Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Early 2023 began a 3 to 5 year period for cleanup and planning processes, including:

1. Full oil remediation and cleanup. This is funded and implemented by Aera Energy LLC, the former titleholder. Some initial habitat restoration work to remedy Coastal Act violations is also underway.

2. Preserve Planning (Concurrent with oil remediation). Research, surveys, and planning for future ecological restoration, climate resilience, public access, and cultural resource protection.

3. Plan implementation.

4. Randall Preserve opens to the public.

While the details will follow based on the findings from the plant, animal, and cultural surveys, we anticipate activities to include:

• Some low-impact recreational trails (with some epic ocean and mountain views!).

• Interpretive signs related to ecological and tribal history.

• Accessibility features and multi-lingual opportunities.

• Education and interpretive programs would also likely be developed.

Activities are to be determined as a part of the community engagement process. To learn more about the limits and opportunities, check out the Allowed Uses.

Once the oil remediation is complete and the plans are adopted, public access can begin shortly after.

Yes, please see our Glossary of Terms related to the Randall Preserve planning process.

Banning Ranch is now called the Randall Preserve, in honor of Frank and Joann Randall who donated $50 million to kick off the fundraising effort to reach the $97 million purchase price. The name Randall Preserve will be appended in the future to include tribal recognition of Native Peoples who are culturally affiliated with the land.

When people hear the terms “park” and “preserve,” they may envision natural spaces for recreation or conservation. While both serve as essential areas for public enjoyment and environmental stewardship, their purposes and management strategies differ. That said, humans are part of both parks and preserves.

Parks are designed primarily for active recreation and public use. Think of Mile Square Park, Edison Park, or Lions Park. These areas often feature high impact amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and active use areas for organized outdoor sports. Parks are typically managed by local or regional agencies to accommodate visitors while maintaining a moderate level of environmental protection.

Preserves, on the other hand, focus more on conserving natural habitats and protecting biodiversity while allowing passive human activities. Examples include Upper Newport Bay Park and Preserve, the Randall Preserve, and Pacific Horizon Preserve. Activities are often more restrictive to minimize human impact, safeguarding ecosystems, endangered species, and culturally sensitive areas. There is a focus on more passive activities such as hiking or birdwatching, but even these are carefully managed to ensure appropriate locations for these uses.

In December 2022, 387 acres of the 401 acre Banning Ranch closed escrow and was permanently protected after 80 years of oil operations and plans to develop housing, shopping, a resort, and roads. This fills the last, largest missing piece of 1,000+ acres of protected lands and waters in the Santa Ana River estuary!

Title is held by a local Joint Powers Authority (JPA) called the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA). Learn about this project partner.

While the property is being remediated, this responsibility belongs to Aera Energy LLC. The company must provide brush clearance and meet local and county fire regulations as the State has designated the land as a “Local Responsibility Area.” Due dates for this are provided by the City of Newport Beach and are subject to change. Usually fuel reduction is required twice a year.

No, CEQA is not required to complete any of the Plans because they are Categorically Exempt from the via Section 15306 – Class 6 – Information Collection. When the restoration and climate resilience alternative(s) are selected and move forward toward implementation, MRCA will seek appropriate environmental clearance.