2021 was an eventful time for Santa Clara Valley’s open spaces. With a new year ahead, we look forward to continuing our work of protecting natural and working lands, and connecting people to nature.
Many environmental groups recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as one of the first advocates for environmental justice as he paved the way for modern environmental advocacy in social and political discourse across the nation.
Click below to learn more about his environmental legacy.
Winter is a critical time for wildlife. Competition is high and resources are low. With minimal vegetation and unforgiving temperatures (by California standards), wildlife must figure out how to stay warm by finding shelter and food.
Click below to learn about the role local wetlands play in sustaining a variety of birds for the season.
Linda Kwong, Real Property Program Manager at the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, serves a purpose critical for any kind of large-scale conservation effort -- “I buy property,” Linda puts it simply. Owning land or holding a conservation easement over a property allows conservation organizations, like the Authority, to protect it forever.
On December 14, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to strengthen protections for Coyote Valley’s natural and working lands.
Click to learn about with this means for food production and climate resilience in Coyote Valley.
Who Am I?
I am a large shrub or small tree with shiny, mahogany-colored bark that is smooth to the touch. My leaves are green-grey and oval. In the winter and early spring, I produce small, white flowers that grow in clusters and resemble small, drooping bells. Who am I?
One-way Trails Survey
Share your thoughts about one-way trails at the preserves! We are conducting a survey to gather information from visitors on one-way trails at Authority-managed preserves. This feedback will help ensure we are providing meaningful and functional experiences at our preserves.
What's Your 2022 HIKING HOROSCOPE?
2022 is the year we’ve all been waiting for. Did you take advantage of all the outdoor opportunities you could last year? If not, this could be your year to turn things around. And if you did – maybe you’ll discover a new adventure, or see places well-traveled in a new light.
Click below to find what may become your outdoor destiny for 2022.
We're Hiring!
The Open Space Authority is seeking four Seasonal Open Space Aides. These positions provide essential services in opening and closing preserves for daily access. Anyone looking to begin a career in open space and land conservation by gaining hands-on experience while working for a mission driven agency should apply! Applications due Tuesday, January 18.
Join an Authority Committee!
The Open Space Authority currently has vacancies on the Citizens’ Advisory Committee (CAC) and the Expenditure Plan Oversight Committee. Learn more about these rewarding volunteer roles and apply on our website!
Who Am I? - Answer
I am the bigberry manzanita! As a California native, I am tolerant of drought, and I look green even during the driest summer months. My namesake berries are edible - some people even make jelly or cider with them! Look for me between big rocks and boulders at Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve.
Photo Credits
Sierra Vista sunset - Annelyse Dok Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial - Canva Ruddy duck - David Mauk Linda Kwong - Courtesy photo Coyote Valley agriculture - Nick Perry Manzanita flowers - Authority Archives Horoscope landscape - Cassie Kifer Coyote Valley trail - Derek Neumann Burrowing owls - Ken Corregan Manzanita - Cait Hutnik
The Open Space Authority works to protect the natural and working lands that are the ancestral, traditional, and contemporary lands of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay Area, and the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band. Learn more.
-1.jpg?upscale=true&width=500&upscale=true&name=bigberry%20manzanita%20(OSA)-1.jpg)
