On Friday, Dec. 22 escrow closed on the purchase of the 86 acre Keithly Ranch property in south Lakeport. The Lake County Land Trust is now the proud owner of almost 300 acres of nearshore, upland wetlands, and riparian land in the south Lakeport area. 

The Keithly ranch is adjacent to the Land Trust’s Wright Wetland Preserve, creating a combined area that will protect 16 percent of Clear Lake wetlands. 

The Keithly acquisition is of upmost importance because of the existence of Manning Creek, which runs through the property and empties into Clear Lake. The creek is a major spawning creek for the threaten Clear Lake Hitch. The Land Trust’s Stewardship Committee is working with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife on funding to reconnect the creek to its original delta on the Wright Wetland Preserve.

Many generous supporters contributed funds for this acquisition. In addition to the required matching funds that the Wildlife Conservation Board required, expenses for a Land Agent, appraisals, Title Report, lawyer fees, a required environmental review, and closing costs were needed to complete this purchase.

The Land Trust thanks everyone who has supported this acquisition.

The Land Trust will develop a management plan with input from the nearby Big Valley band of Pomo Indians as this area is a significant part of their tribal homeland. Rehabilitating the wetlands, putting in trails and caring for this property will be an on going expense. If you would like to help support the Land Trust's mission please donate below.

LCLT now owns the Keithly Preserve and the Wright Preserve

Keithly Preserve looking from Soda Bay Road toward Clear Lake.

Clear Lake Hitch, also known as Chi by the indigenous tribes of Clear Lake, is a large minnow found ONLY in Clear Lake and its tributaries. At one time the Chi was a major protein source for the indigenous people. Hitch can reach 14 inches in length and weigh more than 16 ounces. The Chi population has been struggling to survive. Thousands of Chi once traveled up streams to spawn and the young swam down stream to the protection of tules along the shoreline to mature. Protecting wetlands and creeks is one way to help the Chi survive. Click here to learn.

WINTER WALK

The Rodman Preserve is a perfect place to find solace in a busy life. Susan and Roberto Lozano of Kelseyville and daughter Paz, visiting from Berkeley, enjoyed a foggy winter walk at the Rodman Preserve recently.

Stop by! Walk the 1.5 mile loop and experience some wonderful views on Rodman Slough and the mountains of Lake County. Bird life is active now. You will most likely see egrets, herons and more, maybe even a bald eagle.