Wragg Ridge

The Preserve’s strategic location—near Lake Berryessa, BLM-managed Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, and the University of California’s Quail Ridge Reserve—enhances regional ecological continuity.

Ecological Significance

Wragg Ridge Preserve is a vital sanctuary for native plants and wildlife, supporting rare ecosystems and sustaining biodiversity across the region. Its ecological features are both regionally and globally significant:

Extensive Oak Woodlands

Home to blue oaks, interior live oaks, and black oaks, the rich woodlands of the Preserve provide essential food and shelter for more than 300 wildlife species. As a keystone habitat, oak woodlands are crucial to California’s overall ecological health.

Priority Wetlands

The preserve includes a dynamic network of creeks, seasonal vernal pools, and year-round ponds—critical water sources for a variety of species, including the federally endangered California Red-legged Frog.

Critical Wildlife Corridors

Stretching over five miles of continuous ridgeline, Wragg Ridge links fragmented habitats, allowing wildlife to move, reproduce, and adapt in a changing climate. These corridors are essential for long-term ecological resilience.

Unique and Endemic Ecosystems

The habitats within Wragg Ridge are found only in California and are increasingly threatened by development and climate change. Their protection safeguards irreplaceable biodiversity for future generations.

With its varied topography and rich biological diversity, Wragg Ridge offers a critical refuge for species adapting to shifting environmental conditions, making it a stronghold for landscape-scale climate resilience.

Historical Background

The permanent protection of Wragg Ridge represents a landmark conservation achievement made possible through collaboration, generosity, and shared vision.

This success was catalyzed by the property owners, who sold the land below its appraised value to ensure its long-term protection. Funding partners provided critical support to bring this effort to fruition.

We gratefully acknowledge the following funders:

• Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation
• California Natural Resources Agency
• Arthur L. and Elaine V. Johnson Foundation

In addition, the California Department of Fish & Wildlife and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are proud partners in the long-term stewardship of the Preserve.

Conservation and Stewardship Efforts

The Wragg Ridge Preserve plays a key role in advancing regional conservation goals by protecting essential habitats, enhancing climate resilience, and strengthening ecological connectivity.

• Endangered Species Protection: In partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, restoring habitat for the endangered California Red-legged Frog, a species that has lost more than 70% of its historic range.
• Research and Monitoring: Conducting ecological studies to assess ecosystem health, track wildlife populations, and guide data-driven stewardship decisions.
• Habitat Restoration: Implementing restoration projects to restore and enhance habitats, strengthening biodiversity and ecological resilience.
• Invasive Species Management: Monitoring and removing invasive plant species to protect native vegetation and maintain the health of natural communities.

Learn more about our ongoing stewardship efforts including habitat restoration for the California Red-legged Frog on our blog.

Public Access and Engagement

Access to the Wragg Ridge Preserve is by permission only and through guided hikes organized by the Land Trust. This approach ensures the protection of sensitive habitats and rare plants while allowing visitors to experience the preserve’s natural beauty and ecological importance. These excursions provide educational insights into the property’s unique habitats and conservation importance.