Conservation Efforts — Sonoma Land Trust

For the land, together

The land is the heart of our community, and we recognize the immense responsibility bestowed upon us to take care of Sonoma County’s landscapes. Sonoma Land Trust conserves and stewards tens of thousands of acres, partners with communities to expand access to nature, and prioritizes our flora and fauna to keep natural systems healthy and resilient for a changing climate. This work is rooted in the belief that the health of our communities depends on the health of the natural world.

Our Mission

WAYS WE PROTECT THE LAND

A group of hikers amid lush greenery and trees in the Monte Rio Redwoods Forest.

Land Conservation

Nestled within one of the world’s five Mediterranean-type climate regions, Sonoma County is part of the California Floristic Province—a global biodiversity hotspot where rugged coastlines, redwood forests, and inland valleys support an extraordinary concentration of life. Land conservation here is vital to protecting these rare habitats and ensuring the species that define this region continue to thrive for generations to come.

Land Stewardship

Our experienced staff and partners use cutting-edge scientific methods to develop innovative strategies that help us manage and heal our treasured landscapes. This includes stewardship like restoring tidal wetlands, managing wildfire, planting native trees and shrubs along our creeks and streams, and removing wildlife connectivity barriers. This is in addition to keeping our buildings and roads in good repair, managing vegetation to reduce the risk of wildfire, and controlling invasive weeds.

Environmental Advocacy

Through active participation in local, state, and federal policy, we give nature a voice in the decisions that shape our future. Working together with partners, communities, and coalitions, we advocate for funding and legislation that make natural systems, biodiversity, and climate resilience core considerations—not afterthoughts. By bringing nature into the decision-making room, we help shape policies and funding decisions that prioritize nature and secure equitable access for all.

Community Engagement

Sonoma Land Trust engages people from all backgrounds to explore, learn about, and care for the land. Through bilingual outings, internships, volunteer opportunities, youth programs, educational events, and community partnerships, we are dedicated to making nature accessible and meaningful for everyone. Our engagement programs build agency—the knowledge, motivation, and ability to act for conservation—ensuring that everyone can play a role in protecting Sonoma County’s lands and waters.

Wildlife Preservation

Wildlife and ecosystems are the foundation of all life—the essential players that keep our shared home functioning. Protecting them isn’t just about saving individual species; it’s about preserving the whole living system that makes Earth habitable. This work is not optional—it’s necessary for the health and wellbeing of people, nature, and communities alike.

Climate Resilience

Sonoma Land Trust is responding to the urgent linked crises of biodiversity loss and climate change by protecting, restoring, and strengthening the natural systems that sustain life in Sonoma County. Through strategic land conservation and innovative stewardship programs, we are adapting our landscape to fire threats, sea-level rise, and drought, while also improving habitat connectivity for fish and wildlife. These nature-based solutions are grounded in science, and implemented and funded through a growing partnership with state, tribal, and local governments committed to making California a world leader in building greater climate resilience for our communities.

POWERING PROGRESS

Since 1976, Sonoma Land Trust has protected more than 63,000 acres, restored vital habitats, and expanded access to nature by working closely with our local community. From ambitious land acquisitions to pioneering climate resilience projects, we are building a healthier, more connected future for everyone.

Our Impact