Difference between revisions of "Big Sur Land Trust (BSLT)"

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==Summary==
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This wiki page was created by students in the [[ENVS 560/L Watershed Systems]] class at [http://csumb.edu CSUMB].
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The [http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/about-us.htm Big Sur Land Trust] (BSLT) is a private non-profit located in the Monterey, California. The trust promotes conservation of land and water in the Central Coast of California and has protected approximately 40,000 acres of land as of 2016. <ref name="BSLT, Home Page">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/about-us.htm BSLT, Home Page] </ref>. The organization also manages ~17,000 acres <ref name="BSLT, FAQ">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/frequently-asked-questions.htm BSLT, FAQ] </ref> of conservation easements, and partners with land owners to maintain the natural resources and prevent development in perpetuity. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_trust land trust] envisions cooperative and mutually beneficial management of land resources that supports a vital community ,and natural environment. The land trust provides numerous benefits to the local community in the form of recreational space, educational opportunities, and hands on land stewardship. In addition, the BSLT has been a leader in the restoration of [Glen Deven Ranch] and influential in the progress of the [http://ccows.csumb.edu/wiki/index.php?title=Carmel_River_Floodplain_Restoration_and_Environmental_Enhancement_(Carmel_River_FREE)_Project&action=edit&redlink=1 Carmel River FREE Project].
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==Location==
 
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[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/ Big Sur Land Trust]  headquarters are located in central Monterey. Much of the property the organization manages is located within Monterey County <ref name="BSLT,Landscapes">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/about-us.htm BSLT, Landscapes] </ref>. Vierra Ranach and Rancho Colinas are the most northern properties located in the foothills of the Gabilan Mountains. Circle M Ranch is the southern limit of the BSLT propoerties and is located near Lucia,CA on the Big Sur Coast.
 
  
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==History==
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[[File:BSLT_Logo.PNG|400px|thumb|right| Big Sur Land Trust is a non-profit located in Monterey, CA. The trust promotes conservation of ecologically important lands and waters in [[Monterey County]].<ref name=" BSLT, Home Page"></ref>]]
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In 1978, the Big Sur Land Trust was formed by seven families who envisioned preservation of the pristine natural beauty of the central coast for benefit of future generations. <ref name="BSLT, Sam Farr Tribute">[http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?r113:E30SE3-0029:/, Sam Farr Tribute] </ref>. Nancy Hopkins, served as the trusts first president. She was succeeded by Zad Leavy who served as executive director for 25 years. <ref name="BSLT, Sam Farr Tribute">[http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?r113:E30SE3-0029:/, Sam Farr Tribute] </ref>. David Packard<ref name="BSLT, Sam Farr Tribute">[http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?r113:E30SE3-0029:/, Sam Farr Tribute] </ref> and several  others<ref name="Big Sur Gazette 1979">[http://www.bigsurgazette.com/issues/013_August_13-September_10_1979.pdf, Big Sur Gazette 1979] </ref> helped the land trust purchase the first property. Purchase of Circle M Ranch,a 3,000 acre ranch located south of the Big Creek Reserve, was a pioneering example of the successful collaboration of community members to protect and preserve natural resources from development.
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=Summary =
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The [http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/about-us.htm Big Sur Land Trust] (BSLT) is a private non-profit located in Monterey, California. The trust conserves land in [[California's Central Coast Region]] for the benefit of people and the environment. BSLT protected  40,000 acres of land as of 2016 and manages ~17,000 acres of [[conservation easements]]. <ref name="BSLT, Home Page">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/about-us.htm BSLT, Home Page] </ref> <ref name="BSLT, FAQ">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/frequently-asked-questions.htm BSLT, FAQ] </ref> It also partners with land owners to maintain natural resources and prevent development in perpetuity. The organization envisions cooperative and mutually beneficial management of land resources that supports communities and improves the environment. BSLT benefits local communities by providing open space for recreation, educational opportunities, and hands-on land stewardship.
  
