The 347,000 acres of public and quasi-public lands already set aside as habitat are at the heart of the conservation efforts in this region, with tens of thousands of acres designated as habitat reserves.
The Box Spring reserve is located on a steep and rugged granitic slope near the top of Box Springs Mountain, in a transitional zone between Coastal Sage Scrub and Chamise Chaparral, and features a cold spring that gives rise to freshwater seeps and an intermittent stream, supporting a rich variety of wildlife.
The Emerson Oaks Reserve features a variety of habitats, including Oak Woodlands and Coastal Sage Scrub on the lower and gentler slopes, and Oak Trees and dense stands of Chaparral on the higher and more rugged elevations, supporting a wide range of wildlife.
The French Valley Wildlife Area is a 702-acre protected area featuring a mix of Coastal Sage Scrub, Southern Willow Scrub, Grasslands, Eucalyptus woodlands, and prior dry-land farming agricultural lands, providing a unique habitat for a variety of species.
The Hidden Valley Wildlife Area offers 25 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, a Nature Center, and opportunities to view migratory bird species, flora, and fauna, as well as aquatic life, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.