BLOOM RANCH: The Power of Community-Driven Stewardship
Not all ranchers are born into the lifestyle, some are drawn to it. That was the case for Matt Bloom whose passions took root while working at a pack mule station. Long days on the trail strengthened his connection to the land and laid the foundation for his deep respect for its stewardship. What began as a job soon became a way of life, leading him to pursue a future in ranching. Today, alongside his family, he owns and manages multiple ranching properties across California. But in the early 2000s, they were still finding their footing in the ranching industry. Like many first-time ranchers without land of their own, they leased property to run cattle—helping landowners manage vegetation, reduce wildfire risk, and sustain the ecological health of the landscape while also growing their own operation. One such property was a nearly 500-acre stretch of rangeland in the hills of Tuolumne County—a place rich in natural resources and history.
The Blooms knew this piece of land was special. Its rolling pastures were teeming with oak trees. Its terrain offered year-round water access. And, it was even home to world-renowned climbing rock, “Jailhouse Rock,” which continuously draws adventurers from across the globe. For ranchers like the Blooms, it was an ideal place to graze cattle. But for others, it was rich with opportunity for future development.
The ranch’s scenic views, potential for 20-acre ranchettes, and easy access to Lake Tulloch and nearby amenities made it an attractive location for the region’s next luxury subdivision. The owner of the land even had plans drawn up for its transformation and was waiting for the opportune moment to break ground.
Years passed but the right time never quite came. As outside pressures mounted, the property owner began selling off parcels of land. The Blooms, who had spent years leasing and caring for the property, saw an opportunity— not just to secure land for their operation, but to preserve a vital working landscape. Piece by piece, over the next decade, they purchased sections
916
of the property, ensuring that it remained intact as a ranch rather than becoming another casualty of urban expansion.
Bloom explained, “We really love the property, and we saw the value for it to stay as a working ranch. So, as the opportunities came to buy more and more of the land, we took them. We started off with 160 acres and kept building from there until we got to where the ranch is today.”
(Continued on page 11)
Our Mission: To serve the land, people, and wildlife by conserving California's working rangelands.
The Bloom Family– Matt, Leslie, Spencer, Grace and Belle BLOOM RANCH, TUOLUMNE COUNTY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CHAIR
Carolyn Carey, Alturas
VICE CHAIR
Clayton Koopmann, Sunol
SECRETARY
Sylvia Cattani, Bakersfield
TREASURER
Bruce Hart, Glen Ellen
PAST CHAIR
Andy Mills, Placerville
DIRECTORS
Michael Dennis, Santa Margarita
Angelo Genasci, Sierra Valley
Valerie Gordon, Alpine County
Mark Lacey, Lone Pine
Kyle Lucas, Fields Landing
Doug McDonald, Palos Verdes Estates
Jared Mathis, Laguna Hills
EMERITUS COUNCIL
Devere Dressler, Gardnerville, NV
Jack Hanson, Susanville
K. Mark Nelson, Wilton
Dan O’Connell, Colusa
Steve Sinton, Shandon
Darrell Wood, Vina
STAFF
Michael Delbar, Chief Executive Officer
Jon Cartwright, Finance Director
Jackie Flatt, Conservation Director
Shannon Foucault, Development Director
Alyssa Rolen, Communications Director
Steve Blank, Principal Gifts
Nancy Schaefer, Senior Project Manager
Brent Duka, Annual Giving Manager
Madison Goss, Communications Manager
Robin Hanson, Programs Manager
Mikie McDonnell, Stewardship Manager
JT Reiser, Transaction Manager
Katy Berg, Community Events Specialist
Mike Norberg, Accounting Specialist
Katerina Webster, Transaction Specialist
Joyce Vitug, Development and Events
Associate
Kassie Yde, Executive Assistant
Justin Gallo, Rangeland Steward
LEADERSHIP LETTER
Dear Friend,
What a remarkable season it has been for California’s rangelands—and for all of us at the California Rangeland Trust. Thanks to much-needed winter rains, the landscape has come alive in spectacular fashion. Rolling hills are now blanketed in vibrant wildflowers and lush green grasses, reminding us of the resilience, beauty, and stewardship that define these lands. It’s a season of renewal, growth, and hope—a perfect time for reflection and gratitude.
