Fall 2011 - Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District

MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT 

ANNUAL REPORT 

2010–2011 

QUARTERLY NEWS ON OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION AND PROGRAMS • FALL 2011 

ANNUAL MESSAGE FROM THE 

GENERAL MANAGER, STEVE ABBORS 

The Metamorphosis of Mt. Umunhum 

Earlier this summer, on a beautiful 

sunny June day, I watched workers in 

white full-body containment suits, helmets, 

and gloves meticulously cleaning the 

outside of a dilapidated brown building 

behind bright red strips of caution tape 

labeled “DANGER- Lead Removal”. The 

top of Mt. Umunhum in Sierra Azul Open 

Space Preserve buzzed with activity and 

construction equipment. I turned my 

attention from the lead-based paint 

peelings, ladders, dumpsters, hazardous 

material containers, signs, crates, and old 

refrigerators removed from housing units 

to catch a glimpse of the glittering Pacific 

Ocean. Turning slowly to my right, I soaked 

up the sweeping views of San Francisco, 

Mt. Tamalpais, the wine country, Mt. Diablo, 

the distant Sierra Nevada, and finally 

Mt. Hamilton. I thought about the California 

condors that were recently observed at 

Mt. Hamilton and I wondered when we 

would see them at Mt. Umunhum. At that 

moment, with careful, painstaking work 

taking place around me, I felt a deep 

sense of pride knowing that others will 

have the opportunity to stand in this 

very spot in the future and share this 

breathtaking experience with their children. 

In July, the District finished removing 

hazardous materials from the 88 abandoned 

structures atop Mt. Umunhum. This 

monumental achievement is an important 

first step in the metamorphosis from 

abandoned Air Force station into an 

Listing of Fall Hikes and Rides —page 5 

(continued on page 2) 

Geocaching 

Program Off to 

a Great Start 

The District’s geocaching program launch 

event held July 9 at Skyline Ridge Open 

Space Preserve brought out approximately 

200 eager geocachers of all ages and 

experience levels. There were extreme 

geocachers with established alias names 

and countless geocaches (caches) who set 

off in search of the District’s new circuit of 

22 caches. There were also curious families 

eager to explore new ways of enjoying 

the outdoors who participated in beginner 

level geocaching clinics led by Steve Wood 

and Chris Green of REI. The event offered 

something for everyone and excitement 

for the new program was contagious. 

Many event participants began their pursuit 

of the ”Preserve Circuit Geo-Challenge” by 

picking up a Preserve Passport to carry while 

using a handheld GPS device to search 

for a designated circuit of caches located 

throughout 22 open space preserves. 

Geocache Event at 

Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve 

(continued on page 4)

ANNUAL MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER, 

STEVE ABBORS (continued from page 1) 

incredible natural treasure that will be enjoyed by future 

generations. As with many of the ongoing projects on our 

preserves, we look forward to rounding out the latter part 

of our mission statement, “to protect and restore the natural 

environment and provide opportunities for ecologically sensitive 

public enjoyment and education.” The coming year, 2012, will 

not only mark the District’s 40th year as an integral part of Bay 

Area life, it will also be the year when we cross the threshold 

of having preserved over 60,000 acres of open space land. 

Achieving this milestone is even more significant as we look 

to the future with a stronger focus on caring for the health of 

these lands. 

The District’s primary focus 

“ We hope to expand our land thus far has been to acquire 

stewardship capabilities while 

land in order to save natural 

areas from development. 

we reach out to the increasingly We’ve succeeded in securing 

diverse population that visits properties and watersheds that 

protect precious water quality, 

and enjoys the preserves.” knit fragmented habitats back 

together, protect critical wildlife 

corridors, and provide places to reconnect with the earth that 

sustains us. It is now time to redouble our efforts to adaptively 

manage these open spaces in order to ensure these benefits 

continue. Ecological systems are incredibly complex webs of 

living and non-living interactions that are frequently stressed by 

manipulation for different human uses, many of which result in 

fragmentation and loss of ecosystem function. Preserving land 

in order to restore it to as natural a state as possible requires 

a variety of land stewardship strategies. The District has many 

restoration projects in the works to maintain ecological 

health and allow for the continuation of responsible, 

Mt. Unumhum Summit, Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve 

low-impact public use. You can learn about a number of these 

resource management projects by visiting the District’s Web site at 

www.openspace.org/plans_projects/resource_management.asp. 

How can we expand the success of our mission in the next 40 

years? By taking a lesson from nature: it’s all about diversity. The 

growing need to provide more care for the lands we’ve secured 

and protected for you, the public, will require us to broaden our 

ability to fund the District’s mission. By creatively looking at new 

strategies and sources of support for these projects, we hope to 

expand our land stewardship capabilities while we reach out to the 

increasingly diverse population that visits and enjoys the preserves. 

We want to enable everyone to get involved in protecting and 

enhancing their backyard open space lands. Adaptive management 

means continuously re-evaluating our efforts and actions. 

Changing course when necessary, while remaining true to our 

mission and land stewardship principles, requires “big picture” 

thinking and a foundation of solid planning. 

On that clear day in June atop Mt. Umunhum, I found myself 

reflecting about the District as it approaches its 40th anniversary. 

Taking a moment to pause at the summit, I was inspired by the 

District’s achievements over the past four decades and am proud 

to be a part of an organization that has taken such care to carry 

out the mission entrusted to it by the public so long ago. I look to a 

horizon of possibilities with optimism for what’s to come, confident 

in our future as a District and grateful to you, the public, and our 

many loyal partners and donors who have been and will need to 

be the foundation of our success in the coming years. 

Mt. Umunhum, Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve 

Stephen E. Abbors 

General Manager 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

Pete Siemens ◆ Ward 1 (Cupertino, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Saratoga) ◆ Yoriko Kishimoto ◆ Ward 2 (Cupertino, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Palo Alto, Stanford, Sunnyvale) 

Jed Cyr ◆ Ward 3 (Sunnyvale) ◆ Curt Riffle ◆ Ward 4 (Los Altos, Mountain View) ◆ Nonette G. Hanko ◆ Ward 5 (East Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Stanford) 

Larry Hassett ◆ Ward 6 (Atherton, Menlo Park, Pescadero, Portola Valley, Redwood City, San Gregorio, Woodside) 

Cecily Harris ◆ Ward 7 (El Granada, Half Moon Bay, Montara, Moss Beach, Redwood City, San Carlos, Woodside) 

Stephen E. Abbors ◆ General Manager ◆ Kristi Britt ◆ Open Space Views Editor ◆ Renée Fitzsimons ◆ Outdoor Activities Editor 

2

2010–2011 FINANCIAL PROFILE 

The District has remained fiscally stable over the past year 

during a persistent recession because of its continued 

focus on fiscal discipline. 

District Revenues 

The District’s revenues for fiscal year 

2010-2011 were $30.5 million, 

lower by $1.2 million over the 

prior fiscal year. Revenues consist 

of program revenue that includes 

rental income, grants and donations, 

and general revenue primarily from 

property tax and investment income. 

The District receives approximately 

two-thirds of its tax revenue from 

Santa Clara County and one-third 

from San Mateo County. 

Tax revenue was $27.3 million in 

fiscal year 2010-2011, a decrease 

of 1.3% over the previous fiscal year, 

as the assessed valuation of secured 

and unsecured property within the 

District decreased for the first time 

since the District was formed in 1972. An additional reduction 

in tax revenue of $187,859 was due to the suspension of 

supplemental (SB 813) property tax revenue in Santa 

Clara County. 

The District received $286,222 under a new five-year agreement 

with Santa Clara County to manage the developed portion of 

Rancho San Antonio County Park. The District also succeeded in 

obtaining a $1.25 million contribution from Santa Clara County 

to cover half the cost of land additions to Monte Bello Preserve. 

District Expenditures 

As planned, District expenditures did not exceed the amount 

approved by the Board of Directors in the annual budget. 

Excluding land purchases and debt service, fiscal year 2010-2011 

expenditures were $15.4 million; $3.3 million or 17.6% below 

budget (related to timing on project expenditures). Expenditures 

for land were $9.9 million, and the expenditures for debt service 

(used for payment of long-term debt principal, interest, and 

related costs) were $8.1 million, resulting in total expenditures 

of $33.4 million. The land purchases and debt service funds are 

obtained through transfers from funds previously set aside for 

that purpose. 

District Assets and Liabilities 

The District’s total net assets increased by $9.1 million, and 

total long-term debt obligations declined by $0.7 million to 

$123 million. The assets of the District exceeded liabilities 

by $266.1 million (net assets). 

Land Added to the Preserves in 2010–2011 

The District currently owns, manages, and protects over 59,000 

acres of land on behalf of the public in accordance with the 

agency’s mission of protecting the environment through land 

preservation and restoration, and by providing public use and 

enjoyment of open space lands. 

Monte Bello Open Space Preserve 

By the end of the fiscal year (March 31, 2011), the District 

added 662 acres of new open space land to its preserves, 

valued at $9.9 million. The additions were funded from the 

following sources: 

Land acquisition funds from: 

• The District’s 

General Fund $8.6 million 

• Grants 

$1.3 million 

Total 

$9.9 million 

Open Space Land Added by 

Purchase, Gift, or Management 

Agreement 

• Bear Creek Redwoods 

Open Space Preserve: 

The District purchased the 86-acre 

Holmes property, for $2,500,000. 

• Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve: 

Four properties totaling 246 acres 

were added to this Preserve at a total 

purchase cost of $3,225,000. These 

purchases include the following: 

1) 121.57-acre Chen property, for $800,000; 

2) 20-acre Slaght property, for $2,025,000, to be 

used as the South Area Field Outpost; 

3) 80-acre Eagle View LLC property, for $250,000; 

4) 24-acre Price property, for $150,000. 

• Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve: 

Two properties totaling 112 acres were added to this 

Preserve. These additions include the following: 

1) 14.25-acre Bergman property, for $1,700,000 

(purchase includes a 5-year note for $850,000); 

2) 97.5-acre Silva property (management agreement 

with Peninsula Open Space Trust). 

• Monte Bello Open Space Preserve: 

The District, in partnership with Santa Clara County Parks 

and Peninsula Open Space Trust, added 87.62 acres 

through the purchase of the Powell properties for 

$2,500,000 with the County matching the District’s 

contribution of $1,250,000. 

• Purisima Creek Open Space Preserve: 

The District has added property gifts (within Redwood 

Park Subdivision) totaling approximately 0.54 acres 

valued at $16,585. 

• Ravenswood Open Space Preserve: 

A 2.88-acre open space easement was received by the 

District from the City and County of San Francisco in 

exchange for a subsurface tunnel easement for the new 

transbay pipeline. 

• Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve: 

The District has entered into a management agreement 

with Santa Clara County Parks for approximately 

127.85 acres. 

Vaibhav Tripathi 

3

FIELD NOTES 

Updated and 

Expanded District 

Dog Waste 

Requirements 

In the fall 2009 and winter 

2010-2011 issues of Open 

Space Views, the District 

reported on what to do when 

nature calls for your canine 

companion while visiting District open 

space preserves. The District has 

expanded its dog waste requirements 

due to increased dog use which resulted 

in recent public and environmental 

health concerns. The District is now 

applying its “pack-it-in, pack-it-out” 

philosophy to dog waste, and is 

requiring dog walkers/owners to 

bag and remove all dog waste from 

District preserves. Do not leave dog 

waste on the trails, or bagged waste 

at the preserves or outside preserve 

restrooms. Leaving bagged waste is 

considered littering. This requirement is 

now applicable at all District preserves 

open to dogs, including: 

On all trails in: 

• Coal Creek Open Space Preserve 

• Foothills Open Space Preserve 

• Fremont Older Open Space Preserve 

• Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve 

• Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve 

(Kennedy-Limekiln Area only) 

• St. Joseph’s Hill Open Space Preserve 

• Thornewood Open Space Preserve 

On designated trails in: 

• Long Ridge Open Space Preserve 

• Windy Hill Open Space Preserve 

The District appreciates your efforts 

to clean up after your dog in order 

to keep the trails clean, safe, and 

enjoyable for all visitors. For more 

information on the many wonderful 

hikes and trails for you and your 

four-legged friend to explore this fall 

on the District’s open space preserves 

visit: www.openspace.org/activities/ 

ideas_for_dogs.asp. 

Geocaching Program off to a Great Start! 

(continued from page 1) 

Each cache contains a stamp for the Preserve Passport and participants can earn unique 

collectibles as they complete their passport. Finding a cache is part one of the geocaching 

experience; the second part is logging “finds” and experiences online at Geocaching.com, 

the official hub of geocaching worldwide. So far there have been over 800 geocaching 

“finds” logged online as part of the “Preserve Circuit Geo-Challenge (Challenge)”. 

The first geo-finishers completed the entire circuit of 22 caches in a dizzying six days. 

Congratulations to the Hecker family! Mom, dad, and their two sons ages 9 and 11 years 

(a.k.a.“frivlas”, “oneangrypuppy”, “lil checkers”, and “big checker”) were the first to 

finish the challenge and collect their prizes of trackable geocoins (for all four family 

members) and cache tags (for children under 16). The Heckers said they really enjoyed 

the Challenge and especially liked the passports as a fun way to track their progress. 

When asked what they most enjoy about geocaching, mom/“frivlas” stated that she 

likes the together time exploring with her family while 9-year old “lil checkers” called 

attention to the cool coins and other trinkets you can get as a geocacher. The family 

noted they had plenty of wildlife to entertain them along the trails as they searched for 

caches, such as red-tailed hawks at Rancho San Antonio Preserve, a salamander at 

Teague Hill Preserve, and an owl at Picchetti Ranch Preserve. The Heckers found the 

Challenge to be quite family friendly – as a team their toughest adventure was the cache 

hidden at Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve. The “find” involved an approximately 4-mile 

round trip with muddy trails on a wet day. Los Trancos Preserve was their easiest “find” 

excursion with the cache being a fairly quick jaunt right from the parking lot. 

Geocache Game Paraphernalia, 


Are You Ready to Take the Challenge? 

As with any outdoor adventure, you need 

appropriate clothing and footwear, water 

(and food for longer trips), and directional 

materials such as maps. To take on the 

District’s “Preserve Circuit Geo-Challenge”, 

you’ll also need a Preserve Passport, 

coordinates for the 22 “Preserve Circuit” 

caches, a GPS-enabled device, and a basic 

understanding of the activity. Participants must 

be registered at www.geocaching.com (basic 

membership is free), and read and accept the 

terms of the District’s Geocaching Guidelines 

and Agreement and Liability Waiver at 

www.openspace.org/geocaching_guidelines. 

Pocket-size passports can be mailed to you or you can download an alternative PDF 

version online at www.openspace.org/geocaching. GPS devices can be purchased at 

most outdoor recreation stores. A small number of GPS units are available for short-term 

loan through the District on a first-come, first-served basis (a fully refundable deposit 

is required). You can also download an app to your Smartphone, but because of 

some of the remote locations of the preserves and limitation on signal strength, a 

separate handheld GPS device is generally a more effective option. All 22 caches 

in the program are listed on Geocaching.com and you can find the 

coordinates by searching with username “MROSD.” You can also visit 

www.openspace.org/preserve_circuit and follow the hyperlinks 

to the individual preserve geocache pages. 

Geocaching is an exciting way to combine 

technology and outdoor adventure. 

For complete program information, 

visit www.openspace.org/geocaching. 

To receive program materials, please 

email geocaching@openspace.org. 

See you out on the trails! 

4

MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT 

OUTDOOR 

ACTIVITIES 

FALL 2011 • SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER – NOVEMBER 

WHAT’S THE DIRT? 

Taking a Closer Look 

Embrace fall, the season of change, by changing your perspective. Challenge yourself to pay 

closer attention to the world around you and to view nature in a new way. Have you ever 

felt awe for the way a young child playing outside can become completely captivated by an 

insect they find on the ground? That sense of unbridled, optimistic curiosity seems to fade over 

time. Each fall, the days grow shorter and we all grow a little bit older, but that’s no reason to 

lose your childlike sense of wonder for the natural world. There is always something fascinating 

to marvel at in your backyard open space. This past summer, during ongoing summer tanoak 

pollinator studies, District volunteers observed select tanoak trees and documented visits from 

bees, butterflies, beetles, and other pollinators as part of a larger effort to understand how these 

trees are pollinated. Volunteer Debbi Brusco took a photo of one of nature’s greatest surprises 

while counting the flowers of a catkin cluster – alongside a buzzing bee, she noticed a piece of 

catkin atop a nearby leaf. Catkins are the tree’s cylindrical flower clusters and are comprised of 

many small flowers that are bunched closely along a central stem. Leaning in for a closer look, 

Debbi realized that the “catkin” she spotted was, in fact, a camouflaged caterpillar! 

Debbi Brusco 

Caterpillar on Tanoak Catkin, 

El Corte de Madera Open Space Preserve 

(continued on page 14) 

GENERAL INFORMATION 

With this newsletter in hand and a sense of exploration in mind, 

we invite you to enjoy the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space 

District preserves. These 26 extraordinary preserves include nearly 

60,000 acres of permanently protected open space, from redwood 

forests to bay shoreline. We encourage you to participate in the wide 

variety of adventures offered inside Outdoor Activities. The activity 

durations listed are averages based on our experience. However, 

always allow extra time in your schedule for unusual circumstances, 

or the slower pace of some groups. You can help by arriving a little 

early to ensure a prompt start for each activity. 

The activities are free, though some require reservations. Heavy rain 

cancels the activity unless otherwise noted in the description. If there 

is light rain or the threat of rain, go to the meeting place. 

All programs are led by docents who have completed a District training 

program. These docents volunteer their time to share their knowledge 

of nature with you. For more information about the volunteer docent 

program, visit the District’s Web site at www.openspace.org, or phone 

the District at 650-691-1200 weekdays, 8:30 a.m.– 5:00 p.m. 

ACTIVITY GUIDELINES 

To ensure that your experience is enjoyable, please review this important information: 

• Please be courteous to other trail users. Stay alert and make your 

presence known to other trail users well in advance, particularly 

when approaching from behind. 

• Hikers yield to horses; bicyclists yield to hikers and horses. 

Observe trail speed limits (15 mph max; 5 mph when passing). 

• Equestrians must provide their own horses (no stallions or rental 

horses). Lead lines are required and breast collars are recommended 

for all horses, and helmets must be worn by all riders under age 18. 

• Heavy rain within two days prior to a mountain bike or horseback 

ride cancels the activity. 

• For all hikes, wear boots or sturdy walking shoes appropriate 

for rugged trails. 

• Dress in layers (T-shirt, long-sleeved shirt, sweater and/or jacket). 

The weather can be unpredictable. No matter what season it is, 

be prepared for rain, wind, fog, or sun! 

• Carry ample water with you to drink. Water is not available 

on preserves. 

• Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and insect repellent. 

• Restrooms are not always available; please plan accordingly. 

5

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • FALL 2011 

Where To Meet 

Directions to preserves featured in this season’s schedule of Outdoor Activities are listed below. Some preserves have more than one access point. 

Some activities meet at different locations than where the activity will actually occur. If an activity does not meet at the preserve listed, or if there 

is more than one preserve access point, the alternate meeting location will be indicated in italics on a separate line following the preserve name 

as part of the activity header. (For example: Skyline Ridge Meet: Russian Ridge or Russian Ridge Meet: Caltrans vista point). If no 

information follows the preserve name, then refer to the detailed directions for the preserve or alternate meeting location listed below. 

PLEASE CHECK THE LISTED DESCRIPTION TO MAKE SURE YOU MEET YOUR ACTIVITY LEADER AT THE CORRECT LOCATION. 

