When asked why they choose to live in Santa Cruz County, most people probably think of its spectacular natural beauty and the wonderful lifestyle afforded by such easy access to the region's beaches, parks and open spaces.

In addition to the many environmental benefits these natural areas provide, our parks add recreational and educational value to our community: healthier lifestyles associated with outdoor recreation; places for our kids to experience nature in a world that is increasingly focused on media and technology; and opportunities for nature study, birding, and environmental education through many wonderful programs hosted by the local park and recreation departments.

The beautiful park scenery and extensive trails also provide a major draw for vital tourist dollars, and they help attract new residents and small business owners seeking a high quality of life.

The Conservation Blueprint will identify opportunities to expand existing parks and open spaces, fill in gaps in the greenbelt, and establish trail connections between parks and our local communities. In addition to looking at local connections, the Blueprint will also consider expanding access to significant regional trails, such as the California Coastal Trail and the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

The Blueprint will also outline strategies to promote education on protected lands. This could be in the form of partnerships between conservation organizations like the Land Trust and local schools and parks departments, and involving students and volunteers on stewardship and recreation projects to encourage their understanding of the issues facing our natural areas.