As 2024 came to a close, we reached a major milestone: more than 400,000 acres of rangeland conserved. This is more than just a number—it represents a legacy of stewardship, a promise of sustainability, and the enduring strength of California’s ranching families. You’ve shown that when we unite around a shared vision, conservation becomes not just possible—but powerful.
Thanks to your continued support, that momentum has carried into 2025. We recently helped two more ranching families—the Bloom family in Tuolumne County (featured on Page 1) and another in Placer County protect their land, while also supporting additional conservation on a ranch in Kern County. With these additions, the Rangeland Trust has now conserved 416,010 acres across 97 ranches. Each acre tells a story—of clean water, thriving wildlife, healthy soils, local food production, open spaces, climate resilience, and the preservation of our ranching heritage.
This spring has also brought moments of celebration. Our award-winning documentary, You Just Can’t See Them From the Road, wrapped up an incredible film festival run—featured in nearly 30 festivals and honored with 15 awards, including People’s Choice, Best Director, and multiple Best Documentary accolades. This film captures the heart of why we do what we do. We were thrilled to launch public screenings in Santa Barbara, Sacramento, and Livermore (see Page 5), with more on the way. To learn more or find an upcoming showing, visit: www.fromtheroadfilm.com.
As we reflect on just how far we’ve come, we’re continually reminded that meaningful impact doesn’t happen alone. It takes a community— supporters, partners, landowners, and champions like you. Whether through conservation, storytelling, or gathering to celebrate our shared values, every step forward is thanks to your belief in our mission.
Thank you for standing with us—for being part of this journey, and for helping California’s rangelands thrive.
With gratitude,
Michael Delbar CEO
DARREL SWEET IN MEMORIAM
Darrel Craig Sweet, a fifth-generation Livermore cattle rancher and founding board member of the California Rangeland Trust, passed away on February 15, 2025, at the age of 78.
Born and raised in Livermore, Darrel developed a passion for ranching early on—raising cattle through 4-H and FFA and later earning degrees in animal science from Modesto Junior College and Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. He and his wife Karen, his high school sweetheart, returned to Livermore in the 1970s to raise their family and eventually, to live full-time on the Sweet Ranch, which they later conserved in partnership with the Rangeland Trust.
Darrel's career spanned roles at the Farm Credit System, Sparrowk Livestock, and his own operation, Sweet Livestock. A true steward of the land, Darrel welcomed students, professionals, and policymakers to the ranch to share insights on conservation ranching.
A tireless advocate for agriculture, Darrel served as President of the California Cattlemen’s Association (2003–2004) and as Chairman of the California Rangeland Trust (2014–2015). In 2013, he was honored as Livestock Man of the Year by the California Chamber of Commerce.
Darrel’s legacy is one of leadership, collaboration, and deep commitment to preserving California’s working landscapes. His impact will be felt for generations to come.
JIM GLINES IN MEMORIAM
Jim Glines, a lifelong advocate for agriculture, community, and the western way of life, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, at his home in Santa Maria.
Born in San Antonio, Texas, Jim grew up on the Rock Front Ranch in Santa Barbara County, where he developed a deep love for the land and ranching traditions that would shape his life. That love never faded. Jim played a key role in the successful conservation of the Rock Front Ranch in 2020, sharing vivid stories from his youth and hosting a Santa Maria-style BBQ on the Ranch with the Community Bank of Santa Maria to help others connect to the land, as well as offering guidance to the landowners throughout the process.
A proud Cal Poly graduate, Jim built a long and impactful career in banking, ultimately co-founding the Community Bank of Santa Maria in 2001. He was also a gifted auctioneer. His voice became a familiar and welcome presence at countless fundraisers across the Central Coast—including serving as auctioneer for the Rangeland Trust’s signature A Western Affair event multiple times. He was set to return as auctioneer for the upcoming 2025 event this October.
Jim was often called “Mr. Santa Maria” for his tireless civic involvement and deep love of the community. He supported local rodeo, youth ag programs, and nonprofits with his time and talents. Above all, Jim was a family man and a devoted Grandad. His legacy of generosity, storytelling, and stewardship will continue to echo across the landscapes and lives he touched.
