Featured News
Ranch Place Fire Sparks Wildfire Risk Concerns
On June 17, the Ranch Place Fire in East San José ignited, burning over 92 acres of land and triggering fears about the potential impacts of future wildfires across Santa Clara Valley. The Open Space Authority routinely uses a handful of techniques to reduce the community's likelihood of experiencing a wildfire. Click here to learn more about the Authority’s techniques to mitigate wildfire risks and our protocols in the case of an emergency.
Staff Spotlight: Mel Sarmento
Meet Mel Sarmento, the Open Space Authority's Educational Program Administrator! In her role, Mel plans free, environmentally-focused educational programs for Santa Clara Valley residents to connect to nature and access their open spaces. Mel recently transitioned into this role after Teri Rogoway, who held the position for 18 years, retired in early July. Learn more about Mel's passion for nature and education here.
Your Tax Dollars: Wildly Responsible Investments
On June 12, our Board of Directors unanimously approved the 2025/2026 Budget and Annual Work Plan, reaffirming our fiscally conservative approach in response to limited state and federal funding, and prioritizing high-impact conservation efforts. Since 2014, the Open Space Authority has doubled the amount of protected land that buffers communities from wildfire, drought, and flood. And speaking of doubling — for every $1 invested from voter-approved Measures Q & T, we’ve secured an additional $2.50 in outside funding. To honor our commitment to good governance and transparency, we’re excited to share this new flyer showing how your tax dollars delivered meaningful results from 2015–2024, while laying the groundwork for the work ahead.
A Breakthrough Summer Experience
During the last week in June, the Open Space Authority welcomed a group of high school students from Breakthrough Silicon Valley to explore nature, learn about the Authority’s mission and gain hands-on communications experience as conservation-focused social media content creators. Learn more about their four-day experience here.
Don't Miss It: Climate Change & Networking Summit
Ready to make a difference in the fight against climate change? Join Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action at the 2025 IMPACT Summit on Saturday, August 9 at the Campbell Heritage Theatre! This free event for students, co-sponsored and co-hosted by the Open Space Authority, features interactive sessions and networking with elected officials and climate leaders. Lunch is provided. Register here.
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