Published August 7, 2025
Drivers along Highway 84 where it borders Midpen’s La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve may experience one-way traffic temporarily through early August as Midpen partners with the San Mateo County FireSafe Council to remove dozens of eucalyptus trees along the roadway.
The 1-acre project is part of Midpen’s Wildland Fire Resiliency Program, identified as a priority to help maintain and improve Highway 84 as an emergency escape route, increase wildland fire safety in the area and tie-in with recent fire projects in the area. Midpen performed biological surveys to ensure native plants and wildlife are protected. The work is being conducted by a contractor.
Eucalyptus trees are a non-native invasive tree species originally introduced from Australia during the Gold Rush for use as lumber, agricultural wind breaks and ornamental trees. The leaf and bark litter they create, along with their strong oils reduce natural biodiversity. Midpen reduces wildland fire severity and risk in our region in-part by managing vegetation in the preserves with a focus on ecological health and wildfire resilience.