LEGACY COUNCIL
CHAIR
Jessica Schley
MEMBERS
Michael Campbell
Pam Doiron
Devere Dressler
Glenn Drown
Angelo Genasci
Valerie Gordon
Alexandra Gough
George and Kassandra Gough
Erik Gregersen
Sherry Harkins
Bruce and Elizabeth Hart
B. Wayne Hughes Jr.
Natasha Hunt
Eric Hvolboll
Caroline Power Kindrish
Lynn Kirst
Richard and Sharon Kline
Tim Koopmann
Jack Kuechler
Ken and Julie LaGrande
Eric and Megan Lindberg
Paul and Tina McEnroe
Morris Noble Jr.
Will and Danice Noble
Hayes and Patricia Noel
Rylee Pedotti
Steve and Liz Peterson
Steve and Jane Sinton
Scott and Karen Stone
Adrianna Pope Sullivan
Emily Taylor
Molly Taylor
Ben and Cheryl Trosky
John Vosburgh
VISIONARIES' CIRCLE
Herb and Mareva Barthels
Lorraine Bazan and Chris Stover*
Robert W. Carrau, Jr.
Michelle Cox
Ken Finn
Robin Flournoy*
Valerie Gordon
Erik Gregersen
Sheila Head
Lynn Kirst
Richard and Sharon Kline
Colleen Lenihan
Keith Whiting Moore
John Quinlan and Elizabeth Currie
Marilyn Russell
Steve and Jane Sinton
Nita Vail
Sheila Varian*
Requested anonymous (6)
*Deceased
LAND, LEGACY, AND THE LONG GAME: DAVE ERICKSON’S STORY
D onor Spotlight
For Dave Erickson, conservation isn’t an abstract concept—it’s a responsibility. He has seen what happens when landscapes go unmanaged, whether through overdevelopment or neglect. That’s why he’s a dedicated conservationist, not only through his career in land management but also by supporting efforts that ensure working landscapes thrive for generations to come.
Growing up in Southern California, Dave witnessed firsthand the consequences of unchecked development. Entire landscapes he once knew “were flattened”, replaced by asphalt and subdivisions. But instead of just lamenting the loss of open space, Dave committed himself to safeguarding the future of open lands.
His journey began with a degree in geography and film from UC Santa Barbara, but it wasn’t long before his passion for the land led him into the field. He started as a field biologist in Santa Barbara, studying trout, before heading to Hawaii, where he worked as a restoration ecologist. But California always called him home.
Back on the mainland, Dave took a position as a ranger at Wind Wolves Preserve near Bakersfield, owned and managed by the Wildlands Conservancy a portion of the property is also conserved in partnership with the Rangeland Trust. There, he saw the impact of responsible land management firsthand. Wanting to deepen his knowledge, he pursued a master’s degree at the University of Idaho in Natural Resources and Restoration Ecology. It was here that he truly came to understand the value of grazing management in conservation. With this expertise, Dave applied his skills across the state. In Humboldt County, he managed agricultural wetlands, using dairy cattle as a tool to maintain the health of the landscape. He also worked in the region’s oak woodlands, partnering with a cow-calf operation to promote healthy rangelands.
His journey then took him to Orange County, where he managed preserves and collaborated with the fire department to enhance wildfire resilience. Today, as a forester for a state agency, Dave plays a critical role in pre-fire management, prescribed burns, and helping landowners safeguard their properties against the ever-growing threat of wildfires.
Through it all, Dave has remained steadfast in his belief that land should not simply be left to its own devices. “Letting lands just be is negligent,” he says. “I appreciate the ranchers who manage them.”
That belief has led him to support rangeland conservation beyond his professional work—by giving back. Dave and his wife have committed to supporting rangeland conservation by becoming monthly donors to the Rangeland Trust. As monthly donors, they are helping provide steady, reliable support for California’s rangelands and its stewards all year long.
Because of supporters like Dave, the legacy of California’s open spaces will endure. His story is a testament to the power of stewardship, dedication, and the belief that the land must be cared for—not just today, but for generations to come.
Thank you, Dave, for being a champion of conservation and setting a powerful example for us all.
Bringing California’s Rangelands to the Big Screen Spring Events
In recent months, the California Rangeland Trust has proudly hosted several screenings of its award-winning documentary, You Just Can’t See Them From the Road—a powerful and moving film that illuminates the lives, challenges, and conservation efforts of California’s ranching families.
