The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District staff and Board are busy with many key projects that benefit the public and provide opportunities to enjoy open space.

Closure in Ravenswood Open Space Preserve Announced
(posted 10/14/2011)

The southern area of Ravenswood Open Space Preserve will be closed starting on Monday, October 24, 2011, to prepare for upcoming construction at Cooley Landing. The project includes site remediation and a new trail loop, and is being conducted by the City of East Palo Alto in partnership with the District. This area of the Preserve and Cooley Landing are expected to open next summer.

Please refer to the attached map for details.

The northern area and trail of the Preserve, which can be accessed from Highway 84, remain open. Please plan your trip accordingly and check for updates on the Trail Conditions page. For more information on the Cooley Landing project, please visit the City of East Palo Alto’s project website. Thank you for your patience.

Closures in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve Announced
(posted 7/22/2011)

Since the hazardous material abatement of the former Almaden Air Force station atop Mt. Umunhum in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, the District has seen an increased number of trespassers.

Effective immediately, in order to protect public safety and guarantee security, we are closing some portions of Sierra Azul's Mt. Umunhum area until the site is fully remediated and secure public access can be established.

Please note that the Mt. Umunhum and Mt. Thayer areas, where remediation work is ongoing, have been designated Hazardous Closed Areas. That means anyone who trespasses into the area will be cited for a misdemeanor.

Areas that are adjacent to Mt. Umunhum and Mt. Thayer have been declared Temporary Closed Areas. Trespassers will be cited for an infraction.

Please refer to the attached map for details.

Bring Your Baggies:
Dog Waste Requirements Extended to All Preserves Open to Dogs
(posted 6/9/2011)

Photo: James Callan (altered with permission)

Due to public and environmental health concerns, the District will apply its "pack-in-in, pack-it-out" philosophy to dog waste at all Preserves open to dogs. Moving dog waste off trail will no longer be an option.

• Please bag and remove dog waste from the Preserve by packing it out.
• Do NOT leave bagged waste at the Preserve or outside Preserve restrooms; the plumbing cannot tolerate plastic.
• Leaving bagged waste is considered littering, and failure to comply may result in a fine.

This information is also posted on our Activities for Dog Owners page and reflected in the updated Dog Access Guidelines and Sharing the Trails brochure.

Please send your feedback/comments to info@openspace.org.

Activities
Any time of year is a great time to enjoy nature. Find out about the variety of free Outdoor Activity adventures offered. All programs are led by volunteer docents.

Peninsula Tales & Trails Available
The District's first-ever trail guide book is still available. Peninsula Tales & Trails is a comprehensive guide to the magnificent, unspoiled public open spaces in the Midpeninsula area. Peninsula Tales & Trails features 38 selected routes in 22 open space preserves and offers fascinating facts about the area's natural environment and history. Peninsula Tales & Trails is $19.95 (not including tax) and is available at the District office or online.

Protect Valuables
Please be advised to lock your vehicle and take valuables with you on the trail.