COAL CREEK 

Meet at the Caltrans vista point pull-out area 

opposite Russian Ridge Preserve gate RR01, 

located on Skyline Boulevard 1.2 miles north 

of Page Mill Road and 6 miles south of 

Highway 84. Those traveling from I-280 on 

Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 

35 minutes travel time. 

DANIELS NATURE CENTER 

Park at the Russian Ridge Preserve parking 

lot on the northwest corner of the Skyline 

Boulevard (Highway 35) and Page Mill/ 

Alpine Road intersection (across Skyline Blvd. 

on the right). Walk to Alpine Pond at Skyline 

Ridge Preserve by going through the tunnel 

under Alpine Rd. The Nature Center is a 

small gray building on the east shore of 

Alpine Pond. 

EL CORTE DE MADERA CREEK 

Meet at Skeggs Point, a Caltrans vista point 

on the east side of Skyline Boulevard, about 

4 miles north of La Honda Road (Highway 

84) and 1.5 miles south of Kings Mountain 

Road. Please note that Caltrans prohibits a 

left turn into the parking lot when approaching 

from the north along Skyline Blvd. 

EL SERENO 

Meet at the parking lot located at the northeast 

corner of Highway 9 and Santa Cruz Avenue 

in Los Gatos across from Hobees Restaurant. 

The sign at the lot says: “Free Unlimited 

Parking – Northside Lot.” Take Highway 17 

south toward Los Gatos. Exit at Hwy. 9-Los 

Gatos/Saratoga and continue west on Hwy. 

9 (approximately 0.33 miles) to the parking 

lot, located on your right just before Santa 

Cruz Ave. Carpool to the activity location. 

FREMONT OLDER 

Meet at the Preserve parking lot on Prospect 

Road in Cupertino. Exit Highway 85 at De 

Anza Boulevard. (From northbound 85 turn 

left on De Anza Blvd. and from southbound 

85 turn right on De Anza Blvd.) Travel on 

De Anza Blvd. (toward the mountains) for 

about 0.5 miles. Turn right on Prospect Rd. 

At the first stop sign, turn left and cross the 

railroad tracks to remain on Prospect Rd. 

Follow Prospect Rd. for 1.3 miles, turning 

left after the Saratoga Country Club, until 

you reach the Preserve parking lot. 

Big Leaf Maple, Windy Hill Open Space Preserve 

LONG RIDGE 

Meet at the Grizzly Flat trailhead on the west 

side of Skyline Boulevard 3.6 miles north of 

Highway 9, or 3.3 miles south of Page Mill 

Road. If you are coming from the north on 

Skyline Blvd., the pullout is just past Portola 

Heights Road on the right. From the south, 

the pullout is near the Palo Alto city limits 

sign on the right. 

LOS TRANCOS 

Meet at the Preserve parking lot on Page 

Mill Road (across from Monte Bello Preserve), 

7 miles west of I-280 or 1.5 miles east of 

Skyline Boulevard. Those traveling from I-280 

on Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 


MONTE BELLO 

Meet at the Preserve parking lot on Page 

Mill Road (across from Los Trancos Preserve), 

7 miles west of I-280 or 1.5 miles east of 

Skyline Boulevard. Those traveling from I-280 

on Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 


PICCHETTI RANCH 

From the intersection of I-280 and Foothill 

Expressway, go 3.5 miles southwest (toward 

the mountains) on Foothill Boulevard/Stevens 

Canyon Road. Turn right on Montebello Road. 

The Preserve is 0.5 miles up Montebello Rd. 

on the left. 

PULGAS RIDGE 

From I-280, exit Edgewood Road. Drive 

0.75 miles on Edgewood Rd. toward San 

Carlos/Redwood City. Turn left (north) on 

Crestview Drive, then immediately turn left on 

Edmonds Road. Follow Edmonds Rd. to the 

Preserve parking lot entrance on the right. 

6 

Dean Birinyi 

PURISIMA CREEK REDWOODS 

Whittemore Gulch entrance: This entrance is 

on Skyline Boulevard next to the now closed 

Kings Mountain Country Store. The parking 

lot is 4.5 miles south of Highway 92, and 

8.1 miles north of Highway 84. 

Purisima Creek Road entrance: From the 

Highway 92 and Highway 1 intersection in 

Half Moon Bay, travel south on Highway 1 

approximately 4.3 miles. Turn left on Verde 

Road. After turning on Verde Rd. and traveling 

0.25 miles, continue straight to remain on 

what becomes Purisima Creek Road. (Verde 

Rd. splits off to the right.) Travel approximately 

3.7 miles on Purisima Creek Rd. to reach 

the Preserve. 

RANCHO SAN ANTONIO 

From I-280, take Foothill Boulevard south 

and turn right almost immediately onto Cristo 

Rey Drive. Continue about 1 mile, veer right 

around the traffic circle, and turn left into the 

park. Go to the lot farthest to the right and 

meet near the restroom at the bottom of the hill. 

Equestrian parking lot: After entering the 

park, go to the farthest lot on the left. 

RUSSIAN RIDGE 

Meet at the Preserve parking lot on the 

northwest corner of the Skyline Boulevard 

(Highway 35) and Page Mill/Alpine Road 

intersection (across Skyline Blvd. on the right). 

Those traveling from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. 

should allow approximately 35 minutes 

travel time. 

Caltrans vista point: Meet at the pull-out area 

opposite Russian Ridge Preserve gate RR01, 

located on Skyline Boulevard 1.2 miles north 

of Page Mill Road and 6 miles south of 

Highway 84. Those traveling from I-280 on 

Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 


Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve 

Hella Bluhm-Stieber


Key to Symbols 

Easy Hike: Flat to gently rolling 

hills. Total elevation gain less 

than 200 feet. Leisurely pace. 

Moderate Hike: Steeper or 

more frequent uphill grades. 

Total elevation gain 200 to 600 

feet. Leisurely to moderate pace. 

Strenuous Hike: Steep hills 

and/or long distances. Total 

elevation gain greater than 600 

feet. Moderate to vigorous pace. 

Bring a lunch, dinner, or snack 

as appropriate. 

Reservations Required: 

Reservations for activities requiring 

them will only be accepted within the 

two (2)-week period just before the 

activity date. To make a reservation or 

a cancellation, visit the District’s Web 

site www.openspace.org/reservations 

or call 650-691-2150 (enter Option 

2). If you provide information prior 

to the reservation acceptance period, 

it will not be processed. Please limit 

your reservation to a maximum of 

four (4) people. 

Suitable for children; must be 

accompanied and supervised by 

an adult. See the activity descriptions 

for any age recommendations. 

Wheelchair accessible. 

Stroller accessible. Jogger-type 

suggested. 

Well-behaved and socialized dogs 

are allowed, and must be controlled 

on a maximum six-foot leash. 

Equestrian ride. Riders under age 

18 must wear a helmet. Lead lines 

are required and breast collars are 

recommended for horses. Equestrians 

must provide their own horses 

(no stallions or rental horses). 

Easy Nature Ride: Slow, 

leisurely pace, minimal climbing, 

and multiple stops to observe nature. 

Introductory Mountain Bike 

Ride: Outings include demonstration 

and practice emphasizing trail 

etiquette and techniques required 

for dirt riding followed by a 5- to 

7-mile ride on fire roads and singletrack 

trails, with occasional natural 

history stops. Riders should be in 

good physical condition to perform 

climbs and descents. 

Intermediate Mountain Bike 

Ride: Intended for participants with 

dirt single-track riding experience; 

able to climb and descend steep and 

moderately-rough trails. Recreational 

ride at a moderate/brisk pace, 8+ 

miles on a wide range of fire roads 

and single-track trails. For experienced 

riders in very good physical 

condition with good endurance. 

Advanced Mountain Bike Ride: 

Intended for participants with dirt 

single-track riding experience; 

competent at climbing and descending 

steep and rough trails. Moderate to 

fast pace, 10+ mile ride on a wide 

variety of trail conditions. For 

experienced riders with a high 

level of physical fitness and 

excellent endurance. 

For all rides, bicyclists must wear helmets and bikes must be in good condition, and the 

participants must be very familiar with the operation of gears and brakes. Mountain bikes 

are strongly recommended for all except the Easy Nature Rides. Easy Nature, Introductory, 

and Intermediate Rides include a natural history component that is provided by the docents 

during the rest stops. Advanced rides develop and improve mountain bike skills – any 

natural history discussion stops are secondary to the overall riding experience. 

SARATOGA GAP 

Meet at the Caltrans vista point on the 

southeast corner of the Skyline Boulevard 

(Highway 35) and Highway 9 intersection. 

SKYLINE RIDGE 

Meet at the Preserve parking lot on Skyline 

Boulevard located one mile south of the Page 

Mill/Alpine Road and Skyline Blvd. (Highway 

35) intersection. After entering the Preserve, 

turn right and go to the farthest parking lot. 

Those traveling from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. 

should allow approximately 40 minutes 

travel time. 

Where To Meet 

(continued from page 6) 

THORNEWOOD 

From Highway 280 in Woodside, take the 

Highway 84/Woodside Road exit. Follow 

Highway 84/Woodside Road through 

Woodside and then to a junction with Portola 

Road at 3.3. miles. Bear right to stay on 

Highway 84, now La Honda Road. At 4.9 

miles from Highway 280, turn left at a brick 

wall marked 895-897; look for the District 

sign just inside this gate. The small parking 

area is on the right about 500 feet from the 

entrance gate. Please do not drive beyond 

this lot toward the private residences. 

THORNEWOOD (continued) 

Alternatively, from the junction of Highway 

35 (Skyline Boulevard) and Highway 84 in 

Sky Londa, take Highway 84/La Honda 

Road north 1.9 miles and turn right at the 

brick wall marked 895-897. 