From Santa Barbara to Sacramento to Livermore, the film has reached policymakers, FFA students, and the general public alike—drawing audiences together to witness the untold stories of ranchers who quietly protect the land, heritage, environment, and values that sustain our state.
In Sacramento, a screening was held in celebration of California Agriculture Day, honoring those who steward the land and feed our communities; California Natural Resources Secretary, Wade Crowfoot, and California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary, Karen Ross, welcomed attendees, underscoring the critical link rangeland conservation plays in our state’s social, cultural, economic, and environmental well-being. In Santa Barbara and Livermore, people from urban and rural backgrounds gathered to reflect on their deep connection to the land and the importance of preserving it for future generations. At the State FFA Convention, the next generation of agricultural leaders left inspired by the enduring spirit of stewardship that defines California ranching.
Through breathtaking cinematography and deeply human storytelling, You Just Can’t See Them From the Road invites Californians to reconnect with the state’s working rangelands—and the people who quietly care for them. Learn more about the film and check out future showings at: www.fromtheroadfilm.com
CELEBRATING CONSERVATION ON THE BLOOM RANCH
On a sunny April day, the California Rangeland Trust joined the Bloom family, community members, and conservation partners to celebrate the conservation of the nearly 500-acre Bloom Ranch (also known as the Wagner Ranch) in Tuolumne County. Nestled along Lake Tulloch, the ranch is now forever protected—thanks to the Bloom family’s vision and the collaborative efforts of state and federal funding partners and private donors. Guests enjoyed a BBQ lunch before gathering for a short program honoring the Bloom family’s commitment to stewardship. The event featured remarks from CEO Michael Delbar, landowner Matt Bloom, and the deputy director of community investments and planning with the California Strategic Growth Council, Amar Cid—a powerful acknowledgement of the importance of public-private partnerships in protecting California’s working lands. More than just a celebration of a conserved property, the day honored the people, values, and legacy of stewardship that define California’s ranching heritage.
PARTNER WITH US TO HELP CONSERVE THE ELGORRIAGA RANCH
You have proven time and again that conservation is possible when we all work together. When we unite around a shared vision, we create lasting change. Our partnership with California’s land stewards has shown that, together, we can protect working landscapes, safeguard wildlife habitats, and preserve ranching for future generations.
Each ranch we conserve tells a story—of resilience, stewardship, and the deep connection between people and the land. These stories remind us why this work matters and why your support is so critical.
We are in the midst of screening and showing our award-winning documentary, You Just Can’t See Them From The Road, which shares the story of the Elgorriaga Ranch. People throughout California are connecting through its sweeping landscapes, its hardworking family, and the deep-rooted legacy that has been passed down for generations. We hope you will join us at one of our public events this year, if you haven’t already!
Now, we invite you to take action to help conserve Elgorriaga Ranch, ensuring this iconic land remains undeveloped, thriving, and in the hands of the family who has cared for it for generations.
w The Elgorriaga Ranch serves as a wildlife corridor and has become a critical home to several different endangered species and rare flora.
w This land grows a variety of fresh foods that find their way to our tables.
w And in a time when wildfires are sweeping across the state, this span of healthy rangeland acts as an essential fire-suppression tool for these threats.
But only with dedicated stewardship from those who treasure the land can these benefits truly be realized. This is a cherished land that has been honored and cared for by a family whose lifeblood is in the soil and animals they raise here. You have likely cherished this land too, as you journeyed along Interstate 5, where open spaces and grassy hillsides unfold in a vibrant, life-filled landscape—offering a welcome contrast to concrete and asphalt.
Your gifts matter in conserving rangeland. Supporters like you have enabled the successful conservation of rangelands across the state—that includes Bloom Ranch, a testament to what’s possible when we work together. This is about your story, just as much as it is about the Elgorriaga Ranch.
Make a gift today, and partner with the Elgorriaga Family as they fight to keep this rangeland flourishing and resilient.
In Ben Elgorriaga’s own words: “Sometimes fighting doesn’t mean shouting and screaming. Sometimes it’s just putting your boots on and being there for work the next day.”
Will you put your boots on and work with them to conserve this ranch?
