As we celebrate 35 years of protecting the natural and working lands of Sonoma County, we reflect on the incredible milestones made possible through community partnerships and shared commitment. From safeguarding critical wildlife habitat to preserving beloved open spaces and family farms, each property tells a story of conservation and care. Together, we’ve protected over 122,000 acres—ensuring these treasured landscapes remain for generations to come.

Marty Ranch

In September of 1992, just about two years after visionary Sonoma County voters created Ag + Open Space to conserve agricultural and natural lands, Dean Marty and his family became the first to put their faith in our agency to help them protect their land forever. This 223-acre property was conserved to preserve its scenic and open space values, as well as to allow for continued livestock grazing. Next time you drive north on Highway 101, coming out of Petaluma and starting up the Cotati grade, look to your right, and you will see the old Marty Ranch. Dean has since passed away and the family has sold the ranch, but Meacham Hill and over a mile of highway frontage, running up to and over the ridgeline, on which you will see grazing animals, grasslands, and scattered oak trees, remains protected forever.