|
|
News from the Open Space Authority
|
|
|
One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.
William Shakespeare
Warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season!
From all of us at the Open Space Authority
|
 Key Land Purchase in
Southern Santa Clara County
The Open Space Authority Board of Directors recently approved acquisition of three 40-acre parcels in southern Santa Clara County, owned by the Santa Barbara Bank and Trust (SBBT). The property is adjacent to the Authority’s existing 702-acre property that includes the former Doan and Neilson Ranches.
The Authority purchased the two ranches in 2007 and sought to protect these three parcels at the same time but the $3 million price tag was prohibitive. In May 2012, the Authority was able to negotiate their purchase for $810,000.
“Our timing was just right to purchase these properties for open space,” said Andrea Mackenzie, General Manager of the Open Space Authority. “Protection of these properties will benefit the water quality, wildlife habitat and recreational values of the upper Pajaro River watershed.”
This acquisition eliminates the potential for development of three highly visible hilltop estate homes. Instead, the Authority will expand its future open space preserve to 822 acres for watershed, wildlife habitat, public recreation and environmental education.
|
Neilson Ranch
The rolling hills of Gilroy with large oaks and breathtaking views captured the heart of local real estate agent Doug Neilson and afterward became a land seeded with cherished family memories.
“My parents promised that when I saved enough money for a horse, they would find me a place to keep it,” said Patricia Neilson-Walworth, “The year that I turned 16, I finally had my $250.”
Mr. Neilson and his wife Elizabeth purchased 128 acres of land along Canada Road in 1960. With a hay barn on the property, they wasted no time getting Patricia her first horse. Years down the road, Patricia’s daughter Carrie inherited her mother’s passion for horses. She spent summers with her grandparents, riding horses, hiking and taking part in seasonal chores. The Neilson family’s shared passion for horses and the environment fostered a strong bond between generations.
“I’m looking forward to the future when this land is accessible,” said Carrie, “and others may experience its view and the wildlife and derive some measure of the joy that my family and I received from our time roaming those hills.”
|
A Conservation Vision for Santa Clara County
Learn more about the Open Space Authority's Conservation Vision at the Conservation Vision website. You can offer ideas on recreation, environmental stewardship, water resources and earn rewards for your ideas and suggestions. The “Rewards Store” includes overnight camping in an open space preserve with meals included, an environmental science program for your favorite elementary school, special hikes to secret places and more! Join the conversation!
|
 Plant Nursery takes Root
At Blair Ranch
A native plant nursery is in the works that will be a boon to the Authority’s land restoration efforts. Volunteers John Gurley and Anne Beale created the plan and layout for the plant nursery and Tom Cochrane and Heather Ernst will come on board for its implementation.
Our aim is to restore the health and beauty of open lands by planting native species such as oak trees, Purple Needlegrass, Blue Wildrye, the Most Beautiful Jewel-flower, the rare Dudleya and others. Volunteers take great care to document where seeds are collected so after the seeds sprout in the nursery, the plants can be replanted in the same area. This simulates the natural growth cycle and helps ensure genetic consistency and the health of these plant species.
The Authority staff recently completed construction on the project, which includes a 20 x 20 foot shaded area. The plant tables contain wire barriers to protect fledgling plants from hungry ground squirrels, deer and cattle. The plan is to double the size in the next few years. Authority staff installed irrigation to keep the plants moist during the hot dusty summers. The Authority will host a public tour of the plant nursery in Spring 2013.
|
Who Am I?
As an Ensatina and amphibian,
I begin my life in water and move onto the land.
See below for the answer.
|
Please visit our website for details and registration requirements.
Most events accept drop-ins. Rain cancels. No pets, please!
For more information, please call 408-224-7476.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
