Inside this issue: Snakes you may spot in the preserves, how Midpen's proactive wildland fire work helped to detect and stop the recent Monte Bello fire, newly completed easy-access improvements to Pulgas Ridge Preserve, and more.
Nature in August: Sssnakes in Open Space
When enjoying Midpen preserves in the warmer months, keep an eye out for snakes. Sometimes that slow moving stick isn't a stick after all. Dozens of snake species call Midpen lands home, and we actively work to maintain adequate habitats for our fork-tongued friends. Learn more about some of our slithering residents here.
Wildfire Quickly Contained
Thanks to Midpen's Preparedness
In the early hours of Friday, August 1 a fire burned at the edge of Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. A Midpen Ranger who lives in staff housing in the preserve was the first to notice and report the fire.
After the response was underway, an autonomous wildfire sensor recently installed in the preserve also reported the fire, showcasing a crucial redundancy that helped ensure a timely response. The fire, which burned approximately three acres, was quickly contained after a multi-agency effort. Learn more about the fire and Midpen's response here.
Midpen’s 2,000-gallon water tender was instrumental in providing needed water to the multi-agency response to the Monte Bello fire (Michael Gorman).
Easy-Access Projects at
Pulgas Ridge Now Complete
Midpen recently completed a series of improvements to Pulgas Ridge Preserve to enhance easy-access opportunities and allow more people to enjoy this public land as part of Midpen's overarching ADA Barrier Removal Project. Improvements included adding accessible parking spaces and paving the Cordilleras Trail to offer easier access. Learn more about the work here.
Partnering for Fire Safety on Highway 84
Midpen is partnering with San Mateo County FireSafe Council to remove eucalyptus trees along Highway 84 to improve an emergency escape route and increase wildland fire safety in the area. Drivers along Highway 84 near Midpen’s La Honda Creek Preserve may experience one-way traffic through early August as the project progresses. Learn more about the work here.
Improving Corrals and Fencing
Near the Red Barn
The picturesque Red Barn in Midpen’s La Honda Creek Preserve serves as a visual gateway to the rural San Mateo County coast. Drivers along Highway 84 will notice some activity in the area as Midpen replaces and improves existing corrals and fencing to support conservation grazing in the area while maintaining the area’s beloved rural aesthetic. Learn more about the work here.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The future of conservation is in bright hands! Midpen partnered with Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action, giving youth a hands-on look at our work to restore the Cathedral Oaks site and build climate resilience. This partnership is all about giving the next generation of environmental leaders a firsthand look at the important work we do to protect our natural spaces. Learn more about the field trip here.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
To avoid or embrace the heat (responsibly!) is the question of the month when deciding which Docent Naturalist led guided activities to join. There are mountain bike rides, rambles at Rancho, aerobic hikes where you’ll soak up late morning rays, evening bat programs, explorations under the redwood canopy, and early morning wanderings (including a sunrise hike!). Find details for these activities and more on Midpen’s Guided Activities page.
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 and keep an eye out for our new Volunteer Trails Program launching next month – 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.
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.
Wed, August 13: Board of Directors
Wed, August 20: Special Board of Directors
Tue, August 26: Planning and Natural Resources Committee
Wed, August 27: Board of Directors
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! Here are our current job openings:
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