Soar Through a Day of Feathered Fun and Learning

On a beautiful day at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Campus, Avian Adventure Day welcomed 65 enthusiastic participants to celebrate the wonderful world of birds. From guided bird walks to unforgettable animal encounters, the event was a vibrant mix of education, exploration, and pure avian excitement.

Guests had the chance to learn from our raptor interns, who shared their knowledge and passion for birds of prey, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of these majestic creatures. Expert-led bird walks brought participants through native habitats, helping guests spot and identify local bird species in their natural environment.

A big highlight of the day was the live animal encounters, thanks to Critter Encounters, whose incredible animal ambassadors—including owls and other fascinating critters—captivated attendees of all ages. And of course, River the raccoon made a special appearance, stealing hearts and a few smiles with his undeniable charm.

We’re also grateful to Wild Birds Unlimited for donating a generous prize for our opportunity drawing, which added an extra touch of excitement to the day.

A heartfelt thank you to our community, volunteers, partners, and guests for making Avian Adventure Day such a success. Your continued support helps us educate and inspire the next generation of wildlife stewards. Until next time—keep looking up!

Lagoona Kahuna 2025 Family/Duo/Individual Teams

Mon, 19 May 2025 19:12:37 GMT

THE MINI KAHUNA

On a brisk and cloudy day, families, dynamic duos, and passionate individuals showed up in full force to make a real impact at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon.

Together, we removed hundreds of pounds of trash and invasive weeds, making the habitat cleaner, safer, and healthier for all who call it home — humans and wildlife alike.

But it wasn’t just about the clean-up! From kayak and paddleboard adventures to the Giant Jenga and Blind Cornhole, teams brought their A-game. Laughter echoed across the water, new bonds formed, and unforgettable memories were made. Even some marine life made a surprise appearance, popping up near the shore — as if to thank our volunteers for showing up with heart and purpose, despite the chilly weather.

A huge thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and cheered us on. The ripple effect of your efforts goes far beyond one day.

DIVISION III WINNER: Gibson Family

DIVISION III RUNNER UP: Renner Family

Cleanup by the Numbers

This year’s participants didn’t just bring their A-game—they brought their dedication to protecting our lagoon. Here's what we accomplished together:

Solid Waste Collected: 3,040 lbs
Recyclables Recovered: 115 lbs
Organic Waste Removed: 405 lbs

�� Grand Total: 3,560 pounds of trash and invasive species cleared from the Agua Hedionda Lagoon!

That’s more than just a stat—it’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when we roll up our sleeves and rally for a cause that matters.

With Gratitude to Our 2025 Event Sponsors ��

This incredible day wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our event sponsors. Your commitment to preserving the lagoon not only powers this annual cleanup—it also fuels our mission to provide hands-on environmental education to people of all ages.

Because of you, we’re restoring habitats, educating future stewards, and building a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.

Here’s to cleaner shores, stronger partnerships, and an even brighter future ahead! ��

Lagoona Kahuna Company Team Recap: Community Spirit, Teamwork & a Splash of Fun!

Mon, 19 May 2025 19:06:32 GMT

The weekend kicked off with an unexpected twist. Early Friday morning, staff arrived to discover a large section of spray-painted fencing at California Watersports’ beloved picnic area. But what could have been a setback turned into a shining example of community in action. Our team didn’t miss a beat—grabbing rags, acetone, and supplies to scrub the graffiti away. Volunteers jumped in without hesitation, tracking down materials and lending elbow grease to help restore the space, allowing California Watersports to keep doing what they do best.

Moments like this highlight what Lagoona Kahuna is really about—rallying together, stepping up, and showing up for our neighbors. It’s not just a cleanup—it’s a movement.

DIVISION I ~ THE BIG KAHUNA: Paddle Power & Team Spirit

The competition was fierce and the vibes were high as the Division I teams stormed in with grit, smiles, and serious team spirit. Returning champs DUAL North America were back to defend their title, facing off against eight other powerhouse teams all hungry for the coveted paddle trophy.

From team cheers to fast paddles and big laughs, the energy was electric. After the action, everyone kicked back with a well-deserved lunch, frosty brews, and icy treats—because nothing tastes better than victory and community pride!

A huge shoutout to our Big Kahuna competitors:

Charles Schwab
Dynamic Space Solutions
DUAL North America
GIA
Morgan Stanley
Ryan Foundation
Sun Country Builders
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Watkins Wellness

DIVISION I WINNER: DUAL North America

DIVISION I RUNNER UP: Sun Country Builders

DIVISION II ~ THE LITTLE KAHUNA: Big Hearts, Fast Games & Lagoon Love

The Little Kahunas may have a modest name, but they came to play big ! Division II was all about teamwork, good vibes, and making a lasting impact—not just on the scoreboard, but on the environment too.

Fueled by friendly competition (and a few well-timed sips of wine and beer), these spirited teams found their rhythm early. Some even clocked the fastest game times of the entire event—proving that fun and efficiency go hand in hand!

But the real win? The environmental impact. While laughter echoed across the shoreline, these teams were hard at work removing trash and invasive weeds, giving the lagoon a serious boost in health and beauty. Now that’s what we call multitasking!

A big thank-you to our Little Kahuna teams for showing up with energy, enthusiasm, and eco-love:

Carlsbad Young Professionals (sponsored by NRG Energy)
Clean Energy Alliance
Easy Life Management
Handel's Ice Cream
Kids For Peace (sponsored by NRG Energy)
Republic Services
The San Diego Old Aztec Rugby Club (sponsored by the Rincon Tribe of Luiseño Indians)

From blazing game times to meaningful cleanups, the Little Kahunas reminded us that you don’t have to be big to make a huge difference. ��

DIVISION II WINNER: Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream

DIVISION II RUNNER UP: Carlsbad Young Professionals

Cleanup by the Numbers

This year’s participants didn’t just bring their A-game—they brought their dedication to protecting our lagoon. Here's what we accomplished together:

Solid Waste Collected: 3,040 lbs
Recyclables Recovered: 115 lbs
Organic Waste Removed: 405 lbs

�� Grand Total: 3,560 pounds of trash and invasive species cleared from the Agua Hedionda Lagoon!

That’s more than just a stat—it’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when we roll up our sleeves and rally for a cause that matters.

With Gratitude to Our 2025 Event Sponsors ��

Because of you, we’re restoring habitats, educating future stewards, and building a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.

Here’s to cleaner shores, stronger partnerships, and an even brighter future ahead! ��

Password: lkcc2025

Cheers To 35 Years

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:23:06 GMT

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday, March 1st, to celebrate 35 years of Agua Hedionda! It was a day filled with joy, community, and, of course, ice cream—over 140 ice cream bars were enjoyed! By the end of the day, 202 guests had visited the Discovery Campus, making the celebration even more special.

A huge thank you to the Miegs Family Foundation for bringing the classic Good Humor Truck filled with ice cream, Paul Dwork for providing guests with magical entertainment, and our dedicated staff and board members who joined us for a group photo, marking this milestone together.

We’re grateful for this amazing community and look forward to many more years of Excellence in Environmental Education!

Mingle with Members 2025 ~ Barbie’s Dream Village

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 20:00:48 GMT

Come on Barbie, Let’s Go to Carlsbad Village!

Braving the chilly air and the ever-tricky Carlsbad Village parking, our incredible “village” turned out in full force for Mingle with Members ~ Barbie’s Dream Village on Friday, January 31st, at Witch Creek Winery!

With 133 members and friends in attendance, the evening was nothing short of magical Guests sipped on Witch Creek’s delicious wine, beer, and cocktails while indulging in mouthwatering bites from some of the best restaurants in Carlsbad Village. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream delighted everyone’s sweet tooth with their famous scoops, and our Raptor Interns wowed the crowd by touring our incredible animal ambassador raptors around the venue.

The air was Blooming with Possibilities as we raised $1,400 through our opportunity drawing for the Ultimate Carlsbad Village Basket, generously donated in part by the Carlsbad Village Association. Before heading home, guests struck their best poses in the photo booth, ensuring a picture-perfect end to the evening.

A huge thank you to our members—you are our village, and we couldn’t build this incredible community without you. Special thanks to The Socials for the dreamy decor (and the fun reminder about our upcoming Discovery Gala 2025 ~ Barbie’s Dream Lagoon), Handel’s Ice Cream for treating guests in person, our amazing volunteers, and all the guests who attended with members (some of whom officially joined our “village” that night!). Finally, a heartfelt thank you to Witch Creek Winery for their stunning venue, live music that set the perfect vibe, and the drinks that made it all that much easier to toast to 35 years of the Foundation!

thank you in-kind donors

!MPROV Cocktails
264 Fresco
American Heroes & Brew
Blue Water Grill
Carlsbad Village Association
Gregorio's Restaurant
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
Knockout Pizza
Lourdes Mexican Food Carlsbad
Roosevelt Pizzeria
Ruth's No5
Señor Grubby's
Vigilucci's
Wildland

Welcome New Members

Pam Beirne
Peggy Graf
Laura Obert
Adam Ryan
Wendy Woelke
Liz &Mike Lichtenberger

Congratulations Winners

Carlsbad Village Basket

Michelle Brook

Pink Bonus Prize

John Johnson

New Member Barbie Basket

Adam Ryan

Membership Appreciation Month 2024

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 17:21:49 GMT

To show our gratitude, we're dedicating an entire month to thank our over 1,000 members for their dedication to our Foundation and the environmental education of our community (young and young at heart). To do this we host several events throughout the month exclusive to members and their family.

Columbia Sportswear Employee Store

August 24th – September 18th

With such an active community, we know how much 50%-60% off brand-new active clothing from top brands mean to you! That’s why we partnered with the Columbia Sportswear Employee Store to give members exclusive access to their private employee store in Carlsbad. Bonus: Columbia donated 10% of all sales made by AHLF members back to the Foundation!

