◈ Homepage — https://www.mprpd.org/Skip to main content Homepage of Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Contact Us Donate Home About Parks & Preserves Planning & Conservation Education & Outreach News Contact Us Mission Statement To acquire and maintain open space in the District for preservation and use, working with partners and the community, for public benefit, enjoyment and environmental protection. Read More Quicklinks 1 Access Permits Meetings Volunteer Let's Go Outdoors! Registration Instagram Meetings Jun 3 2026 Board Meeting Jul 1 2026 Board Meeting Aug 5 2026 Board Meeting Most Recent Agenda View Board Meetings Parks & Preserves Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Read more → Garland Ranch Regional Park NEW GARLAND RANCH REGIONAL PARK VISITOR CENTER HOURS:  Thursday-Sunday, 10am - 4pm (open Monday holidays) Read more → Marina Dunes Preserve The coastal dunes along our south Monterey Bay form a narrow edge between former dunes where we live and the bay. This strip of land is steadily... Read more → Access Permits Permit applications are processed via the website, Monday through Friday, 12:00 - 4:00 pm, excluding holidays. Please do not submit same day requests. Read more Education & Outreach The Environmental Education & Community Outreach (EECO) Division is dedicated to connecting the public with parks and open space by encouraging... Read more Access Permits Permit applications are processed via the website, Monday through Friday, 12:00 - 4:00 pm, excluding holidays. Please do not submit same day requests. Read more Education & Outreach The Environmental Education & Community Outreach (EECO) Division is dedicated to connecting the public with parks and open space by encouraging... Read more Access Permits Permit applications are processed via the website, Monday through Friday, 12:00 - 4:00 pm, excluding holidays. Please do not submit same day requests. Read more Education & Outreach The Environmental Education & Community Outreach (EECO) Division is dedicated to connecting the public with parks and open space by encouraging... Read more Teasers 5 Let's Go Outdoors! Discover the wonders of nature by attending a free, quality program from our award-winning Let’s Go Outdoors! catalog. Programs are designed for... Read more → Take a Hike! Some of our parks require an access permit to visit. Click here, for more information. Read more → Centers Open - Memorial Day District offices will be closed Monday, May 26 in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. The Visitor Center at Garland Ranch Regional Park and... Read more → Follow Us on Social Media Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel, CA, 93923 (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline Sign In ◈ Interior Pages — 10 pages crawledAccessibility Statement Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us Website Accessibility Statement If you need any special assistance or accommodations: Contact our compliance support team online with your request Contact our compliance support team via telephone at: (888) 765-1970 Request Live Assistance We provide on-demand live visual interpreters through Aira in an effort to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act. Please reference this Access Offer Code for Free Assistance: Streamline Request Live Assistance from Aira Ongoing Compliance Information Compliance Coordinator The District has designated a Compliance Coordinator for website disability-related accommodations. The Compliance Coordinator has received training in website accessibility and updates the site in accordance with those best practices and requirements. Compliance Procedures The District is working to ensure all website content complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and controlling State laws. In an ongoing effort to continually improve and remediate accessibility issues, the website is regularly scanned to ensure ongoing compliance, and timely changes are made to any inaccessible content if found. Accessible Documents Policy The District is committed to providing all documents hosted on the website in an accessible format or making accessible alternatives available. Linked Documents and Third Parties Please note that this site may link out to third-party websites that do not have accessible content. This site may also include documents provided by third parties. While we cannot control the accessibility of content provided by third parties, we are happy to assist any member of the public with reading and accessing content on our site. 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If you need assistance or accommodations while accessing content on this website, please contact our Compliance Coordinator via the form below: Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in Staff - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us About Board of Directors Strategic Plan Financials Transparency Staff Employment Staff Our staff is dedicated to the mission of the district. To send a general email to MPRPD staff, contact: [email protected] . Eric Morgan, General Manager Mr. Morgan is responsible for overall District budget and financial management, fiscal and operational policy implementation, community relations… Read more » Shuran Parker, Administrative Services Manager Shuran is responsible for administrative services including: human resources; risk management; website