Midpen tags purple martins before their fall migration, a future Midpen trail dedicated to conservation advocate Lennie Roberts, collaborative work to protect a local community from wildland fire, and more.
Inside this issue: First rains herald the upcoming newt migration, a future Midpen trail dedicated to conservation advocate Lennie Roberts, collaborative work for wildland fire safety and resilience, and more.
Nature in October:
Rain on the Way, Newts on the Move
With rainy season on the way, the annual migration of California and rough-skinned newts begins. Look out for them crossing roads and trails after rain events when these charismatic crawlers are most active. Midpen is working towards a long-term underpass solution to create safe passage for newts across Alma Bridge Road. Learn more here.
Future Midpen Trail Named in Honor of Lennie Roberts
Midpen recently held an event to name a future trail in Midpen’s Miramontes Ridge Open Space Preserve in honor of local conservation advocate, Lennie Roberts. “Lennie’s extraordinary leadership and passionate commitment have left an indelible mark on our region’s lands and people,” said Midpen General Manager Ana MarĂa Ruiz. Read more about Lennie and the event here.
Partnering for Fire Protection
CAL FIRE’s vision of a 19-mile fuel break around La Honda is becoming a reality. The project, led by the San Mateo Resource Conservation District, requires partnering with 21 landowners, including Midpen. Work began in September to expand a section of this fuel break through Midpen’s La Honda Creek Preserve. Learn more about the project here.
From Play to Preservation
What if a hike could teach you about endangered birds, climate change and the power of restoration—all through a fast-paced game? At Ravenswood Preserve, nonprofit Saved By Nature turned play into purpose, reflection and a deeper bond between people and place. Learn more about the program and organization here.
Join Midpen at a Forest Health Project Open House
Midpen is creating a plan to restore healthy, resilient and mature forests, improve watershed health, enhance wildlife habitat and carbon storage, and increase resilience to fire, disease and climate change in La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve. Join staff at informational open houses to learn more. Get the details here.
Events & Activities
For all you autumn lovers out there, October is the first month of full-on fall! It’s time to check out the seasonal changes in open space on Midpen’s free, docent-led activities. Whether by foot or on bike seat, opportunities abound to learn about local, natural and cultural history with friendly people in lovely landscapes. See the full list of guided activities here.
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, Oct 8: Board of Directors
Tue, Oct 14: Real Property Committee
Wed, Oct 15: Board Appointee Evaluation Committee
Tue, Oct 21: Planning & Natural Resources Committee
Wed, Oct 22: 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! See our current job openings here.
Public Affairs Intern
Executive Assistant/Deputy District Clerk
Information Systems & Technology Intern
Seasonal Ranger Aide
Fleet Services Specialist
Resource Management Specialist I/II (Wildlife)
Equipment Mechanic Operator
Other photo credits: Header: Frank Mao; Newt: Jason Saleh; Lennie Roberts Trail Dedication: Steven King; Fire Protection: Midpen; Play to Preservation: Saved By Nature; Forest Health Open House: Frances Freyberg; Events & Activities: Jack Gescheidt
.png?upscale=true&width=1200&upscale=true&name=Events%20and%20Activities%20(8).png)
.png?upscale=true&width=1200&upscale=true&name=Events%20and%20Activities%20(11).png)
.png?upscale=true&width=1200&upscale=true&name=Plug%20Into%20Nature%20E-News%20Header%20(1).png)
