Coastside protection program gets nod

"This decision is a tremendous achievement for all coastsiders, all baysiders and everyone who wants to protect the San Mateo coast's magnificent resources,'' said district General Manager Craig Britton.

The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has been collecting endorsements for the program for the past few years from cities, towns, businesses and organizations in the county.

Opposition to the plan had been dwindling, especially since the district supported legislation ruling out the use of eminent domain in areas affected by the program. The legislation, developed with the San Mateo County Farm Bureau and assuring that only willing sellers contributed to the program, AB 1195, was signed into law last week by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

"We are grateful to all of the countless residents who have provided their input, suggestions and help over the years,'' Britton said.

The program will expand the district's boundaries from south of Pacifica to Pescadero to include about 220 square miles of San Mateo County coastal lands, according to district officials.

Over the next 15 years, the district plans to enhance environmental, educational and recreational programs and provide wildlife protection and emergency services to 11,800 acres of coastside space.