May 2006

The Nature Preservation/Conservancy Program

Goals

To conserve and restore the Hollister Ranch natural environment, while respecting its heritage, cattle operations, and the ownership’s developmental options and recreational use of the Ranch.

Description

This program includes those activities undertaken by the Conservancy Advisory Committee, the Scientific and Educational Access Review Committee (SEARC), the Research Task Force (which will seek scientific studies that can further the Ranch’s interests), our managed access activities (including the Tidepool school visits managed by Wendie Kruthers), and the Watershed Stewardship and Rangeland Enhancement Committee.  Up until now, there have been no specific staff resources dedicated to this program.

Major new activities proposed for the coming year include:

• Adopting and beginning to implement a Conservancy Master Plan

• Convening the Research Task Force

• Creating and filling the new Nature Preservation Coordinator position

• Upgrading and completing a Bren School Study proposal for next year’s approval cycle

• Resolving problems with the current scientific study review and approval process

• Restarting the surveys of key flora and fauna

Objectives for FY 2006-07

To develop a comprehensive approach to scientific research on the Ranch, in order to meet: 1) our stewardship needs and 2) the basic research needs of the scientific community.  What is it we need to know and learn?  What is the set of questions that first need to be answered?

To coordinate the efforts of the various groups and individuals to make the most cost-effective use of our limited resources.

To control invasive species in all common areas.

Measures of Effectiveness

Noxious weed incidence, as revealed by on-site surveys and monitoring

Any reductions in expected long-term expenditures for lobbyists, etc.

Recognition by outside interests of the unique resource the Ranch represents and the value of the Ranch as a cherished resource to the larger area

Recognition by others of the limited carrying capacity of the tidepools and other Ranch assets.

If there is more information you would like to have concerning this program, or if you have questions and comments, please let us know.  You can reach us at 5567-5020 or by e-mailing HROA@silcom.com.