North Coast
Photo: Bureau of Land Management
The California North Coast region extends from windswept beaches in Del Norte County at the Oregon border, southward some 370 miles through Humboldt, Mendocino and Sonoma Counties, to the spectacular Marin headlands overlooking San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. The world’s tallest trees, the California coast’s largest river, and the longest undammed river in the State are all found in the north coast. Timber, agriculture and commercial fishing traditionally shaped the economy, but tourism has become increasingly important, as the region’s stunning natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities draw visitors from around the world. Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Point Reyes National Seashore, the Lost Coast, Redwood National and State Parks, coastal paths in Mendocino and uncrowded beaches along the North and South Spits of Humboldt Bay are just a few of the North Coast highlights to be explored in California’s least-populated coastal region.
The five-county north coast region – including Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Sonoma and Marin Counties – is one of the least populated in California, with just under one million residents. American Indian tribes have made their home within this region for thousands of years and maintain a strong presence. Small cities straddle the two transportation corridors (Highway 1 along the coast and Highway 101 inland) and include Crescent City, Eureka, Ukiah, Fort Bragg, and Santa Rosa. Family farms, dairies, vineyards and rolling grasslands with grazing sheep and cattle characterize this area.
North Coast Project Priorities
The Conservancy’s North Coast Program recognizes the importance of this region, and supports projects in the area to preserve open space and working lands, protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat, provide new and improved opportunities for public access, and revitalize harbors and waterfronts. Major focus areas include:
- Protect Working Landscapes
- Protect, Restore and Enhance Fish and Wildlife Habitat
- Support Restoration of Waterfronts
- Complete the Coastal Trail
- The Great Redwood Trail
North Coast News
- Job Posting: Project Support Analyst“Love the North Coast, and the environment? This might be the job for you!” The State Coastal Conservancy has an exciting opportunity for you to join us in protecting California’s iconic lands and waters, restoring vital habitats, and increasing inclusive and equitable enjoyment of the coast and shoreline. The Conservancy works with others on […] (Read more on Job Posting: Project...)
- Press Release: Coastal Conservancy Authorized $14.6m for Coastal Access, Restoration, and Climate Resilience3/24/2022 – Today, the Board of the State Coastal Conservancy approved $14.6 million in grants for restoration, protection, public access, and climate resilience along the California coast and San Francisco Bay. Included in the approvals were $3,420,000 to Save the Redwoods League to acquire conservation easements on 3,862-acres of the Weger Ranch property within the Big River […] (Read more on Press Release: Coastal...)
- Request For Services: Great Redwood Trail Master Plan And Community Outreach ProgramThe State of California Coastal Conservancy seeks the services of a consultant firm or team to conduct tasks needed to support development of the Great Redwood Trail Master Plan and Community Engagement Program. The consultant will provide technical expertise and develop products that support completion of the Great Redwood Trail Master Plan and Community Outreach […] (Read more on Request For Services:...)
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