photo of Red Maid flower

Stories

A closer look at what we're doing to help plants, animals and people thrive.

 

Good Fire in Sierra Azul

Midpen, in partnership with Santa Clara County Fire, is conducting pile-burn operations through December 2025 in a closed area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. Pile burning disposes of accumulated brush and woody debris.

Pond Detectives

In several Midpen preserves, a small team of biologists and consultants have been scanning for the subtle signs of creatures that many visitors never notice.

Creek Complexity

In and along San Gregorio Creek, ten newly installed pieces of large wood settle in to perform their intended function — increasing habitat complexity in the creek and creating a healthier environment for native fish species.

Peak to Peak

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.

Feeling Frond-ly?

The rainy season gives a green gateway into connecting with nature through ferns. Like emerald-colored lace, these primitive plants soften the understory beneath the canopy of shrubs and trees, creating habitat while transf

Sign up for our newsletter to find out what’s happening in your open space!