News Summary
The nearly 400-acre Randall Preserve in Orange County, formerly known as Banning Ranch, is poised for a major transformation. Managed by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority, the preserve is inviting community input on plans for public access, resource management, and coastal resilience. The land, which has a complex history as an oilfield, is expected to become a vital natural sanctuary featuring trails and ecosystems while emphasizing environmental restoration and community engagement.
Exciting Developments at Randall Preserve in Orange County
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Orange County, the nearly 400-acre Randall Preserve is gearing up for a transformation that has everyone buzzing. Formerly known as Banning Ranch, this vast stretch of land was acquired by conservation groups in late 2022, making it the largest undeveloped private land along the Southern California coast. The Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) has taken the reins on managing Randall Preserve, and they want to hear from you!
Get Involved!
Throughout the planning process, the MRCA has held numerous public events where they’ve shared draft plans focused on public access, resource management, and coastal resilience. If you’ve got thoughts or ideas about what you want to see in this new space, you have until July 14, 2023, to send them in. Your voice matters in shaping the future of this stunning natural landscape located between Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, and Huntington Beach.
A Glimpse of What’s to Come
Randall Preserve is home to stunning coastal wetlands and higher elevation coastal mesa ecosystems. But this land has a rich—and at times controversial—history. For decades, since the 1940s, it has served as an oilfield and has faced pressures for housing and commercial developments. Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that this land also hosts rare vernal pools where endangered fairy shrimp and over a dozen other sensitive species make their homes.
Before the public can set foot on this preserve, some cleanup work is necessary. The site still shows remnants of its past with oil drilling infrastructure, which needs remediation before it can fully welcome visitors. This work is expected to wrap up around 2027.
Proposed Features of the Preserve
Draft plans suggest the construction of trails for walkers and possibly cyclists, with a main entrance planned at the west end of 17th Street in Costa Mesa. However, the potential for dogs on trails remains unclear, primarily due to the presence of endangered species that could be negatively impacted.
Interestingly, public sentiment from recent meetings shows a preference for keeping this area quiet and natural. Many community members expressed their desire for open spaces that allow nature to thrive, rather than recreational facilities that could disrupt the ecosystem, such as golf courses or dog parks.
Challenges and Considerations
As MRCA moves forward, some challenges are apparent. Any efforts to return the land to its pre-development glory won’t be easy, given the extensive previous development and the surrounding population growth. A coastal scientist has pointed out that balancing environmental restoration with flood protection for nearby neighborhoods will be crucial as future plans unfold.
A Commitment to Community
With nearly $1.8 million allocated for the development of Randall Preserve, including a significant $1 million federal grant for planning efforts, the focus remains on incorporating strategies for coastal resilience and protecting the rich biodiversity of the area.
Community involvement will play a vital role in shaping the landscape! Efforts are being made to engage local Native American tribes to ensure that their perspectives on access and cultural sites are included in the planning.
Looking Ahead
There are three more public meetings scheduled, and the MRCA is working to provide transportation and translation services to ensure everyone can participate. The aim is to create an inclusive space that welcomes visitors to enjoy hiking loops, camping sites, and picnic areas while maintaining the area’s natural beauty and ecological health.
In light of projected sea-level rise, the preserve’s future plans are also looking toward climate resiliency. With careful planning and community feedback, Randall Preserve aims to not only be a site for recreation but also a critical buffer against climate changes that may impact the region.
Prepare to mark your calendars and join the efforts to shape this exciting new chapter for Orange County’s Randall Preserve! Your input is essential in creating a sanctuary that embodies both nature and community spirit.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Coastal Rail Service Reopens Between Orange and San Diego Counties
Plans Unveiled for Randall Preserve in Costa Mesa
Additional Resources
- OC Register: Community Input Sought for Future of Randall Preserve
- LA Times: Randall Open House
- Secret Los Angeles: Frank & Joan Randall Preserve
- Google Search: Randall Preserve
- ABC7: SoCal’s Newest Coastal Park – Frank & Joan Randall Preserve
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coastal Preservation
