GRASS VALLEY, CA (MPG) - Bear Yuba Land Trust (BYLT) is thrilled to announce the permanent protection of Wildflower Ridge Preserve, a 128-acre property located at Rough & Ready Highway and Ridge Road in Grass Valley. 

Long at risk for subdivision and development, BYLT has purchased the property with support from Sierra Nevada Conservancy and through the generosity of a dedicated conservation donor. This acquisition of open space and important wildlife habitat joins BYLT’s 25,000+ acres of land permanently protected in the Bear and Yuba River watersheds.

Gather with BYLT Board and staff, friends, and neighbors for a toast to the land and a Preserve-inspired reading by Nevada County Poet Laureate Kirsten Casey on Thursday, September 14, 2023 from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. The celebration will be held free of charge at Wildflower Ridge Preserve on 13167 Ridge Road, Grass Valley.

Explore Wildflower Ridge Preserve’s two public trails, Wildflower Ridge Trail and Rough & Ready Ditch Trail, and experience diverse habitats in the beautiful wildflower meadows, unique lava cap areas, heritage black oak groves, and conifer forests. With easy access from local schools, BYLT is delighted to protect and enhance a place for youth to explore nature.

Protection of this land also creates the opportunity for BYLT to collaborate with the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan in the establishment of a cultural conservation easement that grants permanent land rights and access to the Tribe. BYLT intends to work closely with the Tribe and other community partners on further enhancements of the land and trails for the benefit of the community.

Now protected forever, Wildflower Ridge Preserve will continue to be a destination for local residents and visitors to connect with the benefits of nature. With its protection, BYLT has the opportunity to expand trails and outdoor recreation, including developing outdoor living classrooms, native pollinator gardens, and additional universally accessible trails, all for the community to enjoy!