Formed in 1972 by voter initiative, it has acquired and preserved a regional green belt of open space land and provides opportunities for ecologically-sensitive public enjoyment and education.
[citation needed] Of the district's 26 preserves, 24 are open to the public free of charge, 365 days a year from dawn until one-half hour after sunset.
The district's tax and voter base consists of about 550 square miles (1,400 km2) and 741,000 people, mostly in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.
[citation needed] Its stated mission is: To acquire and preserve a regional greenbelt of open space land in perpetuity; protect and restore the natural environment; and provide opportunities for ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education.
They wear tan and green uniforms; the badge is a gold metal seven-point star with an enameled California state seal in the center.