The San Francisco Bay Area is bejeweled with hundreds of parks and open space preserves as well as a rich set of laws and policies meant to ensure the survival of vulnerable species and ecosystems. Real people made this happen through a dedicated call to stewardship.

Local Artists Paint for Diablo

October 1, 2009 •  by

The BayWood artists’ October 2009 show will feature new works of Mount Diablo, and proceeds benefit Save Mount Diablo, which is working to raise funds for a critical new purchase by March 3, 2010.

New Sonoma Purchase Anchors Future Park

September 3, 2009 •  by

Just north of Santa Rosa, land that has seen three generations of the McCullough family is on its way to becoming the newest of Sonoma County’s regional parks. With 22 miles of well established and maintained trails, the property includes grassland, chaparral, oak woodlands, Douglas fir and redwood forests, almost two miles of Mark West Creek, and ridges with spectacular views.

The San Bruno Mountain Green Force

August 11, 2009 •  by

Is it possible to find a summer job that lets you be outside, learn new skills, get educated about the area’s environmental richness and gives you the occasional free sandwich? Some Bay Area teens did just that. This summer crews of local youth are working in parks all over the Bay Area, thanks to federal stimulus money.

Remembering Brian O’Neill

July 1, 2009 •  by

In May 2009, the Bay Area–and the nation–lost one of its most eloquent and effective advocates for open space preservation and access. Brian O’Neill, superintendent of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) since 1986, died of complications from heart surgery…

Agreement Opens Way for Quarrying on Apperson Ridge

June 4, 2009 •  by

A long-running battle over a quarry proposed for Apperson Ridge adjacent to Sunol Regional Wilderness reached a new chapter last month when two environmental groups struck a deal with the quarry operator. The deal includes major funding for habitat protection and other concessions, but also clears the way for quarrying in an area that’s important habitat for tule elk and other species.

From the Field

May 28, 2009 •  by

On Friday, May 29, the National Park Service and friends of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) will gather to celebrate the life and legacy of Brian O’Neill, who died from complications due to heart surgery on May 13. Brian was the superintendent of GGNRA for 22 years, and was revered by many for his dedication to getting people out into the park.

Two Chances for Expansion at Mori Point

April 23, 2009 •  by

With a San Francisco Board of Supervisors vote set for April 30 to decide the fate of Sharp Park north of Mori Point, and a developer ready to sell a large property to the south, the rare snakes and frogs that thrive on Mori Point could get a whole lot more elbow room.