Check out Steve Maller's incredible drone footage of the 2024 Half Moon Bay Running of the Goats...
Thanks for a hoof -stomping good time at yesterday's "Running of the goats"
A hearty thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday morning for the annual "running of the goats"! It was a hoof-stomping success, with an enthusiastic crowd cheering our caprine athletes every step of the way. Seeing young families and our beloved Half Moon Bay locals come together for this quirky tradition warmed our hearts—it's what makes our community so special!
If you captured some unforgettable moments on camera, we'd love to see them! Send your best goat-tographs to kate@coastsidelandtrust.org, and who knows, your snapshot might just steal the show.
Speaking of stealing the show- keep your eyes peeled this week for an exciting opportunity to vote for your favorite furry friend. Yes, you heard right—the goats are vying for your affection (and perhaps a few extra treats)!
Please consider donating to help us fundraise to have these goats on the Railroad Right of Way again next year!
Stay tuned for updates and remember, in a world where chaos can reign supreme, there's always a moment of sheer joy when goats take center stage.
"Running of the Goats"- Tomorrow morning!! Saturday, June 22 @ 8:30 am
Photo credit: Doreen Maller
"Running of the Goats"
Tomorrow morning
Saturday, June 22
8:30 am
Join us tomorrow morning at the corner of Railroad Ave and Poplar Street in Half Moon Bay for the "running of the goats". This goat run down Poplar Street into the Railroad right-of-way is one of Half Moon Bay's magical annual events, cherished by children of all ages. There's something enchanting about the click of hooves on pavement, the lively energy of the hungry herd, and the irresistible fuzziness of these adorable animals. Here at the Coastside Land Trust, we eagerly anticipate this annual goat run, and the Star Creek Land Stewards have just given us the 8:30 launch time. So we are marking our calendars and will see you there.
This large herd comes from Star Creek Land Stewards and works with the Coastside Land Trust and the City of Half Moon Bay as part of a planned grazing project. These goats are effective at eating fire fuel, aerating the soil, fertilizing the ground, and encouraging the growth of native plant species. This results in a reduction in wildfire danger, improved soil fertility, and an increase in the diversity of native perennial grasses. This process is also good for overall ecosystem health, as it doesn't require petroleum products or chemicals of any kind.
Join the Coastside Land Trust on a Walking Tour of the Purissima Old Town Site
Walking Tour of the Purissima Old Town Site
Saturday, July 13, 2024
10:00 AM and 1:00 PM
Step into the past with a visit to the Purissima Old Town Site in historic Half Moon Bay. Join us for one of our small 2 hour, docent-led tours and uncover the mysteries of one of the oldest Coastside towns that disappeared. You will learn about the lives of the people who once inhabited this historic site while experiencing the beauty of the native flora and fauna. You will explore a bit about it all as you follow the trails through the redwoods- tucked away from the beaten path. Reserve your spot today.
Junior Land Stewards Program collaborates with local Heal Farm Youth Farm Program
Last week Coastside Land Trust's Junior Land Stewards Program Manager, Haley Peterson, was invited to serve as a guest lecturer at the local Coastside Heal Farm youth camp. Haley shared the nature journaling techniques that she uses with the Junior Land Stewards students during the school year.
Nature journaling is a technique that involves observing and recording the natural world through writing, sketching, and painting. John Muir Laws, a principal leader and innovator of the worldwide nature journaling movement, shares that keeping an illustrated, observational journal is a centuries-old method that has been refined through the lens of our understanding of neuroscience and deliberate practice. A nature journal is a lens that focuses our attention and crystalizes our observations, thoughts, and experiences.
Students loved practicing these techniques through a My Secret Leaf activity, in which students are challenged to pay attention to the details of their classmates/ campmates drawings to match them with the leaves of study.
Coastside Land Trust was delighted to share these practices with Heal Farm, collaborating in nature education for our Coastside youth. This partnership highlights our shared commitment to nurturing environmental stewardship in the next generation.
The "Running of the Goats" is coming soon!
For those fortunate enough to witness it, the "running of the goats" down Poplar Street into the Railroad right-of-way is one of Half Moon Bay's magical annual events, especially cherished by children of all ages. Whether you're 2 or 92, there's something enchanting about the click of hooves on pavement, the lively energy of the hungry herd, and the irresistible fuzziness of these adorable animals. Here at the Coastside Land Trust, we eagerly anticipate this annual goat run, and all signs indicate it will happen this weekend. Stay tuned for more specific information as soon as we receive it!
This large herd comes from Star Creek Land Stewards, and works with the Coastside Land Trust and the City of Half Moon Bay as a part of a planned grazing project. These goats are effective at eating fire fuel, aerating the soil, fertilizing the ground, and encouraging the growth of native plant species. This results in a reduction in wildfire danger, improved soil fertility, and an increase in the diversity of native perennial grasses. This process is also good for overall ecosystem health, as it doesn't require petroleum products or chemicals of any kind.
