Title
Consider recommending that the Parks Commission:
a. Name two unnamed trails in Jacks Peak Regional Park: 1) Margaret Bates Trail; and 2) Talcott Bates Trail, in recognition of their efforts to secure the land establishing the Park;
b. Direct staff to update the Jacks Peak Trails Maps to include the two newly named trails; and
c. Approve the replacement of the wooden sign that has deteriorated with a boulder and brass plaque to be placed at the existing Talcott Bates Grove and Picnic Area.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Parks Commission:
a. Name two unnamed trails in Jacks Peak Regional Park: 1) Margaret Bates Trail; and 2) Talcott Bates Trail, in recognition of their efforts to secure the land establishing the Park;
b. Direct staff to update the Jacks Peak Trails Maps to include the two newly named trails; and
c. Approve the replacement of the wooden sign that has deteriorated with a boulder and brass plaque to be placed at the existing Talcott Bates Grove and Picnic Area.
SUMMARY:
In 1964 Talcott and Margaret Bates acquired 55-acres of land with the intent of preserving one of only three remaining native stands of the Monterey Pines known to exist. The stand of pines are a part of the Monterey Pine Forest, which is the largest intact contiguous stand of native Monterey Pine Forest habitat in the world and the Bates' vision was to make sure that this unique land and its resources were preserved and made available to all who visit.
To recognize and acknowledge the Bates Family's efforts, the County Board of Supervisors dedicated the Talcott Bates Grove and Picnic Area in Jacks Peak Park in September of 1986 (Attachment A). A small wooden sign was placed at the picnic area, and a larger boulder with brass plaque is located at an observation area off a trail on the way up to the peak. The observation area provides distant views of the Monterey peninsula and beyond and has an interpretive panel that describes the local area in additio...
Click here for full text