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==Founders==
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=Location=
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The 1978 founding members of the Big Sur Land Trust include:
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[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/ Big Sur Land Trust] headquarters are located in Monterey, California. The organization manages properties within [[Monterey County]].  Circle M Ranch near Lucia, CA is the most southern property and Vierra Ranch and Rancho Colinas in the foothills of the [[Gabilan Mountains]] are the most northern properties. <ref name="BSLT,Landscapes">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/about-us.htm BSLT, Landscapes] </ref>
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*Zad and Laela Leavy
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*Sherna and Kipp Stewart
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*Roger and Beverly Newell
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*Nancy Hopkins
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*Lloyd and Pat Addleman
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*Martin and Suzanne Forster
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*Peter Harding
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Founders envisioned the conservation of the landscape and cultural heritage unique to Big Sur and the California central coast for the benefit of future generation.
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=History & Founders=
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In 1978, the Big Sur Land Trust was formed by seven families who envisioned preserving the iconic Big Sur landscape for the benefit of future generations. <ref name="BSLT, Sam Farr Tribute">[http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?r113:E30SE3-0029:/, Sam Farr Tribute] </ref> Nancy Hopkins was BSLT's first president. She was succeeded by Zad Leavy who served as executive director for 25 years. <ref name="BSLT, Sam Farr Tribute">[http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?r113:E30SE3-0029:/, Sam Farr Tribute] </ref> David Packard <ref name="BSLT, Sam Farr Tribute">[http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?r113:E30SE3-0029:/, Sam Farr Tribute] </ref>  and several  others <ref name="Big Sur Gazette 1979">[https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwje3JHhmfHLAhUouoMKHXtfAFsQFggcMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bigsurgazette.com%2Fissues%2F013_August_13-September_10_1979.pdf&usg=AFQjCNEh0QxWFPWChJOOQiCam5WwybP-9A&sig2=OYrmNDYDJoorycJqbZ4u0A, Big Sur Gazette 1979] </ref> helped the land trust purchase its first property, a 3,000 acre ranch located south of Big Creek Reserve.
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=Mission & Organization Structure=
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Big Sur Land Trust connects local communities to the land and promotes conservation of landscapes unique to the California central coast such as coastal redwoods and grasslands, [[Oak Woodlands of California's Central Coast Region|oak woodlands]], and spawning locations for threatened [[steelhead]] trout. <ref name="BSLT, FAQ">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/frequently-asked-questions.htm BSLT, FAQ] </ref> BSLT achieves this mission by providing opportunities for citizens to engage with nature through land conservation and environmental education. <ref name="BSLT, FAQ"></ref> In 2013, BSLT developed summer nature camps to teach youth in Monterey County the value of natural spaces and inspire future generations of land stewards. <ref name="BSLT, FAQ">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/frequently-asked-questions.htm BSLT, FAQ] </ref>
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Prior to 2013, BSLT's mission was to conserve significant lands and waters of California's Central Coast and focus on purchasing property for conservation in perpetuity. However, due to economic constraints from increasing property values and decreasing public agency budgets, BSLT reprioritized their goals to make a broader impact. Elements of the new mission include developing nature camps and green landscape infrastructure such as parks and trails. <ref name="BSLT, 2013 New Mission">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/press-release-big-sur-land-trust-adopts-new-mission-statement-3.htm BSLT, 2013 New Mission] </ref>
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===Board of Trustees===
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As of 2015, The BSLT Board had 16 board members. The board includes 12 trustees and four administrators: board chair, co-chair, treasurer, and secretary. The board is supported by a 10 member advisory council. <ref name="BSLT, Trustees">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/board-of-trustees.htm BSLT, Trustees] </ref>
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===Funding===
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BSLT receives support through memberships, private donations, and public conservation funds. Recently, BSLT secured grants for the [[Big Sur Land Trust#Current Projects| Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement]] <ref name = "BSLT newsletter"> [http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/newsletter-carmel-river-free-28.htm Freeing the river to use its floodplain, BSLT newsletter]</ref> project and the [[Big Sur Land Trust#Current Projects| Carr Lake Project]]. <ref name="Coastal Conservancy Funding 2016">[http://scc.ca.gov/2016/01/19/coastal-conservancy-moves-forward-with-ecosystem-funding/ Coastal Conservancy Funding 2016]</ref>
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===Partnerships===
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As property values continue to rise in [[California's Central Coast Region]] partnerships are essential to BSLT's mission success. Principle partners include [[The Nature Conservancy (TNC)]], [[Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District]], and the [[California Natural Resources Agency]]. More information about other state, federal, and community partners can be found on the BSLT [http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/about-us.htm partnership page]<ref name="BSLT, Partners">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/about-us.htm BSLT, Partners] </ref>
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=Land Acquired and Managed=
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The Big Sur Land Trust uses three key strategies to promote land conservation and improve natural spaces:
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# Land Acquisitions: The purchase of land by the trust. BSLT obtains the property rights and can choose to retain the land in perpetuity or coordinate with another organization to transfer the property into a larger conserved area. 
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# Land Transfers: Land transfers are instances where BSLT acquired property and then sold or donated the land to another party with similar conservation interests. When lands are transferred it is agreed they will remain undeveloped. Typically transfers result in the incorporation of the property into a larger park.
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# [[Conservation Easement| Conservation Easements]]: An agreement between BSLT and private property owners to preserve land without transferring ownership. Property owners work with the trust to prevent development and conserve resources in perpetuity. <ref name="BSLT, Conservation Easements">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/conservation-easements.htm Conservation Easements]</ref>
  
