Proposals Invited — Public Mural at Ensen Park
Last summer, Ensen Community Park came alive in a vibrant celebration of community spirit and partnership. More than 1,500 neighbors, partners, community leaders, and friends gathered for the grand opening of a new 6-acre neighborhood park in Salinas—an event that marked the transformation of a long-held vision into a tangible reality.
Ensen Community Park isn’t just a beautiful, urban green space with places to walk, play, and gather, it’s a shining example of what can be achieved through meaningful engagement. Residents, leaders, and families shaped every step of this special project. Since 2017, more than 7,000 voices contributed ideas and feedback to the planning and design to ensure the park reflects and properly serves our diverse community in Salinas.
Now, with the restoration of the adjacent 67-acres of wetlands and open space underway, we are thrilled to have just launched a creative RFP inviting local artists to help tell this evolving story of transformation. Big Sur Land Trust and the City of Salinas invite proposals for a new public mural at Ensen Community Park that will celebrate the spirit of Salinas. Artists are encouraged to submit proposals that showcase themes of healthy ecosystems, the city’s Indigenous heritage, agricultural roots, native flora and fauna, and the power of community stewardship.
We invite you to learn more and share this special opportunity. And if you have not yet spent time at Ensen Community Park, please sign up to volunteer as part of our wetlands restoration project or consider attending the in-person Mural Project information session on Friday, January 30 at 12:30pm. Proposals will be accepted now until Wednesday, February 11.
Here’s to 2026! We look forward to seeing you outside.
Jeannette Tuitele-Lewis
President/CEO
Big Sur Land Trust
Race for Open Space — Registration Open
It’s resolution season! If you kicked off the New Year with the goal of moving your body and feeling healthier, why not experience the wonders of nature at the same time? Sign up for our annual Race for Open Space and take the first step in accomplishing your 2026 goals!
The 2026 Race for Open Space will be on Saturday, May 9 in and around Palo Corona Regional Park’s backcountry with five courses: 1mi, 5k, 12k, 25k, and 35k+. You’ll not only benefit from moving on the lands you love, but you’ll also be supporting our mission of land conservation and resilience.
Upcoming Events & Volunteer Opportunities
Trail Work at Mitteldorf
Wednesday, January 28
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Mitteldorf Preserve, Carmel Valley
Join BSLT as we clear trails and remove invasive plants at Mitteldorf Preserve. We’ll walk the lower sections of the preserve, clearing the trails of debris and pulling any invasive species that we can identify. This vital work keeps the trails clear for hikers, provides safe vehicle access, and acts as important fire mitigation. Register >>