The Santa Clara Valley Climate and Agriculture Protection Program (CAPP) is a regional land use and economic development strategy to support the local food and farming economy and further climate change mitigation and resiliency by preventing conversion of farmland to urban development. In partnership with the cities of San Jose, Morgan Hill, and Gilroy, the Authority and the County are mapping agricultural lands in Santa Clara Valley for conservation and identifying the regional greenhouse gas reduction potential.
The Authority is the first agency in California to sponsor and develop a Regional Conservation Investment Strategy (RCIS), as part of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s RCIS Program. Known as the Santa Clara County RCIS (SCCRCIS), this program aims to create a new, voluntary conservation planning tool to promote the conservation of species, habitats, and other natural resources and enable advance mitigation for public infrastructure projects. The SCCRCIS is informed by and aligns with existing plans, including the Santa Clara Valley Greenprint, Santa Clara Valley Habitat Plan (Habitat Plan), and the Bay Area’s Conservation Lands Network. The SCCRCIS was developed with partner organizations, agencies, and the assistance of a consultant team.
Researchers are using advanced technology to track and protect the wildlife that call Santa Clara Valley home. The attachment of radio-collars to bobcats and gray foxes will allow researchers to map and analyze animal movement through Coyote Valley. The findings will provide details on where these animals move, what paths they are using, and which habitats they prefer. This data will enable the Open Space Authority and its partners to make well-informed decisions about where to locate wildlife crossings to provide safe passage for these animals. Check back here for updates and a final report of the study.
The Open Space Authority has accomplished a lot of important projects over the years. Check out just a few of our completed projects.
