Project Description

Star Creek Ranch

A scenic property with over two miles along Pescadero Creek which provides critical spawning and rearing habitat for threatened steelhead within the Pajaro River Watershed. The Ranch includes 350 acres of redwood forest, oak woodlands and grasslands providing habitat for a variety of species. The property is part of a significant wildlife movement corridor between the Santa Cruz Mountains, Mt. Hamilton Range and the Gabilan Range.

Location:

Between the cities of Gilroy and Watsonville, Santa Cruz and Santa Clara Counties

Size: 1,200 acres

Price: $4.2 million

Outcome:

The property was purchased by the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County using state funding, foundation grants and private donations. The Land Trust will manage the ranch for habitat conservation, sustainable forestry, passive recreation and outdoor education.