WINDY HILL 

From I-280, exit Alpine Road in Portola 

Valley. Go south on Alpine Rd. about 2.9 miles 

to Portola Road (the first stop sign). Turn right 

on Portola Rd. and travel 0.8 miles to the 

parking lot on the left side of the road. 

Special Note: 

If you have a group of 8 or more people who would like to attend a docent-led activity listed here, please contact the Docent Programs 

Coordinator to discuss in advance at 650-691-1200 or docent@openspace.org. Other arrangements may need to be considered for your group. 

7


SEPTEMBER 

Saturday • September 3 

Rancho San Antonio 

6:15 am – 8:45 am 

“Birding Before Breakfast” 

Enjoy brisk birding and the early morning 

serenity that Rancho San Antonio Preserve 

offers with docents Karen DeMello, Kay 

Partelow, and Cathy Brown. On this 3.5-mile, 

walk the goal is to combine birding with 

exercise (what a concept!). The hike route 

will take you past the farm and then back on 

the infrequently traveled Mora Trail; along the 

way you’ll make brief stops to listen and look 

for birds, then continue moving. Beginning 

birders are welcome; bring binoculars if you 

have them. 

Saturday and Sunday 

September 3 and 4 

Daniels Nature Center 

12:00 noon – 5:00 pm 

“Stop In and Explore” 

As seasons change so do the interactions of life 

at the edge of Alpine Pond. Visit the Daniels 

Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays 

this fall between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm 

(NOTE: The Nature Center hours change on 

October 22 to 11:00 am – 4:00 pm for the 

remainder of the season.) You can enjoy 

displays about natural communities, view 

larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, take a 

pond prowl, study live aquatic organisms 

“borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance 

of a docent, or enjoy a picnic on nearby 

tables (pack out your own trash please!). 

Sunday • September 4 

Los Trancos 

2:00 pm – 4:30 pm 

“Earthquake Walk” 

Join docents Harry Cornbleet and Mike 

Alexander for a fun and educational stroll 

along the San Andreas Fault. On this 2- to 

3-mile walk, you’ll discuss the wonder of 

plate tectonics, examine remnants left by 

thousands of major earthquakes, and learn 

how to prepare for future earthquakes. 

Monday • September 5 

Skyline Ridge 

Meet: Russian Ridge 

10:00 am – 1:30 pm 

“Pioneer Times on Skyline Ridge” 

Spend Labor Day with docents Marilyn and 

Bill Bauriedel hiking out and back on the Old 

Page Mill Trail and learning about logging 

and ranching life on Skyline Ridge from the 

1860s through the 1930s. You’ll be retracing 

part of the route used to haul redwood lumber 

from Page’s Mill on Peters Creek over to San 

Francisco Bay and you’ll hear about a few 

colorful characters on this moderately-paced 

4-mile hike. 

Wednesday • September 7 

Bear Creek Redwoods 

Meet: See text below 

10:30 am – 2:00 pm 

“Explorer Hike” 

Join Docents Dennis Smith and Lynn Jackson 

as you explore several of the lesser-traveled 

trails at this limited-access preserve. You’ll 

learn some of the fascinating history of this 

area, and see how past uses have affected 

the landscape. The hike will be leisurelypaced 

over 4-5 miles. Reservations are 

required and will be accepted on or after 

August 24. Directions will be emailed or 

mailed to you. 

Bobcat, 

Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve 

Friday • September 9 

Russian Ridge 

5:00 pm – 10:30 pm 

“Evening Explorer Hike” 

For those who can’t get enough time out 

in nature at night, join docents Katherine 

Greene, Madeline Brane, and Paul Billig on 

an evening exploration along the Ancient 

Oaks and Ridge Trails. Let your senses open 

to what the night brings, and you’ll savor 

the evening with your hiking companions. 

Bring your dinner, something to sit on, and 

a flashlight with red cellophane covering 

or filter. This is a moderately-paced 4- to 

5-mile hike, with stops to discuss what is 

discovered. Reservations are required and 

will be accepted on or after August 25. 


Skyline Ridge 


10:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“Those Crazy Forty Niners” 

The discovery of gold in 1848 changed 

California forever. Hike with docents Ed 

Lange and Kandis Scott along the Ridge and 

Sunny Jim Trails over to a lunch stopping spot 

at Horseshoe Lake where you’ll talk about 

some of the more colorful characters of this 

historic period. The 5-mile round trip outing 

will be at a moderate pace. 

8 

John Kesselring 


Monte Bello 

11:00 am – 2:30 pm 

“Stevens Creek Fall” 

Join docents Keith Johnsgård and Colin Lim 

on this 3-mile loop through grasslands and 

forests into the beautiful Stevens Creek riparian 

corridor. You’ll ford a shallow creek on 

exposed rocks, and stop for lunch at a 

hushed and shaded streamside spot. This 

leisurely-paced, 5-mile walk along the 

Canyon and Stevens Creek Nature Trails 

has a 300-foot elevation gain return trip. 




12:00 noon – 5:00 pm 


(Please see the activity description for 

September 3.) 


Thornewood 

10:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“Fall Equinox” 

Take a leisurely-paced, 4-mile hike with 

docents Paul Vadopalas and Tommi Smith 

leading you to Schilling Lake and the Bridle 

Trail to explore the onset of fall at this 

Preserve. You’ll walk through 

woodland, chaparral 

and redwoods and 

discuss the plant 

diversity encountered 

in each natural 

community and the 

plants’ methods 

of propagation. 


Monte Bello 

Meet: Picchetti Ranch 

4:30 pm – 8:00 pm 

“Sunset Supper on 

Black Mountain” 

Join docents Mary Bernstein and Madeline 

Brane for a moderately-paced excursion 

along Waterwheel Creek Trail as you carry 

your Sunday dinner up Black Mountain to 

enjoy a late summer picnic. On your return 

walk, you’ll watch the sunset and the almostfull 

moonrise. Beginning at the southern 

end of this Preserve, you’ll hike 5 miles out 

and back along the edge of Stevens Creek 

Canyon with an eye peeled for wildlife. Your 

docents will identify signs of agriculture and 

describe the history of the Preserve. (Note: 

Participants will carpool to the trailhead.) 

Reservations are required and will be 

accepted on or after August 25.


Long Ridge Open Space Preserve 

Thursday • September 15 

Long Ridge 

10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Canyons and Creeks” 

Explore both Peters Creek and Stevens Creek 

and their canyons on this 10-mile, 2,000-foot 

elevation gain hike with docents Fran Keeler 

and Ranjana Sharma. Along the way, via 

Hickory Oaks and Peters Creek Trails, you’ll 

look to the west over San Mateo County 

Parks to views of Butano Ridge and the 

ocean, and on your descent into Stevens 

Canyon, you’ll gain a unique perspective 

of Monte Bello Ridge. 


Purisima Creek Redwoods 

Meet: Purisima Creek 

Road entrance 

10:00 am – 4:00 pm 

“Escape to the Redwoods” 

Docents Tommi and Strether Smith are eager 

to escape with you on a 7-mile tour to enjoy 

early fall in one of the District’s most beautiful 

and diverse preserves. You’ll climb through 

chaparral in the morning, and descend 

through a spectacular redwood and Douglas 

fir forest in the afternoon on this 7-mile round 

trip hike along the Purisima Creek, Harkins 

Ridge, and Craig Britton Trails. Expect to see 

late wildflowers and lots of butterflies and 

birds, and be sure to be ready for either sun 

or fog (or both). Reservations are required 

and will be accepted on or after September 1. 



Meet: Purisima Creek 

Road entrance 

10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Breathe Deep” 

Find out why you’ll be breathing some of the 

cleanest air in the world and get to know the 

secrets a redwood forest holds with docents 

Bob Segalla and Bill Korbholz while hiking 

along the Craig Britton, Purisima Creek, and 

Harkins Ridge Trails. This moderately-paced, 

7-mile, 1,100-foot elevation change hike is 

suitable for capable children and is downhill 

on the return route. Reservations are required 

and will be accepted on or after September 1. 

Ian Sims 




12:00 noon – 5:00 pm 



September 3.) 


Los Trancos 

11:00 am – 2:30 pm 

“Los Trancos Creek Fall” 

This is a 3-mile double loop beneath the silent 

forest canopies of the Franciscan and Lost 

Creek Trails. Docents Keith Johnsgård and 

Jenny Whitman will lead this leisurely walk 

where you’re likely to see fall berries of 

several kinds. You’ll stop for a halfway point 

lunch on the bank of Los Trancos Creek. The 

return trip is a moderately difficult, gradual 

climb (400-foot elevation gain). 


Pulgas Ridge 

1:00 pm – 3:30 pm 

“Signs of Fall” 

Hike the trails of this Preserve with docents Liz 

Farnsworth and Ellen Dupuy while exploring 

the early signs of fall, including the duskyfooted 

woodrat nests and several berryproducing 

plants. You’ll travel along the Blue 

Oak and Dick Bishop Trails and also take in 

the views from the top of the Dusky-footed 

Woodrat Trail on this moderately-paced, 

4.5-mile roundtrip outing. 


Skyline Ridge 


10:30 am – 2:00 pm 


Whither Page Mill Road? Ever wondered 

what happened to Page Mill Road after it 

reached Skyline Ridge? Join docents Lynn 

Jackson and Dennis Smith as you explore the 

Old Page Mill Trail and its surrounds. You’ll 

hike 4-5 miles at a leisurely pace with some 

elevation change. 


Fremont Older 

5:15 pm – 7:30 pm 

“History of Fremont Older Ride” 

Join in on this 10- to 12-mile intermediatelevel, 

vigorously-paced mountain bike ride 

led by docent Linda Wegner. Enjoy riding fire 

roads and single-track trails, with 2,000-foot 

elevation gain, while hearing about the history 

of Fremont and Cora Older– the Preserve’s 

namesakes, and seeing views of the Santa 

Clara Valley. Bring water and have layers 

in case of a chilly evening. Mountain bike 

riding on single-track trails with hill climbing 

experience is needed for this ride. 