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==Mission==
 
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==Board of Trustees==
 
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==Funding==
 
 
==Land Ownership==
 
==Land Ownership==
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==Summary of Previous Work==
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[[File:BSLT.PNG|400px|thumb|right|Conserved lands acquired or protected by agreements with the Big Sur Land Trust. In 2016, BSLT helped to conserve about 40,000 acres  in Central California. Imaged sourced from the [http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/landscapes.htm Big Sur Land Trust Landscapes] page.]]
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==Current Projects==
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==Partnerships==
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The table below summarizes major BSLT acquisitions. The information was complied using the landscape map available on the BSLT webpage and other sources. <ref name="BSLT, Landscapes">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/landscapes.htm BSLT, Landscapes]</ref>
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== References==
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{| border="1" class="wikitable"
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! scope="col"| Property Name
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! scope="col"| Estimated Acreage
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! scope="col"| Location
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! scope="col"| Year Acquired
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|-
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|Arroyo Seco Ranch||1,675|| Greenfield, CA|| 2007
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|-
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|Circle M Ranch||3,040|| Lucia, CA || 1978
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|-
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|Glen Deven Ranch||860|| Big Sur, CA || 2001
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|-
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|Marks Ranch||816 || Near Toro County Park (HWY 68)|| 2007
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|-
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|Mittledorf Preserve||1,057|| Santa Lucia Foothills|| 1990
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|}
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*'''[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/arroyo-seco-ranch.htm| Arroyo Seco Ranch:]''' A future site for environmental education and recreation programs. BSLT is coordinating a conservation grazing program to manage grassland resources responsibly. Unique and threatened species located on Arroyo Seco Ranch include the sycamore alluvial woodland forest, [[California Red-legged frog]], and [[steelhead| Steelhead Trout]]. The Arroyo Seco River runs through the property and has been prioritized for [[steelhead]] habitat restoration.
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*'''Circle M:''' First property purchased by BSLT in 1978.
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* '''[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/marks-ranch.htm| Glen Deven Ranch:]''' Located in the iconic Big Sur landscape and surrounded by central coast grasslands and woodlands. Many coastal perennial  rivers and wildlife habitats are protected on the property. The property is also hosts summer nature camps where youth learn about coastal ecosystems.
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*'''[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/marks-ranch.htm| Marks Ranch:]''' Once an egg farm and cattle ranch, now it serves as a gathering location for Salinas and Monterey Peninsula families to enjoy the outdoors. BSLT transferred much of the property to Monterey County to merge with Toro County Park. The trust continues to host recreational events on the Ranch and improve facilities on the property.
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*'''[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/mitteldorf-preserve.htm| Mitteldorf Preserve:]''' Located between Joshua Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve (south), Palo Corona Regional Park (north), and Santa Lucia Preserve (east). Mitteldorf conserves the largest redwood trees in Monterey County. It also protects madrone, [[Oak Woodlands of California's Central Coast Region|oak woodland]], coastal chaparral, and grassland habitats. Currently, BSLT is developing infrastructure for a nature camp and research program on the property.
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Other BSLT properties include:
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*'''Canavarro'''
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*'''Carmel Point'''
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*'''Carmel River Songbird Preserve'''
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*'''Curtis'''
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*'''Kopp'''
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*'''Gelbart'''
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*'''Glen'''
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*'''Mission Trails'''
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*'''Murphy'''
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*'''Notley's Landing'''
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*'''Odello East'''
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*'''Owens'''
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*'''Tor House'''
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==Conservation Easements==  
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BSLT protects lands through numerous partnerships and [[Conservation Easement|conservation easements]]. Easements ensure the protection of resources found on allocated properties and prohibit land development in perpetuity. BSLT and land owners agree donated lands will be managed under terms reflective of the conservation values and intentions of both parties.
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{| border=""
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! style="background-color: Silver;" colspan = "4" | Easements
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|-
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! scope="col" style="border:1px solid white"| Name
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! scope="col" style="border:1px solid white"| Acreage
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|-
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|Addleman|| 285 <ref name = "BSLT, newsletter 2007"></ref>
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|-
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|Dorrance|| 4,300 <ref name="Monterey Herald 2008"></ref>
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|-
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|Harkins||
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|-
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|Horse Pasture|| 160 <ref name = "BSLT, newsletter 2007"></ref>
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|-
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|Mule Creek Canyon||
