Another landowner in Nevada County chose to protect his land from future subdivision and development through a conservation easement recorded with the Nevada County Land Trust. The 27-acre parcel, located in the Peardale area, contains a rich mixture of riparian and upland forest habitats, including seasonal wetlands, grasslands, a perennial stream, large pond, wildflower meadows and both hardwood and mixed conifer forests.

The property is also home to an astounding number of plant and animal species. More than 130 different bird species have been reported over the years, including red-tailed hawk, western blue bird, red shafted flicker, California quail, Cooper Hawk, Great Horned Owl, water ouzel, Black-headed grosbeak, great blue heron, and more.

With Peardale beginning to experience more growth, many of the properties surrounding this sanctuary have been subdivided into 3-, 5- and 10-acre parcels, resulting in fragmented habitat and displaced wildlife.  Much of the wildlife has now found refuge on these 27 acres, making this parcel an especially important one to protect from future subdivision.

In addition to signing the easement, the owner donated stewardship funds to help pay for future management of the easement, including legal fees for filing, monitoring of the property to be sure the terms of the easement are being met, and other administrative tasks.