SACRAMENTO – Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed into law a bill authored by First District Assemblymember Wesley Chesbro (D-North Coast) that gives open space and parks districts more tools to preserve and protect rural lands.

“AB 1962 allows landowners to voluntarily convey land directly to open space and parks districts,” Chesbro said.

“Previously, if landowners wanted to donate property or an easement for a trail or other conservation purpose, they first had to go to a city or county to seek approval,” Chesbro explained. “Because open space districts are also local government agencies, this law gives open space districts the approval authority. This law makes it more efficient to expand open space, build trails and accomplish other land conservation goals.”

The Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District sponsored AB 1962. The new law will allow the district to work out planning, financing and other regulatory requirements before taking on the responsibilities of ownership of offered land.

The law does not remove the authority of local governments to determine whether the proposed uses conform to local general plans.

“This legislation streamlines our land conservation efforts,” said Bill Keene, general manager of the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District. “It allows us to focus our resources on protecting natural areas of Sonoma County, connecting people to those lands, and preserving dwindling local government resources. We thank Assemblymember Chesbro and Gov. Schwarzenegger for promptly enacting this key legislation.”

"This bill enables regional park and open space districts to carry out the core mission of developing conservation projects of benefit to local communities efficiently and effectively,“ added Darla Guenzler, executive director of the California Council of Land Trusts, a co-sponsor of the bill.