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|-
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|Patterson St. Lucia||
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|-
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|Patterson Mayor||
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|-
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|Patterson Lime Creek||
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|-
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|Rancho Colinas|| 1,110 <ref name="BSLT, Vierra Ranch"></ref>
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|-
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|Vierra Ranch|| 965 <ref name="BSLT, Vierra Ranch">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/press-release-big-sur-land-trust-acquires-conservation-easement-on-vierra-ranch-16.htm BSLT, Vierra Ranch] </ref>
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|-
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|Violini|| 3,200 <ref name="Monterey Herald 2008">[http://www.montereyherald.com/article/ZZ/20080312/NEWS/803129962 Monterey Herald 2008] </ref>
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|}
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==Land Transfers==
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BSLT collaborates with state and regional agencies and other conservation partners to preserve larger extents. Many lands purchased or donated to BSLT are transferred to regional park districts or federal land management agencies. Land transfers help expand habitat for wildlife and native plant populations within watersheds. Listed below are some lands BSLT helped conserve through land transfers and key habitats or resources they protected. Transfer names indicate the park or property the lands were incorporated into.
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{| border=""
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! style="background-color: Silver;" colspan = "6" | Land Transfers
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|-
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! scope="col" style="border:1px solid white"| Transfer Name
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! scope="col" style="border:1px solid white"| Former Name
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! scope="col" style="border:1px solid white"| Acreage
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! scope="col" style="border:1px solid white"| Year Transferred
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! scope="col" style="border:1px solid white"| Location
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! scope="col" style="border:1px solid white"| Key Habitat and Resources
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|-
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|Ewoldsen|| || || ||Big Sur, CA ||
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|-
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|Granite Rock Dunes|| ||51 <ref name="Monterey County Weekly 2001">[http://www.montereycountyweekly.com/news/local_news/the-big-sur-land-trust-is-trying-to-buy-paradise/article_81f14a4c-a6f6-5681-a3b1-3eab928a64a8.html Monterey County Weekly 2001] </ref>||2001 ||Marina, CA || Coastal dunes habitat and multiple endangered species<ref name="Monterey County Weekly 2001">[http://www.montereycountyweekly.com/news/local_news/the-big-sur-land-trust-is-trying-to-buy-paradise/article_81f14a4c-a6f6-5681-a3b1-3eab928a64a8.html Monterey County Weekly 2001] </ref>
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|-
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|Henry Miller Library|| || || ||Big Sur, CA || Cultural site
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|-
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|Joshua Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve|| ||640 <ref name="MPRPD Palo Park"></ref> || ||South of Carmel Valley Highlands, CA ||Coastal redwoods
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|-
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|Kent|| || || ||Big Sur, CA ||
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|-
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|Long Valley/ Elkhorn Slough Foundation|| ||4,260 (with [[The Nature Conservancy (TNC)|The Nature Conservancy]]) <ref name="EHS Cons.Plan 2009 ">[http://library.elkhornslough.org/esf/eswcp/ConservationPlan.pdf EHS Cons.Plan 2009] </ref> ||1999 || East of Moss Landing,CA || [[Oak Woodlands of California's Central Coast Region|Oak woodland]] and maritime chaparral
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|-
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|Mill Creek Redwood Preserve|| ||1,534 <ref name="MPRPD Mill Creek Purchase ">[http://www.mprpd.org/mill-creek-redwood-preserve/ MPRPD Mill Creek Purchase ] </ref>|| ||Between Big Sur and Carmel, CA|| Coastal redwoods
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|-
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|Monterey State Beach|| || || ||Seaside, CA ||Coastal dune
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|-
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|Palo Corona Ranch|| || ~10,000 (with partners) <ref name="MPRPD Palo Purchase ">[http://www.mprpd.org/palo-corona-regional-park/ MPRPD Palo Purchase] </ref>||2004 || Carmel Valley, CA ||Coastal grasslands and woodland, ponds, and perennial creeks. <ref name="MPRPD Palo Park">[http://www.mprpd.org/palo-corona-regional-park/ MPRPD Palo Park]</ref>
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|-
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|Point Lobos Ranch|| ||1,312 <ref name="Monterey County Weekly 2012"></ref>|| || Carmel Valley, CA ||Monterey Pine Forest, Gowen Cypress, and maritime chaparral <ref name="Point Lobos Ranch Park Property">[http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=569Point Lobos Ranch Park Property]</ref>
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|-
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|Prentiss|| || || ||Big Sur, CA ||
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|-
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|San Carlos Beach Park|| || || ||Monterey, CA||
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|-
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|Toro County Park|| Marks Ranch||737 <ref name="Monterey Herald 2012">[http://www.montereyherald.com/article/ZZ/20120829/NEWS/120828071 Monterey Herald 2012] </ref> ||2010 || West of Salinas, CA ||[[Oak Woodlands of California's Central Coast Region|Oak woodland]] and maritime chapparal <ref name="Van Dyke and Holl 2003">[http://www.elkhornsloughctp.org/uploads/files/1123621594Van%20dyke%20holl%20dist%20of%20mar%20chap.pdf Van Dyke and Holl 2003]</ref>
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|-
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|Zmudowski State Beach|| || || || North of Moss Landing, CA || Coastal dunes
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|-
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|Martin Dunes*|| ||125|| ||North of Marina, CA|| Coastal dunes
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|}
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* Martin Dunes is privately owned in partnership with the Big Sur Land Trust.
