This 370-acre preserve was added to the District’s open space system
in 2000. It incorporates the south-facing slope above the western
end of the San Geronimo Valley. Together with the Gary Giacomini and
Roy’s Redwoods Preserves, these lands constitute a major portion of
the Lagunitas Creek watershed, so management practices in this area
involve protecting and improving habitat for the endangered coho salmon.
At the western end of the preserve is a steep slope that includes
significant areas of exposed serpentine. The unique soil derived from
this mineral supports many rare plants, including serpentine reedgrass,
Tiburon buckwheat, and Tamalpais lessingia. The French Ranch Fire
Road allows access to the ridge overlooking the valley; it runs alongside
a deep, forested canyon that is a haven for wildlife among the plentiful
Douglas fir, redwood, oak, and tanoak trees. The fire road that runs
along the ridge passes in and out of private property along the border
of the preserve. Please be respectful of our neighbors if you use
this road to access or exit this preserve.
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Featured Species at this preserve:
Red Admiral
Townsend's Warbler
Pine Siskin
Western Gray Squirrel
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