The City of Redlands’ open space preservation program began in the 1960’s when it acquired several citrus groves using federal grants and money donated by its residents. Additional groves were acquired through the years,bringing the city’s total to 16 citrus groves over 209 acres.

Revenue received from the fruit harvested is used to continue the ongoing care of the trees. In the 2010-2011 fiscal year, the city harvested about 118,200 pounds of oranges and 3,648 field boxes of grapefruit, producing $112,428 in revenue. With nearly 21,000 trees, the groves produce 543 tons of oxygen each year.