Wavecrest Workday this Saturday @ 10:00 am
Wavecrest Work Day
Saturday, June 8
10:00 am- Noon
Come one, come all. Join us on the coastal prairie for our next habitat restoration workday at Wavecrest Open Space. There is much work to be done, and people of all ages are welcome and encouraged. We also have a fun nature scavenger hunt for children who attend- made by local student naturalist, Marshall Patton. Meet at the Smith Field Ballparks at the west end of Wavecrest Road in Half Moon Bay. Wear good footwear, layers and sun protection. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Vote for Coastside Land Trust to receive Envirotokens at New Leaf Community Market
Envirotokens are back at New Leaf Community Markets! When customers bring reusable bags, the market donates a 10¢ Envirotoken per bag to benefit local charities, nonprofits, and other organizations that the community has chosen. Twice a year, at every store, customers nominate and vote for the nonprofits that they want their Envirotokens to benefit, and the Coastside Land Trust is on the ballot! Vote now to support the Coastside Land Trust to be in the next round of Envirotokens recipients. These funds will be well used in the preservation, protection, and stewardship of the local open space environment here on the coast!
Voices of the Open Space- Steve Maller
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Half Moon Bay resides a man whose lens has become a window into the soul of this scenic wonderland. Steve Maller, a local nature photographer and environmental advocate, has not only captured the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ornithological wildlife of Half Moon Bay but has also become deeply intertwined with the protected open spaces that define this coastal haven.
Steve's journey to Half Moon Bay began over a decade ago when he and his wife sought a change of pace from the bustling Silicon Valley. "We anticipated being empty nesters and wanted to downsize from our old home in Burlingame," Steve explains. "We looked for over a year before the perfect place fell into our laps."
Since settling in Half Moon Bay in June 2012, Steve has immersed himself in the natural beauty that surrounds him. As the founder of Mallermedia, he has transitioned from a successful career in software engineering to a world-traveling photographer, finding inspiration in the everyday wonders of his coastal home. Steve is also now collaborating with his wife Doreen to make locally-inspired art under the banner of Maller Cottage Industries.
But it's not just the sweeping vistas and dramatic seascapes that captivate Steve—it's the protected open spaces that provide a sanctuary for both wildlife and humans alike. Living adjacent to the old Ocean Shore Railroad right-of-way, Steve and his wife have witnessed firsthand the tireless efforts of organizations like the Coastside Land Trust (CLT) to secure and preserve these vital habitats.
"We take daily walks with our dogs and cameras to the beaches, the bluffs, and the trails through Wavecrest," Steve shares. "It's become a part of our daily routine, and we feel so fortunate to be able to enjoy these tremendous resources every single day."
Through his photography and advocacy, Steve hopes to raise awareness about the importance of land stewardship and conservation. "We've learned so much about the value and importance of land stewardship," he remarks. "We are proud supporters of CLT and other organizations responsible for preserving the natural beauty and resources here."
Looking to the future, Steve remains optimistic about the fate of Half Moon Bay's protected open spaces. "We hope that CLT and public agencies can find ways to address the damage caused by water runoff and continue to maintain, protect, and expand our trails," he says. "And while threats to open spaces persist, such as the development threat to Arleta Park, we remain hopeful that organizations like CLT and the City of Half Moon Bay will continue to safeguard these precious landscapes."
As Steve continues to capture the spirit of Half Moon Bay through his lens, his connection to the coastal open spaces serves as a reminder of the profound impact that individuals can have in preserving the natural world for future generations to enjoy.
Recording: Compost on the Coast with Doug Millar
Please enjoy this recording, as the Coastside Land Trust welcomes Doug Millar, Conservation Project Manager for the San Mateo Resource Conservation District. Millar will share some of the basic principles and best practices of composting, as well as his insight into composting for soil health, carbon farm planning, and the work being done to keep our compost local. Millar has 25 years of experience working in this field- including significant work with local TomKat Ranch and the HEAL Project.
Learn more about Doug' Millar's work and all the work the San Mateo County Resource Conservation District is doing to help improve our local watershed, to protect wildlife, and to improve our land at https://www.sanmateorcd.org/.
Donate to support the Coastside Land Trust free webinar programs and the protection and stewardship of our shared open spaces.
Wavecrest Coastal Trail Extension Update
CLT has been working hard over the past few years on plans for filling the gap in the CA Coastal Trail on the Wavecrest blufftops. Last week the California Coastal Commission officially voted to uphold the approval of the Wavecrest Trail improvements on Redondo Beach Road. The Coastside Land Trust is grateful to Sara Polgar for driving up to Crescent City to make this happen.
The Wavecrest trail extension project will build >2.5 miles of multi-use Coastal Trail and connector trails with ocean overlooks and signage, free parking with drinking water and restroom facilities (all ADA accessible) and beach access stairs to enable a broad range of user groups to enjoy the Wavecrest bluffs and Redondo Beach in Half Moon Bay in a safe and environmentally responsible way. In addition to filling the large gap in the Coastal Trail, this project will improve accessibility, and reduce informal access which is causing rapid bluff erosion and damaging sensitive coastal prairie habitat. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
Last nature journaling workshop of the year with CUSD teachers
The fourth grade teachers of Cabrillo Unified School District (CUSD) took to the field again to complete their last nature journaling session of the year. These dedicated teachers journaled and reflected together on a year of great work within the Junior Land Stewards Program. Thank you to these teachers who have worked so hard to incorporate the mission of the Coastside Land Trust into their classroom- inspiring their students and helping them to develop the skills and desire to become lifelong stewards of our natural world, and our shared open space land. Thank you also to Elexis Padron for leading these rich nature journaling sessions, and to Haley Peterson and Barbara Lohman who work tirelessly to get these teachers and Junior Land Stewards out into the field- participating in meaningful experiences.