administration; budget development; and other… Read more » Rebecca Smith, Accounting Technician Rebecca coordinates accounting and payroll functions for the District’s administrative office. She also provides general support to the… Read more » Deborah Warcken, Administrative Assistant Deborah coordinates administrative functions for the District’s administrative office. She administers the permit application process and provides… Read more » Damian Bye, Procurement and Contract Technician Damian performs a variety of routine to complex technical and administrative duties in the preparation, maintenance, and processing a range of… Read more » Jake Smith, Planning and Conservation Program Manager Jake manages natural and cultural resources conservation, preservation and restoration planning, and resource monitoring. Read more » Resource Conservation Specialists Resource Conservation Specialists perform a wide range of activities including coordination of design and implementation of capital improvement… Read more » Savannah Peña, Environmental Education Supervisor Savannah is responsible for coordinating and supervising District environmental education programs, personnel and facilities. This includes developing… Read more » Nicole Bonello, Environmental Education Coordinator (Programs) Nicole develops and manages the District’s education and outreach programs, including the Let's Go Outdoors! Activities Guide, school group programs… Read more » Debbie Wyatt, Environmental Education Coordinator (Volunteers) Debbie coordinates and manages the District’s volunteer programs, including education and outreach projects for District parks, centers, and arboretum… Read more » Environmental Education Specialists Environmental Education Specialists provide support for environmental education programs and events. They assist with development of interpretive… Read more » Caine Camarillo, Supervising Ranger Caine schedules and manages all District field operations, including maintenance and construction, trails, structures, facilities and capital… Read more » Rangers The Rangers are responsible for various functions including, trail and facility maintenance and repairs, trail construction and development… Read more » Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in × Search results Search Search Close Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Access Permits Special Use Permits Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park The town of Marina was laid-out in 1913 by William Locke-Paddon after he purchased 1,500 acres from the David Jacks family of Monterey notoriety. Mr. Locke-Paddon was a very successful real estate speculator that specialized in buying small family farms throughout Northern California and then subdividing and marketing them as “Locke-Paddon Colonies.” The large tract of coastal prairie that he purchased from the Jacks family was subdivided into 300 five-acre parcels that sold for $75 each. To help “sell” Marina, Mr. Locke-Paddon persuaded the Southern Pacific Railroad to put in a “flag-stop” to accommodate travelers and prospective buyers, from the San Francisco area. The town was incorporated in 1975 and soon after began looking for projects to enhance the City’s character. The Park District was also recently formed (1972) and actively seeking cooperative open space projects for peninsula cities. A very noticeable characteristic of the City was its six vernal (“seasonal”) ponds. In 1986 a partnership was created between the Park District, the City, and the Coastal Conservancy to acquire the lands around KIDD pond – so named for the tall radio towers owned by the station of the same call letters. Prior to any acquisitions, a pond enhancement plan was adopted which gave direction for the pond’s future development and protection. Once adopted, the District’s first purchase was the 12-acre Walton/KIDD parcel. By 1991 five of the six parcels were publicly owned and the park was dedicated as Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park in honor of the City’s founder. The City also approved plans for a much needed library in the park. In 1994 a comprehensive Vernal Pond Management Plan was adopted by the City that reaffirmed the unique wetland nature of the park as wildlife habitat. Acquisition of the last remaining private parcel bordering the pond is currently underway and will complete a long, almost 15 year, effort that will also begin the final phase of its original goal – its enhancement and restoration as critical coastal wetland habitat. Its low-impact recreational amenities that include shoreline trail, picnic tables and restrooms enhance its value to the community. Prior to the retreat, sea level was approximately 300 feet lower than it is now. The coastal plains we see today were high coastal bluffs then. As a global warming trend melted the great ice sheets, the sea level rose and inundated coastal valleys and terraces. These inland bodies of sea water became salt marshes, sloughs, and estuaries. After the sea-rise stabilized, dune fields began to develop and grow. Over time, they migrated inland as they were pushed by the prevailing on-shore winds. The former coastal bluffs that were now coastal plains with inland marshes were partially covered over by migrating dunes and cut-off from direct access to the bay. This created the pot-marked dune/swale topography we see today in the coastal plains in the Marina area. The small