The Excelsior Vision
Following 12 months of negotiations, we anticipate that the 340-acre Yuba Narrows Ranch, with almost two miles of critical salmon spawning habitat along the Yuba River and Deer Creek, will be acquired by the Trust for Public Lands for permanent protection as open space, in the fall of 2010.
In addition, a conservation easement will be placed upon 158-acre Black Swan Ranch, which includes the historic Black Swan hydraulic diggings and is home to the imperiled Western Pond turtle and a rich variety of bird species. The conservation easement will ultimately permit public access along the “Miner’s Ditch” trail, which passes through both the Black Swan and Yuba Narrows Ranches, providing miles of hiking opportunities, with breathtaking views along the Yuba River Narrows.
Conservation easements will also be placed on the seven parcels of the Excelsior Ranch, which occupies 426 acres in the upland portion of Excelsior. Development on each of these extraordinary parcels will be limited to a single two-acre building envelope carefully placed to minimize impacts and take full advantage of each property's breathtaking views. The resource-rich blue oak woodlands which occupy the large majority of the Excelsior Ranch will be permanently protected as open space, and managed jointly by the Ranch’s fourteen steward-owners, who will also play a significant role in oversight of the Black Swan and Yuba Narrows conservation areas. In total, more than 870 acres -over 95%- of this unique and important property will be permanently protected as open space.
Interested in joining us in this groundbreaking conservation effort? The 14 parcels which will make up the privately owned portion of Excelsior will be made available for purchase beginning 2011. Tours of the property can be arranged by emailing