eNewsletter
April 7,  2016 

In this Communication
*Carbon Farming Plan Application
*Wildflowers and Ranching Outing
*Small Forest Management Talk
 
Carbon Farming Plan Application

Interested in the RCD writing a Carbon Farm Plan for your Ranch or Farm? Apply before May 31st.
 
We are looking for landowners or land managers in the Gold Ridge District to apply to receive a Carbon Farm Plan. Want to partake in the global movement to improve soil, positively impact climate change and be a local leader in climate resiliency? The Gold Ridge RCD is seeking ranchers and farmers interested in developing carbon farm plans through the LandSmart™ program.
 
Carbon farm plans identify practices that allow agricultural operations to increase carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These practices provide multiple benefits for climate change resiliency, by reducing atmospheric CO2 levels while improving soil health, water holding capacity, and crop and forage production. Carbon farming practices may also promote water conservation and reduce irrigation needs, which in turn may reduce stream withdrawals and enhance water quality and instream habitat. Finally, practices such as hedgerows and windbreaks work to both sequester CO2 while enhancing on-farm wildlife and pollinator habitat.


LandSmart Carbon Farm Plan applications are due before May 31.



Partner News
 
 
Wildflowers and Ranching Near the San Pablo Bay
April 10th, 10:00-2:00pm
Hosted by Sonoma RCD, the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District, and Sonoma Land Trust


The Sonoma Resource Conservation District, Sonoma County Agricultural and Open Space District, and Sonoma Land Trust are partnering to present a free hike for the public to learn how cattle grazing is helping us manage and protect the 1,665-acre protected Tolay Creek Ranch, while gazing at the spectacular blooms of spring wildflowers endemic to the serpentine soils found here. Tolay Creek Ranch is amazing stunning swath of grassland and creek habitats connecting the wetlands fringing San Pablo Bay to the foothills of Sonoma Mountain. Later this year, we will transfer the ranch to Regional Parks so it can be added to the adjacent Tolay Lake Regional Park - doubling its size!

Walk with Stewardship Director Bob Neale from the Sonoma Land Trust as he discusses how grazing management and watershed restoration work together to preserve our natural and agricultural heritage. Witness how these techniques benefit plant life, wildlife and our diverse ecosystems. Enjoy a BYO picnic lunch atop a stunning vista overlooking the Baylands among vibrant wildflower blooms! It is a day not to be missed.



 
Small Forest Management Talk
April 16th, 10-12:00pm
Salmon Creek School Auditorium,  1935 Bohemian Hwy, 
Occidental, CA 95465
Hosted by: the Bodega Land Trust
 
Jill Butler, co-founder of the Sonoma County Working Group, will discuss such topics as fuel reduction, thinning for better growth, Sudden Oak Death management, and funding for management projects. After a brief presentation, we will tour the small redwood forest behind the school for onsite learning.

No reservations. $10 at the door. 
For more information email [email protected]
or call 707-874-9001

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The staff of the Gold Ridge RCD thanks you for your continued support.