Is Open Space Really Open?
Open to the Public
Almost 60% (35,954 acres) of open space (61,728 acres of publicly owned and leased land) is open to the public. Some of that land has on-trail-only restrictions for agricultural operations and sensitive wildlife or vegetation habitat.
Not Open to the Public
Agriculture
35% (21,636 acres) of open space is leased to local farmers and ranchers and not open for recreational use. Agricultural land is purchased through the Open Space Program to preserve and promote sustainable agriculture, one of the department's guiding goals.
Learn more about Agricultural on Open Space.
Other
The remaining 7% (4,138 acres) is closed due to public safety, contract requirements, or because it is still under evaluation for potential public use.