Plug Into Nature: “Midpen in July 2026”

Image of California quail with the text: "Plug into Nature, the latest news from Midpen, July 2026"

Inside this issue: Summer is here with tips on sharing open space with
rattlesnakes, research on mountain lions, a revitalized nature trail, free guided
activities all month and more.

Nature in July: Don't be Rattled

Sharing Open Space with Rattlesnakes

The long days of summer invite us to explore outdoors. Reptiles like the northern
Pacific rattlesnake also enjoy warming up in the sunshine. Find tips on how to
safely share the preserves with these special snakes here.

Closeup of a cluster of Indian warrior flowers in bloom that look like fireworks.

Safely Celebrating the Fourth

Thank you for keeping your open space preserves safe by remembering that Midpen preserves and parking areas close half an hour after sunset. Fireworks are never allowed. Midpen rangers are strictly enforcing closure times on July 4. Check preserve conditions here.

Trail camera photo of a mountain lion at night showing full body from a side view.

Coexisting with Mountain Lions

We share our public open spaces with local wildlife including mountain lions, who play a vital role in the ecosystem. Results from a groundbreaking study with the Puma Project have just been released. Spoiler alert: Mountain lions prefer to avoid people. Learn more.

Image of an interpretive sign about newts near a bridge on the Stevens Creek Nature Trail in Monte Bello Preserve.

Revitalizing a Nature Trail

New interpretive signs along the Stevens Creek Nature Trail in Monte Bello Preserve explore ecology, plants and wildlife. Designed by Midpen staff member Sophie Christel, the signs invite you to take a closer look at your surroundings and think deeper about the world around you. Learn more.

An outdoor group photo with representatives of the Los Gatos Creek Watershed Collaborative.

Collaborating on Fire Resilience

The Los Gatos Creek Watershed Collaborative comprised of Midpen, San Jose Water, Santa Clara County Parks and the FireSafe Council hosted a recent tour of fuel reduction projects for CALFIRE, who fund the collaborative with a grant. Learn more.

Events & Activities

Watch this new episode of OpenRoad about Midpen's amazing volunteers and be inspired to get involved. Hands-on volunteer projects are a great way to help care for your open space preserves. Take part in ongoing resource management efforts or join a volunteer trails program – new projects are posted the first Wednesday of each month.

Free docent-guided activities are an easy way to stay cool on Midpen trails. Some start in the early morning while others take advantage of the sunset or moonrise. Several seek the shade of the redwood canopy, one sticks to the bayside, and one even chases the sunshine while looking for heat-loving lizards.

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, July 8: Board of directors meeting
Wed, July 22: Board of directors meeting

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.

Lead Open Space Technician
Training and Safety Specialist

Other photo credits: Header: California quail by Selwyn Quan; Rattlesnake: John Kesselring; Indian warrior flowering: Karl Gohl; Mountain lion: Vishal Subramanyan; Nature Trail: Frances Freyberg; Los Gatos Creek Watershed Collaborative: Santa Clara County FireSafe Council; Sun through trees: Randy Weber.