Caring for the Places You Love
So Nature Can Care For You.
Find & Enjoy Nature Near You
Open Space for All
The Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority conserves the natural environment, supports agriculture and connects people to nature, by protecting open spaces, natural areas and working farms and ranches for future generations.
Your Open Space Preserves
Coyote Valley
Located in the rural greenbelt between San José and Morgan Hill, Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve offers breathtaking panoramic views throughout the preserve. Visit Coyote Valley
Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge
A biodiversity hotspot, rare serpentine grasslands and soils are a unique feature of this preserve. While the hillsides stay golden most of the year, each spring brings stunning displays of wildflowers that are not to be missed. Rare species, such as the endangered Bay checkerspot butterfly, thrive here. Visit Máyyan 'Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge
Rancho Cañada del Oro
Featuring mixed woodlands, grasslands and glistening creeks, this preserve nestled in the southern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains is a hidden gem. Visit Rancho Cañada del Oro.
Sierra Vista
Located in the Eastern foothills of Santa Clara County, Sierra Vista boasts some of the best views in the region, amidst oak woodlands, rolling grasslands and chaparral habitats. Visit Sierra Vista.
What We Do
The Open Space Authority offers nature-based solutions to growth and climate change, protecting open spaces, wildlife habitats, trails, water resources and agricultural lands. We connect people to nature through accessible preserves, free nature events and guided activities, environmental education and a robust Urban Grant program, while engaging communities through volunteer programs, partnerships and more.
Investing in Nature
The Open Space Authority is funded primarily through a $24 per year parcel tax (referred to as Measure T) and a $12 per year parcel benefit assessment (referred to as District 1) to help make the benefits of nature available to all. For every $1 invested in nature, we leverage $3 in public and private partnership funds for conservation, restoration and recreation projects.
