Octa's transportation blog

Wilderness Excursions Bring Residents and Nature Together

In the past few months, OCTA-led outings have allowed more than 100 walkers and riders to experience one of Orange County’s few remaining wild places, the Ferber Ranch property in Trabuco Canyon. The year’s final excursion, an equestrian ride, was held last weekend.

Nearly 400 acres of open space, this wilderness preserve is home to mule deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, and grey foxes. The native habitat, full of coastal sage scrub, oak woodland, and chaparral, offers a protected environment for the coastal California gnatcatcher and cactus wren. 

OCTA acquires open space properties and contributes to habitat restoration in exchange for streamlined approvals for 13 Measure M2 freeway projects. Properties were selected to expand wildlife connectivity, protect sensitive species, and preserve substantial parcels of valuable habitat. Learn more.