Preserving Open Space We all benefit with an open space two-thirds the size of Yosemite.
Animals are able to migrate throughout the area, sustaining the genetic diversity of native species.
The entire metro area of San Jose will have a great natural area to enrich the overall quality of urban life in the South Bay. The South Bay, which draws much of its drinking water from Mount Hamilton streams, will be assured of a continuing supply of clean, safe water. While protecting the wild areas, the Conservancy also intends to help working ranches and ranchers, who have been good land stewards, stay in business and manage their lands so that the natural habitats are protected and even enhanced. Cattle operations on both the Romero and Simon Newman ranches will continue, with rules to limit overgrazing, keep cows away from streams, regenerate oak woodlands, and control exotic plant and animal species which degrade the environment. Stream Restoration Three creeks wind their way through the grasslands and woodlands of the Nature Conservancy's Mount Hamilton Project.