Landowner Info
News + Features

Land for Scenic Beauty

Modini preserve

A landscape that inspires

Sonoma County’s beauty is more than just a backdrop, it’s part of what makes life here so special.  In this space, we’ve curated a collection of images generously shared by community members.

Healdsburg ridge sign
Blue and pink sky at dusk
dirt trail

Sonoma County is a shared landscape. Even though each of us experiences it in our own way, the hills, trees, and skies provide connection. These snapshots brings together the perspectives of our community, offering a glimpse of Sonoma County through the eyes of those who live here. These snapshots let us see our home through each other’s eyes and remind us why conserving our natural and working  lands isn’t just about the views, but also about our shared identity as a county.

Burned madrone resprouting
field of mustard flowers

More than just scenery.

Sonoma County’s landscapes do more than catch the eye — they shape and enhance our daily lives. From coastal grasslands to redwood forests, these places offer beauty, balance, and a constant reminder of why home here feels so special.

Cloverdale river park
Grove of old trees
mushrooms sprouting from a tree
Pond with vegetation

Photos Provided by Friends & Neighbors.

From top left to bottom: @pixelspective @katjabrinck @apsarpy @bestofsonoma @nochillmustafa @sonomaecologycenter AOS Staff, @giovanna.gigi.geegers @emmapiebird @sacredgroundca @a_lot_of_miles_and_smiles

Cow standing on a grassy field

The Value of Scenery is Deeper than Expected

We believe Sonoma County’s scenic landscapes are vital to the identity, health, and prosperity of our communities.

  • Sense of Place: Distinctive peaks, valleys, ridge lines, and waterways define the visual identity of Sonoma County.
  • Environmental Benefits: Conserved scenic lands protect creeks and groundwater, provide wildlife habitat, and build resilience to climate impacts.
  • Health and Happiness: Spending time in natural beauty reduces stress, lifts mood, and supports both physical and mental well-being.
  • Community Identity: Views of open land, oak-studded hills, and historic working farms create a cultural continuity that resonates across generations.
  • Economic Strength: Scenic beauty draws visitors, supports tourism, and enhances property values, helping to sustain vibrant local economies
Fence along a trail
@robdevenutophotography

What We’re Doing

Ag + Open Space conserves the scenic character of Sonoma County by focusing on high-visibility landscapes and culturally significant places.

  • We have helped conserve areas such as Taylor Mountain, Fitch Mountain, North Sonoma Mountain, Montini Preserve, Jenner Headlands, Petaluma River, Soda Springs and so many more.
  • We prioritize key scenic corridors like the Russian River, coastal zones, the Baylands, and the agricultural valleys of Petaluma and Two Rock.
  • We help create greenbelts that maintain urban boundaries, protect wildlife corridors, and can used for smaller-scale agriculture.
  • We work with landowners to conserve agricultural lands that help maintain open views and natural beauty.
Field with flowers at sunset
@apsarpy

Enjoy and Engage

There are many ways to connect with conserved lands and support our work.

Property Milestone: Taylor Mountain Regional Park & Open Space Preserve

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.

Know More

Caring for Jenner Headlands Preserve

Jenner Headlands Preserve is a stunner – with over 5,600 acres of coastal prairie, oak and redwood forests, and views that truly awe and inspire.  Running for 2.5 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway, the Headlands is part of the historical lands of the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians, and is today owned and managed by The Wildlands Conservancy with…

Find Out More

Press release: Sweeping West County ranches conserved for agricultural heritage and diverse natural resources

SANTA ROSA, CA (November 15, 2023) – Sonoma County Ag + Open Space is proud to announce two projects that will together conserve nearly 700 acres between Forestville and Santa Rosa for habitat restoration…

Read More