MidPen Open Space Fire Resiliency Program

MidPeninsula Regional Open Space (Midpen) is is a non-profit special district in the Bay Area dedicated to preserving open space for public enjoyment and managing over 65,000 acres of land.

Wildland fire prevention, preparation and response are part of Midpen's ongoing land stewardship. In 2021, their new Wildland Fire Resiliency Program was approved, allowing Midpen to proactively increase our ecologically sensitive vegetation management approximately six-fold over ten years. Before new projects begin, biologists and archeologists conduct surveys to identify and protect sensitive plants, animals and cultural sites. Non-native and invasive plants are prioritized for removal over more fire-adapted native plant species. 

Each year, nearly 1,000 Midpen and partner volunteers contribute over 20,000 hours preserving, protecting, and promoting open space lands by participating in a variety of ways such as educating and inspiring visitors, maintaining trails and removing invasive, non-native vegetation. Volunteer programs at Midpen vary from one day, hands-on stewardship projects ideal for busy people looking for brief, but meaningful ways to get involved, to long-term commitments for individuals interested in developing a deeper connection to Midpen’s mission of land preservation and ecologically sensitive public enjoyment. Please visit their website to learn more about how to volunteer. 

Neighbors can apply here for a free Neighbor Defensible Space Permit allowing homeowners to reduce vegetation on Midpen land, within 100 feet of occupied structures, to create defensible space around your home.