9 


Skyline Ridge 

5:30 pm – 10:30 pm 

“Late Summer Eve 

in Open Space” 

Join docents Debbi Brusco, Katherine Greene, 

Jack Owicki, and Paul Billig for an evening 

in open space, and discover night’s natural 

wonders. After dinner, you’ll return quietly 

to your starting point, with occasional stops. 

This hike along the Ipiwa, Ridge, and Sunny 

Jim Trails will cover 3-4 miles at a moderate 

pace, with some leisurely sections and a visit 

to Horseshoe Lake included. Bring a flashlight 

with a red cellophane covering or filter, and 

your dinner. Reservations are required and 

will be accepted on or after September 8. 


Bear Creek Redwoods 


9:30 am – 3:00 pm 

“Redwoods, Redwoods, Redwoods” 

Join docents Steve Warner and Judy Fenerty 

for a mostly shaded hike in this yet littleknown 

Preserve – it was once the site of Alma 

College, a Jesuit School that relocated to 

Berkeley in 1969. You’ll traverse the three 

major redwood areas of this secluded and 

beautiful area on a route that will take you 

from the site of the former college 

down trails to the side of the 

property that borders Highway 

17 and then up through the hills 

to the top of the property that 

borders Bear Creek Road. Total 

distance is approximately 8 miles 

with elevation gain of approximately 

1,300 feet. Reservations 

are required and 

will be accepted 

on or after 

September 8. Directions 

will be emailed or mailed to you. 


Monte Bello 

Meet: Picchetti Ranch 

10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Waterwheel Downhill” 

Join docents Strether Smith, Dave Kocsis, and 

Earl Girbovan for a high-intermediate,18- 

mile mountain bike ride. Beginning on the 

beautiful Waterwheel Creek Trail, you’ll ride 

most of the single-track and fire roads in 

Monte Bello Preserve before heading out to 

Stevens Canyon Road and back to Picchetti 

Ranch Preserve. The route is mostly downhill 

(about a 2,200-foot net descent), but riders 

will climb more than 1,700 feet along the 

18-mile course. Experienced youth cyclists 

are welcome. (Note: Participants will 

carpool to the trailhead.) Reservations 

are required and will be accepted on or 

after September 8.





12:00 noon – 5:00 pm 



September 3.) 


El Corte de Madera Creek 

10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Deep Woods Loop” 

The role of water in this region’s dry summer 

climate will be explored with docents Peggy 

Jacobs and Mike Alexander on a long 

(8.4 miles) but leisurely-paced loop along 

shady El Corte de Madera Creek, North Leaf, 

and Giant Salamander Trails. 



10:00 am – 12:00 noon 

“Scenic Aerobic Hike” 

Docents Bernie Larkin and Stella Yang look 

forward to sharing a variety of preserves 

with you this fall on exercise-focused hikes 

covering 3- to 5-miles. Join them to welcome 

autumn and keep fit! 



10:00 am – 4:00 pm 

“Exploring Kings Mountain” 

Join docents Fran Keeler and Ranjana Sharma 

in an exploration of the southernmost depths 

of the Preserve. Along the way you’ll pass 

by three 19th century logging mill sites. 

Descending on the El Corte de Madera 

Creek, North and South Leaf, and Virginia 

Mill Trails, you will return on the Gordon 

Mill and Timberview Trails, all the while 

hiking through dense forest, on this 11-mile, 

2,000-foot gain hike. 


Monte Bello 

6:00 pm – 10:30 pm 

“Nature at Night” 

When the sun sets, not all of nature goes to 

sleep. Some elements of nature are active in 

the cool darkness of night. Join docents Paul 

Billig, Debbi Brusco, and Katherine Greene 

as you witness the changes that occur as day 

moves into night along the Stevens Creek 

Nature Trail. The hike begins with a short 

walk to the sag pond where you’ll enjoy the 

dinner you bring as darkness descends. Then 

using your flashlight, you’ll be looking as 

well as listening for the sights and sounds of 

nature at night. Red filters for your flashlight 

will be provided for those who need them. 

The hike will cover 3 miles with a 400-foot 

elevation gain. Reservations are required and 


OCTOBER 

Saturday • October 1 

Skyline Ridge 


11:00 am – 2:30 pm 

“The Ohlone Way” 

Docents Keith Johnsgård and Peggy Jacobs 

will lead this 2.5-mile loop through four 

ecosystems, stopping to acquaint you with 

plants the Ohlone Indians used for food, 

medicine, basket-making, fishing, and other 

needs. You’ll walk the Alpine Pond Loop, 

Ipiwa, and Butano View Trails. Lunch features 

a 1-hour talk on the history of humans in 

North America and on Skyline Ridge. The 

hike is for adults. No young children please. 

El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve 


October 1 and 2 


12:00 noon – 5:00 pm 



September 3.) 

Sunday • October 2 

Los Trancos 

2:30 pm – 4:00 pm 


(Join docents John Wertzler and Dave Boore, 

and please see the activity description for 

September 4.) 

Wednesday • October 5 

Monte Bello 

10:30 am – 2:00 pm 


Travel the newly routed White Oak Trail with 

docents Dennis Smith and Lynn Jackson. You’ll 

cover about 5 miles on familiar and new trails 

at a leisurely pace and look for plants and 

animals characteristic of the upper areas of 

the Stevens Creek watershed. 

10 

Rob Holcomb 

Friday • October 7 

Long Ridge 

Meet: Skyline Ridge 

4:00 pm – 10:30 pm 


(Join docents Katherine Greene, Cathy 

Brown, and Debbi Brusco, and please see 

the activity description for September 9.) 

(Note: Participants will caravan to the 

trailhead.) Reservations are required and 




Meet: Whittemore Gulch entrance– 

North Ridge parking lot 

10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Murder, Logging, and Grizzlies” 

Descend the breathtaking Craig Britton 

Trail on this 10-mile round trip hike with 

docents Ed Lange and Lou Wolner. You’ll 

pass old logging sites and grizzly haunts, 

and hear about a possible “murder on the 

mountain.” Lunch will be along the creek 

near the Preserve’s coast side entrance. 

The hike return up the mountain will be 

on the Whittemore Gulch Trail through 

redwoods, Douglas firs and huge tanoaks. 




12:00 noon – 5:00 pm 



September 3.) 


Russian Ridge 

Meet: Caltrans vista point 

1:00 pm – 5:30 pm 

“Mindego Hill Bike n’ Hike” 

The top of Mindego Hill is the destination 

of a combination bike/hike adventure led 

by docents Strether Smith, Dave Kocsis, 

and Earl Girbovan. You’ll ride a variety 

of trails to reach the base of Mindego Hill 

where you’ll swap your bike shoes for 

sneakers (or hiking shoes) to hike up 

the hill and enjoy spectacular views. 

This will be a 10-mile ride and a 1.5-mile 

hike including 1,900 feet of climbing. 

Intermediate riding and hiking skills are 

required. Experienced youth cyclists are 

welcome. Reservations are required 

and will be accepted on or after 

September 22. 


Picchetti Ranch 

10:00 am – 12:00 noon 



September 28.)


Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve 



Meet: Whittemore Gulch 

entrance-North Ridge parking lot 

10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Escape to the Forest Hike” 

Hike the grand loop in this Preserve for 

a challenging excursion with elevation! 

Join docents Robin and Les Wrigley on a 

10-mile hike at a moderate to vigorous 

pace along the Craig Britton, Harkins 

Ridge, and Whittemore Gulch Trails. You’ll 

enjoy ocean views, redwood forest, and 

maybe some slugs, newts, and flowers. 


Long Ridge 

10:30 am – 3:30 pm 

“View from the Ridge” 

Join docents Bob Segalla and Peggy 

Jacobs to explore what this Preserve has to 

offer. You can expect newts along the lush 

Peters Creek Trail and enjoy a tranquil 

pond, green forests, ridges, and grasslands. 

You’ll stop for an ocean view at the Stegner 

bench. This moderately-paced, 5-mile, 

600-foot elevation change outing is suitable 

for capable children. 


Monte Bello 

5:15 pm – 10:30 pm 

“Arachnophilia!” 

Explore the world of arachnids with spiderloving 

docents Debbi Brusco, Jack Owicki 

and Sara Witt. With luck, a tarantula 

may cross your path as you search for 

sometimes timid creatures that you might 

usually be inclined to avoid. This hike will 

cover 4- to 5-miles on the Canyon and 

Indian Creek Trails, and at times will be 

leisurely. Bring a flashlight with red cellophane 

covering or filter and your picnic 

meal. Reservations are required and will 

be accepted on or after September 29. 

Randy Weber 




12:00 noon – 5:00 pm 



September 3.) 


Los Trancos 

9:30 am – 12:30 pm 

“All About Oaks” 

Take a 3-mile autumn walk with docents Bill 

Overall and Mike Bradshaw among towering 

oak trees along the Franciscan Loop, Lost 

Creek Loop, and San Andreas Fault Trails. 

During the walk, you’ll learn about the 

diverse oaks of the Bay Area and the unique 

mixed oak forests of Los Trancos Preserve. 


Skyline Ridge 


11:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“Focus on Kids” 

Docents Keith Johnsgård and Jenny Whitman 

will tell your kids about nature on this fun 

2.5-mile hike (parents are permitted to listen!). 

You’ll visit a hidden Indian grotto, circle a 

pond, walk through a deep forest, climb a 

hill to see the ocean, and finish the hike at 

the friendly hands-on Daniels Nature Center 

for a visit and picnic by Alpine Pond. This 

hike is best for kids aged 9-12 years old. 


Miramontes Ridge 


10:30 am – 2:00 pm 


Docents Dennis Smith, Lynn Jackson, 

and Elaine Rossignol will lead you on an 

exploration of this limited-access Preserve. 

