Inside this issue: Help monitor Midpen preserves for the presence of Sudden Oak Death, check out a new trail open in Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve and learn more about how Midpen is preparing for wildland fire season.
Nature in May: Tracking the Spread of
Sudden Oak Death
Sprawling branches, spiny leaves and plentiful acorns fill the oak woodlands that lay across the Santa Cruz Mountains and support one of the richest and most biologically diverse habitats in the state. However, spread of sudden oak death (SOD) is threatening the health of these ecosystems.
This month, Midpen is looking for volunteers in the Bay Area to help track the spread of SOD in our open space preserves by participating in the annual SOD Blitz. Learn more about SOD and how to participate here.
Thimbleberry Trail Now Open!
Be the first to set foot on the Thimbleberry Trail, Midpen’s newest addition to the award-winning trail network at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. This trail beautifully showcases the swift transition from a shaded, cool riparian habitat to an open, sun-drenched prairie. Learn more about the new trail here.
May Guided Activities
Colorful blooms abound in the open space this mid-spring month! The 28 different Docent Naturalist-led Guided Activities offer plenty of ways to appreciate the beauty of petals and pollinators, as well as opportunities to mountain bike, learn local history, and cultivate your curiosity about the natural world. Check out the activities here.
Midpen Prepares for Fire Season
Midpen rangers and other staff recently participated in an annual training with local fire agencies to remain certified as wildland firefighters. At Midpen’s Rancho San Antonio Preserve, staff practiced essential firefighting skills including mobile attacks, progressive hose lays and deploying fire shelters. Learn more about the training here.
New Community Partnerships
Branching Out Adventures and Boys and Girls Club of the Coastside are the newest Midpen partners to offer community event series with engaging, inclusive and environmentally conscious recreation and education. These programs invite people to explore, learn and have fun in beautiful open spaces. Learn about our new partners here.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Midpen offers a number of free guided activities led by volunteer docent naturalists each month so you can explore a new preserve, learn about the natural environment or join others for ecologically sensitive outdoor exploration.
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.
Tue, May 6: Action Plan and Budget Committee
Tue, May 13: Action Plan and Budget Committee
Wed, May 14: Board of Directors
Tue, May 20: Legislative, Funding & Public Affairs Committee
Wed, May 28: 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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