2020s

A conservation easement protects the largest remaining undeveloped properties along the middle Russian River, with nearly three miles of river frontage, vital wildlife habitat, groundwater recharge, and an important wildlife corridor connecting Fitch Mountain to the Mayacamas. The ranch remains privately owned and continues its legacy of sustainable grazing agriculture.

A Force for Nature campaign launched

During the campaign SLT completed 14 land acquisition projects, comprising 8 ,700 acres, offered environmental educational programming to 4,420 students, played a pivotal role in supporting the development of three urban parks, and advanced restoration projects in the Baylands. SLT also made significant progress using “good fire” on the land, and completed 900 acres of shaded fuel brakes and saved a wildlife corridor spanning 85 miles.

Sonoma Mountain Vernal Pools acquired

Sixteen percent of all plant species in Sonoma County, including four rare species, can be found on this biodiverse preserve, which also helps conserve a significant portion of an important wildlife corridor.

McCormick Ranch acquired, 654 acres

The purchase of the ranch was a landmark conservation achievement for the Bay Area, protecting a cornerstone for biodiversity, fresh water, and wildlife, while building fire resilience and connecting people to nature.

Monte Rio Redwoods expansion

This acquisition linked a contiguous protected area of more than 22,000 acres of forest, wildlife corridors, watershed, and parkland from the Sonoma coast inland to the Bohemian Highway and north to Jenner Headlands. It also safeguarded the headwaters of three key Russian River tributaries, ensuring clean water for local communities and promoting growth of species like coho salmon and steelhead trout. This property features historic redwood forests, mixed with Douglas-fir, tanoak and California bay.