Supes Approve $1 Million Grant for Paula Lane

The , a 11-acre property off Bodega Avenue, is a step closer to opening after the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday voted to approve a $1 million grant to acquire the preserve, which will consist of a walking trail, viewing areas and hold educational programs around ecology and wildlife.
 
In 2008, the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District identified the property for a matching grant program after residents pushed to protect the land that had been slated for a 21-home housing development.

"At long last, we know the wildlife and their habitat will be protected forever, and our youth will be able to work in restoration and learn about upland habitat, wildlife and open space," said Susan Kirks, a member of the Paula Lane Action Network, the group formed to advocate for the creation of the preserve. "Now we can begin our partnership with the city of Petaluma, for the community."
 
The group will work with the community and local schools to undertake habitat restoration, engage in agricultural uses such as an orchard or community garden, and provide opportunities for public education. A conservation easement, to be held by the District in perpetuity, will ensure protection of habitat that is currently used by 13 special-status species, including the American Badger and multiple birds.
 
Since its inception in 1990, the open space district has protected more than 85,000 acres of land in Sonoma Conty and approved nearly $21 million in grants for land acquisition, development of recreational amenities, and restoration of open space within or near urban areas. It's funded by a quarter-cent sales tax approved by voters in 1990 and reauthorized in 2006.