For years, delicate riparian habitat at Furtado Barn became overtaken by invasive white horehound, mustard, thistles, and poison hemlock, making it difficult for native plants to survive. In 2020, Open Space Authority staff officially launched the Furtado Barn Restoration Area with field staff and volunteers providing a dedicated effort to address invasive plants and restore the natural ecosystem.
Click below to learn more about these volunteer restoration efforts.
Nature photography is an awesome pastime – it gets you outside, helps you appreciate and learn about your local environment, and it can even help the conservation movement.
Click below to discover our tips to unlocking your inner nature photographer.
It all began when a French geographer discovered a parallel between the importance of preserving agricultural and natural lands on the Plateau de Saclay in France, and in Silicon Valley.
Keep reading to learn more about an exciting international information and idea exchange as the Open Space Authority continues working to address climate change using nature-based solutions to serve local communities in Santa Clara Valley.
Last winter, the Open Space Authority launched a survey to gather public opinion about one-way (also known as directional) trails, inform their future at open space preserves, and ultimately evaluate how we can provide more meaningful, safe, and functional nature experiences for all.
Click below to learn more.
In Memory of Kitty Monahan
It is with heavy hearts that we dedicate this Open Space Outlook to long-time parks and open space advocate, Kitty Monahan. As a founding member of the Open Space Authority and its Citizens Advisory Committee, and a tireless outdoor volunteer, Kitty spent her life serving others. She was a strong advocate for trails and youth, stemming from her life-long devotion to education. Kitty will be deeply missed and remembered fondly for her support and championing of historical preservation, parks and trails - including equestrian access, and open space here in the Santa Clara Valley.
Who Am I?
I am a small species of wading bird with a lanky body, large, round head, big eyes, and short bill. You can find me in wetlands, but unlike most other shorebirds, you can also find me dry areas such as fields, mudflats, and even lawns and golf courses! My unusual name comes from the sound of my shrill, distinct call. Who am I?
Submit your answer below - if you’re correct, you'll get a shout-out in our next newsletter!
What do you think about our newsletter? We want your feedback!
As the Open Space Authority prepares for our 30th Anniversary next year, we have some big plans for updating and revamping this monthly eNewsletter.
And we want YOUR input!
Let us know what you like, what you want us to change, and any other feedback about the Open Space Authority's monthly eNewsletter!
Click below to take the short survey.
Drought got you bummed? Save Water & Money With These Tips
If the California drought is causing you eco-anxiety, you are not alone. But there is hope amid this climate crisis. Through small, everyday actions we can all help protect our water supply.
Click below to learn how you can conserve water and save a pretty penny.
Virtual Event: Nature Stories
Saturday, August 13 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Zoom Webinar
Do you enjoy listening to stories? On Saturday, August 13, join us virtually as we tell stories about nature from around the world. This is a family-friendly, multicultural celebration of nature tales and experiences, perfect for people of ALL ages.
Warm a cup of hot cocoa, bundle up in a blankie, and come listen!
Last month’s “Who Am I?” was the CALIFORNIA KINGSNAKE (Lampropeltis californiae)!
Congratulations to our readers who answered correctly: Aabha K., Ardis Y., Bob S., C.R., Deepu J., Diana H., Gary M., Gwen H., Hank M., Hannah B., Heather D., J.B., Jacqueline Z., Jaz W., Jerry B., John F., Marian V., Marilynn S., Mark O., Michael P., Mona L., Neal W., Trisha S., William D., Y.S.
Photo Credits
Furtado Volunteers and Staff - David Mauk David Mauk taking photo - Paul Dileanis Nick, Sam, and Mike Thorp - Jordan Plotsky One-way trail sign - Annamarie Pilon Kitty Monahan photos - L. Raymaker, Liv Ames, Jordan Plotsky Who Am I? - Bill Adams Red-tailed hawk - David Mauk Grassy hillside - Lech Naumovoch California kingsnake - Mark Kostich
We acknowledge that the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority works within lands that were originally stewarded by the Awaswas-, Chochenyo-, Mutsun-, and Thámien-speaking peoples. Today we are honored to partner with the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band and Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay Area in our shared work to protect and restore the environment and connect people to land. Learn more.
