Northern California Ranch to Open for Public Recreation

A significant cattle ranch in the Klamath Mountains of Northern California is being acquired by the Wildlands Conservancy, which plans to open the land to the public for outdoor activities.

The nonprofit has received an $11.5 million state grant to facilitate the purchase of the property, known as AP Ranch, for a total of $15.5 million. This ranch, located west of Mount Shasta in Siskiyou County along the East Fork Scott River, was originally listed at $16.9 million. The conservancy intends to develop trails, restore meadows, and enhance the ecosystem for salmon.

Established in 1856, the ranch has been in the hands of a family since 1961, who have operated it as a cattle ranch. The property includes seven houses and several barns. The acquisition is anticipated to be finalized on October 30. Earlier this year, the Wildlands Conservancy also acquired a 547-acre coastal area in Sonoma County, further expanding public recreational spaces.