50 Years of Protecting Napa: How It All Began, and Why It Matters Today
In 1976, Napa Valley stood at a crossroads. The region’s agricultural heritage, scenic hillsides, and waterways, so deeply woven into the identity of this place, were increasingly vulnerable to development pressures and land conversion. A small group of local residents recognized something essential: if Napa’s land was to endure, it would require intentional, permanent protection. ... Read more
Land Trust of Napa County Announces Melanie Parker as New Chief Executive Officer
The Land Trust of Napa County is proud to announce the appointment of Melanie Parker as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a national search for a leader to guide the organization into its next chapter of conservation, stewardship, and community partnership. Melanie succeeds Doug Parker, who has retired after 13 years of distinguished service ... Read more
Land Trust Protects 120 Acres of Scenic Ridgeline Habitat Above Calistoga
The Land Trust of Napa County is pleased to announce the permanent protection of 120 acres of undeveloped ridgeline property in the northern Napa Valley. The land has been in the Kent family for almost 60 years and has long been valued for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and scenic prominence. The newly protected ... Read more
New Peer-Reviewed Study Shows Targeted Grazing Boosts Native Plant Diversity in California Oak Woodlands
The Land Trust of Napa County is proud to announce the publication of new applied research in the peer-reviewed journal Ecological Solutions and Evidence. The paper, titled “Dry-season grazing enhances native diversity in invaded oak woodlands,” highlights how carefully managed grazing practices can increase native plant diversity in California’s oak woodland ecosystems. The research, co-authored ... Read more
A Day of Discovery at Mead Ranch Preserve: New Tech Students Explore the Art and Science of Nature
What a day on the land! Last week, we had the joy of welcoming the Advanced Digital Design class from New Technology High School to Mead Ranch Preserve for an immersive field experience unlike any other. In partnership with the Land Trust, the Napa County Office of Education, and their exceptional teacher, Mrs. Gottfried, students ... Read more
Pickett Fire: How Proactive Land Trust Stewardship Helped Reduce Fire Impacts
A wildfire that began on the outskirts of Calistoga on August 21, 2025, ultimately burned across three Land Trust preserves, testing years of pre-fire fuels reduction and road access improvement work completed by the Land Trust, and demonstrating the importance of our active land management program. When the Pickett Fire ignited on a privately owned ... Read more
Through the Lens: Discovering Napa’s Hidden Wildlife
They roam at dusk. They slip between shadows. And sometimes, our remote WPI cameras catch them. Our remote wildlife cameras are giving us remarkable glimpses into the lives of Napa’s wildest residents. From black bears lumbering through oak woodlands to bobcats on the prowl at dawn, each image is a testament to the success of ... Read more
Land Trust of Napa County Protects 145 Acres along Putah and Pope Creeks
The Land Trust is pleased to announce the permanent protection of 145 acres of riparian habitat and oak woodlands through two transactions with two different landowners. “This acquisition reflects our continued commitment to safeguarding Napa County’s natural heritage and biodiversity,” said Doug Parker, CEO of the Land Trust. “By acquiring these properties, we’re protecting two ... Read more
Pickett Fire Update
The Pickett Fire has touched several of our preserves, and we remain in close coordination with CAL FIRE and community partners. Here is the latest update. Impact on Land Trust Preserves The Pickett Fire has burned portions of the Land Trust’s Duff Preserve, Wildlake Preserve, and part of the Aetna Springs Preserve, after starting on ... Read more
Land Trust of Napa County Announces CEO Retirement and Search for New Leader
Today, the Land Trust of Napa County announced that Doug Parker, its CEO, is planning to retire after 13 years of dedicated service. Under his exceptional leadership, the organization has achieved significant milestones in land conservation and established a strong foundation for future impact. “On behalf of the Land Trust board and staff, we extend ... Read more