You’ll hike to the historic home site of Gilcrest 

Ranch, enjoy wonderful views of the coast, 

and learn about the area’s history and 

watershed values. This is a moderately-paced 

uphill hike, covering 3- to 4-miles, with a 

downhill return on unimproved brushy trails. 


accepted on or after October 5. Directions 

to the meeting location will be e-mailed or 

mailed to you. 

Thursday • October 20 

Fremont Older 

10:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“Hills and History” 

Join docents Tommi and Strether Smith on this 

6-mile exploration of the history and trails of 

the Fremont Older Preserve. On your way to 

several spectacular viewpoints overlooking 

the Santa Clara Valley, you’ll pass by the 

Older House “Woodhills” and discuss the 

history behind it – the builders, restorers, 

and residents. Bring a lunch to enjoy at the 

top of Maisie’s Peak. 


Monte Bello 

10:00 am – 1:00 pm 

“Discovering Stevens Creek” 

On this outing you’ll explore the headwaters 

of Stevens Creek as you hike through grasslands 

and oak woodlands and descend into 

the beautiful Stevens Creek riparian corridor. 

Docents Ann Reisenauer and Deborah Probst 

will lead you on this 3-mile loop along the 

White Oak and Stevens Creek Nature Trails, 

past flowering coyote brush and oaks where 

the Ohlone people gathered acorns each fall. 

The return trip has a 300-ft elevation gain. 


Long Ridge 

10:00 am – 1:30 pm 

“Ohlone Medicine” 

Native Americans, including California 

Indians, had a great number of uses for the 

plants growing on their lands, of which many 

primary uses were medicinal. Join docents 

Sarah Schoen and Lynn Jackson on this 

5-mile hike exploring the Peters Creek and 

Long Ridge Trails, with a lunch stop overlooking 

the western slopes of the Santa Cruz 

Mountains. Learn ways that selected native 

plants were used to treat a number of ailments 

before the introduction of modern medicine. 




11:00 am – 4:00 pm 



September 3.) 


11



Coal Creek 

9:00 am – 12:00 noon 

“Fall Frolic with K-9 Friends” 

Dog lovers, join docents David Bergman and 

Jenny Whitman for a fall frolic through oak 

grasslands and mixed evergreen forests with 

our canine companions. There will be plenty 

to sniff and see as you and your dog enjoy 

beautiful views of Santa Clara Valley on this 

4.5-mile, moderately-paced hike along most 

of the trails in the Preserve. The weather may 

be warm, or cold and foggy so dress appropriately. 

Please do not bring your dog unless 

they are well socialized; canine companions 

not required however. Reservations are 

required and will be accepted on or after 

October 6. 

Coal Creek Open Space Preserve 



9:30 am – 1:00 pm 

“History of Logging Ride” 

Explore this historic logging area via bike with 

docents Linda and Glen Wegner. You’ll travel 

along the Blue Blossom, Crosscut, Manzanita 

and other trails for this 10- to 12-mile, 

advanced-level mountain bike ride with over 

3,500 feet of climbing. Riders must have 

experience with technical single-track trails 

and fire roads. Bring water, a power snack, 

and layers for possible foggy/cool weather. 


Skyline Ridge 


10:00 am – 2:30 pm 

“Fall Edibles” 

Docents Paul Vadopalas and Kandis Scott 

will take you on an excursion to look for 

fall edibles typically found in the Santa Cruz 

mountain woodlands – fruits, nuts, and berries 

relished by wildlife and people alike. Old 

Page Mill Road meanders through a forest of 

mature trees, bushes preferring shaded areas, 

and patches of grassland and chaparral – 

this 4-mile out-and-back hike will pass 

through these areas. 

Dean Birinyi 


Long Ridge 

10:00 am – 12:00 noon 



September 28.) 

Thursday • October 27 

Skyline Ridge 

9:00 am – 12:00 noon 

“Autumn on the Ridge” 

Discover the beauty and diversity of this 

Preserve with docents Fran Keeler and 

Ranjana Sharma on this 6-mile, 1,100-foot 

gain, moderately-paced loop hike. You’ll 

enjoy panoramic views and learn about 

the many plant communities found here, 

including woodland, grassland, chaparral, 

and aquatic. A repeat of this hike is planned 

for winter, spring, and summer to observe the 

seasonal changes. 


Monte Bello 

4:00 pm – 10:30 pm 


(Join docents Katherine Greene and Paul 

Billig, and please see the activity description 

for September 9.) Reservations are required 

and will be accepted on or after October 13. 



8:30 am – 11:00 am 

“Beginning Birding Hike” 

Docents Amy and 

Mike Sanchez would 

like to show you how to 

spot and identify local birds. 

You’ll walk at a moderate 

pace on this 2.5-mile trek, 

with stops at trail intersections 

and at special points 

of interest only. You’ll explore 

the Zinfandel Trail and 

circle the pond on the Bear 

Meadow Trail in search of 

birds. Reservations are required and will 

be accepted on or after October 13. 


Monte Bello 

10:00 am – 1:30 pm 

“The Importance of Oaks” 

California oaks are essential to the well being 

of many species of plants, animals, birds, and 

insects. Docents Bill and Marilyn Bauriedel will 

describe the inter-relationships between the 

various plants and creatures that make their 

homes in and near oak woodlands. You’ll also 

be given an update on Sudden Oak Death 

in the District’s open space preserves. This 

moderately-paced, 4-mile hike will take you 

along the White Oak and Canyon Trails. 

12 



10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Exploring ECdeM” 

Explore the shaded forests and challenging 

single-track trails of this beautiful Preserve on 

your mountain bike with docents Dave Kocsis 

and Patty Lovelace. This intermediate/ 

advanced level ride drops steeply from Skyline 

Boulevard through mixed evergreen and redwood 

forests to El Corte de Madera Creek, 

800 feet below, then climbs back to a vista 

point with a sweeping view of the Pacific 

before returning to your starting point. 

The total distance will be about 10 miles 

with more than 2,000 feet of climbing. 


accepted on or after October 13. 




11:00 am – 4:00 pm 



September 3.) 


Long Ridge-Saratoga Gap 

Meet: Long Ridge 

8:15 am – 4:30 pm 

“Fall Loop of Gap and Ridge” 

Join docents Chris MacIntosh and Lynn 

Jackson to hike up hill and down dale while 

enjoying fall leaves and fruits, cool air, and 

good views. Starting from Skyline Boulevard 

area, you’ll descend to Stevens Creek, back 

up to the ridge, and then return to your 

starting point via the length of Long Ridge 

Preserve and traveling along trails including 

Hickory Oaks, Peters Creek, Ward Road, 

and Charcoal Road. This will be a strenuous 

10-mile outing with some very steep hills, 

both up and down. 


Monte Bello 

10:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Learning the Landscape” 

Join docents Dave Kocsis and Mike 

Alexander to see how the motion of the 

San Andreas Fault has shaped the Santa 

Cruz Mountains, left some evidence behind, 

and helped to create a variety of natural 

communities. You’ll descend into Stevens 

Canyon, meander along Stevens Creek 

through mixed evergreen forests and riparian 

areas, and then ascend Black Mountain 

for a commanding view of the 

entire South Bay and the Santa 

Cruz Mountains. This is a 

7-mile, moderatelypaced 

excursion. 

Illustration by 

Robert Moncrieff



Skyline Ridge 

11:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“A Cathedral of Firs” 

Join docents Keith Johnsgård 

and Sarah Schoen for a 

mostly shaded 2.5-mile walk 

and picnic at Horseshoe Lake. 

After circling the lake, you’ll 

climb the Fir Knoll Trail 

up the ridge (200-foot 

elevation gain) to visit 

a stunning grove of huge 

Douglas firs. You’ll then 

loop back down to the 

lake’s interior picnic 

table area for a leisurely lunch 

beneath specimen canyon oak trees. 

NOVEMBER 

Wednesday • November 2 

El Sereno 

10:30 am – 2:00 pm 


Hike the Overlook Trail with docents Dennis 

Smith, Lynn Jackson, and Elaine Rossignol. 

You’ll carpool to a new (constructed in 2008) 

permit parking location and explore an area 

of this Preserve that few have travelled. The 

hike will be leisurely, covering about 3 miles. 

(Note: Participants will carpool to the trailhead.) 

Reservations are required and will 


Saturday • November 5 

Fremont Older 

9:30 am – 12:00 noon 

“History of Fremont Older Ride” 





10:00 am – 1:30 pm 

“Plant Communities and 

Adaptations” 

There are a wide variety of plant communities 

in the Bay Area and many of them can be 

found at the Picchetti Ranch Preserve. 

Join docents Martin Manley and Linda 

Smith for a moderately-paced, 4.5 

mile hike. You’ll discuss the varieties 

of plant communities in the Preserve, 

and the ways that they have become 

adapted to their unique environments. 

Bring a lunch to enjoy at the picnic 

tables down by Stevens Creek. A visit 

to Picchetti Winery for wine tasting 

is optional (on your own) at the 

hike’s end. 


Fremont Older 

3:00 pm – 6:00 pm 

“Last Rites of Fall” 

Join docents Strether Smith, Dave Kocsis, and 

Earl Girbovan in this celebration of all of the 

great bike rides on preserves over the summer 

and fall. This will be an 8-mile intermediate 

ride exploring many of the beautiful trails 

in Fremont Older Preserve. An optional 

gathering at a nearby pizza parlor for 

rehydration and munchies will follow the 

ride. Experienced youth riders are welcome. 


November 5 and 6 


11:00 am – 4:00 pm 



September 3.) 

Sunday • November 6 

Los Trancos 

2:30 pm – 4:00 pm 


(Join docents Paul Billig and Susan Peterson, 

and please see the activity description for 

September 4.) 


Saratoga Gap 

10:00 am – 12:00 noon 





Windy Hill 

10:00 am – 1:00 pm 

“Autumn at Windy Hill” 

Enjoy a brisk fall morning in this beautiful 

Preserve with docents Ann Reisenauer and 

Chris MacIntosh. You’ll pass through the 

grassland, oak woodland, and riparian 

communities on this 4- to 5-mile hike along 

the Betsy Crowder, Meadow, and Hamms 

Gulch Trails. Along the way you will learn 

about plant communities, fall wildflowers 

and California native trees. 

