The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation has announced the acquisition of an additional 2,000 acres consisting of two parcels of about 1,400 acres, of which about 85 percent will remain permanent open space, and 600 acres that has been sold to the Kumeyaay–Diegueno Land Conservancy for conservation space. The additional acreage triples the size of the Sycuan reservation in El Cajon’s Dehesa Valley. The annexation, financed using profits from casino operations, was approved by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs. The open space will be managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the state Department of Fish and Game. The tribe said it does not plan to expand gaming facilities onto the annexed property, rather the acquisition ensures the protection of Kumeyaay cultural and archeological sites. About 210 acres are planned for development, including 50 homes, a 120-space RV park, an equestrian center and an area for powwow celebrations.