Adult Lecture Series ~ “Killer Algae”

September 4th

Over 15 members joined us for a compelling presentation by Carolyn Lieberman of California Fish & Wildlife on the fight against Algerian sea lavender, also known as "Killer Algae.” Members discovered how the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation and its partners are tackling this urgent issue and learn how they can help protect our ecosystem.

Thank you: Carolyn Lieberman

Hubbs Seabass Hatchery Tour

September 12th

30 Members joined us for a VIP Tour of the Hubbs Seabass Hatchery, the inspiration behind our scenic “Hubbs Trail.” They discovered the fascinating process of replenishing the White Seabass population in our oceans and witness each stage of this vital conservation effort in action.

Thank you: Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute Carlsbad Team and AHLF Team members Larissa Fullmer and Alyssa Sandoval for greeting all our members onsite!

Oyster Art Night

September 18th

20 of our members tapped into their creative side for a unique event blending crafts with conservation! Oyster shells donated by local restaurants, are usually repurposed for oyster wattles in erosion control efforts (learn more about that initiative here: https://www.aguahedionda.org/oyster-shells-are-helping-to-prevent-coastal-erosion-at-agua-hedionda-lagoon ). However, local artist Theresa saw beyond their typical use. After cleaning the shells with vinegar, they became the perfect canvas for painting, decoupage, and more!

Our members sipped on wine and beer while crafting beautiful oyster shell art, guided by Theresa's expert touch. As the sun set, painting the sky in hues of pink and purple, members proudly posed with their finished creations against the backdrop of the lagoon. Thank you to everyone who joined us for a fun-filled, eco-friendly evening!

Thank you:

That Pizza Place

Pizza Port, Carlsbad Village

Theresa from Studio ACE

Gallegos Wine Tasting

September 27th

If there’s one thing our members love, it’s a stunning sunset paired with a crisp glass of fine wine. Over 70 members joined us at the Discovery Campus on the last Friday of September to enjoy award-winning Gallegos Wines from Napa. With light bites, live music from Endless Blue, and dancing down Mayor Matt Hall Hill, the evening was filled with fun. Guests even had their portraits drawn by a caricature artist, making it a night to remember!

Thank you:

Wine Tasting Sponsor

Gallegos Wines

Entertainment Sponsor

Senor Grubby's

Beer Sponsor

Alesmith Brewing Company

Entertainment

Endless Blue

Caricature artist

Decor & Supplies Sponsor

The Socials

Food/Drink Sponsors

Bits & Bites Graze Board

Mendocino Farms, Bressi Ranch

Open Water

Prontos' Gourmet Market & Eatery

Strawberry Shack

Sprouts Farmers Market, San Marcos

Stator Bros

Topo Chico

Thank you to everyone who made our Member Appreciation Month a success! From conservation lectures and creative oyster shell art to wine tastings and exclusive shopping deals, we loved celebrating with you. A special thanks to our sponsors and volunteers who made it all possible. We’re grateful for your continued support in helping us protect and educate our community.

Kids Gala 2024 ~ Too Cool For School

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 00:28:45 GMT

Over 150 guests joined us on Friday, August 16th to beat the heat and celebrate Kids Gala 2024! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and sponsored—your support made this event a huge success!

Winter Paws & Claws

It's not a party at the Discovery Center without interactions with our Animal Ambassadors!

Science Wonderland

Guests had the opportunity to learn all about the powers of starch and celebrate their love for science with a super fun photo booth.

COOL Karaoke

We lost count how many times these little super stars took to the stage to sing their favorite Frozen songs. Each one brought their own style and we loved to watch them own the stage.

Bubble Blizzard

This bubble show, perfect for our littlest winter warriors, brought out the kid in everyone as they chased and popped bubbles as big as giant pumpkins!

Snowflake Sorcery

Mr. Meigs delighted in revealing the sleight of hand behind each trick, spilling his magical secrets with every performance.

B-I-N-G-O with Bingo

We aren't sure who loved this more, the families playing or Bingo who got constant love, attention, and treats.

Bingo's Halfie Birthday

We invited Elsa from Frozen to bring a special cupcake and sing a "halfie birthday" to 6-month old Bingo every hour!

Frosty Faces

We were incredibly fortunate to have a talented and dedicated group of volunteers running the face painting station. By the end of the event, it was nearly impossible to find anyone—child or adult—without a sparkly unicorn or a fierce tiger proudly displayed on their face.

Everything Banana with Mr. Banana

Handel's Ice Cream banana split station with the well loved Mr. Banana AND a decorate your own banana station?! This duo couldn't have been any sweeter.

Winter Winner Opportunity Drawing

Congratulations to our two winners and thank you to everyone who participated!

Piggy & P.J.'s ~ Jenna Mortazavi

Friends of Nature ~ Kevin Smith

Snowy Snack Station

Guests recharged with an array of delicious food options from all over North County! Thank you to everyone who donated!

Ice Bar

Adults found their new favorite drinks with Gallegos Wine and Rom Brewing beers.

Check out all the incredible photos taken by The Cali Life HERE

Link to photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1XQRlttna_Km6kmJfJ2DkXgcuNNK5wKYJ?usp=sharing

Discovery Gala 2024 ~ Lagoon's Eleven

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 00:10:52 GMT

We are THRILLED to announce that with the generous donation match from the Newell Family, we exceeded our fundraising goalbringing in

$257,000!

high roller welcome

With a jazzy twist, VIP guests were welcomed by the captivating music of With a jazzy twist, the VIP Patron Party, generously sponsored by Grand Pacific Resorts, began as attendees were greeted by the captivating melodies of Celeste Barbier, setting a stylish tone as they checked in and relaxed in the front lawn lounge.

Guests then made their way to the ocean-view terrace, where they spent the next hour enjoying the smooth vocals of our second Rat-Pack-style singer, Roman Palacios, while mingling with friends against the breathtaking coastal backdrop. During this special hour, CEO Lisa Rodman had the privilege of inviting the 2023 Hero on a Quest Award Winner, Tim Stripe, to announce and congratulate the 2024 recipient, Bob Beard. Bob's pivotal role in securing sponsorships for the Yellow Brick Road Campaign, which funds a week-long STEAM camp for underserved students and offers sponsors a lasting legacy with their names engraved on a brick at Mayor Matt Hall Hill, was celebrated with heartfelt applause.

The crowd, moved by Bob’s inspiring words about supporting the next generation of environmental stewards, erupted in cheers. As the VIP Hour drew to a close, Gala guests joined in, filling the back patio with congratulatory cheers for Bob as the

evening’s festivities continued.

Dinner at The Bellagio

Guests were transported to a high-stakes heist on the Las Vegas Strip as they savored their 3-course dinner. The Bellagio Hotel backdrop perfectly set the mood, while table centerpieces, overflowing with money and diamonds from safety deposit boxes, sparked lively debates about the best Ocean's movie in the series.

Winner Winner

Much like the movie, we wanted to keep the action alive. We started with the live auction in hopes of making people feel like they hit the jackpot with these unique, once- in-a-lifetime, opportunities.

Thank you to our in-kind Live Auction Donors:

Advanced Air
Alila Marea Beach Resort
Alpenholf Lodge
Arlo
Breathless Wines
Buckboard Catering
Campfire in Carlsbad Village
Dermacare Carlsbad
Develop Your Team
Gallegos Wine
Grand Pacific Resorts
Hansen's Encinitas
Healdsburg Food and Wine Festival
Jodi & Jon James
JSX Airlines
Leopold & Richter Family
Connor Lillie-Liberto
Mizu Life
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Paul Sanders
SD Tequila Tasting
Solterra Winery
TaylorMade
Town & Country Resort
Valentina Restaurant
Andy Wright (Hanalei Bay painting by Andy Wright)

An Impact To Remember

Did they cry in Ocean's Eleven? Because we sure did!

The evening began with a beautifully crafted video by Londen Productions, and by the time the 3-minute showcase of what makes AHLF magical came to an end, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. The magic continued as every person in the room graciously raised their paddle to help us meet the $50,000 challenge set by the Newell Family.

We barely had time to reach for more tissues before our CEO, Lisa Rodman, took the stage to thank and celebrate our 2024 Honoree, Margie Newell, for her tremendous impact on the Foundation.

In recognition of the lasting impact she has made, not just on the Foundation but on all of Carlsbad, Mayor Keith Blackburn presented Margie with a proclamation honoring her good deeds.

Let The Party Begin!

After a beautiful dinner and program, the giant glass doors opened and the party began. Guests fled to the blackjack, 3-hand poker, roulette, craps, and Pai Gow tables to test their luck.

Guests who preferred to dance the night away hit the floor with DJ Closer picking the best songs that got every generation moving.

Everyone, regardless of whether they played in the casino or not, had an opportunity to turn in their complimentary Margie Money (in honor of our honoree Margie Newell) to win one of three AMAZING prizes.

Congratulations to our high-rolling winners:

Fuel Frenzy: 40 $25 Shell Gas Cards totaling $1,000

Winner ~ Josh Cantor

Jewel Heist: Diamond Tennis Bracelet valued at $1,500, and Lab Grown Diamond Stud Earrings valued at $1,100 by Famulare Jeweler's.

Winner ~ Cindy & Mike Metts

Triple Down Escape: 3 day/2-night getaway for two adults @ the Orleans Hotel or Gold Coast Hotel. Also, enjoy a one-night stay and spa massage at the Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa. Lastly, enjoy a weekday night at Harrah's Resort SoCal and a $100 food

credit.

Winner ~ Jennipher Harris

A beautiful evening with beautiful people

Check out the full library of photos here:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1gjhmxitovJCHAYqWSmy2zCbMzTRHIwDS?usp=sharing

Photos by Mark Fitzgerald, Rini’s Photography, and Brooklynn Deal

Avian Adventure Day 2024

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 19:08:04 GMT

We like to think the sun came out especially for Sunday, as over 85 people gathered to share their love of all things birds. The morning started with a leisurely walk around the Discovery Center trail, led by birders Rick Grove and Bobby Brett . Spotting native birds in their element, with the beautiful Agua Hedionda lagoon serving as a scenic backdrop, was the perfect way to kick off the day!

