California Rangeland Trust Announces 100th Ranch Partnership

California Rangeland Trust announced that with its newly completed conservation agreement with the Mackey family of the Murphy Ranch, it has now partnered with 100 ranching families to conserve 100 ranches statewide, protecting more than 420,000 acres of rangeland. The Murphy Ranch lies southeast of Jamestown and northeast of Chinese Camp, adjoining the Sardella Ranch, also conserved in perpetuity through a partnership with the Rangeland Trust, to create a 950-acre expanse of protected rangeland. “Partnering with 100 ranching families to conserve their private working rangelands is more than a milestone—it’s a reflection of the trust, collaboration, and shared purpose that make lasting conservation possible,” said Michael Delbar, CEO of the California Rangeland Trust. “Robert Mackey and his family have been incredible stewards of their land for generations, and it’s important that we recognize their dedication and commitment to conservation. Because of them—and the 99 other ranching families that have chosen voluntary conservation—we still have places that provide fresh, local food, clean air and water, and vital wildlife habitat.