Picnics are okay for Rancho Potrero but parties aren't

Save Open Space/Santa Monica Mountains (SOS) supports a trailhead, picnic tables and trails in Rancho Potrero. The trailhead will enable everyone in the community to access the park.

This includes families who want to go on a hike, bike ride or horse trail ride. We also support adding a couple of picnic tables in few locations in the park so families can come enjoy the open space and the spectacular views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Conejo Valley and the ocean.

These uses are all compatible with the park service's general management plan that protects this property that lies within the boundaries of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreational Area (SMMNRA). These uses are compatible with protecting the core habitat value of the Rancho Potrero landscape. This area serves as territory for the two remaining mountain lions in our national recreation area.

One of SOS' new major goals is to protect Rancho Potrero's natural landscape for picnickers, hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders.

The decision makers hopefully will listen and shelve the 200-person party pavilion plan for Rancho Potrero. This highintensity activity isn't allowed on this property per the National Park Service's general management plan.

Please join us in protecting Rancho Potrero for future generations! Come visit this exceptionally beautiful scenic area. Mary Wiesbrock, chair Save Open Space/ Santa Monica Mountains Agoura Hills