AUBURN, CA – Approximately 487 acres of open space is closer to being protected due to recent actions taken by the Placer County Board of Supervisors, Placer Land Trust, and William Jessup University.
The Rocklin property commonly known as Clover Valley is rich in historical and ecological significance and if conserved rather than developed could provide new educational and recreational opportunities.
The County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to provide up to $1 million toward the purchase of a conservation easement on the property, which will be jointly held with Placer Land Trust. The purchase will be made in conjunction with William Jessup University’s purchase of the land from a willing seller, and will ensure the preservation of Clover Valley in perpetuity.
“Clover Valley represents one of the most significant conservation opportunities of our generation,” said Placer Land Trust Executive Director Jeff Darlington. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the County, William Jessup University, the landowner and other partners to protect this treasured landscape for current and future generations.”
The valley has been home to the Nisenan Maidu Tribe for over 7,000 years and was a major tribal center, according to archeologists. Archeological fieldwork has identified 34 prehistoric sites.
Expansive woodlands, grasslands, wetlands, and riparian habitats support a wide diversity of wildlife, including the threatened California Black Rail and a diversity of wildlife. The property also holds potential to connect existing hiking trails in the area and along Clover Valley Creek.
“This land can be an important outdoor recreational resource for people to improve their overall health and wellbeing,” said Placer County Board of Supervisors Chair and District 5 Supervisor Cindy Gustafson.
The plan is for William Jessup University to own and manage the land, and Placer Land Trust to hold and monitor a conservation easement that permanently prevents subdivision, development, and harmful land uses.
“Clover Valley is a beautiful, unaltered landscape and it is our hope that we can help preserve it for future generations to study and to experience the profound wonders given to us to enjoy by a loving and gracious Creator,” said William Jessup University President Dr. John Jackson. “We are hopeful for future partnerships with the surrounding cities, the state of California, the federal government, and private individuals and foundations including the United Auburn Indian Community. I personally believe this is a model public-private partnership that will benefit the common good of our region for generations to come.”
Preserving Clover Valley is consistent with Placer County’s habitat and restoration efforts within the western region of the County. The County has a long-term partnership with Placer Land Trust through the Placer Legacy program, which has conserved Oest Ranch, Harvego Bear River Preserve, Side Hill Citrus, Beard Ranch, and other significant agricultural and open spaces throughout the County.
About Placer Land Trust
Placer Land Trust aims to preserve wild open spaces, farms and ranches, natural resources, and natural playgrounds because they are vital to quality of life today and in the future. Protecting these landscapes is essential to successfully build and sustain connections among people, their community, and the natural environment. Placer Land Trust works with willing landowners and conservation partners to permanently protect and care for natural and agricultural lands in Placer County for current and future generations.