Cultivating harmony: Sage-grouse, shrub-steppe habitat, and the benefits of holistic grazing at Secret Valley Ranch

Blue Mountain Land Trust (BMLT) is hosting public tours of our protected properties this year! These exclusive excursions provide an opportunity for community members to experience unique landscapes, while gaining invaluable knowledge about the preservation and stewardship of the region’s natural resources.

On Saturday, April 29, Blue Mountain Land Trust and its supporters embarked on a remarkable tour of our most extensive conservation easement project to date. The awe-inspiring Secret Valley Ranch, sprawling across 9,000 acres in Unity, OR, is home to Greater sage-grouse, holistic cattle grazing, and an extraordinary legacy of family ranching.

Attendees experienced a truly exceptional opportunity to delve into the historical significance of this project, which safeguards over 8,800 acres of pristine sagebrush steppe habitat, benefiting sage grouse, fish, and a wide array of wildlife. Moreover, the ranch itself thrives as a viable enterprise in one of Eastern Oregon's most remarkable regions. In another milestone, the BMLT conservation team achieved a first in the state's history by bringing together two project funders: the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) and the Natural Resource Conservation Services (NRCS).

BMLT's executive director led the tour, Amanda Martino, alongside Mark and Patti Bennett, the esteemed owners and operators of Secret Valley Ranch. It was an enlightening experience as we gained insights into the ranch's remarkable conservation values, traversed the property in a charming hay wagon, and learned about the meticulous five-year process undertaken to safeguard this sagebrush landscape for perpetuity.

The BMLT team truly appreciates Mark and Patti Bennett, whose dedication made the incredible project possible. Their gracious hospitality and shared vision for a sustainable future set the foundation for this significant conservation achievement. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for all those who supported this vital conservation endeavor, and we are hopeful for a brighter future for both wildlife and ranching in Eastern Oregon.

Check out the breathtaking views captured during the recent conservation easement tour at Secret Valley Ranch in Unity, OR here.