Following an enlightening session on backyard bird species, families and individuals gathered at Mayor Matt Hall Hill for the day's second bird-focused program. Kicking off the event was Colleen Moore , presenting Agua's very own Peregrine Falcon, Celerity. Colleen captivated the audience with insights into falcon anatomy and the Peregrine's remarkable ability to dive for prey at speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour!

Shifting gears, we were honored to welcome Charles and Diana Gailband , who brought not one, but two magnificent owls. Corazon, the Barn Owl with a heart-shaped head, captured everyone's attention with his alert curiosity. Charles debunked common myths about owl behavior and shared tips on spotting owls like Corazon in San Diego. There was an audible chorus of "awws" when Diana introduced Athena, the Burrowing Owl. This adorable raptor stole the hearts of the audience, despite Charles noting her small size and formidable voice.

Wrapping up the avian displays, Hawkeye the Harris's Hawk made a majestic appearance. After a bit of coaxing with food, he flew gracefully from his carrier to the outstretched arm of handler Dr. Bob Gorden . Witnessing Hawkeye's freedom to fly and his impeccable return on command was a truly memorable sight.

One of the day's highlights was when four lucky adult members were chosen at random to have Hawkeye land on their arms—an unforgettable experience made possible by supporting AHLF as a member.

Finally, participants enjoyed painting handcrafted Wren birdhouses to take home as a cherished memento of this remarkable Sunday and Father's Day celebration.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event a resounding success!

Water & Waffle Cones

Thu, 16 May 2024 17:32:35 GMT

DIVISION I ~ THE BIG KAHUNA

The Big Kahuna teams arrived on Friday and Saturday brimming with determination to secure victory. The competition unfolded with intense fervor as Calsense defended their title, while eight other companies vigorously vied for possession of the coveted paddle.

It brought us great joy to witness their celebration of a job well done by enjoying the delightful spread of lunch, brews, and Handel's Ice Cream.

Thank you to the following teams for participating:

Bitchin' Sauce
Channelside Water Resources (Presenting Sponsor)
Charles Schwab
Calsense (2023 winner)
DUAL North America
Gemological Institute of America
LEGOLAND California Resort
Ryan Foundation
Thermo Fisher Scientific

Congratulations to our 2024 Big Kahuna winner: DUAL North America! After getting second place one too many times, this team came out full force for the paddle this year.

DIVISION II ~ THE LITTLE KAHUNA

The Division II (The Little Kahuna) teams were driven to leave their mark. As they worked together, pausing for a few sips of Same Same Hard Seltzer and Athletic Brewing Beer between games, they swiftly found their rhythm.

But their efforts weren't solely focused on having a good time. In the midst of the fun, they managed to collect an impressive amount of trash and invasive weed species!

Thank you to the following teams for participating:

Carlsbad Education Foundation
Carlsbad Young Professionals
Dynamic Space Solutions
Easy Life Management
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
Morgan Stanley
Republic Services (2023 winner)

Congratulations to our 2024 Little Kahuna winner: Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream! Starting off strong with their first Lagoona Kahuna and fueled by Blue Monster ice cream this team pulled off all the stops to claim

DIVISION III ~ THE MINI KAHUNAA

And finally, let's give a round of applause to our Division III (Mini Kahuna) participants, who truly exceeded expectations in numbers! A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the families, duos, and individuals who joined us under the sun to contribute to our community's cleanliness.

Despite their "mini" label, this group proved mighty by collecting a remarkable amount of trash and invasive weed species.

Thank you to the following teams for participating:

Angel Family
Ball, Lin
Cleveland, Susan
Gibson Family
Hardin Family
Kasky Family
Lange Family
Kawecki Family
Knodle Family
Monroe Family
Perretta Family
Sadeghi Family (2023 winner)
Sands Family
Simon, Laurie
Spindel, Anne
Wilkinson Family

Congratulations to our 2024 Mini Kahuna winner: The Baker Duo! The Baker’s proved that you don't need a big team to make a big impact. We are thankful they brought their A-game and look forward to seeing their strategies to keep the paddle next year!

Statistics

Solid Waste – 2.14 tons (4,320 lbs)
Recycle - .04 tons (80 lbs)
Organic Waste - .16 tons (320 lbs)

Total: 4,720 pounds (2.36 tons) of trash and invasive weed species removed from the Agua Hedionda Lagoon

Lagoona Kahuna Clean Up Challenge 2024 Sponsors

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed event sponsors for their invaluable contribution in making this cleanup possible. Your generous support has played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this endeavor, allowing us to preserve and protect our natural environment for the benefit of our community and future generations. It is through your unwavering commitment and dedication that we can make a tangible difference in restoring the beauty and health of our beloved lagoon.

Presenting Sponsor: Channelside Water Resources
T-shirt Sponsor: DUAL North America
Trash/Recycling Sponsor: Republic Services
Vendor/Vessel Sponsor: California Watersports
Award Ceremony Sponsor: GoBeRewarded
Food & Beer Sponsor: Pizza Port
Dessert Sponsor: Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
Drink Sponsor: Open Water
Drink Sponsor: Athletic Brewing
Drink Sponsor: Same Same Carlsbad

Oyster shells are helping to prevent coastal erosion at Agua Hedionda Lagoon

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 17:11:13 GMT

View a snapshot of our oyster wattle production and the importance of sustainable partnerships.

https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/la-west/news/2024/03/20/oyster-shells-are-helping-to-prevent-coastal-erosion?cid=id-app15_m-share_s-web_cmp-app_launch_august2020_c-producer_posts_po-organic

Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation fosters sustainable future

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 19:37:10 GMT

Read about us on The Lancer Link.

https://thelancerlink.com/lifestyles/around-town/2024/03/01/agua-hedionda-lagoon-foundation-fosters-sustainable-future/

Community works to protect San Diego coastal ecosystem

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:23:34 GMT

Read about us in Spectrum News!

http://specne.ws/MkgN3x

Mingle with Members ~ Casino Edition

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:19:35 GMT

The energy at Mingle with Members ~ Casino Edition was electrifying, and we are overflowing with gratitude for your enthusiastic presence and unwavering support throughout the evening.

With over 80 attendees eager to mingle, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement from the moment the doors opened. Blackjack and Bingo stole the show, with many of you diving into the games and even enjoying a bit of AHLF-themed trivia during Bingo sessions.

A huge round of applause to our 6 opportunity-drawing winners, who walked away with fantastic prizes, from AHLF Swag to a private Limoncello tasting for 6. Clearly, luck was on your side!

We're thrilled to announce that we welcomed 23 new members from Friday to Sunday, bringing us even closer to our goal of 1,000 Members by July of 2024 . Your enthusiasm for AHLF is truly inspiring!

None of this would have been possible without the mouthwatering delights crafted by Mexico City Cuisine and BuckBoard Catering . Their delectable dishes fueled us for a night of winning and mingling, and we're grateful for their culinary mastery.

And let's raise a toast to our drink sponsors— Venom Vodka, The Pure Project, Athletic Brewing, and Pegasus Estate Wine . Your libations added an extra layer of enjoyment to the festivities, and we appreciate your support in making the night unforgettable.

Last but not least, a heartfelt thank you to our incredible team. Events like this are a testament to your dedication and hard work, and we're grateful for all you do to support our members and the lagoon.

Event Organizer: Erin Hardin, Director of Community Relations

Bingo Announcer: Samantha Passovoy (Discovery Center Director)

Blackjack Manager: Emily Bonds (Director of Education)

Check-in: Samantha Richter (COO) and Taylor Sais (Board of Directors)

Poker Manager: Lisa Rodman (CEO & President) and Samantha Richter (COO)

Member Sign-Up & BlackJack Turn-in: Aaron Weiss (Assistant Manager of the Discovery Center) and Carly Clavier (Volunteer Coordinator)

Bar: Larissa Hepburn (Director of Trails & Conservation)

Parking and Facilities: Al Cerda (Facilities and Trails Manager)

Decor: Lissa Schroeder (Educational Coordinator) and Grant Thompson (Educational Coordinator)

Pre-Event Registration: Harini Natarajan (Data Entry Specialist)

Volunteers: Denae, Rhonda, Marybeth, Ricki, Chet, Terrell, Leslie, and Anne

Discovery Poker Tournament 2024

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:14:21 GMT

A special shoutout to all 36 players who showcased their poker prowess! The 4-hour tournament was a riot of laughter, cheering, and high fives. We had to shut the doors not just to allow our poker players to focus but also to contain the uproarious cheers and laughter emanating from the room.

Massive gratitude to our four table sponsors— Carlsbad Strawberry Company, California Watersports , The Inspectors of Election , and Mario Cuneo. Your support brought life to these vibrant tables, and we couldn't have done it without you.

Let's hear it for our winners! Your poker face rivals Lady Gaga's, and you proved it on the felt.

First Place: Glen Frick , who walks away with a one-week stay at ANY Grand Pacific Resort location & a bottle of Venom Vodka.

Second Place: Glynn Shaw Jr , securing a Heron’s House Wine Experience with AHLF’s CEO & 5 friends.

Third Place: Kevin Shin , winning 2 tickets to the 2024 Discovery Gala ~ Lagoon's Eleven.

Once again, a huge thank you to everyone who joined us for this exhilarating event. Your participation made it an unforgettable night of fun and friendly competition!

If you did not win, get your practice in because you will have an opportunity to win big again during our 2024 Discovery Gala ~ Lagoon’s Eleven on August 24th at the Westin Resort.

2023 Haunted Corn Maze: A Spooktacular Recap!

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:01:36 GMT

�� 8,918 Guests Spooked ��

Over the month-long festivities, 431 amazing volunteers signed up to decorate and scare, working 3-hour shifts.
Every night, an average of 12 active-duty military members joined the fun, haunting guests with their spooky skills. ��
The busiest weekend was 10/20 and 10/21, with 2,618 guests braving the maze! ��
Thanks to all the ghouls and goblins, we grossed $95,040, which will go towards our equitable environmental educational programs and public access to trails and outdoor spaces. ��✨

Ready for more thrills next year?

