California is home to a robust agricultural industry valued at over $60 billion.
With approximately 62,500 farms operating across nearly 24 million acres in the state, agriculture plays a vital role in California’s economy.
The agricultural sector contributes significantly to California’s impressive $4.1 trillion gross domestic product, positioning the state among the world’s largest economies, comparable to nations like Japan and Germany.
Among the leading sectors within California’s agriculture are dairy and cattle farming, which are pivotal in producing a variety of dairy and beef products for local and national markets.
Reflecting on California’s ranching tradition, the new Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument highlights this heritage while incorporating advanced technology for its management.
Located in Santa Cruz County, this recently established national park site aims to enhance the visitor experience through state-of-the-art features, such as GPS-powered virtual fencing for grazing cattle.
Set to be officially opened for a public guided preview on August 15, 2025, Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument is poised to attract numerous visitors eager to explore its scenic landscapes and learn about its agricultural significance.
The park utilizes innovative collars equipped with Global Positioning System technology developed by Halter, a New Zealand-based company.
These collars, lightweight and powered by solar energy, allow park authorities to monitor cattle movements closely.
When these animals venture outside their designated areas, the collars provide vibrations and auditory signals to guide them back, ensuring effective management without the need for traditional barbed wire fencing.
Zachary Ormsby, Central Coast field manager for the Bureau of Land Management, emphasizes the importance of this technology for visitor safety and animal welfare, stating, “Keeping the cows off the trails is an obvious thing. … You don’t want to be messing around with a 1,500-pound, four-legged animal.”
This advanced approach not only minimizes potential hazards for visitors but also protects native wildlife that roams freely throughout the park.
Unlike other national parks, such as Yellowstone, where visitors have encountered issues with wildlife interaction, Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument prioritizes the well-being of its livestock while providing a safe environment for guests.
Once open for general use on August 16, the monument will feature 5,800 acres of untouched natural beauty and 27 miles of hiking trails, nine of which will be accessible to the public from the opening day.
Visitors can expect breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast, far removed from commercialization and tourist crowds usually found in nearby Santa Cruz.
The park’s initial opening will allow public access to only the northernmost portions, with staff continuing preparations for wider public engagement.
Conveniently located a 10- to 15-minute drive from Santa Cruz, Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument offers an easy-to-reach destination suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities.
However, prospective park-goers should be aware of the limited facilities available on-site and should plan accordingly, bringing necessary supplies and removing any waste upon leaving the park.
Outdoor activities permitted at the monument include hiking, biking, and horseback riding with appropriate permits, all designed to minimize disturbances to the wildlife and livestock.
Given the area’s susceptibility to wildfires, campfires, fireworks, and other incendiary devices are strictly prohibited to ensure safety.
Open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset, the park is likely to see increased traffic during its initial days, so guests should prepare for potential delays or lines due to the singular access route (CA Rt. 1) leading to Santa Cruz.
The history of Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument is deeply rooted in the area’s indigenous heritage.
The land has been inhabited by the Cotoni Tribe long before European explorers arrived and forever altered its landscape during the 16th century.
Following California’s admission as the 31st state on September 5, 1850, the region transitioned through various agricultural phases, ultimately establishing itself as a dairy farming hub by the 1860s, thanks to the influence of Swiss immigrants.
In recent years, efforts by the Bureau of Land Management have included collaboration with local tribes to develop educational materials, ensuring that the monument not only protects California’s environmental beauty but also honors its historical narratives.
With its official opening slated for August 15 and 16, 2025, Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument promises to deliver a blend of natural wonder, agricultural heritage, and cutting-edge management practices, allowing visitors to experience the essence of California’s spirit and connection to the land.
Through its combination of technological innovation and respect for history and nature, the monument strives to provide a unique outdoor experience while ensuring the coexistence of livestock and visitors.
image source from：thetravel