relatively permanent remnant bodies of water that were once brackish marshes and sloughs are now primarily fresh water vernal ponds, though there is still some sub-surface lateral salt water exchange through the dunes. Before urban build-up around the ponds began in the early 1900’s, their water source was clean rain runoff. Though still the primary source of water today, its purity is clouded with all the additives that come from urban runoff. The increase in runoff has also created a relatively perennial condition. With diligence, the ponds will remain relatively healthy and support an abundance of rare and indigenous wildlife for generations to come. Locke-Paddon Park is open to the public for all to enjoy, with no access permit needed to enter. The City of Marina is responsible for park administration, please contact them for more information. City of Marina Recreation & Cultural Services Department: (831) 884-1253 Locke-Paddon Park is located just off Reservation Road (from Highway 1), adjacent to the Marina Library. Park Rules The City of Marina is responsible for park administration, please contact them for more information. Stay on designated trails-walk softly, take only memories and leave only footprints. AND, be sure to pack out what you pack in. ACCESS: Locke-Paddon Park is located just off Reservation Road (from Highway 1), adjacent to the new Marina Library. HOURS: Access is limited to daylight hours from dawn to dusk. No overnight use or camping is permitted. USE: Use in Locke-Paddon Park is limited to hiking. Trail Map PETS: Domestic animals are welcome on leash only. Owners must clean up after their pets and dispose of waste in trash receptacles. FIRE/SMOKING: Fires, incendiary devices, fireworks, cooking stoves, any source of open flame, and smoking are strictly prohibited. RESOURCES: It is unlawful to injure, damage, collect, harass, remove, or disturb any cultural, historical, biological, or physical object. Metal detectors and other collecting tools are prohibited. HUNTING/FISHING/WEAPONS: Hunting, fishing and weapons of any type are not allowed. FOOD: Food and beverages are allowed. However, there are no waste receptacles on the trails. Please pack out all you pack in. TRESPASS: For the benefit of all, obey and respect all private property, boundary, administrative notices, and closure signs. Trespassing on private property is subject to citation/prosecution and loss of future access privileges. CLOSURE: Access may be temporarily closed due to wildlife, fire, public safety, resource protection, or other environmental concerns. Failure to abide by park rules and appropriate etiquette may result in loss of access privileges. MPRPD Ordinances Read more » Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in × Search results Search Search Close Self-Guided Hikes - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer Self-Guided Hikes Along with the popular series of LGO! Naturalist-led hikes, MPRPD offers printable, self-guided hikes at Garland Ranch Regional Park. Hike Guides describe the distance, approximate hiking time and elevation gain for each hike, as well as providing step-by-step directions, a map and important reminders. Hike Guides are available at the Garland Park Visitor Center, you can also download and print your own Hike Guides from the pdf links below. Lupine Loop Rancho Loop Buckeye Nature Trail Cliff-Siesta Point-Maple Canyon Garzas Canyon to Visitor Center La Mesa and Mesa Pond Redwood Canyon-Terrace Waterfall-Sky-Sage Snively's Ridge Prepare for Your Hike To ensure that your hiking experience is enjoyable, please observe the following precautions: Wear boots or sturdy walking shoes appropriate for rugged trails. Dress in layers. The weather can be unpredictable. Carry ample water with you to drink. Parts of some hikes are in full sun. Water is not available at many of the hike locations. Restrooms are not always available, so please plan accordingly. Only service dogs are allowed on hikes led by MPRPD Volunteer Naturalists and other Let’s Go Outdoors! instructors. Please observe the rules regarding dogs, as each park has its own rules. Park District staff, volunteers and the public, during special events, might operate vehicles on Garland Park roads and trails. All other users must yield to vehicles. Help us promote safety on multi-use trails. Please be courteous on the trail. Stay alert and make sure your presence in known to other trail users, particularly when approaching from behind. Some trails in Garland Ranch Regional Park permit horses and bicycles. Hikers yield to horses; bicyclists yield to hikers and horses. Directions to Group Hikes and Events Directions to hike locations are listed below. Some activities meet at different locations than where the activity will actually occur. PLEASE CHECK THE LISTED MEETING PLACE TO MAKE SURE YOU MEET… Read more » Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in × Search results Search Search Close About The District - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us About Board of Directors Strategic Plan Financials Transparency Staff Employment About The District Residents and visitors alike benefit from the spectacular natural beauty of the Monterey Peninsula. The region’s ecologically diverse native landscapes, including undeveloped coastal dunes and wetlands, rocky shoreline, redwood canyons, Monterey pine terraces, and mixed hardwood flood plains are a major