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=Projects=
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BSLT works on a number of projects in the Monterey County region. Projects focus on the expansion of preserved natural habitat for unique central coast species, and increasing the opportunities available for community members to connect with the environment. An expanded explanation of recent projects undertaken by BSLT is given below.
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===Lobos-Corona Parklands Project===
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The Lobos-Corona Parklands Project is a collaboration between the Big Sur Land Trust, [[Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District]] (MPRPD), [[California State Parks]], and the Point Lobos Foundation. BSLT was a leader in a number of components of the Lobos-Corona project including developing the Carmel River Parkway Project and the South Bank Trail. The organization has also contributed to land acquisition and development at Palo Corona Regional Park. <ref name = "Lobos-Corona Vision Plan"> [http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/userfiles/file/Lobos-Corona-Parklands-Project-Vision.pdf, Lobos-Corona Vision Plan]</ref>
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*'''The [http://docslide.us/documents/big-sur-land-trust-newsletter-fall-2005.html Carmel River Parkway]''' is a conservation plan to restore and enhance the Carmel River ecosystem. A major component of the plan is development of a recreational trail to connect the lower Carmel Valley to upper reaches of the watershed. <ref name = "BSLT, newsletter 2007"> [http://www.scribd.com/doc/31381637/Big-Sur-Land-Trust-Newsletter-Spring-2007#scribd, BSLT, newsletter 2007]</ref> Trail networks provide community members safe places to recreate and promote the connection of community and nature.
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* '''South Bank Trail''': Located in Carmel Valley on the south bank of the Carmel River, the South Bank Trail is a 1.5 mile ADA accessible pedestrian and bicycle path. It begins at Palo Corona Regional Park and  continues to Quail Lodge. The project was funded in part by a $1.2 million grant from the California Resource Agency River Parkways Program and was designed by the County of Monterey. <ref name = "Yuba News"> [http://yubanet.com/california/Big-Sur-Land-Trust-Opens-New-Public-Trail-in-Carmel-Valley.php#.VwBpsSgrJhE, Yuba News]</ref> The South Bank Trail section was completed in 2011 and is an integral part of the [https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwirysSozvHLAhWEtYMKHVgTCN4QFggpMAE&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mpwmd.net%2FMbay_IRWM%2FIRWM_library%2FCarmelValleyConceptualPlan.pdf&usg=AFQjCNHi3yDWB9f6lhMprcnN0F49-VBmxA&sig2=rsy96mn2YdO8tmsumkrJew Carmel River Parkway] vision plan.
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*'''Palo Corona Regional Park Project''': BSLT purchased the Whisler Wilson Ranch property in 2010 <ref name="Monterey County Weekly 2012">[http://www.montereycountyweekly.com/blogs/news_blog/regional-park-district-to-acquire-whisler-wilson-ranch-from-big/article_ea41f2bd-aa9f-5c89-80f7-ba9c97bf541c.html Monterey County Weekly 2012] </ref> and sold the property to MPRPD in 2013. The property spans the east side of Hwy 1 from Carmel to Pt. Lobos and connects Palo Corona Regional Park  to Point Lobos Ranch. <ref name="BSLT Whisler-Wilson">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/press-release-big-sur-land-trust-sells-whisler-wilson-ranch-1.htm BSLT Whisler-Wilson]</ref> In collaboration with MPRPD, BSLT developed the 4.5 mile Hatton Canyon recreational trail that connects the top of Carmel Hill to the lower Camel River Trail System at Carmel Valley Road.<ref name = "BSLT, newsletter 2007"></ref> BSLT also helped establish a visitor access and land management plan <ref name = "BSLT, newsletter 2007"></ref> to address land manag ment issues such as: 
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** Habitat monitoring for  [[Special Status Animals on the Central Coast]] including the [[California Red-legged frog|California Red-legged Frog]] and [[California Tiger Salamander]]
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** Maintenance of healthy grasslands and  control of [[Invasive Species of California|invasive]] plant species
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** Protection of biologically diverse habitats
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===Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement===
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[[Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement (Carmel River FREE) Project]] seeks to restore the natural hydrology of the [[Carmel River]] near the [[Carmel Lagoon]] and minimize flood risk. Completion of this project will provide ancillary benefits such as: <ref name=" BSLT, Carmel River FREE">[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/blog/carmel-river-free-37.htm BSLT, Carmel River FREE]</ref>
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* Improved habitat for [[Steelhead|steelhead]] in various development stages.
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* Increased connectivity between the [[Carmel River|river channel]], floodplain, and [[Carmel River Lagoon|lagoon]].
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* Restoration of native riparian and grassland habitat.
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* Reduced flood risk for businesses and residences in Lower Carmel Valley.
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 +
===Carr Lake Multi-Use Park===
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The [[Conversion of Carr Lake to a Multi-Use Park ]] is one BSLT's longest running efforts. Carr Lake is a 500- acre undeveloped space in the middle of Salinas, presently dominated by farmland. The runoff from farmland in this area is drained by a reclamation ditch that cuts through the middle of Carr Lake and flows northeast toward [[Tembladero Slough]] and the Old Salinas River. <ref name="Reclamation Ditch">[http://www.mcwra.co.monterey.ca.us/reclaimation_ditch/reclaimation_ditch.php Reclamation Ditch]</ref> Accretion of sediments in the reclamation ditch has increased flood risk to surrounding homes. The city of Salinas and BSLT are working on a plan to re-purpose the land and create a community park. In January 2016, BSLT received a grant from the California Coastal Conservancy to acquire the land and begin restoration. <ref name="Coastal Conservancy Funding 2016"></ref> The park will provide many benefits to the area such as:
 +
* Improved [[water quality]] for streams and rivers flowing into the [[Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS)]]
 +
* Recharged groundwater aquifers
 +
* Flood control
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* Enhanced wildlife habitat
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* Restored native plant populations
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* Increased recreational space
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* Improved [http://ccows.csumb.edu/wiki/index.php/Steelhead_Management_in_the_Salinas_Watershed steelhead migration]
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 +
= References=
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
  