We're also looking for companies to sponsor a room in the Haunted Corn Maze 2024! This is a great opportunity for your employees to volunteer as scarers for the night. Plus, it includes pizza and beer at the end of the night. ��

Discovery Gala 2023 ~ DC Superheroes

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 22:15:00 GMT

The excitement was palpable in the air as the city's elite and comic book enthusiasts gathered under the dazzling lights of the Discovery Center. The occasion? The 2023 Discovery Gala ~ DC Superheroes. August 26th 2023 was an unforgettable night of glamour, charity, and a touch of fantasy.

As guests entered Superhero Headquarters (sponsored by Rincon Tribe of Luiseño Indians), they were immediately transported into a world of comic book wonder. The Rotunda had been transformed into a comic book shop, with hundreds of comic books and figurines for people to browse.

The Great Room went underground with black lights and huge boulders making the perfect atmosphere for the Bat Cave. Decorated with Catwomen's suit and hi-tech videos of the Batmobile, guests felt they had entered a different world.

Overlooking the lagoon, Newell’s Terrace transformed into the artic kingdom Superman uses to hide out. The Fortress of Solitude was one of the most popular spaces and it might have had to do with the ice-themed bar serving up specialty drinks.

A short walk over a bridge beamed guests to a new land, Pollinator Planet. This planet’s luscious landscape is perfect for our beehive and many butterflies to thrive. Residents of Pollinator Planet (team members of Caterpillar Chow) gave guests information on how to make their home turn into a pollinator planet with the purchase of various types of milkweed.

After a pit stop down the red carpet to check out our Valet Sponsor’s new all-electric BMW SUV, guests used a blow-up arch to be transported to their final destination, Gotham City.

Mini cityscapes adorned each table along with pieces of kryptonite and a superhero themed Pez Dispenser for each seat.

As the event got underway, guests were treated to a sumptuous feast fit for a superhero. Culinary delights created by Vigilucci’s Restaurant Group gave everyone the energy to dance through the night once the program ended.

While the superhero theme added an element of fun and fantasy to the evening, it was important to remember the underlying purpose of the night – supporting the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundations’ mission.

Our honoree of the night, Tim Stripe, has supported the AHLF’s mission from day one and we had the immense pleasure to bring him on stage and name him as our Agua Hedionda Man, cape and all. Tim’s generous contribution of time and labor, determination to get projects done and deep call to serve our community has allowed the Discovery Center to grow and develop in ways that simply would not have been accomplished without his selfless and untiring contributions. After a beautiful thank you speech by Tim, the live auction began.

The live auction was all about getting our superhero guests to their dream destinations such as Alaska, Africa, Disneyland’s Club 33, the La Costa Omni Resort & Spa, and a private cinematic experience.

Paddles sporting comic book phrases such as “POW”, “BAM”, and “KA-CHING” flew up at an attempt to win one of these destination packages. The combination of unique auction items, enthusiastic bidding, and a vibrant atmosphere created an experience that catered to both hardcore superhero enthusiasts and those looking to make a positive difference in the world.

The program portion of the evening ended with a BANG when CEO, Lisa Rodman, announced a match if the crowd could raise $25,000 towards hiring a Director of Trails and Conservation. From $10,000 to $100, our superhero guests pledged to minimize the environmental impact of trail construction and usage, protect natural habitats, our local watershed, and wildlife. After some quick math by COO, Samantha Richter, it was announced the $25,000 was raised and a total of $50,000 would be going towards the Director of Trails and Conservation position!

The perfect conclusion to a remarkable night of fantasy and philanthropy came once Atomic Groove hit the stage. Guests leapt out of their seats to the dance floor to sing and dance their hearts out to classic songs such as Dancin’ Queen by ABBA and Stayin’ Alive by the Bee Gees. Drinks and dancing continued until 10pm when superheroes, tired from saving the day, grabbed the milkweed they had purchased and headed home.

The Discovery Gala ~ DC Superheroes will be remembered not just as an event but as an epic journey into the realm of superheroes, where the extraordinary power of collective action was harnessed for a greater good. It served as a shining example of how passion and compassion can come together to create a truly super-powered event. Thank you to our guests, sponsors, in-kind donors, volunteers, and Gala committee for making everything possible. You are the Robin to our Batman.

Thank You 2023 Discovery Gala Sponsors:

Superhero Headquarters- Rincon Band of Lusiano Indians

Bar- Project Management Advisors

Live Auction- Stifel Carlsbad ~ Gary Endres

Photo Booth- Barter Family Foundation

Paddle Raise- Tooley Interests

Food Warmers- Carlton & Sandy Lund

Thank You Superhero Partners:

Best Day Brewing

Carlton & Sandy Lund

Chick-fil-a Quarry Creek

Dr. Bronners

Mexico City Cuisine

Pegasus Estate Winery

Shake Shack- Carlsbad

Sunset Bay Candy

Tidewater Media

Venom Vodka

Thank You To Our 2022 Volunteer of the Year: Colleen Moore

Thank You and Congratulations To Our 2023 Volunteer of the Year: Shelley McLennan

A Sweet Surprise

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 21:43:00 GMT

Meet Lyla Callahan, a pint-sized philanthropist who dedicated a whole day to raising money for AHLF by selling cookies and lemonade. This sweet girl and her family fell in love with the magic the Discovery Center inspires when she participated in Discovery Camp this summer and wanted to do something to give back.

Lyla proved you are never too young to make an impact on your community as she not only brought smiles to everyone who visited her stand, but also our staff when she came to deliver her donation. Celebrating her hard work with a cuddle from Rosy, we cannot thank her and her family enough for reminding us that even the smallest gestures of goodwill can have a tremendous impact on our communities.

Kids Gala 2023 Recap

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 23:07:17 GMT

From the moment families entered the Discovery Center on August 25th 2023, they were transported into a superhero wonderland. With each step, they found themselves immersed in a new world such as Batman’s Cave, Pollinator Planet, Comic Book Shop, Fortress of Solitude, Super Chickens, and Mayor Matt’s Magical Hill. Kids adorned in Agua Hedionda capes and their favorite superhero costumes flew between planets to have a chance to participate in all the activities offered.

The Comic Book Shop offered an escape from the real world with virtual reality superhero games where players were given headsets and controllers to explore what life would be like to swing from a building or fly above a cityscape.

Looking for an underground experience, families explored Batman’s Cave and sat to enjoy incredibly lively storytelling by author Claude Jones. Like in every comic book, these superheroes learned important lessons about kindness and problem solving from books such as Astro and the Creepy Kid and Astro and the BIG School Project. Moving outside to the Fortress of Solitude, AHLF staff brought out various Animal Ambassadors (some even wearing capes of their own) to meet guests. These fluffy, scaly, and feathered creatures taught the mini superheroes all about the importance of taking care of our planet.

Tired and hungry from all their travels, families ventured to Pollinator Planet for delicious food from Flippin Pizza, Rubio’s Coastal Grill, Broad Street Dough Co., and Board & Brew. Once they built up the energy, the mini superheroes continued the exploration of the Discovery Center Universe by flying to Learning Island for some SUPER science. Thermo Fisher Scientific pulled out all the stops for our mini Superhero Stewards by showing what DNA looked like under a microscope and having the option to create their very own DNA bracelet.

Another world away, on a planet run by chickens, beloved teacher Mr. Banana, taught superheroes about composting and challenged them to try to compost correctly for a prize.

After the intense training to become the best Steward Superhero they could be, it was time to celebrate the end of the evening with Face Painting from Kids For Peace and the finale magic show by the Meigs Family Foundation on Mayor Matt’s Magical Hill!

The magic show was a tapestry of awe-inspiring illusions that ranged from classic sleight of hand to mind-bending tricks. With assistance from the mini superheroes in the audience, tricks were revealed with squeals of laughter and joy. Magician Bob saved the best for last. His biggest trick of the night was to unveil a Discovery Mural created by over 100 community supporters, many of which attended this reveal. The mural is a collection of 128 hand painted tiles featuring various nature and animal themes. It is a beautiful collection of color and design that will live on Mayor Matt Hall Hill for any visitors to see!

Carlsbad Foundation Awards Over $86K In Grants To Local Nonprofits

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 22:12:00 GMT

Since 2008, Carlsbad Charitable Foundation has granted more than $1.3 million to over 70 programs.

Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation was one of seven nonprofits awarded during Carlsbad Charitable Foundation's annual Grant Awards Celebration. (Carlsbad Charitable Foundation)

CARLSBAD, CA — Carlsbad Charitable Foundation recently awarded tens of thousands of dollars to local nonprofits.

The foundation, which is an affiliate of San Diego Foundation, awarded $86,482 to seven organizations that provide opportunities to celebrate, enhance and invest in Carlsbad. The grants were awarded during the foundation's annual Grant Awards Celebration June 15 at Full Swing Golf in Carlsbad.

Since 2008, Carlsbad Charitable Foundation has granted more than $1.3 million to over 70 programs.

The 2023-24 grantees include:

Work Hard, Play Hard

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 22:02:00 GMT

Bright, early, and a little rainy, the Agua Team arrived at California Watersports for the 5th Annual Lagoona Kahuna Clean Up Challenge on Friday, May 5th, 2023 The rain did not stop the Division I (The Big Kahuna) teams from eagerly going over trash-grabbing strategies before the clock started. The competition was fierce with Calsense fighting to keep their title and Bitchin’ Sauce, Charles Schwab, CleverMade, Cohn Restaurant Group, DUAL, JPW Communications, Ryan Foundation, and ThermoFisher Scientific, fighting to claim the paddle as their own. After some impressive trash finds (such as the person who kayaked an entire reclining chair back to shore), Calsense proved to hold their spot as 2023’s Big Kahuna. We were happy to see all the teams celebrate their total collection of 1,322 pounds of trash with lunch, brews, and Hawaiian Ice.

