The abundant winter rains have turned Midpen’s preserves a lush green, and California newts are on the move towards local waterways looking for love. Read below for the latest news and opportunities to connect with Midpen and explore your local open space preserves.
Explore the green landscape!
Join Midpen docents on free outings in the open space preserves throughout February. Celebrate Chinese New Year with a hike, mountain bike through history at Fremont Older, search for early wildflowers at Windy Hill or Pulgas Ridge and much more.
Newts are looking for love
It is currently the migration and breeding season for the California newt, a native salamander species. Newts make their way from sheltered upland areas to ponds, lakes, creeks and other wet areas to breed. Please proceed slowly on trails and keep an eye out for newts.
It is currently the migration and breeding season for the California newt, a native salamander species. Newts make their way from sheltered upland areas to ponds, lakes, creeks and other wet areas to breed. Please proceed slowly on trails and keep an eye out for newts.
Midpen Purchases Larger Office Building
Midpen closed escrow on a larger office building February 1, located near the current Los Altos office it has occupied since 1990. As a forward-thinking and fiscally prudent public agency, Midpen has been planning for its long-term office space needs by setting aside general reserve funds for this purpose.
“Since voters created the district in 1972, Midpen’s focus has grown from primarily acquiring land for preservation to a more balanced delivery of its mission that also includes restoration and stewardship of natural resources, opening land for public enjoyment and education, and supporting sustainable agriculture on the San Mateo County coast,” General Manager Ana Ruiz said. “Accordingly, the resources needed to keep these commitments to the public have increased. To ensure that these lands remain forever protected, we have to position the agency to be successful in perpetuity.”
After exploring alternatives, purchasing and remodeling a larger office building and selling the current building emerged as the most cost-efficient and environmentally friendly long-term solution. Learn more on our website, or attend an informational open house March 13.
Popular Annual Financial Report
Midpen recently published the Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018. The PAFR summarizes the District’s financial activities and performance results, providing a snapshot of the prior year’s activities.
Rainy Weather
Please be aware that during the rainy winter months, trail closures may change from day to day without notice, based on changing weather conditions. Some trails are also closed seasonally to bicycle and equestrian use for visitor safety and to prevent damage to trails. Make sure to check our website for updates before you visit.
Upcoming Meetings and Events
February 11 – Application opens for Midpen grantmaking program
February 12 – Vandana Shiva Lecture (POST - Walter Stegner Lecture Series)
February 13 – Board of Directors Meeting
Feburary 27 – Board of Directors Meeting
For a complete list of Midpen events and meetings visit openspace.org/calendar