New Acquisition Helps Grow the Greenbelt
Published December 4, 2025
Recently, Midpen approved the acquisition of a property that supports the critical connection between two of the highest peaks in the Santa Cruz Mountains: Mount Umunhum and Loma Prieta. This purchase not only preserves open space, it forges a connection for wildlife and future trails high above Silicon Valley.
“This land purchase opportunity helps us continue filling in gaps within the greenbelt,” said Midpen General Manager Ana Ruiz. “It is another step towards realizing the vision of an extended regional trail network while ensuring the long-term protection of diverse habitats between these two major peaks.”
The nearly 40-acre property is located within Midpen’s largest preserve, Sierra Azul, and is surrounded by the preserve on three sides. San Jose Water Company property borders the property to the south.
With an elevation of 3,100 feet, this property offers panoramic views of Monterey Bay, Pacific Ocean and Los Gatos Creek watershed. Its protection supports the health of local watersheds.
Ecologically, the land contains a diverse mix of chaparral, pine woodland, mature oak and mixed evergreen forest. Most significantly, it is part of an essential wildlife corridor, allowing species like mountain lions, bobcats, deer and foxes to move between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo and Gabilan ranges. This connectivity is vital for maintaining healthy genetic diversity across the region.
“Sierra Azul provides incredible, intact habitat for wide-ranging wildlife such as mountain lions,” added Ruiz. “Being able to protect large, expansive lands for wildlife and plants is critical, in an area where Midpen has successfully protected over 19,000 acres.”
The land also provides habitat for sensitive species, including the Santa Cruz kangaroo rat, a critically imperiled subspecies, and the western purple martin, which have been observed near the property. Once the acquisition is complete, Midpen will begin to restore the property by cleaning up and removing miscellaneous debris, abandoned vehicles, trailers and building materials.
This acquisition is a clear example of how Measure AA funds are being put to work to acquire and preserve open space, protect natural resources, and fulfill the community’s vision for a connected, healthy regional greenbelt.