"The spectacular Santa Margarita River dips and winds, docile in the summer, raging in the winter, flowing through the gorge on its voyage to the sea. The scent of wildflowers and chaparral fill the air with perfume as the majestic oaks scattered throughout the hills bow down to the land. Will they share with us the tales of the Native American Luiseno ancestors who stopped to quench their thirst in the crystal clear waters of the river hundreds of years ago? Do the birds calling the oak trees "home" pass "legends" down to their young through their song?

What secrets lie hidden in the dusty trails winding through the fertile land when the moon is high and lights the way for those spirits that came before and still protect their "charge?" This is a cherished place; an honored place. This is a treasure.

The creatures that share the wildlife crossing, predator and prey need this familiar path. Nature provided this for all to use. It is the last of its kind. This free-flowing river is the last of its kind.

Recently, the tribal chairman of the Pechanga Band spoke from a place deep within when he said: "This is a sacred site; the birthplace where the earth was created and the tribe was born. This is our 'Eden.' We cannot re-create this."

We are the caretakers of this earth. We must honor it and protect what little there is left of the history.

Granite, you hold so little value for life. You honor only money. We (as human beings) are all "faceless" to you."

Get the Story:
Jerri Arganda: Take your monster quarry far away from here (The North County Times 11/12)

Related Stories:
Pechanga Band opposes gravel mine at sacred site (6/5)