Stewards of the Land

The dictionary defines stewardship as the “careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care.” Good stewardship is a core value at Tejon Ranch with each generation of leadership handing down a legacy of stewardship to those who follow.

Today’s leaders continue that role as they recognize that Tejon Ranch is an important part of California’s natural heritage. They are carrying on the pioneering spirit of their forefathers with an insightful and enlightened approach to land conservation and management.

That approach to land conservation and management begins with the Ranch’s commitment to permanently preserve up to 240,000 acres – 90% of its landholdings. Farming, ranching and hunting continue to be an essential part of life on the Ranch, and new opportunities for people to live, work and play on Tejon Ranch are being pursued.

For the future, the Ranch will work with the newly established Tejon Ranch Conservancy to oversee all the conserved lands, promoting long–term, science–based stewardship of its historic property to provide for public enjoyment through educational programs and public access.

Public access to the conserved lands is a key component of the Ranch’s stewardship commitment. 37 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail will soon travel through the heart of the Ranch’s high mountains. Tejon Ranch and the environmental organizations are working with the new conservancy and California State Parks Department toward creation of a State Park within the conserved lands. In addition, the conservancy will develop programs for docent–led tours and other managed public access to conserved lands.

Tejon Ranch’s commitment to stewardship extends to its development projects, as well. Our future communities will all feature sustainable design and building practices and will serve as models for 21st century environmentally sensitive development.

Our modern day stewardship is simply a continuation of the legacy that started with ranch founders, who understood and respected that Tejon Ranch is a living treasure.