American River Conservancy

Operating as a land trust since 1989, ARC preserves land in perpetuity to safeguard watershed health and the natural ecosystems that sustain life.  To date, we have permanently protected over 31,000 acres in the upper American River and upper Cosumnes River watersheds.  Our conserved lands support the wellbeing of all living things in this region, including more than 2.6 million people in greater Sacramento and beyond.

Guided by the best available science, we also steward land to protect biodiversity and clean water for generations to come. Our projects and programs connect people to wild places while advancing long-term conservation outcomes. Our impact is evident from nearly four decades of trusted community partnerships, individual donors, legacy givers, and thousands of volunteer hours every year.

Our work is grounded in three mission pillars:

• Land Conservation: We protect open lands, natural habitats, working agricultural lands, and cultural resources through willing land purchases, donations, and conservation easements. Our protected lands span multiple counties, from headwaters to foothills, and we have transferred about half of these lands to public agencies for lasting public benefit.
• Land Stewardship: We manage and monitor approximately 15,000 acres with the help of about 100 volunteer land stewards. Together, we strengthen ecosystem health, biodiversity, and public access by blazing and maintaining trails, reducing fuels, restoring habitats, and providing other essential environmental services. ARC is responsible for over 35 miles of scenic foothill trails in El Dorado County east of Sacramento.
• Environmental Education: We connect people to nature through experiential, place-based learning. Each year, our programs serve thousands of learners of all ages, building environmental literacy and inspiring stewardship that fosters a more sustainable future.