Some organizations in California are successfully protecting urban open space areas in the face of rapid growth and sprawl.
This report by the California Institute of Public Affairs discusses how agencies and non-governmental organizations in California are protecting urban open space areas in the face of rapid growth and sprawl. Priorities for protecting land and natural resources include preservation of biodiversity, recreation, education and watershed protection. Examples of protected areas in the Los Angeles and San Francisco regions are given to demonstrate different effective approaches to land preservation. Almost all protected areas are managed for a range of benefits. Biodiversity is a primary goal, along with recreation, education, and in many places watershed protection. Economic benefits are varied and substantial. Management issues include administrative and physical fragmentation, invasive species, fire, and pollution. Agencies recognize a need to reach out to urban residents, but performance is mixed. A new "natural park" in a poor Los Angeles neighborhood is a striking innovation. California has much to learn from other countries, and much to share.
Thanks to California 2000 Project
FULL STORY: California's Protected Urban Areas

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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