The Future Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve

The Coyote Ridge property comprises 1,831 acres of pristine rolling hills, heritage oaks, serpentine grasslands and outcroppings in the Diablo Mountain Range located to the east of Hwy 101 in southern Santa Clara County. The Open Space Authority’s Valley Greenprint identifies Coyote Ridge as one of ten Conservation Focus Ares in Santa Clara County, for its rare serpentine grassland habitat and threatened species, water resources, oak woodlands and opportunities for outstanding recreation.

United Technologies Corporation (UTC) donated the property to the Open Space Authority through the California Natural Heritage State Tax Credit Program under which they are eligible for a tax credit. The Authority secured funding from public agencies and private foundations to reimburse the state—together they contributed $8.6 million total—approximately 55% of the property’s fair market value of $15.6 million. The Authority contributed a total of $7,500 towards the acquisition.

The property’s extensive serpentine grassland habitat is vital to the recovery of the federally threatened Bay checkerspot butterfly and federally endangered Metcalf Canyon jewelflower. The property also provides critical habitat for the California tiger salamander and California red-legged frog, as well as Tule elk, burrowing owls, golden eagles, and many other raptors.

In addition, the Coyote Ridge property is the source of three streams that feed into Coyote Creek and support crucial habitat for Steelhead trout, and serve as oases for wildlife. The property provides important recharge to the groundwater basin, sustaining local drinking and agricultural water supplies.

The Open Space Authority will work closely with the Valley Habitat Agency to manage the property and protect and restore habitat for rare, threatened and endangered species. The Authority will also initiate planning and design for public access to the future Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve via a multiple-use trail system, with an opening tentatively scheduled for summer or fall of 2018.