Please use the provided envelope or scan the QR Code to send in your gift and help conserve the Elgorriaga Ranch.
Scan to send in your gift today!
A WESTERN AFFAIR
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2025
Rancho Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA
You are invited to be part of A Western Affair on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Rancho Santa Barbara!
This year, we will honor those who came before us, built our communities, defined our traditions, and laid the groundwork that guides how our lands are stewarded by families today. In staying connected to our roots, we are better prepared for the future. Together, we can ensure that the next generation has the land and resources they need to be successful.
Join us as we break bread in celebration of our past, with those who will carry forward the heritage of the enduring West.
You can take advantage of special discounted table pricing during our Early Bird Sale now thru May 31!
Reserve Your Table Today!
Scan the QR code below or visit: www.rangelandtrust.org
San Rafael Peak Package
$6,000 $5,500*
One preferred table for 10 guests with premium wine
San Marcos Pass Package
$3,000 $2,750*
One table for 10 guests
*Payment must be postmarked by May 31st to qualify for the discount.
Want to attend, but don't want to purchase a table?
We have reserved a group of individual tickets that will go on sale on July 15th.
For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, and a list of recommended hotels in the area visit: www.rangelandtrust.org or call us at (916) 444-2096
Special thank you to our event Hosts Lee and Julia Carr of Rancho Santa Barbara, and event Co-Chairs Richard and Sharon Kline, and Elizabeth Poett Campbell and Austin Campbell.
THANK YOU DONORS
NOVEMBER 1, 2024 THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2025
LEO AND CAROLYN ACQUISTAPACE
PETER AND REBECCA ADAMS*
NANCY AND JIM AITKENHEAD*
CAMERON AKERS*
MEG ANDREWS
ANN JACKSON FAMILY FOUNDATION
ANONYMOUS (3)
TERRI ARINGTON*
MARIAN ASHE #
TOM AND JULIE ATWOOD*
JOHN AND LIZ AUSTEL*
BAR ONE CATTLE CO.*+
SCOTT AND GRACE BARNES*
BARNEY AND DIANE BARNES
THE BENEVITY COMMUNITY IMPACT FUND
MIKE BENNETT
STEVE BLANK
PAUL AND SANDI BONDERSON*
MARK BRADFORD
LANCE AND JUDI BROWN
BROWNSTEIN HYATT FARBER
SCHRECK, LLP
JOHN AND SUE BURK
NICK BUSCH
SUSIE CALHOUN*
CAROLYN CAREY*
SYLVIA CATTANI*
ROBIN AND REID CEDERLOF*
NATE CHANCE*#
CHRIS CHAPMAN AND JOHN IWERKS
LINDA COLBERT
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE NORTH STATE
CHERRYL CONNALLY*
LYNNE AND DAVID COOK*
LYNNE COSYNS*
THE COWPOKE FOUNDATION*
CHARLES AND ALICE CROHARE
