What is Your Vision for the Next Generation of Regional Open Space Planning?

The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s (Midpen) Board of Directors at a meeting on Jan. 14 will review the data gathered for its Vision Plan, which will guide regional open space management and programming for the next 20-40 years.

Over the last 16 months, Midpen has gathered input from 2,000 members of the public and conducted an in-depth scientific analysis of its lands and natural resources, including preserves on the Coast such as Miramontes Ridge, Purisma Creek Redwoods, Tunitas Creek, and La Honda Creek. 

A public workshop was held in Half Moon Bay on Oct. 21, 2013, at Hatch Elementary School where members of the Coastside community gave input on some of the priority projects such as increased access for hiking and recreation, stewardship, connections between open space lands, and continued environmental stewardship of our lakes, ponds, and streams for clean water.

Information from public meetings, community interviews and a civic engagement website will be presented at the January 14 meeting along with scientific resource studies.

Meeting participants will have the opportunity to learn about the next generation of regional open space planning and how it affects them, their community and their natural environment.

At the meeting on Jan. 29, the Board will prioritize 39 potential projects. Some of the project areas identified by the public and through staff analysis are to: improve and expand access to preserves, create connections between open space lands, protect critical habitats including second- and old-growth redwood forests, preserve agriculture on the coast, restore creeks, protect watersheds and preserve the scenic beauty of the region.

Meetings will be held on January 14 and 29, 6:00 pm, at Hillview Community Center, 97 Hillview Avenue, Los Altos, CA 94022.

Created by voter initiative in 1972, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has successfully protected more than 62,000 acres of open space. Midpen’s mission is to acquire and preserve a regional greenbelt of open space and agricultural land of regional significance in perpetuity, protect and restore the natural environment, and provide opportunities for ecologically-sensitive public enjoyment and education. Currently, Midpen protects 70 rare native species in 26 unique preserves with over 220 miles of publicly-accessible trails. Over a million visits are made to Midpen preserves annually.

To learn more, visit: www.openspace.org/imagine.

Individuals and families are invited to attend and the District encourages participation. People with disabilities who require accommodations are asked to contact the District Clerk at (650) 691-1200 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.