- Looking Back and Stepping Forward
- Five Years Later: Erosion Prevention Projects Still Going Strong
- Fuel Breaks: A Collaborative Management Strategy
- Celebrating a Decade of RCD Memories & Milestone
- Rainwater in Action at Helen Putnam Regional Park
- Developing Leadership and Community for FARMS Students
- Plus funding opportunities, community surveys, events, workshops, and more!
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Looking Back and Stepping Forward
Welcome to our first newsletter of 2025! We are excited for things to come this year. While our team works diligently year-round with the goal of positively impacting our local communities and environment, we wanted to take a moment to pause to reflect on the past year and to share what comes next for each of our teams.
Water Resources Team: This incredible team built nine rainwater tanks, two of which are in Sonoma County Regional Parks. They implemented projects to remove invasive species in five acres, worked on the designs and permits to enhance groundwater recharge, constructed a rain garden and wrote a planting plan for Mark West Creek, began a well-monitoring program in partnership with the local Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs), and wrote two grants for fish passage enhancements.
This year, the team is looking to install six more rainwater tanks in the Mill Creek area, continue invasive species removal on another 45 acres of fire-impacted properties, implement two sediment reduction projects, and write six grants in collaboration with our phenomenal partners for stream and salmonid restoration, streamflow enhancement, and sediment reduction. Ensuring water conservation efforts bridge the needs of wildlife, watersheds, and residents speaks to the fundamentals of our mission.
Forestry Team: This past year, our Forestry team added a new team member, Patti Aaron, as a new Community Engagement Specialist. They also finished the development of the Gualala River Watershed and Coastal Tributaries Management Plan, which was several years in the making! The team continued to grow professionally by participating in the first-ever Forester’s TREX (Prescribed Fire Training Exchange) in Watsonville. Additionally, they wrote four landowner-level forest management plans and one cooperative forest stewardship plan for a 10,000-acre planning area.
Looking ahead to 2025, the team hopes to secure funding for a large-scale forestry project, continue developing community-level landscape planning documents, and identify multi-parcel forest management projects suitable for future funding. Building forest and community resiliency remains a critical priority of the RCD and our partners.
Agriculture Team: In 2024, our Agriculture team achieved numerous milestones via an array of projects. They implemented two hedgerow projects on vineyard properties and participated in the vibrant Transhumance Festival. The team supported seed collection initiatives to strengthen local plant genetics for future restoration projects. On the grazing front, they facilitated contract grazing on six private properties through the LandSmart® Grazing Program and distributed $8,700 in mini-grants to bolster grazing cooperatives. Additionally, they supported three producers in their first year of a three-year compost application project and hosted our first Spanish-language irrigation efficiency workshop in collaboration with Napa RCD.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Agriculture team is excited to build on this momentum. Plans include hosting several educational workshops for producers focused on soil health, hedgerows, and irrigation efficiency – so stay tuned! They also aim to co-host a Rancher 2 Rancher co-learning event, forge new connections, and provide technical support to small and underserved producers. Goals for the year include finalizing four carbon farm plans, completing six or more new contract grazing projects through the LandSmart Grazing Program, and implementing two to three hedgerow and riparian planting projects. Above all, they look forward to fostering deeper connections with our diverse agricultural community across our district.
Community Engagement Team: In 2024, our Community Engagement team made a significant impact through a variety of programs and events. They led 14 TEAM elementary field trips to local farms, reaching over 416 students from 11 different schools. The team also re-launched the FARMS Advanced program, welcoming the first in-person cohort of students since COVID, and organized eight FARMS Leadership field days. Together, the FARMS Leadership and FARMS Advanced programs served over 30 students from six schools, several of whom are now pursuing agriculture, environmental science, or resource management studies in college. Beyond school programs, the team connected with the community at seven events, including Bayer Farm’s Harvest Festival, Sonoma County Ag Days, and the Steelhead Festival. These events provided opportunities to engage with community members, educate Sonoma County youth, and share the mission of the RCD.
Looking ahead to 2025, the team plans to enhance the TEAM program by refining the curriculum to better serve local English-language learning students. They are also working to launch a FARMS Alumni program so students can stay connected with and support past participants. Additionally, the team will host two Agricultural Heritage Series public outings, stay tuned for more details!
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Five Years Later: Erosion Prevention Projects Still Going Strong
Recently, Anya Starovoytov, our Agricultural Program Director, joined the Coastal Conservancy for a site visit to check in on projects completed five years ago as part of post-fire recovery efforts. These projects were funded by the Coastal Conservancy following the devastating 2017 fires.
Wildfires that burn at extremely high temperatures can destroy vegetation, including the root systems that stabilize soils. Without this natural anchor, heavy rains can lead to significant sediment runoff into creeks, streams, rivers, and, eventually, the ocean. This sediment disrupts delicate salmonid habitats and can threaten future generations of these important species.