Big Kahuna Winners: Calsense

Division II (The Little Kahuna) teams also had a point to prove. After starting with lunch and brew, the Carlsbad Education Foundation, Dynamic Space Solutions, Easy Life Management, Otter Products, and Republic Services divided and conquered all the games with impressive timing. Not only did Republic Services break the record for the fastest Water Relay time, but they also took the Little Kahuna title for 2023! Congratulations to everyone for removing a collective 419 pounds of trash and weeds from the lagoon!

Little Kahuna Winners: Republic Services

Last but certainly not least, is Division III (Mini Kahuna). The families/duos/individuals beamed with excitement about proving their brain and brawn skills and boy did they! With matching shirts and hats, the very well-dressed Sadeghi Family took home the title of Mini Kahuna. Thank you to Lin Ball, Emma Ehlers, Kathleen Kinane & Gary Nessim, Anne Shute, Barbara Sumner & Susan Stahl, Margo Turner, and the Weinburg Family for participating.

Because of the hard work of the 187 Superheroes of Stewardship who participated, 108 bags totaling 2,106 pounds of trash as well as 56 bags totaling 444 pounds of weeds were removed from the Agua Hedionda Lagoon!

Mini Kahuna Winners: The Sadeghi Family

We could not have done this without the support of our Event Sponsors. Thank you to NRG Energy for sponsoring the event, California Watersports for providing the perfect venue, Pizza Port for delicious pizza, salad, and beer, Best Day Brewing for introducing everyone to the mouthwatering world of non-alcoholic beer, Mizu for styling everyone in awesome straw hats, and Aloha Ice Co. for coming out and providing such refreshing dessert.

Keep an eye out for next year’s Lagoona Kahuna Clean Up Challenge as it promises to be the biggest yet!

The Biggest & Best Year Yet- Tip Top Run 2023

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 16:17:00 GMT

Our annual Tip Top Run, hosted on March 18th, 2023, was the most exciting 5K/10K Fun Run of the year. The theme for the event was St. Patrick's Day, which gave runners an opportunity to show off their festive spirit and creativity!

500+ participants were treated to a scenic course that took them through some of the most beautiful parts of Carlsbad and offered up many a panoramic view. The runs started at 8:30 am, and runners of all ages and abilities gathered at both the 5K and 10K starting lines, eager to get moving. The atmosphere was electric, with the sound of cheering and high-fives filling the air.

The event was not just about running, but also about celebrating World Water Day, which falls on March 22nd every year. To commemorate the occasion, the finish line was transformed into a vibrant festival that showcased the importance of water conservation and sustainability. With over 25 vendors and exhibitors, Endless Blue on the mic, costume contests, a Raptor Presentation, and raffle drawings, it was quite the celebration!

Food and refreshments were provided by Tip Top Meats and Culver Beer! We were lucky to be able to honor the late great John Haedrich (Founder of Tip Top Meats) and everything he has done to support the community at the event. AHLF will also be planting a tree in his honor on Arbor Day to commemorate his amazing generosity. Tip Top Meats provided delicious and healthy food options that runners could enjoy after the race. Culver Beer came out for the second year in a row to support this incredible event providing refreshing beer that helped runners relax and unwind after the race.

Tip Top Run was more than just a fun run; it was an opportunity for the community to come together and support a great cause. The event was a success, and all proceeds went towards supporting water conservation efforts for the Agua Hedionda Lagoon and the Discovery Center’s education programs teaching our youngsters about the importance of our watershed.

In conclusion, the Tip Top Run was a memorable event that brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, World Water Day, support a great cause, and enjoy a healthy and fun activity. With a beautiful course, delicious food, and refreshing beer, it was an event that runners and non-runners alike will not soon forget.

Special Thank You To:

Poseidon Water – Event Sponsor

Tip Top Meats- Food

Culver Beer- Beer

Kathy Kinane- Finish Line

Lynnell Talone-Honda- Bib Sponsor

Rayne Water- Water Station

Eco Water- Water Station

Maureen Simons- Tip Top Run Committee Chair and décor

The Crossings- Bathroom access

Premier Kia of Carlsbad- Letting us host a water station at their location

Mike Metts- Finish Line banner

Harini Natarajan “Rinis Photography”- Beautiful photos

Our Vendors and Exhibitioners

Every volunteer that not only helped the day of but also the weeks beforehand

The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation Team

Mingle With Members 2023

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Mixing, mingling and members abound, we couldn’t have asked for a better Mingle with Members event to kickoff our 2023! On Friday, January 27th the Discovery Center hosted our Mingle with Members event to thank our members for their support in helping us to carry out our mission and also to reach new potential members who care about our environment and community.

Sharing is caring, so we set out with a goal for the evening to convert 12 of our guests into members and envelop them into the Agua Family fold. Luck was in the air this evening as we had the largest turnout we have ever entertained for this event at over 150 attendees and we added 13 new members to our roster! Endless Blue, our fabulous live band, kept everyone swaying and singing with their talented tunes, Ara’s Party Rentals was kind enough to donate heaters to combat the cold and table clothes to keep us tidy and Pegasus Estate Winery kept the fun flowing at the bar with their incredible varietals! A huge shout out to our Board of Directors Member, Rocco Ciesco, for ensuring that our speaker system was ready for this event and our Data Entry Specialist Harini Natarajan for capturing all the incredible moments of the evening with her SUPER photography skills.

While of course mingling and getting to know fellow members was paramount to our evening’s activities, attendees were also invited to play a Superhero Ice breaker game, a Composting Game, enter our raffle and had the opportunity to meet a few of our chickens and chat about them with our CEO Lisa Rodman. The Superhero Ice Breaker game was a hit, with our winner returning her completed sheet in less than 10 minutes! Cheers to Margot, we hope she is enjoying her brand new AHLF hat and gift card to Senor Grubbys.

The Composting Game helped several members to learn more about best compost practices and win composting caddies for their house to help them achieve their composting dreams. The raffle winner is the proud new owner of a crepe maker, four gorgeous matte black dinner plates, two bottles of wine, a Richard Walker Pancake House gift card and an apron! It was a night where merriment and celebration were abundant and the Foundation had the opportunity to show off our beautiful Discovery Center and its ever-changing offerings. With excitement, we charge into our next event on Friday February 10th – The

Melaleuca Launch Party…See you all there!

Photos by Harini SA Photography, harinisaphotography@gmail.com

The Unique Kayaking Tour Not To Miss In Southern California

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 20:50:00 GMT

For almost 30 years, I’ve been driving past the Agua Hedionda Lagoon in Carlsbad on my way to San Diego. I’ve always noticed this small body of water flowing under the 5 Freeway but never gave it much thought.

That all changed when I had the chance to take a guided kayak tour of the lagoon. It turns out that the seemingly calm waters are teeming with life and part of a much larger ecosystem. Over the course of 2 hours, I came to appreciate the importance of Agua Hedionda and other lagoons in the protection of coastal wetlands and the nearby waters of the Pacific Ocean.

What Is The VIP Eco Tour?

The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is committed to preserving this important watershed through education and engagement. And what better way to do this than by getting visitors out on the water through a VIP Eco Tour ? These 2-hour guided kayaking experiences, led by an environmental educator, allow guests to get up close to see the plant, bird, and marine life that isn’t so easily spotted from land.

We started at California Watersports to grab our paddles, lifejackets, and kayaks. Then our guide led us into the water. My husband, Jason, and I love to kayak and have done so in many different places. At times, paddling can be hard work, but here we found it to be easy, which allowed us to watch for wildlife and pay attention to our guide. From a distance, it doesn’t look like anything is going on in the lagoon, but when you stop and pay attention, there’s plenty happening.

The lagoon extends 1.7 miles inland, is half a mile wide, and covers a total of 400 acres. We only covered a small part of this since some sections are restricted to commercial activity or conservation.

I was amazed to learn that there are 192 species of birds that either call the lagoon home or use these grounds for migrating and breeding. Without the protection of this sensitive ecosystem, many of these species would struggle to exist. A solo California brown pelican flew over us while a great blue heron watched the water carefully looking for its next meal. On the shore were dozens of sandpipers searching the sand for worms and clams.

Over 70 species of fish call the lagoon home, but these aren’t quite as easy to see as the birds. Fortunately, mullet fish occasionally jumped several inches out of the water so we could indeed see them. Our guide shared that flounder, sea bass, and even stingrays are found here as well.

While spotting the wildlife is a fun part of the tour, my greatest takeaway was the importance of how lagoons protect our oceans. The 135,000 acres of land in North San Diego County drain runoff water through lagoons like this one. During the process, the water is filtered and cleaned as it reaches the Pacific Ocean. From a distance, this collection of marshlands and mudflats that comprise the lagoon may not look like much, but they are indeed a critical part of our environment.

What Makes The VIP Eco Tour Unique?

After kayaking in many scenic locations, what Jason and I appreciated about the VIP Eco Tour was learning about the lagoon. Often we float along, spot something interesting, and wonder what it is. Having a guide to answer our questions and provide commentary was invaluable.

I also value a tour given by a non-profit organization. All proceeds benefit the educational and advocacy work of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation. I like knowing that my tourism dollars are making a difference.

Tips For Experiencing The VIP Eco Tour

A great way to round out your tour is to visit the nearby Discovery Center of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Filled with interesting exhibits about the history of the region and informative displays about the lagoon, the center is free to visit and appropriate for all ages. A highlight of our visit was the chance to meet a western screech owl named Tecolote, part of their Raptors collection.

VIP Eco Tours are not regularly scheduled but instead organized by request. If you’re planning to be in the Carlsbad area, get in touch with the foundation . Participants must be 16 years or older.

Any time I travel abroad, I scour the internet for unique tours and lesser-known experiences. And yet with cities near me, I eat at the same restaurants, visit the same attractions, and don’t take much time to go deeper. I’m so grateful for this recent opportunity to learn so much more about an essential ecosystem located in a city I’ve long enjoyed visiting.

