Midpen Spring Views 2026

Views header photo with poppies in the background and text that says "Discover your open space - Views Spring 2026"

Inside this issue: Supporting the future of the rare Santa Cruz kangaroo rat in Sierra Azul Preserve, how conservation grazing helps coastal wildflowers thrive and a new Ranger recruitment offers the opportunity to contribute to Midpen's mission.

Closeup of a Santa Cruz kangaroo rat jumping on rocky soil at night

Wildlife Conservation is in Our DNA

New Genetics Study Reveals Rarity of Santa Cruz Kangaroo Rats

After the Santa Cruz kangaroo rat was rediscovered in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve in 2019, Midpen and collaborators launched a genetic research project to better understand this rare species and its evolutionary history. The findings from this five-year study have recently been released and are now being used to develop conservation strategies to protect this rare species. Learn more about the species and study here.

A Midpen Ranger interacts with white and brown spotted horse

Apply to Join Our Rangers!

Midpen is inviting passionate individuals to become part of our vital mission by applying to become a Ranger. Midpen Rangers serve in a dynamic and rewarding role that combines public safety, natural resource protection and community engagement. Learn more about the position and application process here.

Closeup of California native wildflower red maids

Wildflower Wonder

It’s spring, which means that wildflowers of all shapes, sizes and colors begin to decorate Midpen preserves, including in areas managed with conservation grazing. Carefully managed conservation grazing can create specific conditions that help rare and common native wildflower species thrive. Learn more about the connection between grazing and flowers here.

A New Era for

Bear Creek Stables

At Midpen's March 25 public meeting, our board approved a new long-term agreement with the Friends of Bear Creek Stables, a local nonprofit, to manage daily operations and public programming at the Stables. Under this new model, the Friends of Bear Creek Stables aims to create a unique culture of service and community connection. Read more.

A group of teenagers with stand in a parking lot with GPS devices before setting off to search for geocaches

March Guided Activities

Days growing longer, hills getting greener, flowers bursting open and baby animals arriving on the scene: No wonder there are 35 docent-led guided activities offered throughout the preserves this March! From the edge of the bay to the top of Mt. Umunhum, this month brings opportunities for everyone. See the full list of springtime activities here.

A rusted red van sits among other debris at a newly acquired property that was added to Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve

Healing the Land

Midpen wrapped up the restoration of several recently acquired properties that were incorporated into Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. Midpen crews worked to improve the health of these landscapes, beginning with the removal of more than 900,000 pounds of human debris, including asbestos-containing building materials and old septic systems. Learn more here.

A group of hikers stand at the top of Borel Hill in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve with the sun setting behind them

Events & Activities

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.

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.

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.

Tue, Mar 10: Action Plan & Budget Committee
Wed, Mar 11: Board of Directors
Tue, Mar 17: Planning & Natural Resources Committee
Tue, Mar 24: Bond Oversight Committee
Wed, Mar 25: Board of Directors
Tue, Mar 31: Planning & Natural Resources

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.

Senior Accounting Technician
Area Manager
Engineering & Construction Intern
Supervising Ranger
Fleet Services Program Manager
Human Resources Intern
Ranger Recruit/Ranger

Other photo credits: Header: Kristin Perry; Santa Cruz kangaroo rat: Ken Hickman; Wildflowers: Frances Freyberg; Rangers: Midpen; Stables: Midpen; Guided Activities: Joyce Tang; Healing the Land: Ayden Sabharwal; Events: Lindsay Joye