The City of San Luis Obispo is proud of its natural setting.  In order to ensure that this setting remains healthy, vibrant, and a community asset forever, many policies and programs are in place that are carried out by staff throughout the City.

In 1995, to bring greater guidance and a more proactive approach to the City's resource protection efforts, the Natural Resources Protection Program was created.  The fundamental purpose of the program is to conserve, enhance, and restore important community natural resources. The program is carried out by the Natural Resources Manager with assistance from the City Biologist.

Today, the City of San Luis Obispo:

• Operates 12 large (30-700 acres) open space lands that are available for passive recreation. The City additionally operates numerous smaller areas.

• Holds 9 major conservation easements for habitat, recreational, and agricultural purposes.

• Continues restoration activities in many areas of open space lands and along San Luis Obispo Creek.