RICK AND KERRY DEBENEDETTI
MICHAEL AND KATIE DELBAR*
FRANK DOHN AND JUDY JIN*
KAREN DORN*
THOMAS DOUGLAS, WALKING
A RANCH
DEVERE DRESSLER AND VALERIE GORDON*^
GLENN AND MARGARET DROWN*
BRENT DUKA
SCOTT AND INGE DUNCAN*
DALE AND LAURA EISENBERG*
DENISE ELLESTAD*
LINDA C. ELLIOTT*
KIM AND DAVE ERICKSON # FARM CREDIT
FIDELITY CHARITABLE
KEN AND ALEX FINN*^
SUSAN AND LARRY FISHMAN*
MIKE AND JEANETTE FITCH
ROBIN FLOURNOY^
GAIL AND LESLIE FREEMAN*
LAURA FULLILOVE
ISABELLA AND LAUNCE L. GAMBLE*
MARY JANE GENOCHIO
GEORGE AND RUTH BRADFORD FOUNDATION
ANTHONY GILBERT
WOLF-DIETRICH WEBER AND VERONIQUE GILLARD*
MADISON GOSS
KASSANDRA AND GEORGE GOUGH*
GRAND NATIONAL FOUNDATION
ERIK GREGERSEN*^
NICK AND KAREN GURIEL*
JACK AND DARCY HANSON*+
ROBIN HANSON
HAPPY CANYON RANCH*
PAUL AND NANCY HEGNESS
GERALDINE HENRY
HENRY MAYO NEWHALL FOUNDATION
STEPHANIE AND GREGG HIBBITS
DEIRDRE HOCKETT*
HOLDFAST COLLECTIVE
DUNCAN HOWARD
A. N. HUNT & SONS, INC.*
BOBBI AND KEN HUNTER*
CHRISSY HUTCHENS
ISLAND PACKERS
NANCY AND PETER JACKSON
JOSIAH JENKINS
DOUG AND PIA JENSEN*
DOUGLAS JENSEN
JOHN S. KIEWIT MEMORIAL FOUNDATION
LINDA S. JOHNSON
INDULIS AND TERESA KALNINS
KIM AND ANDREW D. BUSCH FAMILY FOUNDATION
LYNN P. KIRST*^
RICHARD AND SHARON KLINE*^+
KEVIN AND KATHY KNOWLES*
DOUG KNUDSON
CLAYTON AND NATALIE KOOPMANN+
MEREDITH AND STEVE KUPFERMAN
NICHOLAS LAKE
JOY LAW
COLLEEN LENIHAN^
BEVERLY LEWEY
DONALD LIEU
LINDLEY CATTLE COMPANY*
KYLE LUCAS*
DEBORAH LYON AND JEFF HERTEN*
ELENOR MAHOUSKI
MARIN COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
JARED AND KATE MATHIS*
STEVEN AND LAURA MAYER FAMILY FOUNDATION*
LINDSAY AND JOHN MCCREA
MARK MCKEAN FARMS
JOHN AND CYNTHIA MILES
STEPHEN AND LADEEN MILLER
BILL MITTENDORF
MORAN RANCH
MARY MORRIS*
MICHELE MULLER
CHARLES J. NELSON
GARY AND ANNA NETT*
ONDERDONK FAMILY FUND*
MARILYN OREM
PASADENA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
PAYPAL GIVING FUND
JON AND LINDY PEDOTTI*
GREGORY P. PELLIZZON
PETER PELLIZZON
KATHLEEN AND LARRY PENSINGER
SUSAN PETROVICH*
MARTIN AND SUE PLOTKIN
JOHN AND PAT POMIDOR
STEVAN POWER
TED PURCELL*
RENAISSANCE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
BRUCE AND KATHY RENFREW*
STEPHANIE RODDEN AND JOHN CIENKI*^
ALYSSA AND MATTHEW ROLEN
RICHARD AND PATRICIA ROMINGER*+
CONNOR NOLAN ROSEBROUGH #
MARY H. ROSS
ANNA ROSSI
TOD ROWE
MARILYN RUSSELL*^+
HONORARIA
IN HONOR OF MARK HILLIARD AND TATIANA
MICHELLE COX^
IN HONOR OF STEVE MCDONALD
DOUGLAS MCDONALD*
MEMORIALS
IN MEMORY OF ARTHUR BOWEN
DAN AND BARBARA O'CONNELL*
IN MEMORY OF BOB AND BERNIE CARTWRIGHT
JON CARTWRIGHT
SHANNON AND PETER FOUCAULT
IN MEMORY OF CLAUDIA CASSELBERRY
TOM CASSELBERRY D.V.M.
