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, July 19: Volunteer Land Stewards: Stinkwort Pulling Party
  Join the Open Space Authority at Diablo Foothills Preserve to care for restoration plantings along a seasonal creek. Volunteers will remove stinkwort and other tall, invasive vegetation in the area.
• Saturday, July 19: Binocular Stargazing
  Do you have a pair of binoculars and 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 and learn how to find amazing astronomical features.
  
• Saturday, July 19: 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.
• Wednesday, July 23: 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 a beautiful preserve.
• Friday, July 25: Guided Hike - Water, Wildlife and Connectivity
  Take part in a guided evening hike at Spreckels Wetland to learn how and why the Open Space Authority protects the watershed and wildlife within this important area of Coyote Valley.
• Saturday, July 26: Interpretive Host Training
  Interested in becoming an Open Space Authority volunteer? Join us for this special training to learn all about volunteer opportunities and how to be an engaging Open Space Authority representative throughout the Santa Clara Valley community.

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

Featured News

Ranch Fire Temporarily Closes Sierra Vista

On June 17, a fire broke out in the East Foothills of San José causing a temporary closure of Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve. As of today, the fire burned 92.4 acres and is 75% contained. Learn more here.

Expansion of the Bay Area Ridge Trail

Last month, community leaders, outdoor enthusiasts and partners gathered to celebrate the dedication of a new 14-mile segment of the Bay Area Ridge Trail that connects Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve to Calero County Park. Read more here.

Meet Your Directors: Matthews & Dominguez

Margie Matthews and Lisanna Dominguez were recently sworn in as directors on the Open Space Authority's board. Director Matthews will represent District 2 and Director Dominguez will represent District 6, serving the remainder of the terms previously held by the late David "Mike" Flaugher and Mike Potter, respectively. Learn more here.

Hog Wild 🐷 Addressing the Feral Pig Problem

The Open Space Authority was featured in multiple news stories highlighting the feral pig problem in Santa Clara Valley. Learn more about how the Authority is addressing this issue and view the news coverage here.

Stay Safe 😎 Warm Weather Guide

"I was rich, if not in money, in sunny hours and summer days." - Henry David Thoreau. Now that summer is almost here, learn how to enjoy nature on warm, sunny days! The Open Space Authority's Warm Weather Guide provides helpful information on how to dress, what to bring and how to care for pets while exploring nature. Read it here.

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

Career Opportunity

Staff Accountant
Are you passionate about numbers and making an impact? The Open Space Authority is looking for a Staff Accountant to help drive operational efficiency and support the projects and programs that power our mission through accounting. Apply through our website by June 23.

What You're Wild About

The most-clicked link in our June 2025 newsletter was an educational video about the late blooming flowers that can be found throughout Santa Clara Valley. Click here to watch it now!

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, June 26: Board of Directors | 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, July 10: Land Use and Stewardship Committee | 5:30 p.m.
• Thursday, July 24: Board of Directors | 6:30 p.m.
• Monday, July 28: Citizens' Advisory Committee | 6:30 p.m.

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