Free Nature Events

🌿 Nature is for everyone, and we welcome all to join our events! Register using the links below and be part of the experience.

• Saturday, June 7: Volunteer Land Stewards: Help Care for Fisher's Bend
  Join the Open Space Authority to help maintain native plantings at Fisher's Bend. No experience required!
• Saturday, June 14: Binocular Stargazing
  Do you have a pair of binoculars? Want to bask in the beauty of the night sky? Join the Open Space Authority and the San Jose Astronomical Association for a family-friendly evening under the stars.
• Wednesday, June 18: Walking on Wednesday: A Wellness Program for the Grieving
  Whether you lost someone yesterday or years ago, sometimes the best thing to do is just be with people who understand. Come take a gentle walk with us and begin to heal in nature at this beautiful preserve.
• Saturday, June 21: In Search of Soaproot
  As spring turns to summer, the soaproot plant prepares to bloom when evening comes. Join Open Space Authority docents on a late afternoon hike along the Mayfair Ranch and Longwall Canyon Trails to witness these flowers coming to life!
• Saturday, June 21: Starry Nights!
  The Open Space Authority and the San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) invite you to a community star party at Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve.
• Sunday, June 22: First Day of Summer: Beginner Bird & Plant ID Walk
  With the onset of summer, join a beginner bird and plant identification walk to the native garden inside Lake Cunningham Regional Park. On this walk you will learn how to identify the common birds of this area as well as the native plants they depend on for food, shelter and nesting places.
  

✨ Catch up anytime! Explore our full library of recorded virtual events and enjoy past program recordings whenever you like!

Featured News

Urban Grant Program: 💰 New Cycle Opens  

The 2025 Urban Grant Program funds local projects that connect people in urban communities to nature. We invite applications from nonprofits, schools and public agencies for projects such as environmental education, outdoor events, classes and programs and other initiatives that provide meaningful connections to nature and open space. Individual grants range from $30,000 to $75,000. Learn more here.

Nature Perspectives: 🍃 Mera Burton

As she takes in the vibrant wildflowers and soothing sounds of Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve, Mera reflects on why she serves on the Authority's Citizens’ Advisory Committee—to protect open spaces and promote the representation of diverse voices in the agency's conservation efforts. Read her full perspective here.

Who wore it better? 💃 Met Gala Edition 

It's red carpet glam meets nature! We've matched some jaw-dropping Met Gala looks with their stunning wildlife counterparts found right here in Santa Clara Valley’s open spaces. Despite couture feathers and floral-inspired ensembles, we think nature might still have the edge! Head over to Instagram to cast your vote and follow us for more fun.

✨ Explore What's New on our blog or visit our Pressroom for the latest media updates!

Upcoming Public Meetings

The Open Space Authority public meetings are held in a hybrid format, giving you the flexibility to attend in-person, via Zoom teleconference or watch on YouTube.

• Thursday, May 22: Board of Directors | 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, June 12: Administration & Budget Committee | 5:30 p.m.
  
• Thursday, June 12: Public Hearing & Board of Directors | 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, June 26: Board of Directors | 6:30 p.m.

📢 Stay informed! View our Public Meetings webpage for current agendas and meeting links.