Wildly Responsible...With Your Tax Dollars

As communities face growing environmental and economic pressures, investing in what we care about locally is one of the most powerful ways to protect our future. That’s exactly what the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority has been doing for over 30 years as we put local tax dollars to work to protect and restore the natural and working lands that surround the communities we serve.  

These investments deliver lasting impact:

• They strengthen local economies 

• Create tangible health and community benefits 

• Build long-term resilience to wildfires, floods and droughts 

• Uphold transparency and accountability for taxpayers 

Here are eight ways the Open Space Authority makes every dollar count.

1. Building Community Resilience Through Protected Natural and Working Lands

Since 2014, the Open Space Authority has more than doubled the amount of land we’ve protected including critical habitats such as oak woodlands and wetlands. These lands also buffer the urban communities we serve from wildfire, drought and flood. But they don’t just safeguard homes and infrastructure, they also support biodiversity, recharge groundwater, and provide cooler and cleaner air. It’s a long-term natural solution and investment in healthier, safer and stronger community well-being.  

2. Creating Spaces You Actually Want to Use

Your dollars fund hiking, biking, equestrian and accessible nature-viewing trails that connect people to nature. But it doesn’t stop there. Your support also powers free nature education programs, school field trips that inspire the next generation of environmental leaders and Urban Grants that bring green spaces and wildlife experiences into neighborhoods across the Santa Clara Valley. It’s about making nature accessible, meaningful and part of everyday life. 

3. Projects that Safeguard Everyone's Future

From creek restoration to native plantings, funds go toward buffering the impacts of weather that is becoming increasingly extreme. This includes preventing wildfires, protecting clean drinking water, preserving wildlife habitat, supporting local agriculture and strengthening community well-being.  

4. Funding Nature in Your Neighborhoods

The Open Space Authority’s Urban Grant programs have invested over $15 million directly into urban areas (especially underserved communities) to support parks, trails and environmental education for all. From community gardens to outdoor classrooms, these projects bring nature where it’s needed most. Check out some of the inspiring projects funded to date and discover how your support is making a difference.

5. Transparency That’s Actually Transparent

Quarterly budget updates during public board meetings, public Expenditure Oversight Committee annual reports, along with easy-to-read reports like the Open Space Authority’s Budget and Annual Work Plan mean you know exactly where your money is going. 

6. Helping Nature Thrive

Smart land management supports pollinators, protects rare wildlife and keeps ecosystems in balance. In Coyote Valley, over 1,500 acres of valley-floor lands are now permanently protected, with a public planning process underway to guide future restoration, public access and natural resources stewardship - meaning how we care for the land and water. Situated at one of the narrowest points between the Santa Cruz Mountains and Diablo Range, the valley forms a vital wildlife corridor linking over 1.1 million acres of habitat. It’s also home to special plants and animals that live in the valley, beautiful views, farms and critical groundwater recharge areas.  

7. Educating the Next Generation of Conservation Leaders

The Open Space Authority helps young people connect with nature through fun programs, hands-on internships, and support for youth-led projects. These outdoor experiences teach youth to care for the environment and inspire them to protect the natural world. 

8. (More than) Doubling Your Investment

Measures Q (2014) & T (2020) are voter-approved funding measures supporting open space protection and access. Every $1 of Measure Q and T funding brings in $2.50 from outside sources like grants, partnerships and philanthropic contributions, maximizing resources to protect land, restore habitats, and expand public access to over 33 miles of nature trails. 

When we care for nature, nature cares for us. 

Clean air, fresh water, healthy food and beautiful places to explore all depend on thriving landscapes. That’s why the Open Space Authority focuses on smart planning, listening to the communities we serve and making sure every dollar makes a real impact. By protecting what’s local, we’re safeguarding what matters most for today and for generations to come. From protecting wildlife and natural resources to supporting local farms and opening more trails, your support helps keep these places healthy and accessible for everyone. 

Learn how your support makes a difference by visiting our funding page.