Community Matters

Celebrating 30 Years of Conservation

Connecting our community to conservation through education, agricultural support, and research-based restoration.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide education and resources that improve the health of our community, natural systems, and agricultural legacy in Stanislaus County.

About Us

Proudly serving the local community since 1996, the ESRCD offers programs and services focused on protecting the local lands, native plants, water, pollinators, and other natural resources that keep our community thriving. We partner with farmers, ranchers, landowners, Stanislaus County residents, and local organizations to restore habitats, promote conservation, support healthy land and water, and offer programs that build a stronger culture of conservation in Stanislaus County.

What We Do

YOUTH & COMMUNITY EDUCATION

We offer hands-on learning experiences that help students and families explore food, farming, and environmental science. Our programs spark curiosity, build meaningful connections to the land, and provide opportunities to gain new skills through exploration.

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AGRICULTURAL CONSERVATION

Farmers and ranchers receive on-the-ground support from our team to bring conservation practices onto working lands. Together we improve soil health, strengthen pollinator habitats, and support water-efficient practices.

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HABITAT & RESTORATION

Our team leads habitat restoration and science-based monitoring to support native wildlife, pollinators, and healthier ecosystems. We also work with volunteers and partners to revitalize parks, trails, rivers, and shared open spaces.

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News & More

Stay connected with our work through stories, updates, project spotlights, and local conservation highlights from across Stanislaus County.

Orchard in bloom with cover crops supporting soil and pollinators

A Farmer’s Perspective on Agricultural Conservation

By: Alix Clausen To highlight our Agricultural Conservation Program and its focus…

Growing & Learning Together

Jr. Farmer student showing off their radish plants

Stanislaus River flowing through the Knights Ferry Recreation Area

Restoring Rivers Through Collaboration

By: Rocko A. Brown, PhD, PE, Cramer Fish Sciences At Cramer Fish Sciences,…

Get Involved

Join us in caring for local land and resources while building lasting connections across our community!

We offer many ways to get involved in conservation, restoration, and education across Stanislaus County. From volunteering on habitat projects and partnering with landowners on conservation practices to supporting youth education and attending community events, your involvement helps strengthen local land, water, and ecosystems. You will find us at markets, classrooms, workshops, and at our SOILS Education Center, where hands-on learning brings conservation to life for students, educators, and community members.

Join Us!

Thank You to Our Partners & Sponsors

Our work is possible because of strong partnerships in our community.

About Stanislaus County

Square Miles

Major River Systems

Agricultural Commodities