Shasta Land Trust
Ask any North State resident what they appreciate most about the place they call home, and nine times out of 10, you’ll hear: “The natural beauty.”
That doesn’t happen by accident. Since 1998, Shasta Land Trust has identified and conserved significant lands in the North State for uses that include open space, wildlife habitat, scenic views, recreation and agriculture. They’ve preserved more than 24,000 acres on 17 properties. The organization’s mission is to conserve the beauty, character and diversity of significant lands in far Northern California, and it’s governed by an all-volunteer board of directors.
"I grew up in Shasta County and find no greater purpose than in doing everything possible to make sure it remains protected for future generations,” says Paul Vienneau, executive director of the Shasta Land Trust.
Among the organization’s goals:
- Restore local natural resources through creek cleanups and other stewardship activities
- Educate the next generation about the natural world and the importance of acting locally
- Uphold the public's trust and ensure the properties they protect stay protected forever
- Permanently protect land with natural, recreational, scenic, agricultural, historic or productive value
- Collaborate with landowners, agencies and other non-profits to achieve shared conservation goals
- Work locally to protect working lands, natural resources and special places important to our community
- Inspire local conservation initiatives and lead events that connect people to the places that make this area unique
Open space is essential to the health and vibrancy of families and the community as a whole. One of the many projects the Shasta Land Trust has completed is the 80-mile Great Shasta Rail Trail. Also, more recently, the organization helped protect a unique 39-acre property in the heart of Fall River Mills that will be turned into a community park, including walking trails, educational kiosks and gathering spots. It’s owned by the Fall River Valley Community Services District and Shasta Land Trust holds the conservation easement on the property. “It’s an amazing opportunity for Fall River Mills,” Vienneau says. “This park wouldn’t be possible if not for an amazing local partnership and vision towards providing a special place for all to enjoy forever.”
Work being done today will be enjoyed by many generations to come. "You don’t have to travel far before you are amongst the most amazing open spaces in Northern California, from beautiful mountain views, grazing cattle and meandering waterways,” says Vienneau. “This is a special place, and together with amazing donors and volunteers, the Shasta Land Trust is doing its part to protect it."