Sausal Pond, Windy Hill Open Space Preserve 

13 

Robert Clark 


Los Trancos 

11:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“The San Andreas Fault” 

Hear the fascinating story of how California 

slowly emerged from the sea during North 

America’s 150 million year westward voyage, 

how the San Andreas Fault took form, and 

how thousands of subsequent earthquakes 

shaped the fault landscape that you’ll traverse. 

Docents Keith Johnsgård and Adda Quinn 

will lead this 3-mile outdoor moving classroom 

geared for adults. No young children 

please. Reservations are required and will 





11:00 am – 4:00 pm 



September 3.) 



Meet: Equestrian parking lot 

10:30 am – 2:00 pm 


It’s time for the Great Turkey Trot! Prepare 

early for holiday feasting with a hike in areas 

where wild turkeys are frequently seen. You’ll 

cover 4- to 5-miles in search of the turkey 

and other winter-resident birds. (No animals 

will be harmed on this hike, and vegetarians 

are welcome.) Gobble gobble GO… 

Thursday • November 17 

Long Ridge 

9:00 am – 3:00 pm 

“Search for Page’s Mill” 

Most people have heard of Page Mill Road, 

but who was Page and did he really have a 

mill? Accompany docents Fran Keeler and 

Ranjana Sharma in a search of the answers 

on this difficult, 12-mile, 2,000-foot elevation 

gain, out-and-back hike into Portola-Redwoods 

State Park on Ward (not Page Mill) Road. 

You’ll start and finish with a walk along 

shaded Peters Creek. 


Skyline Ridge 

10:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“Fall at Skyline Ridge” 

On this edition of a traditional fall hike, 

docents Tommi and Strether Smith will guide 

you in looking for signs of approaching winter. 

This will be a moderately-paced, 5-mile hike 

with 600 feet of elevation gain on a loop route 

that includes the Butano View, Ipiwa, Ridge, 

and Sunny Jim Trails. Your travels will take you 

through four natural communities and circle 

two ponds in search of seasonal changes. 

Bring a lunch to enjoy at Alpine Pond.


WHAT’S THE DIRT? (continued from page 5) 

Taking a Closer Look 

Camouflage and mimicry are adaptations some animals and plants use to protect themselves from predators or to attract prey. An animal 

that uses camouflage looks like things in its surrounding natural environment such as leaves (in all states and colors), twigs, tree bark, or 

rocks. Species that use mimicry rely on colors and markings to look like something it is not. Some moth caterpillars ward off hungry birds 

by contorting their bodies to mimic a snake. You’ve probably already noticed that many animals have dark-colored backs and light-colored 

bellies. This pattern is a form of camouflage that helps animals appear more uniform in sunlight, making it a bit harder for predators to 

spot them. Nature has many great eye-fooling techniques up its sleeve, evident in the countless examples of mimicry and camouflage that 

occur in all types of environments. There are fish that pass for fronds of seaweed, praying mantis that pose as innocent flowers in order to 

attract a snack, spiders disguised as bird-droppings, birds that mimic false calls, flies posing as bees so threats buzz off, and butterflies 

and moths that parade around as foliage or bark, or have “scary eyes” displayed on their wings. 

Camouflage and mimicry are perfect examples of how nature acts in subtle and amazing ways. This fall, don’t retreat 

indoors as the season changes. Instead, take a closer look around you. Open your eyes and mind to new aspects of 

the natural world that would otherwise pass you by. 

Nature will bear the closest inspection. She invites us to lay our eye level with her smallest leaf, 

and take an insect view of its plain. 

~ Henry David Thoreau 



8:30 am – 11:00 am 

“Beginning Birding Hike” 


October 29.) Reservations are required and 

will be accepted on or after November 3. 



10:30 am – 3:00 pm 

“Search for the Everlasting” 

Join docents Bob Segalla, Lou Wolner, and 

Greg Azevedo to share the finest things in 

life so close to home. On this leisurely-paced, 

4-mile hike with a couple of 200-foot climbs, 

a lovely view awaits you along the Orchard 

Loop and Zinfandel Trails. The sound of 

Stevens Creek will engage you as you enjoy 

lunch at a Santa Clara County Park picnic 

area, and by the end of the hike you can 

decide if the everlasting plant smells like 

maple syrup to you. Capable children are 

welcome on this outing. A visit to Picchetti 

Winery for wine tasting is optional (on your 

own) at the hike’s end. 




11:00 am – 4:00 pm 



September 3.) 

NOTE: This is the last weekend the 

Nature Center is open for the season; 

it will re-open in April 2012. 

Wild Turkey, Monte Bello Open Space Preserve 

Sunday • November 20 

Pulgas Ridge 

1:00 pm – 3:30 pm 

“Signs of Fall” 

(Join docents Liz Farnsworth and Madeline 

Brane, and please see the activity description 

for September 18.) 

Tuesday • November 22 


10:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“Looking for Wild Food” 

This is a season associated with thankfulness… 

for open spaces, for family, for friends, and 

for freedom. For the earliest Americans, it was 

thankfulness for a simple meal. Join docents 

Marilyn and Bill Bauriedel, and Tommi and 

Strether Smith on this hike to discover a few 

staple items on this land that were harvested 

for food by Native Americans and early 

European settlers. You won’t be able to 

consume any edible discoveries, but you are 

welcome to take photos and keep a log. If you 

are lucky, you might even see a wild turkey or 

two. This walk will be at a moderate pace and 

cover about 5 miles along the Mora, Wildcat 

Loop, and Upper Wildcat Canyon Trails. 

14 

Caroline Lambert 


Monte Bello 

9:00 am – 12:00 noon 

“Turkey Trek” 

Get ready for that big meal ahead by joining 

docents Paul Billig and Susan Peterson for 

a brisk morning walk to the top of Black 

Mountain. The 5-mile hike with few stops will 

include an elevation gain of 800 feet and 

take you on Canyon, Bella Vista, and Old 

Ranch Trails. Afterwards you can enjoy your 

holiday dinner and have second helpings 

because you earned it! 

Friday • November 25 

Skyline Ridge 

11:00 am – 2:00 pm 

“The Great Escape” 

You’re cordially invited to forget yesterday’s 

overindulgence and escape the madness of 

the busiest shopping day of the year. Join 

docents Keith Johnsgård and Peggy Jacobs 

on this annual hike to experience serene 

silence, fresh smog-free air, and splendid 

views. The 4-mile loop has a 275-foot 

elevation gain both out and back on the 

Ipiwa, Sunny Jim, and Butano View Trails. 

You’ll enjoy your lunch at Alpine Pond. 


Long Ridge 

10:30 am – 2:00 pm 


Docents Dennis Smith, Elaine Rossignol, and 

Lynn Jackson will lead you on a trip over 

familiar and not-so-familiar trails in the 

Peters Creek area of the Preserve. You’ll cover 

3- to 4-miles along the creek, looking for fall 

colors, and riparian plants and animals.

MT. UMUNHUM UPDATE 

Status of the Remediation and Site Planning Projects 

The District is pleased to announce that the federally funded 

remediation work at Mt. Umunhum was completed on 

July 7, 2011 and the remediation contractor remained on site 

through the end of July to perform additional, non-hazardous 

cleanup work. Completion of this work is a major milestone on 

the way to restoring the site and providing future public access. 

Thanks to the steadfast support from the District’s Congressional 

Representatives Mike Honda and Zoe Lofgren, as well as 

Senators Boxer and Feinstein, a $3.2 million grant from the 

Department of Defense was obtained in 2010 to complete the 

remediation of hazardous materials at the former Almaden Air 

Force Station located on Mt. Umunhum. The work included 

abatement of asbestos, 

stabilization of lead 

paint, and removal 

of mercury switches 

and PCB-containing 

light ballasts. 

The District wants to 

thank the team of 

professionals who 

made the remediation 

project successful: 

• United States Army 

Corps of Engineers: 

Harvey Jones, David 

Simpson, Lankford 

Satterfield, Niki Haas; 

Cleanup Process, Mt. Umunhum, 

Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve 

• Terranear PMC, LLC: Wally Wujcik (Terranear), Chris Wright 

(ERM), Ora Buckley (Allied Environmental), Leo Leal (Allied 

Environmental); 

• IHI Environmental: Mike Benefield, Jeff Wong, John Alexander, 

Gregory Marszal; 

• Hazardous Management Services: Michael Sharp 

Planning for site restoration work and improvements for 

public access are ongoing. Below are updated scheduling 

highlights to note: 

• August 2011: The Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) 

is scheduled to be released August 23, 2011 for public 

review. A 45-day public comment period will follow; 

• December 2011: The Board of Directors’ public hearing will 

be scheduled to consider final approval and certification 

of the DEIR. The public will have the opportunity to comment 

on the DEIR at this meeting; 

The project was contracted through the United States Army 

Corps of Engineers who partnered with the District to manage 

the project. Due to a favorable bidding environment, approximately 

$800,000 of the grant funds remain, which may be used to 

begin demolition and restoration at the site. Demolition is part 

of a future phase of work and will require prior Board approval 

and certification of an environmental review document (for more 

information regarding future phases of work, see Environmental 

Restoration and Public Access Project below). 

The District also wants to express its gratitude for our neighbors’ 

cooperation at Mt. Umunhum and Mt. Thayer while the 

remediation project was underway. 

Completing the remediation work is the 

first step towards ultimately opening the Mt. 

Umunhum site to the public. Environmental 

review, demolition, public access improvements, 

and restoration enhancements are the next 

phases of work needed prior to opening the 

site for visitation and enjoyment. 

