Protecting Land Now and for the Future
John Muir Land Trust protects and cares for open space, ranches, farms, parkland and shoreline in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. Since our founding 30 years ago, JMLT has become one of the leading forces for conservation in northern California. With more than 4,600+ acres protected, many beautiful places in the East Bay are permanently preserved for recreation and wildlife habitat. JMLT believes that the vitality of our natural open spaces is essential to the health of our earth, air, water, native plants and animals — and all of us.
Our Conservation Focus
JMLT is focusing on two critical ecosystems that define our region's natural landscape: the East Bay Hills and the Bay Delta. Each faces unique challenges and opportunities for preservation.
The East Bay Hills
The East Bay Hills are a defining feature of our region's rich natural heritage. Running north-south through Contra Costa and Alameda Counties, these hills are beloved by millions today and essential for the health and well-being of generations to come.
A Landscape at Risk
The Bay Area's booming economy and housing market are putting enormous pressure on our precious natural lands. Consider these facts:
- Contra Costa and Alameda county populations are projected to grow by 30% in the next 30 years
- Nearly 300,000 acres of Bay Area land are at risk of sprawl development
- Contra Costa County accounts for 62,000 acres (41%) of the region's at-risk critical habitat
- While Marin County has 56% of its land protected, Contra Costa has only 26% and Alameda only 22%
Why Conservation Matters
The East Bay Hills provide essential benefits to both wildlife and our communities:
- Connected Ecosystems: Unbroken habitats of ridgelines, riparian valleys, oak woodlands, and open grasslands shelter endangered and threatened species
- Clean Water: Watershed lands absorb and filter rainwater, feeding local rivers, streams, and reservoirs that provide drinking water to hundreds of thousands of families
- Public Health: Preserved open spaces are vital for community wellbeing, offering natural areas where people can reconnect with nature
- Community Character: Conserved lands preserve the unique character of our region for generations to come
Recent East Bay Hills Successes
Franklin Ridge
A 604-acre property that provides critical wildlife habitat and pristine watershed lands that help supply drinking water to East Bay communities.
Painted Rock
An iconic 84-acre property featuring a prominent rock outcropping visible throughout the region, offering panoramic views of Mount Diablo and the Carquinez Strait.
Harvey Ranch
This 126-acre property offers a new gateway to 15,000 acres of pristine wilderness, a new staging area, quick access to trails and amazing views, and an enhanced buffer against development for wildlife.
Almond Ranch
A 281-acre property that provides the critical missing link to connect a 13,000-acre corridor of protected open space in the East Bay Hills.
The Bay Delta
The San Francisco Bay and Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is vital to California's health, economy, and culture. This complex ecosystem provides fresh water to millions, supports thriving wildlife, and offers countless recreational opportunities.
An Ecosystem in Crisis
The Bay Delta is in ecological collapse. With over 90% of historic tidal wetlands lost, this delicate ecosystem faces threats from invasive species, industrial runoff, climate change, and rapid development.
Our Bay Delta Campaign began two decades ago and has expanded to include multiple projects to protect and restore the region's fragile shorelines and waterways.
Why the Bay Delta Matters
- Critical Water Source: The Bay Delta provides fresh water to two-thirds of California's population and millions of acres of farmland
- Essential Wildlife Habitat: Nearly half of California's migrating waterfowl and shorebirds and two-thirds of the state's spawning salmon pass through the Bay Delta
- Economic Engine: The Bay Delta supports a thriving economy and provides recreational opportunities for countless people
Bay Delta Projects
Pacheco Marsh
Once a salt marsh devastated by industrial activity, this 234-acre restored marsh along Suisun Bay is now a prime destination for nature lovers to explore salt marsh habitat.
Hoover Ranch
JMLT is working to acquire and restore 600 acres of critical habitat on Bethel Island, featuring nearly two miles of shoreline and serving as a haven for migratory birds.
Point Buckler
This 29-acre island in Suisun Marsh is being restored to its natural state, ensuring the protection of critical tidal flows and wildlife habitat for generations to come.
Bay Delta Wildlife
Our restoration efforts support countless species, including great blue herons that nest around San Francisco Bay, with their long legs accounting for half their impressive five-foot height.
Be Part of the Solution
We have a choice: to protect or lose these precious ecosystems. Join JMLT's community of nature lovers, donors, and advocates. Together, we can restore and safeguard one of the most important landscapes on the planet.