Free Nature Events

🌿 Nature is for everyone, and we welcome all to join our events! To register, use the links embedded in each event title below and be part of the experience.

• Friday, November 6: Gratitude Walk
  Take a scenic guided hike through dramatic canyons and oak woodlands at Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve. Throughout this mindful 3.5-mile hike, participants will slow down, breathe deeply, take in the stunning views of San José and appreciate the simple gifts of nature. Sign up to join the Gratitude Walk.

• Saturday, November 7: Bird Walk at Ulistac
  Join us as we look for birds at Ulistac Natural Area in Santa Clara! Participants of the Bird Walk will walk along Ulistac’s dirt trails in search of native birds, migrants and waterfowl. RSVP for the Bird Walk here.

• Saturday, November 7: Starry Nights!
  The Open Space Authority is partnering with the San Jose Astronomical Association (SJAA) for a star party at Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve! Docent astronomers will set up their telescopes to help you get the most knowledge and enjoyment out of the dark starry night sky. Book your spot for Starry Nights here.

• Saturday, November 14: Volunteer Interpretive Host Training
  Are you interested in volunteering with the Open Space Authority through community outreach opportunities, events or trail patrols? If so, please join us for an engaging and interactive training to learn about the Open Space Authority while exploring ways to connect with preserve visitors and community members. Register for the Volunteer Interpretive Host Training here.

• Saturday, November 21: Volunteer Native Seeding
  Join the Open Space Authority as we re-seed native grasslands in the staging area of Máyyan 'Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve! Re-seeding this area will reduce the spread of invasive species to ecologically sensitive areas of the preserve.  Sign up to be a part of the re-seeding event here.

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

Featured News

A 102-Acre Cemetery Above Coyote Valley?

The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority’s Board of Directors adopted a resolution formally opposing the proposed Heritage Oaks Memorial Park, a 102-acre cemetery, crematory and funeral complex planned for the hillsides above Coyote Valley in south San José. If approved, the project would create a physical barrier for wildlife who move through Coyote Valley and reduce the landscape’s ability to protect communities from floods and other extreme weather events. Read the Board’s official opposition to the Heritage Oaks project.

$14.5 Million for Coyote Valley

In September, the California State Coastal Conservancy awarded the Open Space Authority $14.5 million in grant funds. These grant funds will help us acquire 417 acres of land in Mid-Coyote Valley, supporting our efforts to build climate resilience, increase public recreation, connect wildlife habitat and preserve agriculture in Santa Clara Valley. Watch the Board of Directors meeting for the full presentation about the $14.5 million grant.

The Surprising Way Cattle Protect Habitat

How do cattle protect sensitive species of plants and animals? By grazing! In a new video, we're examining the important role cattle play in maintaining ecosystems and supporting sensitive species at Máyyan 'Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve. Click here to learn how cattle protect habitat.  

A Migration South: Birdwatcher's Guide 

During the fall and winter, bird enthusiasts in the Santa Clara Valley are treated to the sights and sounds of rare feathered species thanks to the Pacific Flyway. The flyway, a flight path for migratory birds that passes through California, gives us the opportunity to see a rich variety of bird species that live elsewhere during the rest of the year. Click here to learn about seven migratory birds you may be lucky enough to spot this fall and winter.  

Public Meetings & Board Updates

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.