attraction for residents and visitors alike. The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District was formed in order to preserve and protect as much of this natural beauty as possible for future generations. History Pursuant to the authority granted in the Public Resources Code, Section 5500, the voters of Monterey County approved the measure which created the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District in the November election of 1972. Momentum for a park district for the peninsula had been gathering for some years prior to the election. In March of 1970, the Sierra Club hosted a forum on the water supply problem on the peninsula. After that meeting, the idea of creating a special district for park and open space was discussed. A year later, the Sierra Club, League of Women Voters, and Audubon Club joined forces to create the Committee for Open Space. In May, 1971, a grassroots effort began to collect 5,000 signatures to place consideration of an open space district on the November ballot. By October, the petition drive had been successful and the board of supervisors placed the Measure A on the ballot. The district boundaries were set to match the Monterey Peninsula College District. After the successful passage of Measure A, the new Board held its first meeting in December, 1972. The District was entrusted to acquire lands for the express purpose of preserving open space and providing recreational opportunity. Since then, the District has successfully protected approximately 14,000 acres of open space while maintaining balanced budgets and minimal overhead. The District has acquired or helped to acquire a total of 24 parks and open spaces, most recently the acquisition of Palo Corona Ranch, the gateway to Big Sur. The District’s current boundaries cover over 500 square miles and include the seven incorporated cities on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel Valley, Pebble Beach and the Big Sur Coast. The District is governed by an elected Board of Directors, representing the citizens in each of five wards. For more information about special districts, Click Here. Mission To acquire and maintain open space in the District for preservation and use, working with partners and the community, for public benefit, enjoyment and environmental protection. Vision To have several large well managed parks distributed regionally across the District, representing a variety of habitats, concurrently protecting our environment and enhancing our community’s health, recreational and environmental education opportunities. Values To have safe, accessible open space for recreation enjoyment and protection of natural resources, and native habitat and wildlife. Board Members The District is governed by a five member elected (in even years) Board of Directors. Terms of office are four years. For more information about the election process and deadlines, please visit the Monterey County Elections website. The five Board members are not elected at-large but represent distinct areas, or Wards. Read more » Board Meetings If you would like to be added to the agenda email distribution list, please contact the Board Clerk. Read more » Staff Our staff is dedicated to the mission of the district. To send a general email to MPRPD staff, contact: [email protected]. Read more » Service Area Map CSDA mapping program. Read more » Redistricting The District recently completed the process of redistricting, following results of the 2020 Census. To view the final report on ward maps, click here. Individual ward maps are shown below. Read more » Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you. Read more » Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in × Search results Search Search Close Marina Dunes Preserve - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Access Permits Special Use Permits Marina Dunes Preserve The coastal dunes along our south Monterey Bay form a narrow edge between former dunes where we live and the bay. This strip of land is steadily changing from wind and wave forces. During especially strong winter storms, this change can be quite obvious along the foredune. Beyond the storm-wave run-up area the rate of change is less perceptible. The reason for this is the native plant cover that has evolved with and adapted to these “shifting” sands. This living blanket insulates the dunes from the constant erosional force of wind. These dunes are like a living fabric interwoven with a diversity of strands of life. If one of these strands is allowed to deteriorate, then others weaken and soon the fabric can begin to unravel. Like a fabric, these dunes can be mended, but only if everyone agrees to help. The Park District is restoring endemic coastal dune/strand habitat to the site in an effort to stabilize the exposed dunes and increase wildlife habitat value. Please do your part by staying on the designated path to the beach and respecting restoration and habitat closure signs. Together we can bring these dunes back to their natural beauty and balance. A Brief History Though no evidence exists to say that the site was explicitly used by the Ohlone people prior to European contact, it is safe to say that these dunes, in general, were used extensively by them. What impacts may have occurred would have most likely been limited to foot paths. It wasn’t until after WWII that the dunes began to see heavy use. In 1983, the site of Marina Dunes Preserve was just an abandoned sand mining site with a lot of off-road vehicle damage. A proposal to convert these dunes into a large-scale resort hotel failed and the opportunity to purchase the property for coastal public access was realized. This property was purchased by the District in 1988 to enhance and protect public access to the Monterey Bay seashore and restore native vegetation to the site for more natural habitat conditions. The District’s first act was to remove the old sand processing plant. The foundations can still be seen on the foredune. Since 1990, the District has slowly and steadily been restoring the area. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and State Seashore are major attractions for visitors to this area. Over 3 million tourists visit the bay’s state beaches every year. Local visitors enjoy the property primarily as an accessway to the beach. Access follows the old sand mining roadway. Park Rules Stay on designated trails-walk softly, take only memories and leave only footprints. AND, be sure to pack out what you pack in. ACCESS: Marina Dunes is located off of Highway 1 to Reservation Road exit (west), turn right on Dunes Drive, to the cul-de-sac at the end of the road. The park entrance will be on your left. Parking is along both sides of the road. HOURS: Access is limited to daylight hours from dawn to dusk. No overnight use or camping is permitted. USE: Marina Dunes use is limited to hiking. PETS: Domestic animals are welcome on leash only. Owners must clean up after their pets and dispose of waste in trash receptacles. FIRE/SMOKING: Fires, incendiary devices, fireworks, cooking stoves, any source of open flame, and smoking are strictly prohibited. RESOURCES: It is unlawful to injure, damage, collect, harass, remove, or disturb any cultural, historical, biological, or physical object. Metal detectors and other collecting tools are prohibited. HUNTING/FISHING/WEAPONS: Hunting, fishing and weapons of any type are not allowed. FOOD: Food and beverages are allowed. However, there are no waste receptacles on the trails. Please pack out all you pack in. TRESPASS: For the benefit of all, obey and respect all private property, boundary, administrative notices, and closure signs. Trespassing on private property is subject to citation/prosecution and loss of future access privileges. CLOSURE: Access may be temporarily closed due to wildlife, fire, public safety, resource protection, or other environmental concerns. Failure to abide by park rules and appropriate etiquette may result in loss of access privileges. MPRPD Ordinances Read more » Western Snowy Plover On March 4, 2024, the first Western Snowy Plover egg of the season was discovered, marking a significant conservation milestone. This noteworthy find highlights the importance of protecting these… Read more » Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in × Search results Search Search Close Board - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us This item appears on Meetings Board Our Board meets on the first Wednesday of the month. Regular Meeting agendas are posted 72 hours prior to the meeting. Special Meeting and Committee meeting agendas are posted at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Board meeting minutes are generally approved during the Board’s next regularly scheduled meeting. Please note that minutes are not taken for some Special Meetings (i.e., Study Sessions or Workshops). 2026 2025 2024 Dec 2 2026 Board Meeting Read more » Nov 4 2026 Board Meeting Read more » Oct 7 2026 Board Meeting Read more » Sep 2 2026 Board Meeting Read more » Aug 5 2026 Board Meeting Read more » Jul 1 2026 Board Meeting Read more » Jun 3 2026 Board Meeting Read more » May 6 2026 Board Meeting Agenda Read more » Apr 20 2026 Board Personnel Committee Agenda Read more » Apr 14 2026 Board Finance Committee Agenda Read more » Apr 1 2026 Board Meeting Agenda Read more » Mar 10 2026 Board Monuments, Art & Exhibits Committee Agenda Read more » Mar 4 2026 Board Meeting Agenda Minutes Read more » Feb 4 2026 Board Meeting Agenda Minutes Read more » Jan 22 2026 Board Real Property/Land Use Mgmt. Committee Agenda Read more » Jan 7 2026 Board Meeting Agenda Minutes Read more » Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in × Search results Search Search Close Planning & Conservation - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Planning & Conservation Open Space Planning Long-range planning is a crucial element in forecasting future park and open space expansion and acquisition that will serve current and future resident needs and demands for increased public access, use, and experiences. This form of planning requires an extensive knowledge and understanding of district-wide land ownership, land uses and values, zoning and general plan policies, GIS mapping, and a “big-picture” perspective. This routine type of planning provides the blueprints for land use decisions and actions which ensure consistency with the District’s mission to “preserve and protect open space” and provide opportunities for ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education. Land Use Planning Short-term planning focuses on policies, guidelines, and permits that together enable the District to open to the public and develop its parklands and open space in ways that support public use and enjoyment while also protecting environmental values. Obtaining