Parks Guru Takes Director Job For Santa Clara County

GILROY, CA -- Santa Clara County announced the hiring of Don Rocha as the new director of the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department. Rocha, who has served as interim director since July 2018, joined the department as a park ranger three decades ago.

“Don has been a tremendous asset to our County Parks and Recreation Department for the past 30 years,” County Executive Jeffrey V. Smith said. “I am confident that under Don’s leadership we will continue efforts to make our Santa Clara County parks a premier parks system with a national reputation.”

As a deputy director, the Gilroy resident was responsible for park system operations and programs, including planning, construction, natural resource and trails, real estate, development and redevelopment of park properties, grants, and other functions. Prior to this role, Rocha was a program manager overseeing natural resources, along with roads and trails in which he worked on the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Plan.

During his tenure with the County, Rocha created the department’s first natural resource program. He created the department’s first trails program, focusing on the delicate balance between park preservation and resource allocation. He also helped to develop the 10-year capital project budget plan now integrated in the department’s operating budget.

Rocha is a member of the National Recreation and Parks Association, the Western Section of The Wildlife Society, California Invasive Plant Council, Society for Ecological Restoration and the California Native Plant Society.

Rocha, whose appointment was effective Nov. 6, replaces former Director Robb Courtney. He retired in June.

--Image courtesy of Santa Clara County