All photo and article credits to Wendy Lee from Travel Awaits. See the original article here:

Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation and the Rincon Tribe Collaborate with SDG&E to Foster Environmental

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 21:15:00 GMT

Tree care and planting program engages next generation in fun educational program that nurtures Tribal Nation lands for a more sustainable future.

Students and leaders from the Rincon Tribe gathered with members of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation (AHLF) and SDG&E this weekend to plant 50 native trees in Valley Center. Prior to their planting, the oak, sycamore and cottonwood trees were adopted by children participating in AHLF’s Academy of Environmental Stewardship program, which incorporates a mix of classroom education, field trips and service projects to engage the students in tackling climate change.

“The Rincon Tribe has cared for this land for more than 10,000 years, and we are excited to see our people engaged in the planting of these trees,” stated Chairman Bo Mazzetti of the Rincon Tribe. “The oak tree is significant to our culture and history; it has provided sustenance, shade, and shelter to our people. We are thankful to SDG&E and Agua Hedionda for providing us with this gift of life.”

Through a variety of interactive learning opportunities, AHLF expands access to environmental education to children throughout San Diego County. AHLF programming seeks to inspire kids to appreciate and care for the natural environment, including raising healthy trees for the region. The planting at the Rincon Tribe reservation in Valley Center represents the culmination of a multi-month project in which students selected a sapling to care for in their home, learning about tree care and maintenance in the process. “Early environmental education helps develop young stewards for our community,” said AHLF CEO Lisa Cannon-Rodman. “Our Academy of Environmental Stewardship provides first-hand experience in the natural world to teach children how to make smart, sustainable choices for the future.”

Since 2021, SDG&E has made a commitment to provide at least 10,000 trees annually to communities throughout the company’s service territory. Collaborations with Tribal Nations like the Rincon Tribe are instrumental to reaching this ambitious goal, which is part of the company’s sustainability strategy. The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation is part of SDG&E’s Environmental Champions Grant Program, which supports local nonprofits that demonstrate a strong commitment to community-based environmental education and enhancement.

The Rincon Tribe is a sovereign government recognized by the United States of America. The Tribe owns Harrah’s Resort Southern California and uses profits from this and other commercial enterprises to provide government services including police and environmental enforcement; economic development; healthcare and culture programs; and a tribal court. At no cost to taxpayers, Rincon’s public safety operations respond to emergencies in the neighboring communities, with the majority of calls generated outside the Reservation. Rincon’s tribal enterprises are significant contributors to the San Diego County economy through job creation, tax generation, purchase of local products and services and charitable donations. Learn more at www.rincon-nsn.gov .

The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation Academy of Environmental Stewardship provides hands-on, collaborative lessons that stress responsible interaction with our natural surroundings and creates awareness of the environmental impacts of day-to-day human activity. Kindergartners through fourth graders, and now seventh graders participate in a series of rotations that teach about climate science including causes, effects and everyday solutions of climate change, sources of water pollution, native plants and peoples, natural resource conservation and habitat preservation, water reduction, recycling, and earth science. Lessons are aligned with Common Core, history and social sciences, Next General Science Standards and STEAM concepts with a career pathways component.

Haunted Corn Maze: A Scary Good Time

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 23:03:00 GMT

October is a month notorious for people going out of their way to scare themselves silly. For those in search of fright filled nights, the Haunted Corn Maze at the Carlsbad Strawberry Company’s (CSC) Pumpkin Patch was happy to deliver. Tunnels filled with creepy dolls, towering cornstalks eerily blowing and scraping in the breeze, and monsters waiting around every corner to jump out when you least expect it kept patrons on their toes and clutching whoever they chose to brave the maze with. Every Friday and Saturday in October, as the sun set and the evening gave way to night, hundreds of people entered the corn maze with smiles on their faces and tittering nervous laughter.

By the time patrons made it to the exit, one was more likely to hear bone chilling screams as they sprinted back to the safety of the main pumpkin patch, a ghoul with a chainsaw close on their heels. None of this macabre merriment would have been possible without the dedicated volunteers who donated their hard work and free time to transforming into terrifying creatures and scaring the daring maze goers. We would like to thank them once again for their enthusiasm and commend them on a job very well done. Between our partnership with the CSC and our volunteer scarers, the Haunted Corn Maze functions as one of Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation’s premier fundraising events.

Proceeds received help us to continue the incredible work we do energizing the community through education and outreach to preserve the Agua Hedionda watershed as a safe space in nature … for all! As we exit Spooky season and enter into Giving season, we’ve packed up our spooks and haunts…for now. Next year as the nights begin to grow cooler, the leaves begin turning color and there’s a tinge of spookiness in the air, keep an eye out for our haunting antics again. Until then, we’ve got plenty of creepy crawlies available to visit year-round at the Discovery Center!

So Nice, We Had to Have it Twice!

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 18:46:00 GMT

Although our annual Lagoona Kahuna event took place last May, when Chelsea Investments and Emmerson Construction told us wanted in on the action, we couldn’t refuse! A special offshoot event for their company took place on September 15th with almost 80 people divided between eight competing teams. At stake, of course, was the legendary Big Kahuna Paddle, a trophy of glory awarded to the team with the most points at the end of the day’s activities.

To kick off this fun filled event, participants collected their custom AHLF shirts with their company logos to show off their lagoon pride! Pizza Port Pizza and beer were an incredible ice breaker to the day, helping people to gather and get to know their teams. We were gifted with gorgeous 80-degree weather that day, so of course we had to make sure Handel’s was there to offer some tasty ice cream to cool participants down and give them the sugar rush necessary for the next item on the itinerary. After the eat and greet, participants were debriefed on the plan for the day.

Teams 1-4 began the competition by setting forth in kayaks and stand-up paddle boards to scour the lagoon for trash and help us clean up this incredible watershed. Meanwhile, Teams 5-8 tested their brains and brawn with a word game, a memory game and blindfolded cornhole. Some impressive records were set and the bar was high for the teams coming back from trash collection. Once both teams had completed both the games portion and cleanup portion of the day, it was time to tally up the points. Team 5 was declared Lagoona Kahuna’s Big Kahuna.

Their accomplishments were impressive: 96 pounds of trash collected, an outstanding blindfolded cornhole record of 24 seconds, a memory game feat of 4:38 seconds, the longest piece of trash collected at 10.5 feet, the second heaviest pieces of trash collected at 50 pounds and one of the most interesting pieces of trash collected: a weathervane. The Agua Hedionda Lagoon was the biggest winner of the day however, with The Chelsea Investments and Emmerson Construction teams 1-8 cleaning up 49 bags and over 470 pounds of trash! The most unique piece of trash found that day was half of a Roomba Vacuum cleaner and the heaviest piece of trash weighed in at a whopping 80 lbs.

We have so much gratitude for the efforts and excitement displayed by these dedicated lagoon lovers and cannot thank them enough for selecting this event to both enjoy some team bonding opportunities and keep our lagoon safe and clean for all! Also, a big thank you to our sponsors, Pizza Port and California WaterSports, without them none of this would have been possible. Join us for the official Lagoona Kahuna event in 2023! Everyone can participate! From small businesses to large corporations to individuals and families, come one, come all to celebrate and maintain our beautiful Agua Hedionda Lagoon!

- Written by: Hailie Brant

Membership Appreciation Month

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 18:33:00 GMT

The theme Flourishing in Fall comes directly from how our members have continued to support our growth this last quarter. We cannot thank you enough for their commitment to be Stewards of the Watershed. To show you how much we care, September was dedicated as Membership Appreciation Month. This month included discounts at Columbia, a private tour of Leon Raymond Hubbs Junior Marine Fish Hatchery, a giveback night at Shake Shack in Carlsbad, oyster/mussel tasting with wine at the Carlsbad Aquafarm.

The Hubbs Hatchery Tour gave a group of members a chance to see the impact they make firsthand. Hubbs incredible guide, Karen, educated members on the innovative techniques and detail-oriented processes that allows them to produce over 350,000 juvenile white seabass annually. Since the Hatchery first opened, they have released about 2.7 million white seabass into the wild. The Agua Hedionda Lagoon, in fact, serves as one of their outgroups where the fish can transition to life outside the tanks in a protected space and then eventually take the plunge into the open waters. After a group photo, members made their way back to Garfield Street reveling at the intricacy of the operation and surprised, once again, at how important our local lagoon is in helping ecosystems and life to flourish.

The ever-generous Shake Shack in Carlsbad has our wealth of gratitude for hosting this giveback night and doing their part to ensure the Agua Hedionda Lagoon remains a safe and healthy space for all. Members were delighted as they watched their opportunities tumble around in the raffle ticket drum. As they reached in to find their fortune, members would uncover their prize: a menu freebie including the coveted Shack Burger, Root Beer Float and fries! With full bellies, members retreated home, excitement brewing for the next giveback night.

A celebration of Membership Appreciation Month would not be complete without a special sundowner. To kick off the evening, members visited the beverage stand where our lovely COO, Samantha Richter, stood by to provide the happy to the hour. An assortment of Pegasus wines was on offer, to be paired with the freshest mussels and oysters available in the city supplied by the Carlsbad Aquafarm!

An incredibly special offering exclusive to this evening and the AHLF members enjoying it, since the other 364 days in the year there is no alcohol permitted at the venue! In groups of 10-12 people each, members had the opportunity of an in-depth exploration of the premier aquaculture taking place daily at the Carlsbad Aquafarm.

Learning the nitty-gritty details of what it takes to produce over 2 million pounds of oysters and mussels annually, members were able to understand the amazing symbiotic relationship of the Aquafarm with the Agua Hedionda Lagoon. To bring the evening to a close, members were treated with some groovy tunes and dancing as the sun set on September.

