The Roots Program: An Ecosystem of Partnerships

Restoring Land, Reviving Culture: A Partnership with Purpose

Point Blue is proud to partner with the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation and the Sierra Foothill Conservancy to restore native habitats and strengthen cultural traditions at the Stookey Ranch Preserve in the Sierra foothills. The Roots Program enables Point Blue to partner with land stewards across the state to implement restoration and conservation projects on working landscapes. The projects at Stookey Ranch Preserve are part of the 100+ projects the Roots Program is funding across the state.

Together, we’re bringing new life to the land. At one site, Tribal stewards have cleared out invasive plants across 4.5 acres and planted over 600 native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. These plants will not only support birds, bees, and other wildlife—they also include species that are deeply meaningful to the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation people, used for ceremony, medicine, and food. A natural barrier made of willow branches is being built to protect the creek from erosion, keeping the water healthy for all who depend on it.

Just downstream, Sierra Foothill Conservancy is leading a project to restore oak woodlands and riparian areas. Invasive plants are being removed with the help of goats and careful hands, and the land is being replanted with native species chosen in collaboration with the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation. This area will also serve as a gathering place for Tribal Elders and a site for cultural demonstrations—helping reconnect people and place.

These are not just restoration projects. They are acts of healing—of the land, of community, and of cultural heritage. Your support can help make them thrive.

Restoring Wildlife Habitat: It Starts with a Conversation

As stewards of their ranch, Colleen and Veronique are passionate about stewarding their land to support wildlife habitat and ensure the land is preserved for future generations. Point Blue is thrilled to be partnering with Colleen and Veronique to restore important wildlife habitat on their Sonoma County ranch. The Roots Program enables Point Blue to partner with land stewards across the state to implement restoration and conservation projects on working landscapes. Colleen and Veronique’s project are part of the 100+ projects the Roots Program is funding across the state.

Working with a Point Blue biologist and the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation, Colleen and Veronique successfully planted 425+ native trees and shrubs to support wildlife habitat at two locations on their ranch. These native habitat plantings are helping restore areas of the ranch that historically supported diverse tree and shrub species and corridors for wildlife to travel across the landscape.

Restoration on privately owned lands is critical to supporting wildlife habitat and conserving biodiversity; however, these projects would not be possible without public/private partnerships. Your support can help Point Blue continue to foster partnerships with private landowners to restore wildlife habitat and conserve biodiversity.