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==Links==
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=Links=
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==Disclaimer==
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* [[California's Central Coast Region]]
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* [[Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement (Carmel River FREE) Project]]
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* [[Carmel River Watershed: Map of Geology]]
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* [[Carmel River Lagoon]]
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* [[Conversion of Carr Lake to a Multi-Use Park]]
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* [[Land Trusts and Conservancies in California's Central Coast Region]]
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* [[Maps of the Carmel River Watershed]]
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* [[Recreational Trails in California's Central Coast Region]]
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* [[Special Status Animals in the Central Coast Region]]
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* [[Wildlife Connectivity in California's Central Coast Region]]
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=Disclaimer=
 +
This page may contain student work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessary reflect the opinion or policy of [http://csumb.edu CSUMB], its staff, or students.

Latest revision as of 13:15, 6 April 2020

This wiki page was created by students in the ENVS 560/L Watershed Systems class at CSUMB.


Big Sur Land Trust is a non-profit located in Monterey, CA. The trust promotes conservation of ecologically important lands and waters in Monterey County.[1]

Summary

The Big Sur Land Trust (BSLT) is a private non-profit located in Monterey, California. The trust conserves land in California's Central Coast Region for the benefit of people and the environment. BSLT protected 40,000 acres of land as of 2016 and manages ~17,000 acres of conservation easements. [1] [2] It also partners with land owners to maintain natural resources and prevent development in perpetuity. The organization envisions cooperative and mutually beneficial management of land resources that supports communities and improves the environment. BSLT benefits local communities by providing open space for recreation, educational opportunities, and hands-on land stewardship.

Location

Big Sur Land Trust headquarters are located in Monterey, California. The organization manages properties within Monterey County. Circle M Ranch near Lucia, CA is the most southern property and Vierra Ranch and Rancho Colinas in the foothills of the Gabilan Mountains are the most northern properties. [3]

History & Founders

In 1978, the Big Sur Land Trust was formed by seven families who envisioned preserving the iconic Big Sur landscape for the benefit of future generations. [4] Nancy Hopkins was BSLT's first president. She was succeeded by Zad Leavy who served as executive director for 25 years. [4] David Packard [4] and several others [5] helped the land trust purchase its first property, a 3,000 acre ranch located south of Big Creek Reserve.

Mission & Organization Structure

Big Sur Land Trust connects local communities to the land and promotes conservation of landscapes unique to the California central coast such as coastal redwoods and grasslands, oak woodlands, and spawning locations for threatened steelhead trout. [2] BSLT achieves this mission by providing opportunities for citizens to engage with nature through land conservation and environmental education. [2] In 2013, BSLT developed summer nature camps to teach youth in Monterey County the value of natural spaces and inspire future generations of land stewards. [2]

Prior to 2013, BSLT's mission was to conserve significant lands and waters of California's Central Coast and focus on purchasing property for conservation in perpetuity. However, due to economic constraints from increasing property values and decreasing public agency budgets, BSLT reprioritized their goals to make a broader impact. Elements of the new mission include developing nature camps and green landscape infrastructure such as parks and trails. [6]

Board of Trustees

As of 2015, The BSLT Board had 16 board members. The board includes 12 trustees and four administrators: board chair, co-chair, treasurer, and secretary. The board is supported by a 10 member advisory council. [7]

Funding

BSLT receives support through memberships, private donations, and public conservation funds. Recently, BSLT secured grants for the Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement [8] project and the Carr Lake Project. [9]

Partnerships

As property values continue to rise in California's Central Coast Region partnerships are essential to BSLT's mission success. Principle partners include The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District, and the California Natural Resources Agency. More information about other state, federal, and community partners can be found on the BSLT partnership page[10]

Land Acquired and Managed

The Big Sur Land Trust uses three key strategies to promote land conservation and improve natural spaces:

  1. Land Acquisitions: The purchase of land by the trust. BSLT obtains the property rights and can choose to retain the land in perpetuity or coordinate with another organization to transfer the property into a larger conserved area.
  2. Land Transfers: Land transfers are instances where BSLT acquired property and then sold or donated the land to another party with similar conservation interests. When lands are transferred it is agreed they will remain undeveloped. Typically transfers result in the incorporation of the property into a larger park.
  3. Conservation Easements: An agreement between BSLT and private property owners to preserve land without transferring ownership. Property owners work with the trust to prevent development and conserve resources in perpetuity. [11]

Land Ownership

Conserved lands acquired or protected by agreements with the Big Sur Land Trust. In 2016, BSLT helped to conserve about 40,000 acres in Central California. Imaged sourced from the Big Sur Land Trust Landscapes page.

