A Historic First: Permanent Protection for 36 Acres of More Mesa
We are thrilled to announce the permanent conservation of 36 acres on the northwest corner of More Mesa. This milestone was made possible through the partnership of the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, County Parks, Second District Supervisor Laura Capps, and the More Mesa Preservation Coalition. Although this portion of More Mesa has been publicly owned for decades, it did not previously have legal protection against development. The new conservation easement ensures that this area will remain open space forever, protecting its natural beauty, habitats, and the public’s ability to enjoy it. This marks the first time any part of More Mesa has received permanent legal protection.
The easement preserves sensitive coastal habitats, including oak woodlands and riparian corridors, while maintaining public access for low-impact recreation such as walking and nature observation. The area will continue to be managed as open space, and future development will not be permitted.Next steps include a management plan that will guide the long-term care of trails, habitat, and visitor access. Ongoing restoration efforts by the County, such as native plantings along Atascadero Creek, will continue to improve ecological health and resilience. The More Mesa Preservation Coalition views this easement as a cornerstone for broader protection of the remaining 270 acres.On October 11, more than fifty community members gathered at More Mesa to celebrate this achievement, joined by Assembly member Gregg Hart, Supervisor Laura Capps, representatives from the Land Trust, and members of the MMPC. As MMPC Vice President Dan Gira noted, this is “an important first step to working cooperatively to protect all of More Mesa forever.” Read the full press release on The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County’s website.
   
Community Picnic Celebration
The More Mesa Preservation Coalition extends sincere thanks to the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, County Parks, and Supervisor Laura Capps for organizing the community picnic celebrating this important milestone. We are also deeply grateful to the many community members who attended, demonstrating visible public support for More Mesa’s protection. The event drew approximately 100 attendees, including several local dignitaries. The MMPC sees this gathering as both a celebration of progress and the beginning of renewed efforts to secure lasting protection for all of More Mesa within the next two to three years.
New Report: Recreational Use and Values of More Mesa
We are also pleased to share our newly released report, Recreational Use and Values of More Mesa. This study documents how the community uses and values this treasured open space. We thank everyone who participated in the survey, providing vital information that will guide advocacy and inform future planning.
 
While past research has emphasized habitat and land use, this project focuses on the human experience of More Mesa—how residents engage with it and what values they associate with the land.
The findings highlight the widespread appreciation of More Mesa as a place for recreation, reflection, and connection with nature.Despite the high level of public use, many respondents were unaware that most of More Mesa remains privately owned and unprotected. Under current County zoning, as many as 82 homes could be built, including 70 near Mockingbird Lane and 12 near Orchid Drive. Such development would threaten trails, scenic views, wildlife, and the overall visitor experience. The MMPC’s goal is to purchase and permanently protect all remaining portions of More Mesa within the next two to three years. By documenting the community’s deep connection to the land, this report provides a foundation for that effort.You are invited to review the full report and share your feedback: Recreational Use and Value of More Mesa.
Thank you for your continued support in protecting More Mesa. Together, we can ensure this irreplaceable open space remains a natural and recreational treasure for generations to come.
With gratitude,
The More Mesa Preservation Coalition |