Cleanup Process, Mt. Umunhum, Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve 

Environmental Remediation and Public Access Project 

• Early 2012: A detailed site and implementation plan 

will be presented for Board consideration at a public 

hearing. The public will also have the opportunity to 

comment at this meeting. 

For any questions regarding the Environmental Restoration and 

Public Access Project, contact Meredith Manning, Senior Planner, 

at 650-691-1200 or mt.um@openspace.org. The District’s Web 

site at: www.openspace.org/plans_projects/mt_umunhum.asp 

also provides project details and updates. 

15

DID YOU KNOW? 

Visitor Estimate Survey Project 

Beginning in summer 2007, District staff implemented a Visitor Estimate Survey Project by sampling a 

range of preserves during different seasons in order to estimate the amount of visitation to District 

open space preserves. Data collection continued during spring 2008, winter 2009-2010, and fall 2010. 

This Project represents the first time the District has initiated a comprehensive, long-term effort to gather 

estimates of the number of individuals who visit District preserves. Previously, visitor estimate counts were 

often based on ranger observations and short-term trail censuses and trail count/visitor surveys at a 

few select preserves. 

Using infrared trail counters, each of the 21 preserves open to the public was surveyed at multiple entry 

locations for a minimum two-week period. The chart below shows the overall visitation estimates for the 

preserves and ranks them from greatest to lowest visitation. Multiple seasons of data for some preserves 

allowed the visitation numbers to be refined. 

The Visitor Estimate Survey Project results provide the District’s Board and field and administrative 

staff with valuable information that allows us to: enhance various District planning processes; provide 

a better visitor experience; improve protection of natural resources by comparing visitor data with 

resource data; and respond to requests from the media and other land management agencies regarding 

visitor usage. 

Ranking Average Average 

(By Number Visitation/Day Visitation/Year 

of Visitors) Preserve (Total) (Estimate) 

Carolyn Genirberg 

1 Rancho San Antonio 1,348 492,020 

2 Fremont Older 522 190,530 

3 St. Joseph’s Hill 422 154,030 

4 Windy Hill 341 124,465 

5 El Corte de Madera Creek 245 89,425 

6 Purisima Creek Redwoods 224 81,760 

7 Russian Ridge 194 70,810 

8 Pulgas Ridge 173 63,145 

9 Picchetti Ranch 155 56,575 

10 Sierra Azul 103 37,595 

11 Skyline Ridge 89 32,485 

12 Monte Bello 79 28,835 

13 Long Ridge 68 24,820 

14 Saratoga Gap 35 12,775 

15 Ravenswood 31 11,315 

16 Los Trancos 26 9,490 

17 Thornewood 23 8,395 

18 Stevens Creek Shoreline 21 7,665 

19 Coal Creek 18 6,570 

20 El Sereno 16 5,840 

21 Foothills 4 1,460 

Total 4,137 1,510,005 

Peters Creek, Long Ridge Open Space Preserve 

16

2010 DONATION ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

Donations and gifts to the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District help protect open space, 

preserve wildlife and natural habitats, enhance the positive experience of visitors to the District’s 

public open space lands, and aid in our efforts to create an open space legacy for future generations. 

Below are the donations and gifts received in 2010. We are publishing the names of these generous 

individuals and organizations to publicly express our sincere thanks for their thoughtful contributions. 

GIFTS IN MEMORY OF: 

In Memory of Peter C. Aiona, Sr. 

Curtis Sasaki 

In Memory of Rodger Alleman 

(District Volunteer) 

Lisa Aamodt 

Rainey Alleman 

Elaine & John Brasseaux 

Richard & Judith Bryer 

Peter & Penny Ewing 

Mary Lou & Taylor Ferguson 

Brad & Linda Garnett 

Roger & Sydna Hoover 

Ralph Hurvitz 

David S. Kline 

John & Dianne McGowan 

John & Phyllis Reller 

Alice M. Sheehan 

In Memory of Jacqueline Cramer 

Cecil M. Kortman 

In Memory of David Daniels 

Michael Blanchette 

In Memory of Philip M. Hegland 

Harriss King 

Harold Poskanzer 

In Memory of Brian D. Howard 

Lynn Gordon & David E. Simon 

Lynne Toribara 

In Memory of Bill Lane 

Beverly & Don Kobrin 

Beverly Lenihan 

In Memory of Mary Low 

Joseph & Renee Cirimelli 

In Memory of Kathleen Obringer 

Karen Brems 

In Memory of Luette Preston 

Katharina H. Obringer 

In Memory of Christopher Wood 

Peter & Penny Ewing 

GIFTS IN HONOR OF: 

In Honor of Bill Gibson & 

Mary Szmagaj 

Stephanie Channing 

In Honor of the Hang-gliding & 

Paragliding Community 

Christopher Valley 

In Honor of Nancy Merwin 

Anne Jack 

In Honor of Mindy Moskowitz 

Mark Moskowitz 

In Honor of Michael Rowe 

Clean Solar, Inc. 

In Honor of David Sanguinetti (District 

Operations Manager) 

Alan Dale 

In Honor of Chuck Shuey & Vicki Wahl 

Robin Nesbitt 

Robert, Kathryn, & Michael Schauer 

In Honor of Jeff Smith (District Ranger) 

Alan Dale 

In Honor of Mae & Jerry Tinklenberg 

Julie Callan 

In Honor of James Thompson 

Terri Meier 

OTHER GIFTS RECEIVED: 

Mt. Umunhum Cleanup Efforts 

Julie Barney 

James Enloe 

Joe Fant 

Robert Garner 

Paul George 

John Hansen 

Christianne Kapelle-Curtis 

Nick Neely 

Bill & Vanita Phillips 

William Blodgett 

(former District Docent) 

Thirty-six California natural history 

books and three field guides 

Shelly Monfort (artist) 

Three fine art archival prints of 

native plants 

Sharon* & Rusty Thomas 

(*District Docent) 

Microscope for Spaces & Species 

environmental education program 

PRIVATE AND BUSINESS DONATIONS: 

Christiann Adams 

Amazing Creations Preschool 

Anonymous 

David Arken 

Marilyn Ashby 

AT&T/United Way 

Backpack Section of the Loma Prieta 

Chapter of the Sierra Club 

Joan W. Barksdale 

Alvin Begun 

Jacqueline Berman 

Susan Bickford 

Harold Black 

Connie Bowencamp 

Karen Brems 

Janet & David Cain 

Virginia Carpio 

John Carter 

Lucy & Chris Cesar 

The Lynn Gordon & 

David E. Simon Fund 

Jes Cornette 

Robert & Judith Dahl 

A. Dale 

Cassandra Doll 

Google Matching Gifts Program 

Stephan Ellner 

James Enloe 

Enterprise Trust & Investment 

Marie & Eric Evitt 

Family of Mary P. Stegner 

Richard & Allyn Feldman 

Roland & Lois Carroll Feller 

Paul George 

Global Impact 

Rachel Goldeen 

Paul & Carole Goldstein 

Joan & Randy Hodnett 

David Hoffman 

Fred & Ruth Horiuchi 

James Hunter 

Ralph Hurvitz 

Charlene & Derry Kabcenell 

Ruth Kaempf 

Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund 

Christianne Kapelle-Curtis 

Mary Kendall 

Chris Ketterer 

Beverly & Don Kobrin 

John Kucich 

Tommy Kuo 

Wallace Lee 

Beverly Lenihan 

Yiping Liao 

Jennifer Lichtenberger 

Scott Lindberg 

Ellen Loebl 

Larry Lund 

Many Little Cats, Inc. 

Ann Marquino 

George & Mary Mathew 

Kenneth McCann 

Terri Meier 

Jeff Melin 

Maria Mendoza 

Jeanette Micko 

Microsoft Matching Gifts Program 

Mr. & Mrs. Mitchell Millman 

Pros & Mary Lou Neumann 

Aki Niimura 

Daniel North 

Katharina H. Obringer 

Julie Oleinikova 

PG&E Campaign for the Community 

Carrie W. Penner 

William & Vanita Phillips 

Darwin* & Donna Poulos 

(*District Volunteer) 

Harold Poskanzer 

Lesley Regalado 

Barbara Roseman 

Elaine Rossignol (District Docent) 

John M. Salzer 

Marie Schmitt 

Silicon Valley Community Foundation 

Chuck Silvers 

Lester & Mary Jo Spring 

St. Luke Lutheran Church 

Stuart Stegner & Joann Rogers 

Mary P. Stegner Marital Trust 

Steven Stolper 

Symantec Employees 

Lynne Toribara 

Turnbull Trust, Geoffrey Bergler, Trustee 

Rose Wahlin 

Walton Family Foundation 

Wells Fargo Community Support 

Trevlyn Williams 

Stephen J. Zaslaw 

The District will strive to inclusively list all donations received, but will not be liable for any errors in attribution other than to make reasonable efforts to correct such errors. 

The District gratefully accepts gifts of time, money, land, or in-kind services, and donations can be made through the District’s Web site: www.openspace.org. Donations 

to the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District are tax deductible under IRS Code Section 170(c)(1). If you have any questions about the deductibility of your donation, 

please contact your tax advisor. 

17

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 

330 Distel Circle 

Los Altos, California 94022-1404 

Phone: 650-691-1200 • Fax: 650-691-0485 

E-mail: info@openspace.org 

Web site: www.openspace.org 

PRE SORTED 

STANDARD 

U.S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

SAN JOSE, CA 

PERMIT 1206 

PRINTED WITH 

SOY INK 

PRINTED ON 

RECYCLED PAPER 

Pull out and save your schedule of fall 

Outdoor Activities in open space and... 

be sure to visit us on our Web site for preserve 

maps, volunteer opportunities, and more. 

www.openspace.org 

Twitter: @mrosd 

Photo on front page: Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve by 

Karl Gohl. Photo below Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve 

by Benji Orcutt 

The District’s mission is to acquire and preserve a regional greenbelt 

of open space land in perpetuity; protect and restore the natural environment; 

and provide opportunities for ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education.

Fall 2011 - Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District

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