Inside this issue: The winners of this year's photo contest, a new coastal property purchase, a collaborative effort to protect and revive the San Francisco garter snake population and much more.
Midpen's 15th Annual Photo Contest Winners
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. This year, Midpen received over 150 stunning submissions. These were narrowed down to finalists in each category by Midpen staff, and the winners were chosen by the public through Midpen’s social media accounts. See this year's winning photos and learn the stories behind the snapshots here.
New Coastal Purchase Helps Connect Greenbelt
Many of the land purchases Midpen makes today in the highly populated and developed region tie back to the first phrase of our mission: Protecting and connecting a regional greenbelt. A recent purchase of a nearly 275-acre property in the hills above the town of La Honda fills in a gap in the greenbelt ringing the Bay Area. Learn more about the purchase here.
Collaborating to Revive the San Francisco Garter Snake
The San Francisco garter snake can only be found in San Mateo County and these striking reptiles are severely threatened by many factors. Midpen has joined forces with several partners to collaboratively develop a population enhancement plan for the San Francisco garter snake. Learn more about the project here.
Coastside Youth Inspired to Explore Open Spaces
Coastside youth unlock nature’s wonders through a GPS-guided geocaching adventure at Los Trancos Open Space Preserve. This Midpen and Boys & Girls Club partnership blends discovery, teamwork, and outdoor play — nurturing future stewards with every cache found. Learn more about the transformative trip here.
High-Tech Cowbells
GPS tracking is everywhere these days, from providing driving directions to trail navigation. Recently, the academic and agricultural communities have been testing this technology on cattle with collars as a potential new tool for managing livestock grazing more efficiently and effectively, including as part of a new pilot project within Midpen’s conservation grazing program. Learn more about the project here.
New Season, New Possibilities!
Applications for Midpen’s Grantmaking Program will open Fall 2025, inviting organizations to apply for funding to support projects that enhance environmental understanding and protection. Learn more about the program and previous grantees and find information on how to apply once the window opens here.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
When is the moment this September that you’ll catch the shift in light and say, Ah ha! It feels like fall!? Maybe it will be on one the 26 docent-led Guided Activities offered this month. And note: early on will be your chance to celebrate and help support the exceptional number of species that call the state home during California Biodiversity Week, starting on September 6. Find the full list of Guided Activities here, and don’t miss out on one of the most enchanting transitions of the year.
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, September 9: Planning and Natural Resources Committee
Wed, September 10: Board of Directors
Wed, September 24: Board of Directors
Thu, September 25: Special 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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