Santa Barbara County and community partners have vowed to protect 36 acres of More Mesa from housing development pressures in perpetuity.
More Mesa, a 325-acre area just west of Hope Ranch, is a nature preserve with oak woodlands, riparian habitat, and public trails used by various groups.
A new conservation easement will protect the 36-acre county-owned portion from development while allowing current recreational uses and park management.
Santa Barbara County officials announced the permanent preservation on Saturday.
Author's summary: More Mesa's 36 acres preserved.