IN MEMORY OF JIM CHANCE
JAMES MERRILL
IN MEMORY OF JUDGE AND MRS. WILLIAM CLARK
PETER AND ELENA CLARK
LARRY SAGE*
SANTA BARBARA FOUNDATION
ED AND JUDY SAVAGE
NANCY SCHAEFER
SCHWAB CHARITABLE
ERIC AND KATHRYN SCOTT*
SDM REALTY
JOHN AND JUDY SEMAS
KATHLEEN SHAFFER
SUSAN SIMPSON
STEVE AND JANE SINTON*^+
JACK AND LAURIE SINTON*
HARVEY SMITH
LINDSEY HAHN SPAAK #
PAT WITT
ROGER STERNBERG
CASEY STONE*
ADRIANNA POPE SULLIVAN AND ROBERT SULLIVAN
KAREN SWAEBY*
IN MEMORY OF KARIN CLAWSON
MARK AND LAURIE ZOHNS
IN MEMORY OF MARINA DUNN
DEBORAH S. HONEYCUTT
IN MEMORY OF JUDITH B. FRIEND
MICHAEL DENNIS*+
IN MEMORY OF STEVEN D. FULLER
JODY FULLER*
IN MEMORY OF BERNICE HAGATA
DARREL AND KAREN SWEET*+
NITA VAIL^
IN MEMORY OF ROBERT HERBURGER
JOHN HETZLER
IN MEMORY OF WILLIAM "BILL" KING
LINDA PRENTISS^
IN MEMORY OF LUCILLE
ROWLAND KRUEGER
ROBERT KRUEGER*
ELLEN THOMAS
WILLIAM AND SHEILAH TIETJE
KIM AND TRISH TIMOTHY*
MERRIE TOMPKINS, TS RANCH*+
JACK AND ZEE VARIAN*+
TIM VENDLINSKI AND NANCY LINDSAY*
DEBRA AND BOB WACKER*
WAGNER LAND AND CATTLE CO.*
ERIC AND AREL WENTE*
EFFIE WESTERVELT*#
ANDY AND SANDY WESTFALL
CHERLYN WINN
ROB WOLFORD
DARRELL AND CALLIE WOOD*
DAVID ZELINSKY
*SILVER SPUR
^VISIONARIES' CIRCLE +COMPLETED CONSERVATION PARTNER #MONTHLY DONOR
IN MEMORY OF ROGER LYON
SUSAN LYON*
IN MEMORY OF ROBERT MACFARLANE
DAN AND BARBARA O'CONNELL*
IN MEMORY OF BILL NICHOLSON
BILL GISVOLD*
IN MEMORY OF BETTY PEEK
JIM AND DIANA CONNOLLY
JOHN AND DARCY HANSON*+
DARREL AND KAREN SWEET*+
NITA VAIL^
IN MEMORY OF MICHAEL J. PELLIZZON
PETER, PAM, GIANA AND JOHN PELLIZZON
IN MEMORY OF JOSEPHINE POPE
EMILY TAYLOR*
IN MEMORY OF JOHN ROBIE
MICHAEL ROBIE, SEQUOIASALES.NET*
IN MEMORY OF ORRIN SAGE ANDY AND CANDY MILLS
IN MEMORY OF DARREL SWEET
JOHN AND DARCY HANSON*+
ANDY AND CANDY MILLS
DAN AND BARBARA O'CONNELL*
MARILYN RUSSELL*^+
IN MEMORY OF AL AND RUSS VAIL
MARY VAIL
IN MEMORY OF SHEILA VARIAN
JOHN DAVISSON
IN MEMORY OF SALLY WEGNER
JOANNE NISSEN
THE POTENTIAL IN YOUR PROPERTY
In this newsletter, you are reading the stories of multi-generational ranching families and their commitment to stewarding their landscapes for years to come. We know not everyone has that security of knowing who will care for the future of their properties, even after spending the better part of a lifetime building that special place. If this sounds like you, you should know that there are philanthropic options you can consider that may also provide immediate benefits, in addition to your peace of mind.
Here are some ways to leverage your real estate asset for the most good.
1. Outright
The simplest way to donate is an outright gift. This has become a popular option for people like you, and it provides dividends for long-term conservation efforts. At the Rangeland Trust, once a property is received it is typically sold to a conservation-minded buyer, preferably with a conservation easement in place, with the proceeds going to advance our mission long-term. You’ll receive an income tax charitable deduction for the fair market value, when you itemize. You’ll also save on broker expenses because you’re donating, not selling.
2. A Gift in Your Will
Making a gift of real estate in your will or trust ensures support after your lifetime. This gift doesn’t affect your current income or lifestyle; you can also change your mind at any time.
3. Retained Life Estate
Donate property but continue to live there for a specified period of time (usually through your lifetime or that of a spouse). You pay all taxes and handle property maintenance, but you will qualify for an income tax charitable deduction for a portion of the value of your home in the year you make the gift.
What's My Next Step?
Reach us at sfoucault@rangelandtrust.org or (916) 444-2096 for a no-obligation conversation. We can help you prepare the right questions for your financial or estate planning teams. You may wish to bring family members and other heirs of your estate into the conversation early, so they understand your philanthropic goals.