The table below summarizes major BSLT acquisitions. The information was complied using the landscape map available on the BSLT webpage and other sources. [12]

Property Name Estimated Acreage Location Year Acquired
Arroyo Seco Ranch 1,675 Greenfield, CA 2007
Circle M Ranch 3,040 Lucia, CA 1978
Glen Deven Ranch 860 Big Sur, CA 2001
Marks Ranch 816 Near Toro County Park (HWY 68) 2007
Mittledorf Preserve 1,057 Santa Lucia Foothills 1990
  • Arroyo Seco Ranch: A future site for environmental education and recreation programs. BSLT is coordinating a conservation grazing program to manage grassland resources responsibly. Unique and threatened species located on Arroyo Seco Ranch include the sycamore alluvial woodland forest, California Red-legged frog, and Steelhead Trout. The Arroyo Seco River runs through the property and has been prioritized for steelhead habitat restoration.
  • Circle M: First property purchased by BSLT in 1978.
  • Glen Deven Ranch: Located in the iconic Big Sur landscape and surrounded by central coast grasslands and woodlands. Many coastal perennial rivers and wildlife habitats are protected on the property. The property is also hosts summer nature camps where youth learn about coastal ecosystems.
  • Marks Ranch: Once an egg farm and cattle ranch, now it serves as a gathering location for Salinas and Monterey Peninsula families to enjoy the outdoors. BSLT transferred much of the property to Monterey County to merge with Toro County Park. The trust continues to host recreational events on the Ranch and improve facilities on the property.
  • Mitteldorf Preserve: Located between Joshua Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve (south), Palo Corona Regional Park (north), and Santa Lucia Preserve (east). Mitteldorf conserves the largest redwood trees in Monterey County. It also protects madrone, oak woodland, coastal chaparral, and grassland habitats. Currently, BSLT is developing infrastructure for a nature camp and research program on the property.

Other BSLT properties include:

  • Canavarro
  • Carmel Point
  • Carmel River Songbird Preserve
  • Curtis
  • Kopp
  • Gelbart
  • Glen
  • Mission Trails
  • Murphy
  • Notley's Landing
  • Odello East
  • Owens
  • Tor House

Conservation Easements

BSLT protects lands through numerous partnerships and conservation easements. Easements ensure the protection of resources found on allocated properties and prohibit land development in perpetuity. BSLT and land owners agree donated lands will be managed under terms reflective of the conservation values and intentions of both parties.

Easements
Name Acreage
Addleman 285 [13]
Dorrance 4,300 [14]
Harkins
Horse Pasture 160 [13]
Mule Creek Canyon
Patterson St. Lucia
Patterson Mayor
Patterson Lime Creek
Rancho Colinas 1,110 [15]
Vierra Ranch 965 [15]
Violini 3,200 [14]

Land Transfers

BSLT collaborates with state and regional agencies and other conservation partners to preserve larger extents. Many lands purchased or donated to BSLT are transferred to regional park districts or federal land management agencies. Land transfers help expand habitat for wildlife and native plant populations within watersheds. Listed below are some lands BSLT helped conserve through land transfers and key habitats or resources they protected. Transfer names indicate the park or property the lands were incorporated into.

Land Transfers
Transfer Name Former Name Acreage Year Transferred Location Key Habitat and Resources
Ewoldsen Big Sur, CA
Granite Rock Dunes 51 [16] 2001 Marina, CA Coastal dunes habitat and multiple endangered species[16]
Henry Miller Library Big Sur, CA Cultural site
Joshua Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve 640 [17] South of Carmel Valley Highlands, CA Coastal redwoods
Kent Big Sur, CA
Long Valley/ Elkhorn Slough Foundation 4,260 (with The Nature Conservancy) [18] 1999 East of Moss Landing,CA Oak woodland and maritime chaparral
Mill Creek Redwood Preserve 1,534 [19] Between Big Sur and Carmel, CA Coastal redwoods
Monterey State Beach Seaside, CA Coastal dune
Palo Corona Ranch ~10,000 (with partners) [20] 2004 Carmel Valley, CA Coastal grasslands and woodland, ponds, and perennial creeks. [17]
Point Lobos Ranch 1,312 [21] Carmel Valley, CA Monterey Pine Forest, Gowen Cypress, and maritime chaparral [22]
Prentiss Big Sur, CA
San Carlos Beach Park Monterey, CA
Toro County Park Marks Ranch 737 [23] 2010 West of Salinas, CA Oak woodland and maritime chapparal [24]
Zmudowski State Beach North of Moss Landing, CA Coastal dunes
Martin Dunes* 125 North of Marina, CA Coastal dunes
  • Martin Dunes is privately owned in partnership with the Big Sur Land Trust.

