Listed below are just a few of the many reasons why the San Marcos Foothills Coalition is working to save as much of the West Mesa of the San Marcos Foothills as possible:
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It will mean that the public has access to approximately 300 acres of easily accessible and truly magnificent open space that will be permanently preserved.
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It is our last opportunity to work towards larger protection of the valuable West Mesa area. If this project does not move forward, we’ll be faced with large mansions and very limited access to the foothills.
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It has spectacular 360 degree views of Santa Barbara, Goleta, the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands and the Santa Ynez Mountains.
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It has miles of hiking trails that have been used and enjoyed by many for decades.
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It is one of the most ecologically valuable sites on the South Coast, containing several freshwater seeps, abundant native grasslands, coastal sage, oak woodlands and savanna, and four oak and willow riparian areas, two of which flow persistently.
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It is home to an abundance of wildlife and a variety of rare species and ecological associations. These include the White-tailed Kite, Burrowing Owl, Grasshopper Sparrow and many species of owls, raptors and songbirds.
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Its assets are sustainable because of its size and close proximity to the Los Padres National Forest.
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It is easily accessible to local schools and offers a rich environment for learning about foothill ecosystems and wildlife.
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