To address this, the RCD implemented several projects on vineyard properties in the Sonoma Creek watershed, guided by LandSmart plans. These included culvert replacements, meadow seeding, grassed waterways, grade control structures, and unsurfaced road improvements, such as rolling dips and armored fill crossings, to reduce road erosion.
Fast forward five years, and we’re thrilled to report that these projects are still performing exceptionally well! Built to endure with minimal maintenance, they even withstood the atmospheric rivers in November and December. Beyond their resilience, these projects play a role in supporting the return of salmon. This past year, Sonoma Creek recorded one of the largest salmon runs in decades!
While no single effort can take full credit, projects like these—designed to prioritize salmonid habitats while bringing together communities of landowners to rebuild sustainably—demonstrate the power of aligning human and environmental needs. Together, we’re building a future that supports both thriving ecosystems and resilient communities.
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Fuel Breaks: A Collaborative Management Strategy | |
In response to the 2019 Kincade fire, the RCD, Northern Sonoma County Fire Protection District (NSCFPD), Audubon Canyon Ranch, and CAL FIRE met with landowners to form the Pine Flat-Briggs Ranch Road Collaborative. The collaborative met for the first time in October 2021 to kick off the beginning of a planning project focused on fuels management strategies to improve safety in the community as well as provide a wildfire calming zone between the fire-prone geysers and Alexander Valley.
Last month, our Forestry team completed one of the key action steps from this collaborative: creating a significant fuel break on Pine Flat-Briggs Ranch Road. There were approximately 70 acres cleared on a strategic ridge impacted by the Kincade Fire. Fuel breaks are strips of land where vegetation and debris are reduced to help slow or stop the spread of wildfire. Beyond wildfire prevention, these areas also support prescribed burns, which improve plant health, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, and boost the quality and quantity of livestock forage.
This project reduced fuels on private properties adjacent to Briggs Ranch Road and along an important ridge in Bear Canyon. The area was identified as a priority through the Pine Flat-Briggs Ranch Road Collaborative and stands as a powerful example of the value of community collaborations in wildfire prevention. It was funded by the Sonoma County Vegetation Management Grant Program.
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Celebrating a Decade of RCD Memories
Keith Abeles celebrated his 10-year anniversary at the RCD! One of his favorite aspects of the job has been exploring the beauty of Sonoma County, from farms and ranches to rolling hills and waterways, while building connections with landowners and managers who care deeply for the land.
A standout memory for Keith was the 2016 Russian River Confluence, which brought together conservation leaders for two unforgettable kayaking adventures. The first was a journey from Alexander Valley to Healdsburg with Supervisor James Gore and other partners. A month later, the final event brought 200 participants together to paddle from Monte Rio to Casini Ranch, followed by a night of camping and camaraderie with RCD staff.
Keith takes pride in several key accomplishments during his time at the district. In 2023, he helped distribute $200,000 in compost rebates to 11 agricultural properties, advancing sustainable practices throughout the district. He also spearheaded a thriving vineyard soil health workshop series from 2018 to 2020, which drew consistent participation and educated the community on vital conservation practices.
Keith’s favorite places in Sonoma County to visit include the trails of Annadel State Park and the stunning Sonoma County coastline, both of which reflect the region’s incredible natural diversity. We are so grateful to have Keith on our team and appreciate the wealth of knowledge, dedication, and energy he brings to the RCD. Here’s to celebrating Keith and his remarkable contributions!
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Director of Finance & Administration
The Director of Finance & Administration (DF&A) manages the RCD’s financial, human resources, and administrative functions to ensure the district meets its mission and strategic goals. This hands-on leadership role involves overseeing a team and working closely with the Executive Director, leadership team, and Board of Directors. The position is part of a succession plan, offering mentorship from the current DF&A for the new hire.
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Engineer
The engineer position offers an exciting opportunity to apply engineering and project management skills to a meaningful and impactful work setting. The individual will work with a dynamic team of professionals, with a variety of projects in pursuit of multiple resource goals such as water quality, drought and fire resilience, soil health, and climate-beneficial farming. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
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Rainwater in Action at Helen Putnam Regional Park
Our Water Resources team joined Sonoma County Regional Parks staff at Helen Putnam Regional Park in Petaluma to assess the newly installed rainwater catchment system designed in house by the RCD’s Engineer Jessica Pollitz!
With two tanks now in place—one near the parking lot restrooms on Chileno Valley Road and another by ranger housing—these systems can store over 45,000 gallons of rainwater collected during the wet season.
The stored water will be used to water livestock that are part of grazing projects that help manage fuel loads in the park while mimicking natural grazing patterns to promote native plant growth. This innovative solution not only conserves groundwater and reduces reliance on the park’s well but also serves as a backup resource for fire suppression when needed. This project exemplifies how collaboration can address multiple conservation priorities!