Join our community of Monthly Donors who are helping to conserve rangeland and keep ranchers ranching.
Conservation doesn’t stop—and neither should your impact. Become a monthly donor and be a force for conservation all year long. By donating monthly, you provide steady, reliable support for California’s rangelands.
Scan the QR Code or contact Brent Duka at bduka@rangelandtrust.org to join our growing community of monthly donors today!
BLOOM RANCH CONT.
Flash forward nearly two decades, and the Blooms have not only cemented their place on the land but have also expanded their impact beyond ranching. Their operation has grown to include multiple businesses tied to the ranching industry, all driven by a shared mission: to connect more people to the land. Staying true to his roots, Matt Bloom and his family own and operate the Kennedy Meadows Resort and Pack Station, offering visitors a chance to experience the same deep connection to the land that first inspired his own journey. Meanwhile, on Bloom Ranch, they have upheld a public access easement for Jailhouse Rock, ensuring that outdoor enthusiasts can continue to enjoy this unique landmark through their stewardship of the land.
“In the late winter and into spring, we see 10 to 20 cars a day at the easement access for the Rock,” Matt explained. “I really like that people are able to interact with and see the land that we are actively managing [through grazing].”
For the Blooms, facilitating this connection between people and the land is just as important as the work they do to maintain the property. And as they have watched development creep closer, they have become even more committed to protecting the land they love.
Recognizing the need for long-term preservation, they turned to the California Rangeland Trust to place their land under a conservation easement.
“With all of the development closing in around our land, there has been a noticeable shift in the neighborhood as this region becomes more like a commuter city,” Bloom said. “And when we lose our connection to the land, we lose our connection to each other and our sense of community. Ultimately, when the land is lost, it is something that can never be replaced.”
In early 2025, that vision became a reality. The Rangeland Trust successfully completed the conservation easement on Bloom Ranch, securing its future as a protected working landscape. The project was made possible through a combination of public and private funding, with over 100 donors rallying to contribute nearly $200,000. The remaining funds were secured through key partnerships with the California Strategic Growth Council’s Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation (SALC) Program in collaboration with the California Department of Conservation and the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP).
“It means a lot to us that people came together to support the conservation of our ranch,” Bloom expressed. “I feel great about the fact that this beautiful ranch and all the different things that it has on it will be protected forever. My grandkids and great grandkids will be able to enjoy the ranch as it is today with no threat of development changing it.”
The conservation of Bloom Ranch is more than just a victory for one family—it’s a testament to the power of community-driven stewardship. By working together, ranchers, conservationists, outdoor enthusiasts, and donors have ensured that this land remains a thriving working landscape, protected from the pressures of urban development. It is only fitting that a place cherished by so many has been safeguarded by those who understand its value.
The Blooms set out to preserve their way of life, but in doing so, they have also secured a lasting legacy for future generations to experience and appreciate.
By: Madison Goss, Marketing and Communications Manager
EDITOR
ALYSSA
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
PHOTO CONTRIBUTIONS
The next generation working on the Ranch.
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THE RANGELAND TRUST IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH KOMODO FIRE SYSTEMS
The California Rangeland Trust is proud to partner with Komodo Fire Systems to assist you and members of the ranching community with your fire prevention needs. Komodo provides one of only two fire retardants in the world with active land-application certification from USDA and US Forest Service.
Komodo is a non-toxic, non-hazardous, water-soluble, biodegradable compound. Used as both a fire retardant and fire suppression system, the Komodo agent is highly effective at preventing fires from spreading and extinguishing small fires as they ignite. The best part is that its “benign-by-design” formula makes it SAFE, when used as directed, for the land, livestock, and people who rely on it.
As a valued supporter of the California Rangeland Trust, YOU will receive an exclusive 15% discount on Komodos’ fire mitigation products available in the online store (www.komodo-fire.com) when you use the discount code: CRTSAVE1
Komodo also offers other large-enterprise products that may be of interest, especially to members of our ranching community. For questions and inquiries about these products and more large-scale product applications, please reach out to Komodo Fires Systems directly at 833-356-6636 or 559-760-7732.
By choosing Komodo Fire Systems' eco-friendly firefighting solutions, you're contributing to the protection of California's precious rangelands for generations to come!
