Beginning June 8, 2026, mitigation work associated with the City of Goleta’s Project Connect will begin at Ellwood Mesa, with additional work scheduled to continue in other key open space areas including Lake Los Carneros, as well as along Fowler Road and near Old San Jose Creek. These locations were selected to support existing ecosystems and enhance connectivity between natural areas.
The mitigation plan includes the installation of more than 3,600 native trees and plants across approximately four acres. Species such as Western Sycamore, Black Cottonwood, Coast Live Oak, and native willows—along with a variety of shrubs, grasses, and flowering plants—have been selected to support pollinators, improve soil health, and strengthen local ecosystems.
As work begins, community members may notice crews in open space areas clearing designated planting zones and installing vegetation, irrigation systems, and temporary fencing. Newly planted areas may initially appear sparse but will fill in overtime as plants become established. Ongoing maintenance and monitoring will support long-term success.
Planting is anticipated to be completed by late fall 2026.
These mitigation efforts reflect the City’s commitment to preserving and enhancing natural open spaces while delivering critical infrastructure improvements.
For more information, visit:
www.CityofGoleta.org/ProjectConnect
connect@CityofGoleta.gov
805-690-5116
Also Read
- Hope School District School Crosswalk Safety Project Begins Wednesday
- CAL FIRE Announces $10 Million In Available Funding for Tribal-Led Wildfire Resilience and Restoration Projects
- Oil Pipeline Owner Asks Trump Officials to Seize Miles of California Park, Other Land
- County Restores 15 Health Department Positions Following State’s Adopted Budget
- Santa Barbara County Asks Residents to Help Verify an AI-Generated Bike Map
Good. Let’s start taking better care of the other living things that share paradise with us.
Seeing the path of fence posts in the Ellwood area this morning (from Sandpiper all the way over to the main grove), I hope they’re accounting for the animals that still need easy access through the fence line!