Ranch Land Easements Featured in California’s 30×30 Progress

The California Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) recently shared an update on the state’s 30×30 Initiative, following the release of the California Natural Resources Agency’s 2025 Progress Report. The 30×30 Initiative aims to conserve 30% of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030. As of last month, 26.1% of the state’s land qualifies as “durably conserved,” up from 25.2% the year prior. Around 853,000 acres were added over the past year, keeping pace with previous efforts.

The report highlights the role of working lands in these gains. One example includes a 10,000-acre agricultural conservation easement on a working cattle ranch in Merced and Mariposa counties. In total, 131,000 acres of conservation easement lands—many on private ranches—were added to the 30×30 inventory, accounting for 15% of the year’s newly conserved acreage. The agency also worked with the California Rangeland Trust to identify easements that meet the state’s criteria.

CCA continues to represent ranchers in these efforts through its seat on the 30×30 Partnership Coordinating Committee, helping ensure agricultural voices are included in statewide conservation discussions.