Proposed Purchase of Property as an addition to Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve

The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is pursuing the purchase of an approximately 34.11-acre property, identified as Assessor's Parcel Number 558-31-008 in an unincorporated area of Santa Clara County, to be added to the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. The primary objective is to permanently preserve the land as open space and maintain it in a natural condition. This acquisition is supported by a Notice of Categorical Exemption under CEQA, citing various sections related to land acquisition for parks and the preservation of open space. The project includes the adoption of a Preliminary Use and Management Plan (PUMP) which outlines several key activities. These include the demolition and removal of a residence and accessory structures, site clean-up to eliminate hazardous waste release threats, and the installation of signage and fencing. Additionally, the District may implement minor erosion and sediment control measures, wildland fuel management, and natural resource management activities. All work will be conducted in accordance with the District's Resource Management Policies, the Integrated Pest Management Program Guidance Manual, the Wildland Fire Resiliency Program, and applicable regulatory permits.