- Written by: Hailie Brant

Discovery Gala 2022 ~ The Aggua Family, Kooky, Spooky, Spectacular

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 14:31:00 GMT

Our very own Discovery Center hosted our spirited celebration this year for the first time since 2012. Vines climbed the walls, cobwebs covered the ceilings, a mummy lurked in the halls; from every direction the creepy crawlies transformed the Discovery Center into a Haunted Mansion. Upon entry, guests were greeted by Cousin It’s friendly wave and a champagne wall with floating hands reminiscent to the ever-eerie Thing. Weaving their way through the haunted halls, guests found a variety of Addams Family inspired fun.

The Pollinator Garden was reimagined to serve as Gomez’s Rooftop Golf, where our well-dressed guests could test their swing with homemade seed pods and Taylor Made Driver’s. Sharing the space was our transcendent tarot card reader who offered brave attendees’ insights and wisdom into their past, present and future by reading the stories written within her otherworldly cards.

Bartenders at the Mansion Bar, generously sponsored by Project Management Advisor’s Inc., kept the fun flowing with incredible vintages and varietals donated by the local Pegasus Estate Winery, spirits donated from Venom Vodka, Henebery and Maker’s Mark, beers from Pizza Port and of course our signature drink of the evening - Pugsley’s Punch.

The space our guests normally know as the Great Room became unrecognizable, undergoing an extreme makeover to become Gomez’s Study. This lounge boiled and toiled with trouble featuring a fireplace complete with spooky lighting and a bubbling cauldron dripping with mysterious fog. It was the perfect place for party goers to relax and enjoy the indulgent offerings of Maker’s Mark, Henebery and Payne and Mason at our Hand Rolled Cigar Bar and Whiskey Tasting Table. Guests were rapt with attention as one of Payne and Mason’s own talents demonstrated the detailed art of Cigar rolling, something we know that Gomez himself would be struck captivated by.

Tango dancers, fashioned convincingly as Gomez and Morticia, performed the emotional and expressive dance with the back patio acting as their dance floor. The guests mingling among them became their surprised and delighted audience.

The path that Nature Node #6 normally calls home, was overrun by the dead, transforming into a haunted graveyard boasting tombstones created by talented artists from our local high schools and a cemetery bar with refreshments to die for.

All this excitement of course had our guests hungry for more and Farmhouse Catering was happy to curb their cravings with delicious tray passed appetizers and a beautifully crafted four course dinner that delighted the taste buds. Our Parking Lot doubled as our ballroom this evening, decorated incredibly by our décor chair Nicole Medrano, and audio and visual extraordinaire, Cindy and Mike Metts of Dudek making the evening come together.

Dinner was accompanied by a series of incredible speeches by our fearless leader Lisa Cannon-Rodman, our master of ceremonies Neda Iranpour, our chairwoman Rachel Ivanovich, and our fabulous special guest Kelly Cardenas. We thanked all our incredible sponsors, shined a spotlight on our honorees the wonderful John and Carole Sanders, and celebrated our volunteer of the year, the lovely Shell Durham. A live auction, made ever more successful by our auctioneer Rick Grove, was the final event of the evening before attendees hit the dance floor to boogie the night away with our live band, the fantastic Atomic Groove.

We also must mention the incredible success of our very first Aggua Family Fun Fest this year, the family friendly event preceding the Gala. Featuring an exciting slime experiment hosted by Thermo Fisher Scientific, an informative Raptor meet and greet with Morticia and Celerity, a talented magician and many other fun activities. This event was an absolute blast. We hosted 120 people, and sent the kiddos home with quite the goodie bag including some tasty pizza, Chick-Fil-A coupons, rock candy and chocolate treats and a tree to be planted either here at the Discovery Center on October 10th or anywhere they deem fit. It was a perfect way to start this event filled day.

All of this was possible due to the generosity and support of our presenting sponsors listed above as well as our contributing sponsors: San Diego Gas and Electric, Chelsea Investments Corporation, NRG Energy, Poseidon Water, Rincon Band of Liseño Indians, Grand Pacific Resorts, Gemological Institute of America Inc., Republic Services, Brubaker & Associates, Calsense, Clevermade, DUAL, JPW Communications, Otter Products, Ryan Foundation, Karen and Ray Pearson, Project Management Advisors Inc., EcoWater SoCal, Hoehn Motors, Stifel Carlsbad – Gary Endres, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Jani Jackson, Jodi and Jon James, Meigs Family Foundation, Paula Anderson, Component Concepts, Dudek, Easy Life Management, The Lund Team, and Sanders Tech Ed. Foundation California WaterSports, The Silva Group, Wiegand Realty, Engel & Volkers Hambrick-Stewart Team, Develop Your Team, Sunfresh Flowers, Ara’s Party Rentals, Sunset Bay Candy Company, and Believe in Signs.

Approximately 200 attendees joined us to make this night a truly memorable experience and a successful fundraiser to help us with our goals of expanding the Environmental Educational Department. We are steps closer now to expanding our brick-and-mortar office space for more programming to be implemented and building more creative spaces for teachers and administrators to design the magic that our mission asserts to achieve. We want to thank everyone who attended, donated, sponsored, was on the planning committee and volunteered; with your help we are able to continue inspiring people through education and outreach to preserve the Agua Hedionda Lagoon as an accessible and healthy watershed.

Blast off with us for the 2023 Discovery Gala – DC Superheroes – August 26, 2023

Poker Players Prove that we have more FUN at the Discovery Center!

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 07:27:00 GMT

Five tables of serious, and some not so serious, poker players, each with a stack of chips started the night’s play. As the evening wore on and players were eliminated, a play-for-fun blackjack game gave retired tournament players a place to continue the fun, while waiting for the final poker hand to be played out. The crowd grew as the final three players, then two continued on – stacks of chips piled high in front of each one. And the clock ticked down…

For those who stuck around to the end…the last winning hand was made by Josh Cantor – one of our table sponsors, California Water Sports, and amazing supporter of all things Agua Hedionda!

Josh went home with a three-night stay in Palm Springs, a golf package for two, and $500 in playing chips for Harrah’s!

The runner up position was held by Michael Bacon, taking home a bottle of Venom Vodka, White & Red Pegasus Estate wine, and fresh caught, flash frozen Alaskan fish.

Congratulations to the winners – and everyone who came out to play on a beautiful summer night at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation Discovery Center!

Thank you to Tom Stewart for bringing the idea to AHLF – and sponsoring a table!

This evening wouldn’t have been possible without all of our Table Sponsors:

• California Water Sports

• Engel & Volkers

• The Silva Group – Lynnell Talone-Honda

• The Inspectors of Election

Food was supplied by Senor Grubby’s, beer by Pizza Port, wine by Pegasus Estate Winery, Vodka by Venom, drinks and snacks were provided by AHLF. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

Prizes were donated by Tom Stewart, Stacy Hall, Jimmy Ukegawa, Kim Blaylock, Lisa Hewitt, and Samantha Richter – we love you!

Lagoon Clean Up – 1,570 Pounds of Trash and Weeds Removed!

Fri, 20 May 2022 18:14:00 GMT

We LOVE the Agua Hedionda Lagoon – the only lagoon in San Diego County’s lagoon systems that is open to the public; combining recreation, water desalination, energy generation, a research fish hatchery, mussel farm, as well as AHLF’s ongoing watershed stewardship. On Friday, May 6th businesses and individuals came together for a little friendly competition to clean trash out of the lagoon, pull invasive weeds, and compete for the Kahuna trophies.

We are happy to announce that Calsense amassed the most points in Division I to win the title of 2022 Big Kahuna! They were up against Teams Ryan, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Otter Products, CleverMade, Dual, Republic Services , and last year’s winner Bitchin’ Sauce . Carlsbad Young Professionals , sponsored by Grand Pacific Resorts , were the big point winners for Division II becoming the 2022 Little Kahuna! Their competitors included Elm Tax, Develop Your Team, Intesa, Dynamic Space Solutions , and Grand Pacific Resorts . The Mini Kahuna was awarded to National Charity League-Moonlight Division , sponsored by NRG ! They were challenged by Kids for Peace, Kawecki Family, Mindpath Leadership, NRG , and Harmoney . Thank you to EVERYONE who participated for making the Agua Hedionda Lagoon the BIG WINNER due to all of your clean-up efforts!

Oh my, what a day! With three divisions participating in the clean-up and friendly competitions, teams began first thing in the morning heading out on kayaks or paddleboards supplied by California Water Sports to different shores within the inner lagoon, on the lookout for trash and invasive plants. Teams pulled old carpeting out of the muck, sets of tires lodged in the mud, rusted pipes and plastic chairs tucked away on shore, and returned with bags full of cigarette butts and beer cans.

172 bags of trash and weeds were collected and removed by 200 participants!

It wasn’t all work – plenty of fun was had after scouring for garbage! Teams participated in word games, memory games, blindfold cornhole, and water relay races. Sunburned and muscle-sore, each division’s event ended with pizza and beer supplied by Pizza Port . Handel’s Ice Cream was on hand to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Republic Services hauled all the trash away. Brue Endres created the beautiful trophy paddles and Ray Pearson was our awesome announcer.

We couldn’t have done any of this without the support of our Event Sponsors: California Water Sports, Pizza Port, Poseidon, NRG, Grand Pacific Resorts, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Republic Services, Brubaker & Associates, Ryan, Calsense, CleverMade, Otter Products, and Dual.

Each year Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation hosts the Lagoon Clean Up and Lagoona Kahuna Team Challenge to help the lagoon, build team spirit, and raise funds for AHLF’s stewardship programs. With divisions for corporate participation, small businesses, and individuals/families, we want EVERYONE to be able to participate -

Do Good, Have Fun !

Won’t you join us in 2023?

Speakeasy Event Launched 2022 Gala Theme – The Aggua Family

Sun, 01 May 2022 12:10:00 GMT

They've got creepies and they're kooky, Spiny and they’re spooky, They're all together ooky, The Aggua Family

The Center’s a museum, When people come to see 'em The raptors are a screa-um The Aggua Family

So get your walking shoes on, Awe-some-ness is all around on. We're going to make a call on The Aggua Family

(Original lyrics by Melony Vance)

April 28th was a lovely Thursday evening, when the Discovery Center “Great Room” was transformed into the Addams family living room for our Agua VIP’S, a first-in-series of Speak Easies leading up to the Aggua Family Gala on August 27th, 2022 held right here at the Discovery Center. Lurch served arriving guests a glass of prosecco as they awaited entrance to the “Addams Family Mansion” where clues were hidden and a secret door opened allowing entry to the Pisco Party on the Patio.

