For Immediate Release
October 22, 2009

Contact:
Maria J. Cipriani, Assistant General Manager
Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation
and Open Space District
(707) 565-7360

Taylor Mountain Public Access Program Approved
Board approves permit program for public access to scenic open space

SANTA ROSA, Calif.–The County Board of Supervisors, acting as the Board of Directors of the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District, this past Tuesday approved an Interim Public Access Permit Program that will enable hikers, bicyclists and equestrians to experience Taylor Mountain, the widely recognized and prominent backdrop to Santa Rosa. In 2006, the District purchased the scenic 823-acre Taylor Mountain property, a critical link in 1100 acres of contiguous protected open space.

The District worked collaboratively with the City of Santa Rosa, Sonoma County Regional Parks, and the non-profit LandPaths, to develop a permit program to provide interim public access while a master plan is prepared for Taylor Mountain. The permit program was designed with input from pedestrian, cycling and equestrian user groups and the community to allow access to a wide range of users. Soon, riders and hikers can ascend to the top of Taylor Mountain to enjoy stunning views of the Mayacamas and coast ranges and the Santa Rosa Plain, as well as the Laguna de Santa Rosa.

The District will work with Regional Parks to install minor interim improvements on the property, including a parking area that will accommodate cars and horse trailers. During this interim period, the District and Regional Parks will develop a comprehensive Master Plan to address long-term use and management of Taylor Mountain and its important resources.

Orientations for the Permit Program will be coordinated by LandPaths, and are expected to begin in late November.

Third District Supervisor Shirlee Zane commented, “I am thrilled that the public will have the opportunity to access and experience the beauty of one of Sonoma County’s most treasured landmarks. The children in the Bellevue School District will especially benefit from having an environmental classroom in their backyard!”

Mary Burns, Regional Parks Director added, “Taylor Mountain has long been envisioned as a regional park and open space preserve. This permit program represents a significant first step in opening this spectacular property to the public, now and for future generations.”

“The District appreciates our partnership with Regional Parks to enhance recreation throughout Sonoma County and looks forward to continuing our productive and successful collaboration with Regional Parks as we move toward developing a comprehensive Master Plan for Taylor Mountain,” said Bill Keene, District Interim General Manager. 

About the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District
The Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District permanently protects the diverse agricultural, natural resource and scenic open space lands of Sonoma County for future generations. Since 1990, the District has protected 168 properties totaling 76,479 acres. Agricultural and open space lands have been protected through a 1/4-cent sales tax approved by voters in 1990 and reauthorized in 2006. For more information, please visit www.sonomaopenspace.org