Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Government AdministrationCalifornia, United States51-200 Employees
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is a government-focused special district that preserves and manages a vast regional greenbelt in the San Francisco Bay Area, spanning parts of San Mateo, Santa Clara, and a small portion of Santa Cruz counties. Established in 1972 by voter initiative, the district owns and maintains nearly 65,000 acres across 26 preserves with more than 225 miles of trails, providing ecologically sensitive public access and education in a natural landscape. Its mission centers on acquiring and safeguarding open space and agricultural land of regional significance in perpetuity, protecting native habitats and waterways while facilitating sustainable recreation for the public. The organization serves a broad community of visitors, with millions exploring its preserves annually, most of which are freely accessible year-round from dawn to near sunset. Based in Los Altos, California, the district operates as an independent entity within government administration, balancing conservation priorities with opportunities for public enjoyment and learning. Acknowledging its regional impact, Midpen continuously advances trail-related and habitat initiatives, and has recently engaged in collaborations and programs highlighted by public-facing GIS applications and safety-conscious enhancements to support visitors and protect biodiversity.