Big Sur Land Trust’s mission is to inspire love of land across generations, conservation of our unique Monterey County landscapes, and access to outdoor experiences for all.
Ferrini Ranch’s 869 acres of rolling hills and ancient oaks have been admired by generations traveling between Salinas and Monterey. For decades, this beloved landscape has been at risk of development into luxury housing. Big Sur Land Trust is partnering with the Trust for Public Land to protect Ferrini Ranch with BSLT's adjacent Marks Ranch. We will care for these lands for wildlife, the community, and future managed public access.
Beyond scenic views, this land is a critical piece in one of the Central Coast’s most threatened wildlife corridors and features an underpass that allows animals to safely move between Los Padres National Forest and Monterey Bay’s lowlands. Without this habitat linkage, species in Fort Ord face genetic isolation and possible local extinction. In one year, over 400 observations of bobcat, mountain lion, and American badger were recorded here. These lands form a cornerstone for long-term stewardship and ecological resilience.
Since 1978, we have conserved 45,000+ acres across Monterey County. Of that, approximately 29,000 acres have been transferred to park agencies and other conservation entities, expanding access to parks like Palo Corona, Toro County Park, and Garland Ranch.
The remaining 16,000 acres—located in Big Sur, Carmel Valley, Marina, Salinas, and Salinas Valley—are owned by BSLT or protected through voluntary conservation easements. Protecting and stewarding these lands safeguards water supplies, improves air quality, reduces flood and wildfire risk, and supports local wildlife.
Our green infrastructure projects include the Ensen Community Park, increasing public parkland in Salinas by 31%, and the Carmel River FREE flood reduction project in Carmel. Annually, millions of people enjoy the lands and viewsheds we’ve protected. Since 2013, nearly 2,000 youth, primarily from Salinas Valley, have participated in our nature camps. Since 2021, 140+ local college students have gained conservation skills through our workforce development programming.
Ferrini Ranch is the last intact wildlife connection between Fort Ord and the coast ranges. State Route 68 (SR-68) and associated housing developments act as a barrier for wildlife movement, isolating Fort Ord National Monument. A short pinch point segment at Ferrini Ranch was added to CDFW's list of priority wildlife connectivity barriers in 2024. Ferrini Ranch protects wildlife habitat and helps to ensure that this vital landscape linkage remains functional into the future.
- Zach Mills, Monterey
