Dear Friends,
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Soberanes Fire, one of the most significant wildfires in Monterey County’s history. What began as a devastating event ultimately became a powerful reminder of both the resilience of nature and the importance of caring for the lands we love.
Today, the hillsides tell a different story. Native plants have returned, wildlife has reclaimed habitat, and forests continue their remarkable recovery. While the landscape still bears reminders of the fire, it also reflects an extraordinary capacity to heal. That recovery has been supported by years of thoughtful stewardship and reinforces an important truth: healthy, well-managed lands are better prepared to withstand and recover from wildfire.
As California continues to face longer, more intense fire seasons, proactive land management has never been more important. Reducing hazardous fuels, restoring native habitats, maintaining healthy forests, and preparing landscapes for fire are essential investments in the safety of our communities and the health of our natural ecosystems.
For Big Sur Land Trust, stewardship means caring for the land not only for today, but for generations to come. During the Soberanes Fire, BSLT provided critical access and support for firefighting efforts. In the years since, our work has continued to focus on restoring habitat, improving ecological resilience, and helping ensure these treasured landscapes are better prepared for whatever comes next.
Reflecting on the past decade, I am filled with gratitude—for the resilience of this remarkable landscape and for the community that has helped care for it. Your partnership and support make this work possible. Together, we are investing in healthier forests, safer communities, and a future where both people and nature can thrive.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping Big Sur Land Trust continue its mission of caring for the lands that define this extraordinary place.
Jeannette Tuitele-Lewis
President/CEO
Big Sur Land Trust
Upcoming Events & Volunteer Opportunities
Last Call: Ferrini + Marks Ranch Community Survey
3–4 Minutes
Bilingual
Marks Ranch and Ferrini Ranch are part of a cherished landscape along the Highway 68 corridor in Monterey County—rolling hills, grasslands, and oak woodlands that support both people and wildlife. Big Sur Land Trust acquired Marks Ranch in 2007 and retains ownership of 79 acres that is the gateway to this remarkable landscape. We are currently working to raise funding to acquire the surrounding 869‑acre Ferrini Ranch for permanent conservation, with a goal of completing the acquisition by early 2027. This is a major step in a long‑term effort to protect this landscape and ensure it remains cared for by future generations and we want to hear from you as we plan our future stewardship and thoughtful, low‑impact opportunities for people to connect with and learn from this place.
Take the survey (deadline Aug. 7) >>
Floodplain Habitat Stewardship Day/Cuidado de la Llanura de Inundación
Sunday, August 2
9:30am-11:30am
Ensen Community Park
Join us for a hands-on volunteer event at Big Sur Land Trust’s Floodplain Restoration Project site at Ensen Community Park. Volunteers will have a unique opportunity to enter the restoration area—currently closed due to construction—to learn about ongoing habitat improvements and assist with essential restoration efforts before it opens to the public in September!
Ensen Park Cleanup
Saturday, August 15
10:30am-11:30am
Ensen Community Park
Join Big Sur Land Trust and Friends of Ensen Community Park Volunteers for our Monthly Park Clean-up at Ensen Community Park! Let’s work together to keep our local green space beautiful and clean. This is a great opportunity to meet your neighbors, get some fresh air, and hear updates on the restoration project.