Marin Voice: Wall property is a key piece of the preserved treasure that is Marin open space

Former Rep. Barney Frank of Massachusetts once said, “Government is simply the name we give to the things we choose to do together.”

According to this definition, open-space acquisition in Marin County is quintessential government. There are few other places in this country (and potentially the world) where so many have come together and continue to do so to preserve and protect the natural lands around them. It’s something Marin residents should be proud to own as its culture.

Open-space acquisition happens because people work together with the local government to achieve collectively what a single person cannot. Each individual or group must contribute in measure what they can.

This works in Marin because there is a high degree of ecological literacy, environmental ethics and an active appreciation of our outdoors. Historically, this has created a wellspring of generosity and willingness to fight for environmental preservation.

Marin communities began working together to preserve undeveloped lands that were important to local residents when the Marin County Open Space District was formed by a vote of the people in 1973.

Since then, over 15,000 acres have been secured forever and will remain in their natural state and be permanently open to the public for their quiet enjoyment.  Mount Burdell was obtained by the district after a multi-year effort by Novato residents to purchase the property which had been seriously threatened with development. Several years ago, Sky Ranch between San Anselmo and Fairfax was purchased for public open space with strong support from both communities.  Recently, Ross residents banded together to buy the prominent Bald Hill property to fulfill a longtime preservation goal.

Now, after 20 years, Fairfax is poised to save its crown jewel, the 100-acre Wall property.  This land defines the ridges above Fairfax with rolling hills filled with flora and fauna, trails and spectacular views.

It derives its name because it originally belonged to Dr. Alan Wall of San Francisco. His wish was that it be saved as open space for the town, but it has not been a straight path. For a while, the land was owned by a developer who wanted to put in giant homes, 20-foot-wide roads and swimming pools along the ridgeline.

Fortunately, his project was abandoned and Marin Open Space Trust was able to step in to help Fairfax negotiate a deal with the subsequent owner. Working with the town, the county and with the support of so many in the community,  over $2.75 million in funds have been identified toward the ultimate acquisition cost of $2.9 million for the property, leaving about $150,000 still to raise before the end of September.

This land is not just an asset to Fairfax. With connections to the contiguous Ross Valley public open spaces, including Bald Hill, Hawthorne Canyon, Loma Alta and the larger Mount Tamalpais region and watershed, it will provide permanent access to extensive trails, wildlife corridors and the necessary habitat spaces needed by wildlife.

In a world where nature and open spaces are diminishing, in turn contributing to climate change, it is critical that we do what we can to protect these vibrant ecosystems. The Wall property Is a key piece of the treasure that is Marin.

It is imperative that we step up now and all do what we can, not only with donations but matching pledges in any amount to permanently preserve this spectacular property.  Contact Marin Open Space Trust to help make this happen at marinopenspacetrust.org.

Susan Pascal Beran is chair of the Fairfax Open Space Committee. Bill Long is chair of the Marin Open Space Trust.