Alder Creek

Protecting an ancient sequoia forest in the southern Sierra

Superlatives are somehow lacking when describing the 530-acre Alder Creek property. Hundreds of ancient sequoias stretch to the sky, as do magnificent old ponderosa pine and white fir. Native bees swarm the blossoms of elderberry and gooseberry bushes, and the air is rich with the perfume of manzanita warming in the Sierra sun. The landscape is so palpably ancient that it seems timeless: Black bears and mountain lions are present, but a visitor might almost expect to see a mammoth plodding through the understory.

In December 2019, Save the Redwoods League acquired and conserved Alder Creek for future generations. At the time, it was the largest privately owned giant sequoia forest remaining in the world. Our public fundraising campaign received more than 8,500 contributions from individuals and foundations across the United States and 30 other countries—a testament to the power of collective good will.

Today Save the Redwoods is actively restoring Alder Creek’s resilient, carbon-storing sequoia forest, which includes the incredible Stagg Tree, believed to be the fifth-largest tree on the planet. The property also contains meadows, wetlands, and riparian corridors that provide habitat for imperiled species such as Pacific fisher, American marten, and California spotted owl. Our restoration goals are to return balance to this landscape in the wake of historical logging and fire suppression. We are actively reducing fuel loads to bolster long-term fire resilience, leading recovery from the devastating 2020 Castle Fire, and preparing the forest for warmer and drier conditions driven by climate change.

We are also reimagining public access to Alder Creek, including planned upgrades such as improved amenities, new trails, and interpretive storytelling. This includes engaging local community groups, schools, and nonprofits to help envision community programming that will connect local residents and visitors alike to this natural treasure.

Our work at Alder Creek is part of ongoing efforts to build healthier forests and stronger communities. Your contribution to the Redwood Resilience Fund is a direct investment in this brighter future.

The tomorrow we want? It begins by taking action today.

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