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Open Edge Preserve reports strong attendance, volunteer support and announces leadership change
Summary
Open Edge Preserve staff told the Town of Oakland commission they estimate 30,000'40,000 annual visitors, more than 2,000 student visits, 6,000 volunteer hours, a 10,000+ Facebook following, and announced Nicole O'Brien will step into a leadership role; the preserve seeks funding for a new education area and noted event parking challenges.
Jennifer, a representative of the Open Edge Preserve, briefed the Town of Oakland commission on the preserve's activities, volunteer contributions and operational challenges.
Jennifer said the preserve now uses an electronic group check-in system and estimated annual visitor numbers between 30,000 and 40,000, though she cautioned exact figures are not available because of recent changes in tracking. She detailed education programming: the preserve hosted 873 Montessori education days this year, 499 students from Oakland Avenue Charter School, about 285 student days for expanded homeschool programs, and additional field trips, which together amounted to more than 2,000 student visits in the year.
Jennifer highlighted summer camps (six classes, 144 campers) and community events including Nature Fest (38 vendors), Firefly Nights (3,000 attendees across nights), and Pumpkin Glow (two nights, about 1,600 visitors). She said the preserve now has over 10,000 Facebook followers (an 11% increase) and about 3,200 Instagram followers, and that volunteers (189 individuals and 14 groups) contributed over 6,000 hours this year, which staff said helps secure grant funding.
Jennifer noted facility pressures: a nearby school purchase reduced shared outdoor space used for archery and overflow parking. The preserve has requested Orange County assistance to build out an education area at the Brianna Farm location, including a covered, accessible pavilion and expanded parking. She said event parking is a growing concern, citing Nature Fest as an example with an expected turnout of about 1,000 people.
Jennifer introduced Nicole O'Brien, who the preserve identified as stepping into a managing-director role. Nicole told the commission she has been the volunteer and animal-care coordinator for six years and is "very excited to be able to step into leadership" and continue the preserve's education and community programs.
Commissioners thanked preserve staff and volunteers and acknowledged the town's role in supporting operations.
No formal funding decision was made at the meeting; staff said the preserve has submitted a request to Orange County for assistance and will continue planning.