Wildflower Day Thanks
Thank you to everyone who stopped by yesterday to see us, and to spend a few minutes journaling with our dedicated education team. We are grateful to be a part of this great community event!
Coastal Wildflower Day Festival This Sunday
Don’t forget to top by Francis Beach parking lot and check out the Coastal Wildflower Day festival, hosted by California State Parks this Sunday. The mission of this day is to welcome the spring, celebrate our local wildflowers and the local community restoration efforts, while inspiring stewardship of the diverse ecosystems that support thriving coastal wildflower habitats. CLT will be hosting a nature journaling table with activities, resources, and materials. Come journal with us.
Parking Fee: $10/ Walk or bike in for free!
Celebrating Coast Week With Bob Rogers
Last Wednesday Bob Rogers, Executive Director here at the Coastside Land Trust, visited the Sea Crest school to share in the celebration of Coast Week. Bob shared a story that reminded these young students to have the courage and passion to care for our earth. Then he joined students as they planted coastal California poppies together. The Junior Kindergarten students created a collective Coast week mural for “Mr. Bob” to thank him for all of the ways he continues to help protect our coast, and shared their commitment to helping protect our coast as earth heroes.
Thank you from the Coastside Land Trust
Thank you to all of you who donated to support the Junior Land Stewards Program during Coastside Gives. Because of your generosity we were able to raise $39,360 to support this program.
The Junior Land Stewards Program connects the students of the Cabrillo Unified School District with their local open spaces, and guides them in developing the environmental literacy skills and desire to become lifelong stewards of open space. We thank you for your generous donations that will support our next generation of land stewards, as well as the preservation and protection of our coastal open spaces. Thank you!
Happy Coastside Gives Day- Please support the Junior Land Stewards today
Happy Coastside Gives Day. Please support the Coastside Land Trust to help us meet our goal to fully fund the Junior Land Stewards Program for the 2024-2025 school year. The Junior Land Stewards Program works with all fourth-grade students from Alvin Hatch, El Granada, Farallone View, and Kings Mountain elementary schools. This program also includes nature journaling workshops for 4th grade teachers, as well as for the HMB High School students that volunteer as field guides for the program.
Please enjoy this slideshow showcasing a glimpse of their educational journey and the impactful work they've accomplished this year …
Please DONATE TODAY , and fund this program and help preserve the lands you love with double impact.
Junior Land Stewards 2023/2024 Year in Review Slideshow
The Junior Land Stewards Program has concluded yet another remarkable school year, working with the fourth-grade students from Alvin Hatch, El Granada, Farallone View, and Kings Mountain elementary schools. Please enjoy this slideshow showcasing a glimpse of their educational journey and the impactful work they've accomplished. It's been a rich year of nurturing skills and instilling a passion for lifelong stewardship of the land.
Thank you to those who have supported this program, and those who continue to help it grow. Tremendous gratitude to the Land Trust Alliance, Robert G. Kirby Foundation, Granada Community Services District, the California Coastal Commission, Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation, The Tomberg Family Philanthropies, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, California State Parks Nursery, Cabrillo Education Fund and Mavericks Community Foundation. We owe so much of this to you.
Thank you to Haley Peterson and Barbara Lohman who work tirelessly to share this program with all of the fourth graders and many Half Moon Bay High School science students of CUSD (Cabrillo Unified School District). Also thanks to the many board members, staff, and community members who help support the students.
Please consider donating to support the Junior Land Stewards and the critical protection and stewardship of our shared open spaces.
COMPOST ON THE COAST: A SENSE OF HUMUS - Free community webinar presented by Doug Millar
COMPOST ON THE COAST: A SENSE OF HUMUS
Presented by Doug Millar
Saturday, May 18, 2024
10:00 AM
Free Community Webinar
Join the Coastside Land Trust as we welcome Doug Millar, Conservation Project Manager for the San Mateo Resource Conservation District. Millar will share some of the basic principles and best practices of composting, as well as his insight into composting for soil health, carbon farm planning, and the work being done to keep our compost local. Millar has 25 years of experience working in this field- including significant work with local TomKat Ranch and the HEAL Project.
Join us for the Coastal Wildflower Day Festival on May 5th
Join the Coastside Land Trust on Sunday, May 5th, as we partner with California State Parks Association for the Coastal Wildflower Day Festival. This will be at Francis State Beach from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM.
The mission of this day is to welcome the spring, celebrate our local wildflowers and the local community restoration efforts, while inspiring stewardship of the diverse ecosystems that support thriving coastal wildflower habitats. CLT will be hosting a nature journaling table with activities, resources, and materials. Come journal with us.
Parking Fee: $10/ Walk or bike in for free!