As part of the M2 Freeway Environmental Mitigation Program, OCTA purchases open space and contributes to habitat restoration projects in exchange for streamlined project approvals for 13 Measure M freeway improvement projects. As a result, freeway projects progress more efficiently and the environment benefits from comprehensive preservation efforts.
Acquired properties are permanently preserved as open space. Funded restoration projects restore preserved open space lands to their native habitat and include the removal of invasive plant species.
In the coming months, OCTA will host two excursions in the Trabuco Canyon wilderness preserve that will allow the public to personally experience OCTA’s environmental stewardship efforts. During these interpretive excursions, residents will learn how OCTA is contributing to wildlife and habitat preservation in Orange County.
A guided hiking tour will be held on Saturday, May 16 at 9 a.m. Hikers will be shuttled from O’Neill Regional Park to Ferber Ranch. On Saturday, June 6, OCTA will hold a guided equestrian riding tour.
Hikers and riders must be over age 12 and sign a liability waiver.
For more information and to reserve your space, please visit octa.net/tours or contact Community Relations Officer Marissa Espino at (714) 560-5607 or mespino@octa.net.