Guests participated in an Addams Family Trivia contest, deliciousness was served up by Farmhouse Catering (a preview of the Gala dinner caterer), three different Pisco cocktails were enjoyed by all, and the AHLF staff sang a unique version of the Addams Family theme song (see above)! The Honorees for the upcoming Gala, Carole and John Sanders, attended and we were able to show them a little preview of our Aggua Family love.

Stay tuned for more fun events leading up to this year’s Aggua Family Gala…You won’t want to miss them!

AHLF Plants Native Trees on Arbor Day

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 20:19:00 GMT

On Arbor Day, April 28, 2022, volunteers showed up early at the Discovery Center to plant ten native Torrey Pine trees on the Discovery Center property. Thirty additional “foster families” arrived to pick up their “foster” seedlings to take home and nurture until October when permanent planting locations will be found to place them into their new home ground.

The program was expanded by the support of Thermo Fisher Scientific who sponsored one lucky group of third graders at Pacific Rim Elementary with an additional 100 seedlings for their school site.

This pilot program was spearheaded by our team member, George Wever, who was concerned that the survival of Torrey pines was very grim. Torrey Pines are native to the area, drought resistant, and endangere. We have 18 healthy Torrey Pines at the Discovery Center indicating that the Discovery Center is a fertile place for them to thrive. There are many groups like us robustly planting Torreys, and other native trees, as they help fight the complications brought on by Climate Change by sequestering carbon.

2022 Tip Top 5K & 10K Run and Walk was Tip Top!

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 19:31:00 GMT

We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day at the Lagoon. Around 350 runners/walkers and 100 volunteers came out in support of the Foundation’s NINTH race, walk, strut and stroll! Thank you all! 5Kers wound their way over the urban route around the Lagoon, while 10Kers took a more circuitous route through open spaces and wild places, both finishing at the Discovery Center and the excitement of World Water Day festivities.

Of course, there would be no fun events without YOU, our members, whose ongoing support “makes it all happen!” You, and the support of our Champions for Stewardship Sponsors: SDG&E, Poseidon Water, NRG Energy, Grand Pacific Resorts, Gemological Institute of America, Republic Services, Brubaker & Associates, and Leucadia Wastewater District.

Our race namesake Tip Top Meats came through, once again, with some tasty treats, and Culver Beer kept the happy flowing! We teamed up Bitchin Sauce with Ara’s pita bread to give us Vegan meal options; and drinking water to keep us all hydrated was donated by Poseidon Water, Rayne Water, and EcoWater.

Every racer received a useful swag bag provided by Lynnell Talone-Honda of The Silva Group, each bag stuffed with goodies provided by Tri-Cities Medical Group, Thermofisher Scientific, Santianna Oakmont Senior Living, Catalytic Risk Managers, AT&T, Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation, and Aflac.

Those who took their racing seriously, running for all they were worth, were rewarded by 1st Place Prizes donated by our amazing local businesses: Anderson’s LaCosta Nursery, Clever Made, Columbia Sportsware, Gelsons, Mizu, Moosa’s Native Plants, Prontos Gourmet Deli, Richard Walker’s Pancake House, Rubios, and The Rush Coffee. A special prize was donated by Roadrunner Sports - a raffle ticket was given for it to each person who showed up for Packet Pick-Up.

This year we also held an Opportunity Drawing, with fabulous prizes donated by Grand Pacific Resorts, California Watersports, Lemongrass Salon & Spa, and Pegasus Estate Winery Wine. With only 30 tickets available for purchase, the odds were fantastic! Our very own Madison Coleman was the winner of this great package!

Exhibitors kept the day interesting with lots of hands-on science projects and puzzles. Many thanks to the Meigs Family Foundation for their magic and mayhem, Thermofisher Scientific for a microscopic look at what wades in our water, and the Agua Hedionda teaching staff for sharing their special STEAM studies! As well, our raptor specialist and her Peregrine Falcon friend Celerity entertained a large crowd of fascinated folks. Encina Wastewater showed us the process water goes through once it leaves our bathrooms and ends up in the sea, while Body & Soul Nourishment showed us how fun and easy garden towers are. So much cool stuff!

Mingle With Members

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 18:42:00 GMT

Marvelous Members Mingled on a beautiful February Friday night, getting to know each other, sampling fabulous Pegasus Estate wines, noshing on tasty treats prepared by Farmhouse Catering, and enjoying the spectacular (or was that spectacle?) flaming Mexican Coffees!

We want to acknowledge how much we appreciate not only our amazing membership base, but also our supporters’ continuing engagement with AHLF – it was so nice to see everyone at the Discovery Center! Our raptor specialist showed off the majesty of one of our raptor residents – Celerity, while other guests discovered some new exhibits and creatures to admire while wandering the grounds and admiring the views. Several guests became new members of the Foundation, helping us towards our goal this year of having 1,000 active members. All in all, another successful event!

If you ever have any questions, ideas, or donor referrals, we are always here to help.

Spotting Insects and Minibeasts at The Agua Hedionda Lagoon

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 23:07:00 GMT

The Lagoon is home to almost 200 different species of insects, invertebrates and minibeasts

that you can spot whilst you are visiting. They are an extremely important part of the thriving ecosystem, and of course food for many of the birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals that make their home at the Lagoon. The sheet abundance of the insects means that the other wildlife can thrive. The insects are also valuable pollinators, ensuring that the plants and flowers in the area continue to grow. The Lagoon is a fragile ecosystem , but the insects and invertebrates are an extremely valuable part of this habitat.

Invertebrate hunters

Water Striders are commonly found skating on the surface of the Lagoon waters. The Strider’s extra-long back legs help to balance the insect , so that it can float gracefully along. The Water Strider makes a delicious meal for Salamanders, Bullfrogs, Perch and Bass. The Water Strider itself however feeds on dead insects, as well as taking advantage of injured insects - even dragonflies. The Water Strider isn’t the only insect that feeds on others. There are many different species of arachnid to be found outside. Spiders are a type of invertebrate - they have an exoskeleton, paired jointed legs and a segmented body. Around the Lagoon, look out for the Whip Spider, the Tent Spider and the Horned Spider. Like Water Striders, Spiders also hunt other insects, making a meal of flies and mosquitoes, which are plentiful in the area.

Beautiful Dragonflies

The Lagoon is a haven for dragonflies and damselflies who are drawn towards the water. Southern California is home to 77 different species, many of which can be spotted at the Lagoon. The adult Dragonflies have a diet of mosquitoes, which are often found hovering just above the water. The dragonfly larva can live in the water for up to 2 years before they finally take flight. In prehistoric times, there were several species of dragonfly that had a wingspan of 2 feet. The biggest dragonflies you will find at the Lagoon have a wingspan of a few inches. These include the California Spreadwing, the California Dancer and the Pacific Forktail.

Beetles and Bugs

The marshlands are home to many beetles and bugs that enjoy living in a damp habitat. Look out for the Pill Bug, which is extremely common. These interesting insects have actually evolved from crustaceans, and now live completely on land. Note the similarity in body armour to the lobster. In the Lagoon area, you will also find Scavenger Water Beetles, Long Toed Water Beetles, Minute Marsh-Loving Beetles and Ground Beetles. These beetles are herbivores, living on a diet of leaves, stems, roots and even wood. In an area as abundant as the Lagoon, there is plenty for them to eat.

The Lagoon is plentiful with insects, invertebrates, arachnids and other minibeasts. When you visit, take your notebook with you and see how many you can spot.

“By Sara Zipf”

Boy Scout builds “Bee-Quarium” at Agua Hedionda Discovery Center in Carlsbad

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 19:27:00 GMT

A Carlsbad Boy Scout built a “bee-quarium” — an aquarium for bees — at the Discovery Center of Agua Hedionda Lagoon in Carlsbad to bring awareness about the decline of bee populations and the importance of bees.

The aluminum and plexiglass observation hive is supported by an 11-foot-tall wood structure, which lets visitors watch live bees as they work inside their bee hive.

The BEE-Quarium Observation Hive, as Branden Lintner, 18, calls his innovative see-through viewing structure for bees, took a little over a year to finish, from initial concept to final installation.

Eagle Scout Branden Lintner shows the Bee-Quarium Observation Hive that he built at the Discovery Center of Agua Hedionda Lagoon in Carlsbad. (Melinda Lintner)

Lintner, an Eagle Scout in Carlsbad Troop 784 in the Rancho San Luis Rey Zone of the Boy Scouts of America, started the work at the onset of the pandemic in early March 2020 and completed it in March this year as part of his Eagle Scout project.

“My goal is to educate visitors about bees, which are declining at an unthinkable rate,” said Lintner, a 2021 graduate of Sage Creek High School. “I hope visitors will learn more about bees and why we can’t afford to let these critical pollinators disappear.”

Lintner hopes the bee hive exhibit will encourage visitors to plant bee-friendly and other pollinator-friendly plants in their gardens and use natural organic pesticides instead of toxic ones, which poison pollinators.

Lintner and his team of more than 20 volunteers donated 386 volunteer hours to complete the project.

“The biggest challenge was creating a one-of-a-kind working observation bee hive and collaborating and making necessary changes along the way, while dealing with obstacles of the COVID pandemic,” Lintner said.

Lintner, who joined Tiger Cub Scouts in first grade and became a Boy Scout 11 years ago, wanted to build the project at the Discovery Center because he took many educational field trips there, which inspired him.

The BEE-Quarium Observation Hive is installed in the Discovery Center’s Pollinator Garden at 1580 Cannon Road. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. Check the website for upcoming closures on Oct. 22 and Nov. 5.