County, regulatory, and municipal permits; constructing trails and visitor improvements that enhance visitor experiences; designing natural resources research and restoration projects; implementing natural resources conservation programs; all these activities require careful documentation, deliberation, community involvement, and effective implementation. Natural Resources Conservation Central to the District’s mission is parkland and open space conservation; the ecologically-based stewardship of plants, animals, water, soil, terrain, geologic formations, and historic, scenic, and cultural features. Everything within the District’s parks and open spaces are protected and conserved by the District as public trust assets for current and future generations. Without them the District’s parks and open spaces would lose all their beauty, inspiration, life-support, and value. Conservation is a complex, multi-faceted issue. The District faces many choices in managing its parklands and open spaces. The ecosystem is constantly changing as species come and go, as weather fluctuates, and climate changes. There are also many competing interests between users, uses, available funding, techniques, perceptions, and parkland neighbors. To this end, the District has adopted an adaptive management strategy that strives to maintain an ecologically sound land management ethic that is responsive to the changing conditions of the land and encourages public access. For more information on specific documents, programs, projects, or activities related to any of the District’s many parks and open space lands please call (831) 372-3196 ext. 101 or email [email protected] . Conservation Lands Blomquist Open Space Preserve Read more » Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in × Search results Search Search Close Wildfire Preparedness and Fuel Management - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Wildfire Preparedness and Fuel Management Making our Parks and Communities Wildfire Resilient The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District (MPRPD) is dedicated to enhancing the resilience of our parks and communities against the increasing threat of wildfires. Since 1972, the District has been committed to stewarding the unique landscapes of the Monterey Peninsula. As wildfires become more severe, the District is expanding its fuel management and wildfire preparedness efforts to ensure these vital lands remain safe and enjoyable for the community. Overview of Fuel Management and Wildfire Preparedness Fuel management and wildfire preparedness are critical components of maintaining the health and safety of our parklands and nearby communities. Fuel management involves reducing the amount of flammable vegetation (fuels) to decrease the intensity and spread of wildfires. Wildfire preparedness encompasses planning and implementing strategies to protect both natural resources and human communities from the devastating effects of wildfires. Treatment Priorities Our landscapes have evolved to coexist with fire, relying on periodic wildfires to maintain fuel levels and landscape health. However, rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, urban development in fire-prone areas, and over a century of fire suppression have led to higher fuel loads and a greater risk of more severe wildfires that can cause catastrophic damage. To address this, we work to reduce excess vegetation near communities to improve safety and prepare our parks so that when fires do occur, they burn with lower intensity and in a more controlled manner. This can include activities such as thinning trees, removing underbrush, managing invasive species, intentionally burning areas in a controlled manner, and increasing firefighters’ ability to access areas that are critical for responding to wildfire events. Funding MPRPD uses funding it receives from property taxes, grants, and charitable contributions to conduct annual maintenance while also planning and advancing larger and more impactful projects in coordination with partner organizations. This combined approach seeks to fund baseline levels of wildfire protection while also making investments enhancing the quality, reach, and impact of our services beyond our own property boundaries. Through these efforts, we seek to maximize the value of every dollar paid by local taxpayers and strengthen our capacity to maintain and improve our parks. Collaborative Efforts and Strategic Initiatives In collaboration with state, federal, and local fire and resource experts, the District is accelerating initiatives to improve forest health and reduce fire risks. These efforts are essential to mitigate catastrophic wildfires that threaten our parks and communities. By forming strategic partnerships, expanding our skilled workforce, and securing additional funding, we are working towards the statewide goal of treating 1 million acres annually by 2025. Benefits of Fuel Management and Wildfire Preparedness The fuel reduction and wildfire preparedness efforts can provide multiple benefits to the community: Increased Wildfire Resilience : Managing vegetation to reduce fire intensity and spread, developing incident response plans in coordination with emergency responders, reducing the risk and severity of wildfires and ensuring that areas can withstand and recover from wildfires when they do occur. Enhanced Native Habitats : Reducing unnaturally high fuel loads and