A big thank-you to our partners: Sonoma County Resilience Fund, Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation, Supervisor David Rabbitt, and Parks for All – Measure M. We’re thrilled to see sustainable water solutions making a difference. Let’s watch these tanks fill up this rainy season!
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Developing Leadership and Community for FARMS Students
This past December, our FARMS Leadership and Advanced cohorts attended Westminster Woods for a team-building retreat. One of the pillars of the FARMS Leadership program is leadership development. As part of this pillar, we strive to allow our FARMS students to get out of their comfort zones, make new friends, develop their leadership and communication skills, empower their voices, and grow the strategic skills necessary to become leaders in their communities.
During our time together students were separated into small groups to solve challenges as a team, explore the outdoors with a silent hike, and bond with one another over lunch and a campfire. Our FARMS Advanced students described the day as, "a great experience with a variety of outdoor activities. The view was worth the hike! I enjoyed seeing other students from other schools, I met a bunch of new people!"
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Apply Now: Sonoma Marin Agricultural County Climate Coalition
Applications are being accepted for technical and financial assistance to plan and implement climate-smart agricultural management practices on Sonoma and Marin County farms or ranches.
The Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs) in Sonoma and Marin counties have secured competitive grant funds and are currently managing farmer incentive payment programs designed to support agricultural producers. Producers interested in adopting management practices that increase resilience to a changing climate and reduce atmospheric greenhouse gas levels can apply.
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Apply Now: Zero Foodprint Restore Grant
Let’s restore the climate together! Farmers and ranchers in select states are eligible for Zero Foodprint’s Restore Grant, which provides funding to implement farm practices that build healthy soil and sequester carbon. Receive up to $25,000 for cover cropping, compost, and other regenerative practices. Applications are open until Feburary 19th.
We are able to assist applicants as a Technical Assistance Provider (TAP). Please reach out to Anya Starovoytov via email at astarovoytov@sonomarcd.org to discuss your project scope before listing us on your application.
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GSA Community Survey
The Sonoma County Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) are dedicated to monitoring and sustaining groundwater levels. To support this work, the Sonoma County GSAs are considering a range of programs and policies to sustain groundwater resources in our county. The GSAs are soliciting input from the community through a public survey to inform these programs and policies. Share your input today!
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Survey for Private Landowners on Mitigating Wildfires in California
Researchers from Penn State University, in collaboration with the University of California Cooperative Extension, are conducting a survey of private landowners in California, funded by the Joint Fire Science Program. The survey aims to better understand your views and intentions to mitigate wildfire hazards in California, either through fuel treatments or prescribed burning. It takes about 20 – 25 minutes to complete the survey. Your responses are strictly confidential, and participation is voluntary. Thank you very much, your input matters!
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Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival
Friends of Lake Sonoma
February 8 | 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
FREE
3288 Skaggs Springs Road, Geyserville
This is a family event full of entertainment, educational and interactive activities, food, and resources from local community groups. Be sure to stop by the Sonoma RCD booth to learn more about what we have been up to this past year!
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Wildfire Safety & Preparedness Training
Sonoma County Farm Bureau & American AgCredit
February 10th
English language - 8-12 pm
Spanish language - 1-5 pm
FREE
3589 Westwind Blvd, Santa Rosa
Ag Access Passes are obtained from the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office and provide property access in an evacuation zone during a wildfire event. The Pass is valid for 42 months, and each individual requesting access will be required to have a pass.
To obtain a Pass, the first step is to complete this certification course. Topics include fire line hazards, wildland personal protective equipment, entrapment avoidance, vegetation management, traffic patterns, and other essential fire topics.
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CAFF Small Farm Conference
Community Alliance with Family Farmers
February 23 -27
In-person gathering 12:30 - 6:30 pm
Sliding Scale
Virtual/Green Valley Farm + Mill (In-person gathering)
Join CAFF for the 37th annual Small Farms Conference! This weeklong conference will provide over 40 virtual bilingual workshops covering an array of topics. There will be one local in-person day on Thursday, February 27th.
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Field Workshop: Wildfire Resilience For Communities In East Sonoma County Block:
Saturday, March 8th | 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
FREE
Santa Rosa, CA
Join Cal Poly’s Fuels and Vegetation Education Program for a field-based training. This workshop is an opportunity to learn about fuels management and wildfire resilience through the work of local communities within the Mayacamas Range. Presenters will showcase efforts in post-fire conditions, including prescribed burning, shaded-fuel breaks, and grazing treatments
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SCFB Ag Days Contests
Sonoma County Farm Bureau
March 11- 12 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
FREE
1350 Bennett Valley Rd, Santa Rosa
Are you a teacher looking for an interactive field trip that focuses on Sonoma County agriculture? Sign up your class to attend the annual Farm Bureau Ag Days this spring. In addition to these field trips, students can participate in the different contests individually or as a class for a chance to win up to $100! For more information please email Anita Hawkins at anita@sonomafb.org.
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Conservation at Work with LandSmart®
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