What it does
Land trust of santa cruz county (the organization) was incorporated in california as a not-for-profit corporation in 1978. The mission of the organization is to protect, care for, and connect all people to the vibrant natural and working lands that are essential for our community and nature to thrive together for generations to come. Vision the organization sees a future in which the amazing diversity of lands that define and connect its work to the santa cruz county region the wild and working forests, the globally unique wildlife habitats, the coastal landscape, and its rich farming and ranching heritage are cared for and preserved forever.
Land protection: guided by its strategic plan and conservation blueprint, the organization works with willing landowners to permanently protect lands with significant conservation value and habitat connetivity. The organization protects working lands (famrs, forests, and grazing lands) and natural lands. The organization acquires land through fee simple purchase (which may include a bargain sale), donation and purchases or receives donations of development rights through a conservation easement.
Public access/education: the organization provides recreational and educational opportunities to the public. The organization provides public access on six properties, educates the greater community on local ecology and conservation strategies, and builds and maintains 29 miles of trails. The organization is currently developing a community harvest amenity on its 500-acre farm.
Land stewardship: the organization stewards its 5,500 acres of fee title conservation lands by implementinghabitat protection and restoration projects, and undertakes species monitoring, grazing, forest management, and research. Annual management plans guide the work to support the conservation values of the lands. The organization holds 45 conservation easements protecting 5,100 acres. Using a baseline report as a benchmark, the organization monitors the values of the easements and ensures compliance with the permanent protection goals.
Leadership
Sarah NewkirkExecutive Dir.
Teresa MaloneDeputy Director
Bryan LargayConservation Dir.
Eric LombardoExternal Affairs
Laura DannehlEngatement Dir.