Projects

BSLT works on a number of projects in the Monterey County region. Projects focus on the expansion of preserved natural habitat for unique central coast species, and increasing the opportunities available for community members to connect with the environment. An expanded explanation of recent projects undertaken by BSLT is given below.

Lobos-Corona Parklands Project

The Lobos-Corona Parklands Project is a collaboration between the Big Sur Land Trust, Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District (MPRPD), California State Parks, and the Point Lobos Foundation. BSLT was a leader in a number of components of the Lobos-Corona project including developing the Carmel River Parkway Project and the South Bank Trail. The organization has also contributed to land acquisition and development at Palo Corona Regional Park. [25]

  • The Carmel River Parkway is a conservation plan to restore and enhance the Carmel River ecosystem. A major component of the plan is development of a recreational trail to connect the lower Carmel Valley to upper reaches of the watershed. [13] Trail networks provide community members safe places to recreate and promote the connection of community and nature.
  • South Bank Trail: Located in Carmel Valley on the south bank of the Carmel River, the South Bank Trail is a 1.5 mile ADA accessible pedestrian and bicycle path. It begins at Palo Corona Regional Park and continues to Quail Lodge. The project was funded in part by a $1.2 million grant from the California Resource Agency River Parkways Program and was designed by the County of Monterey. [26] The South Bank Trail section was completed in 2011 and is an integral part of the Carmel River Parkway vision plan.
  • Palo Corona Regional Park Project: BSLT purchased the Whisler Wilson Ranch property in 2010 [21] and sold the property to MPRPD in 2013. The property spans the east side of Hwy 1 from Carmel to Pt. Lobos and connects Palo Corona Regional Park to Point Lobos Ranch. [27] In collaboration with MPRPD, BSLT developed the 4.5 mile Hatton Canyon recreational trail that connects the top of Carmel Hill to the lower Camel River Trail System at Carmel Valley Road.[13] BSLT also helped establish a visitor access and land management plan [13] to address land manag ment issues such as:

Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement

Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement (Carmel River FREE) Project seeks to restore the natural hydrology of the Carmel River near the Carmel Lagoon and minimize flood risk. Completion of this project will provide ancillary benefits such as: [28]

  • Improved habitat for steelhead in various development stages.
  • Increased connectivity between the river channel, floodplain, and lagoon.
  • Restoration of native riparian and grassland habitat.
  • Reduced flood risk for businesses and residences in Lower Carmel Valley.

Carr Lake Multi-Use Park

The Conversion of Carr Lake to a Multi-Use Park is one BSLT's longest running efforts. Carr Lake is a 500- acre undeveloped space in the middle of Salinas, presently dominated by farmland. The runoff from farmland in this area is drained by a reclamation ditch that cuts through the middle of Carr Lake and flows northeast toward Tembladero Slough and the Old Salinas River. [29] Accretion of sediments in the reclamation ditch has increased flood risk to surrounding homes. The city of Salinas and BSLT are working on a plan to re-purpose the land and create a community park. In January 2016, BSLT received a grant from the California Coastal Conservancy to acquire the land and begin restoration. [9] The park will provide many benefits to the area such as:

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 BSLT, Home Page
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 BSLT, FAQ
  3. ↑ BSLT, Landscapes
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Sam Farr Tribute
  5. ↑ Big Sur Gazette 1979
  6. ↑ BSLT, 2013 New Mission
  7. ↑ BSLT, Trustees
  8. ↑ Freeing the river to use its floodplain, BSLT newsletter
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 Coastal Conservancy Funding 2016
  10. ↑ BSLT, Partners
  11. ↑ Conservation Easements
  12. ↑ BSLT, Landscapes
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 13.3 13.4 BSLT, newsletter 2007
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Monterey Herald 2008
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 BSLT, Vierra Ranch
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 Monterey County Weekly 2001
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 MPRPD Palo Park
  18. ↑ EHS Cons.Plan 2009
  19. ↑ MPRPD Mill Creek Purchase
  20. ↑ MPRPD Palo Purchase
  21. ↑ 21.0 21.1 Monterey County Weekly 2012
  22. ↑ Lobos Ranch Park Property
  23. ↑ Monterey Herald 2012
  24. ↑ Van Dyke and Holl 2003
  25. ↑ Lobos-Corona Vision Plan
  26. ↑ Yuba News
  27. ↑ BSLT Whisler-Wilson
  28. ↑ BSLT, Carmel River FREE
  29. ↑ Reclamation Ditch

Links

Disclaimer

This page may contain student work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessary reflect the opinion or policy of CSUMB, its staff, or students.

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