removing invasive, flammable non-native species like eucalyptus will help native plant communities recover and thrive after wildfires. This enhances ecosystem health and biodiversity, supporting more resilient landscapes. Watershed Protection : Efforts to reduce the size and severity of wildfire in our watershed will help protect our waterways from erosion and degradation that can impact aquatic species like Steelhead Trout and the quality of our local water supplies. Community Safety : Reducing the risk and severity of wildfires through active vegetation management, creating defensible space, and improving access for firefighters enhances the safety of our surrounding community. Scenic Preservation : By protecting and fostering the health, diversity, and resilience of native plants and wildlife, we ensure they thrive and continue to serve as the beautiful backdrop to our community . Public Education: Our parks provide opportunities to educate visitors and local residents about wildfire preparedness and how fuel reduction in our parks complements essential defensible space strategies throughout built communities. By addressing high-risk areas, benefiting both public lands and nearby communities, and enhancing long-term ecological resilience, these projects align closely with state and regional priorities for wildfire risk reduction. This approach provides multiple benefits beyond wildfire risk reduction and demonstrates the MPRPD’s commitment to responsible stewardship of this vital public open space. Key Projects With technical support from the Resource Conservation District of Monterey County and funding from the State Coastal Conservancy, we are currently focused on two key projects in areas of Garland Ranch Regional Park along East Garzas Road. These projects, set to begin as soon as later this year, are examples of the types of projects that will be included as part of our upcoming Fuel Mitigation and Fire Management Plan for Garland Ranch Regional Park, which the District will be sharing with the community in winter 2024/2025. To date, MPRPD has successfully won over $590,000 in grant funding from the State Coastal Conservancy's Wildfire Resilience Grant Program to support critical fuel reduction projects in Garland Ranch Regional Park. This program supports the development and implementation of projects that improve forest health and reduce the risk of catastrophic fire in areas where people are living near wildlands. Garland Ranch Regional Park East Garzas Road Shaded Fuel Break Project The Garland Ranch Regional Park East Garzas Road Shaded Fuel Break Project focuses on creating a 6.2-acre shaded fuel break in areas adjacent to East Garzas Road in Carmel Valley, California. The primary goal is to reduce wildfire risk by: Pruning tree limbs that are near the ground Trimming back shrubs and woody vegetation in the forest understory Removing invasive weeds and other nonnative vegetation Chipping and scattering cleared vegetation This project is estimated to cost approximately $80,000 and is funded by the State Coastal Conservancy's Wildfire Resilience Grant Program . The implementation is expected to start by October 2024 and will take approximately two weeks to complete, with maintenance of the shaded fuel break occurring every 1 to 3 years. Garland Ranch Regional Park Fuel Management Project This project aims to manage and reduce wildfire risk and enhance and restore native habitat b Privacy Policy - Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Skip to main content Contact Us Donate Search: Search Toggle navigation Home About Board of Directors Meetings Strategic Plan Financials Special Tax Lien Transparency Staff Employment Parks & Preserves Cachagua Community Park Eolian Dunes Preserve Frog Pond Wetland Preserve Garland Ranch Regional Park/Kahn Ranch Joyce Stevens Monterey Pine Preserve Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park Marina Dunes Preserve Mill Creek Redwood Preserve Palo Corona Regional Park Proposed Dog Park Documents Access Permits Special Use Permits Planning & Conservation Rancho Cañada Floodplain Restoration Project Wildfire Preparedness & Fuel Management Education & Outreach Activities & Hikes Field Trips & School Groups Let's Go Outdoors! Parks Protect Volunteer News Bids and Proposals e-News Press Releases Contact Us Privacy Policy This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which this site collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a “User”). Personal Identification Information We may collect personal identification information from Users in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to, when Users visit our site, register on the site, subscribe to the newsletter, respond to a survey, fill out a form, and in connection with other activities, services, features or resources we make available on our site. Users may be asked for, as appropriate, name, phone number, and/or email address. We will collect personal identification information from Users only if they voluntarily submit such information to us. 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(Updated 03/2018) Copyright © 2026 Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District 4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel CA 93923 Telephone (831) 372-3196 Contact Us Privacy Policy District Transparency Website Accessibility Statement Powered by Streamline | Sign in × Search results Search Search Close