Black Diamond Mines Park Expands

Black Diamond Mines Preserve just got a little bit bigger.

To be exact, it's 798 acres bigger after the East Bay Regional Park District board of directors approved a land purchase last month.

This makes Black Diamond Mines Regional Park the third largest park in the system, totaling 6,173 acres.

The property sold for just under $3 million and came from the heirs of Maxine Barron, longtime owner.

Isa Polt-Jones, acting public information supervisor of East Bay Regional Park District, wrote in a press release that “the acquisition is being completed in partnership with the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, which designated the property a high priority for acquisition and protection due to its significant habitat for protected species.”

The new trails connect Black Diamond Mines to the district’s Clayton Ranch property, and hikers now have the opportunity to enjoy wildlife including coyotes, snakes, mountain lions, bobcats, foxes and deer.

“There are over 100 species of birds, from the rare golden eagle to the ever-present meadowlark,” Polt-Jones said. “The public may get involved by participating in a nature program presented by park district naturalists or by volunteering for wildlife restoration projects.”

Safety though, is always important and Polt-Jones suggests following basic guidelines.

“Bring plenty of drinking water, plan for the weather and know your abilities,” she said. “Plan your hike so that you will be finished in plenty of time before sundown. Hike with a friend and let someone back home know where you'll be, how to reach you and when you expect to be back. A flashlight and a cell phone are other good tools to have.”

Not only does this added space mean wildlife protection and conservation, it also translates into more amazing and beautiful hiking trails with its moderate to steep sloping hills, with two canyons: Oil Canyon on its north side and Irish Canyon along the southwest.

Nancy Wenninger, assistant general manager for land acquisition, said it’s one of the most beautiful properties she’s been privileged to purchase for the district.

The purchase became official recently, but it might be a while before hikers can head off on new adventures.

“We understand that local residents will be eager to explore the property. The new acquisition must first be integrated into the land use plan for Black Diamond Mines Regional Park,” Polt-Jones said. “We'll let the public know when that process is complete.”

Board of directors member Ted Radke is happy to finally see this acquisition come to fruition.

“It’s a major link from Black Diamond to Clayton Ranch,” he said. “We’ve been trying to create this wildlife corridor for a long time. In addition to being a wonderful acquisition, it’s also one of the most scenic spots, with spectacular views.”

The East Bay Regional Park District consists of more than 108,000 acres throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties. The park district owns the majority of the 65 parks in the system.