STORIES FROM THE WILDLANDS CONSERVANCY
Redwoods in Spring: Guardians of a Thriving Ecosystem
As spring breathes new life into the Sonoma Coast, the redwood forests awaken in a truly magical way. These towering trees, bathed in soft sunlight, create an inspiring backdrop for reflection and connection to nature. But redwoods aren’t just awe-inspiring — they’re also vital to one of Earth’s most diverse ecosystems. Continue reading to discover how redwoods support an array of life and help maintain the health of our environment.
Connecting People to Northern California’s Wildlands: Conservation and Access Updates
There’s no greater joy than stepping into the wild, where nature’s beauty and tranquility can be felt in every breath. From the towering redwoods to the rugged coastlines, our preserves offer a sanctuary for both people and wildlife alike. We’re passionate about making these natural treasures accessible to all, and our work across the Northern California is a testament to that commitment. Whether it’s improving wildlife habitats, advancing exciting new trails, or developing plans for public access, we’re thrilled to share the latest updates from our ongoing conservation efforts.
Meet Carlos: The New Ranger at Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve
Carlos Santana grew up in Moreno Valley, California, where he spent his weekends exploring the trails and mountains around Lake Perris with family and friends. Read about his journey into a career focused on preserving the environment and protecting natural resources.
The Wildlands Conservancy Launches New Oak Woodland Venue
The Wildlands Conservancy has launched the Experimental Oak Woodland venue at the Southern California Montane Botanic Garden in Oak Glen, a vital initiative aimed at restoring native oak populations impacted by climate change and invasive species like the goldspotted oak borer.
Saving the Mojave: A Journey of Love, Resilience, and Conservation
Stretching out beneath an endless sky, the Mojave Desert offers more than just a barren landscape — it’s a place of profound beauty, silence, and resilience. It’s a land that fosters introspection and where native species such as the desert tortoise and bighorn sheep exist in a delicate ecosystem. In an act of environmental heroism, out of a love for wilderness and its beauty, The Wildlands Conservancy stepped forward to protect this precious expanse.
Celebrating 30 Years of Protection: The California Desert Protection Act and The Wildlands Conservancy’s Enduring Legacy
As October 31, 2024 approaches, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of a monumental moment in the history of conservation: the signing of the California Desert Protection Act (CDPA) of 1994. This landmark bill, authored by the late U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, not only introduced safeguards for vast expanses of the California desert, but also shaped the trajectory of environmental advocacy across the state. For The Wildlands Conservancy, the CDPA was more than just a legal victory — it was the foundation upon which decades of conservation efforts have been built. As a leading advocate for desert protection, Wildlands plays an instrumental role in ensuring that the Mojave Desert, along with other crucial ecosystems, remain a sanctuary for future generations.
Putting the Wild Back in Wild Lands
While the term “rewilding” is growing in popularity, it’s not a novel concept at The Wildlands Conservancy. Our latest success is unfolding at Bluff Lake Reserve where we’ve reintroduced two critically endangered species, the unarmored three-spine stickelback and the mountain yellow-legged frog, revitalizing the hope of a future for these creatures.
Tule Elk at Wind Wolves Preserve
Tule elk are one of three subspecies of elk found in California, and are the smallest of all elk species in North America. In 1998, The Wildlands Conservancy coordinated with the California Department of Fish and Game to relocate tule elk to Wind Wolves Preserve.
Continue reading to learn more about what how The Wildlands Conservancy has successfully reintroduced this majestic species.