Davis Ranches

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Davis Ranches is located along the mid-Sacramento River, just south of Colusa. The farm is a diversified operation, with primarily rice production along with walnuts and row crop fields. The property is located adjacent to the Colusa National Wildlife Refuge, a 70,000 acre wetland refuge that provides habitat for numerous migratory birds and aquatic species. Restoring habitat within Davis Ranches can support the same species and allow for stronger, healthier populations in the Central Valley

Currently, Davis ranches provides critical habitat for Swainson’s hawk and giant garter snake, with both species present on the property. The Exchange is working with Davis Ranches to quantify the current habitat and provide management recommendations for the species.

The farm has a legacy of conservation practices. They hold the first a safe harbor agreement for the valley elderberry longhorn beetle, allowing managers to improve and manage the beetle’s habitat without additional regulatory burden. In addition, farm managers, staff, and students planted hedgerows along the row crop fields, restored riparian strips along creeks and perennial canals, and have adopted practices to support species and sustainability on the farm.