The City of Vacaville has been awarded a $100,000 grant by California State Parks as part of its commitment to supporting environmental conservation initiatives statewide through the California Habitat Conservation Fund Grant Program.  The Peña Adobe Historical Society’s support was instrumental in conveying the need for the Peña Adobe Park Pond Restoration Project.

Funded by the California Wildlife Protection Act of 1990 (Proposition 117), the City of Vacaville was awarded the grant for the restoration of the Peña Adobe Park Pond which includes enhancement of the lining, filtration, and aeration of the pond, enhancing the vegetation, improving the wildlife habitat, and creating access to the pond. 

The California State Parks’ Office of Grant and Local Services (OGALS) conducted a competitive review process and selected 12 counties to receive grants for 19 projects.  The Peña Adobe Historical Society played an integral role in the application process, providing information and historical context regarding the native flora and fauna of the area.  The pond has been relatively dry since 2017 when fluctuating rainfall patterns resulted in diminished water levels.

The return of this water feature will make a great compliment to the adjacent Willis Linn Jepson California Native Plant Garden, and the wet riparian woodland habitat from the nearby Malaca Creek.  The Peña Adobe Historical Society is proud to serve as the lead non-profit partner with the City of Vacaville for this Habitat Conservation Fund Wetlands Grant for the Peña Adobe Pond Restoration Project.  This project will offer ecological benefits to plants and animals who frequent the area when the pond is full and recreational benefits to all park visitors.