Lake Los Carneros is a significant open space in Goleta, providing essential habitat for wildlife and a valued recreational area for the community. Since the City of Goleta assumed management of the 140-acre area in 2002, trail use has increased, but a lack of planning and maintenance has led to challenges that need to be addressed to ensure long-term sustainability.
The Trails Council’s report outlines key issues and recommendations for improving the trail system while preserving the park’s natural resources. Over time, trails have developed without a clear design strategy, leading to inconsistent widths, erosion concerns, and inadequate maintenance. The primary maintenance effort—brushing trails once or twice a year—has contributed to trails widening unintentionally. Additionally, many trails have eroded below grade, causing water to collect and worsening gullying over time.
To address these concerns, the report recommends:
- Establishing clear guidelines for trail classification and maintenance
- Closing non-conforming trails and incorporating necessary informal trails into the official network
- Implementing erosion control strategies such as trailside planting, minor reroutes, and soil stabilization
- Considering accessibility improvements to paved roads and trails
By systematically managing and restoring the trails, Lake Los Carneros can continue to serve as a recreational resource while protecting its ecological integrity.
Download the full 16-page report here: Report