Can you smell love in the air? ♥️

A banner with the text "Plug into Nature: The latest news from Midpen, April 2026"

Inside this issue: A guide to enjoying wildflowers in the preserves, opportunities to engage with Midpen through guided activities, this year's photo contest and good news for cyclists visiting Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

A cluster of California poppies alongside a trail overlooking the valley

Nature in April: 'Tis the (Flower) Season

They say that April showers bring May flowers, but in California, our spring wildflowers start blooming as early as February and begin to hit their peak in April. Wildflowers are more than just a pretty picture that decorate our open spaces; they are ecologically important native species that support our region's incredible biodiversity.

Learn more about the incredible variety of species you can find in Midpen preserves, how you can help them continue to flourish by following wildflower etiquette and opportunities to join wildflower-themed outings here.

A great horned owl takes flight above the branch of a tree

2026 Photo Contest Now Open

Midpen’s annual photo contest has officially begun. Submit up to three photos taken in any Midpen preserves across six different contest categories. The winner of each category will receive a prize (in addition to bragging rights) and will be eligible for the new People’s Choice Award. Don’t miss out on the Aspiring Photographers category for students in grades K-12. Learn more and enter the contest here.

New corral-style bike rack with space for up to 10 bikes located near the restroom at the Purisima Creek Road Parking Area

New Bike Amenities at

Purisima Creek Redwoods

Great news for cyclists visiting Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve! Midpen recently completed the installation of several new bike amenities at different entrances to the preserve, including a bike repair station and bike rack style that offers more contact points, making it easier and safer to park your bike while you explore. Learn more here.

A poster featuring the Russian Ridge Preserve Icon, a poster featuring the Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area icon and a glass cup with the Purisima Creek Redwoods preserve icon printed on the surface

New Midpen Merch Available in

Our Online Store

Looking for ways to celebrate your favorite open spaces preserves? We're excited to announce the launch of our new collection of cups and posters, showcasing all Midpen preserves. They're perfect for bringing a little piece of nature with you wherever you go. Shop now.

A group of visitors interact with various exhibits and educational materials in the Daniels Nature Center

Daniels Nature Center Reopens This Weekend

The David C. Daniels Nature Center, located on the edge of Alpine Pond at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, opens for the season on Saturday, April 4, 2026. Come by to explore the exhibits and engage with docents Saturdays and Sundays from noon until 5 p.m. during spring and summer. Learn more and plan your visit.

A large room packed full of informational booths and career fair visitors

Midpen's First-Ever

Career Fair a Success

On March 6, Midpen proudly hosted our first-ever Careers in Conservation Job Fair. The event brought together more than 800 attendees, hailing from all nine counties of the Bay Area and beyond, creating a vibrant venue for connection, learning and inspiration. Learn more about the event and stay tuned for recap videos here.

A group of volunteers pose while pulling invasive French broom

Events & Activities

Though the planet has had its own official holiday since 1970, Earth Day really is every day. Celebrate your own connection to the natural world on one of 32 docent-led guided activities this month. From wildflowers to “Mindful Movement” and a night hike searching for “Spineless Wonders” there's so many activities to explore

Hands-on volunteer projects are a great way to get involved and expand your knowledge about the importance of land stewardship. Take part in ongoing resource management efforts or join a volunteer trails program – new projects are posted the first Wednesday of each month.

Filter for upcoming easy-access events through Midpen's event calendar and learn more about accessibility at Midpen preserves here.

Upcoming Public Meetings

Meetings may be viewed online. There is also a dial-in number to listen by phone. Links are included in the meeting agendas posted online 72 hours before the meeting. See the upcoming meeting schedule here.

Wed, Apr 8: Board of Directors
Wed, Apr 15: Special Board of Directors
Tue, Apr 21: Legislative Funding & Public Affairs Committee
Wed, Apr 22: Board of Directors
Tue, Apr 28: Planning & Natural Resources Committee

Careers at Midpen

Join our talented and dynamic team as we work collaboratively toward our vision and put your passion for open space to work! See our current job openings here.

Ranger Recruit/Ranger (closes soon)
Seasonal Ranger Aide
Planning Intern
Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk

Other photo credits: Header: Garrett Nakamura; Wildflowers: Kristin Perry; Photo Contest: Don Vu; Purisima Bike Amenities: Midpen; Daniels Nature Center: Shannon Mees; Career Fair: Frances Freyberg; Events & Activities: Ellen Gartside