11,000 Acres of Upper Trinity River Watershed Protected in Landmark Conservation Deal

In a significant move to safeguard one of California’s critical water sources and its rich biodiversity, nearly 11,000 acres of the Upper Trinity River watershed have been permanently protected. This $15.5 million acquisition, funded by state and federal agencies, marks a major step in preserving this vital area in Northern California.

The land, a crucial part of the Trinity Headwaters, has been acquired by the Pacific Forest Trust (PFT) and transferred to the Watershed Research and Training Center (WRTC), which will manage the property under a conservation easement held by PFT. This initiative not only protects the environment but also supports community development in the region.

“In addition to this project contributing to the ecologic and economic sustainability of Trinity County, this is especially important because the property is projected to maintain its biodiversity and water values even under climate change into the next century,” said Laurie Wayburn, President of PFT. “It will provide arefuge for many species forced to migrate because of climate change, and continue to provide cool, clean water for millions of Californians in a warming world.”

This project was made possible through a $12 million grant from the Wildlife Conservation Board, with additional funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. It represents the first conservation investment by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), highlighting the importance of integrating ecological protection with community benefits.

The conservation effort is a key part of PFT’s strategy to create an interconnected network of protected headwaters forests in the Klamath-Cascade region. The area includes over 4.5 miles of the Trinity River and 50 miles of spring-fed tributaries, which are essential to California’s water supply, supporting millions of acres of farmland and providing water to cities as far south as San Diego.

The project aligns with California’s ambitious 30×30 conservation goals, aiming to protect 30% of the state by 2030. By preserving this land, the initiative supports endangered species and promotes climate resilience, all while boosting the local economy through sustainable forest management and new outdoor recreation opportunities.