Happy Earth Day, more Earth preserved in the East Bay

Just in time for Earth Day, the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors recently authorized two purchases that will expand Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Eastern Contra Costa County to more than 7,000 acres.

The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, a partner to the Parks District, considers the new land a high priority for protection due to its significant habitat for protected species, including the the Alameda whipsnake.

Ultimately a network of trails will connect Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve to Mt. Diablo State Park.

The East Bay Regional Park District is also a partner in the “Healthy Parks Healthy People” initiative, a growing international movement that recently launched in the United States with a conference in the Golden Gate National Parks.

With roots in Australia, the Healthy Parks Healthy People initiative is gaining momentum globally. A growing body of research shows the benefits of promoting active lifestyles in the outdoors and opportunities to connect with nature – for both individual and community health. Healthy Parks Healthy People Central serves as an online portal to the latest international research, innovations and programs that focus on the health benefits of human contact with the natural world.

The East Bay Regional Parks District will celebrate Healthy Parks Healthy People with a kickoff event on June 11, 2011 at Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area in Fremont.