About
In response to devastating wildfires and growing climate risks, Sonoma County has launched a comprehensive Resilient Forests and Watersheds Initiative that brings together diverse partners to protect our landscapes and communities through strategic, science-based management and community-driven solutions.
Sonoma County has developed a comprehensive strategy to protect our landscapes and communities. The UC Berkeley Center for Law, Energy & the Environment's foundational report provided critical guidance in developing the Resilient Forests and Watersheds Initiative, which represents our commitment to proactive, collaborative forest and watershed management.
This initiative brings together diverse stakeholders to address wildfire risks strategically. By combining scientific expertise, community knowledge, and innovative funding approaches, we are transforming how we protect and manage our natural resources.
The initiative prioritizes:
- Community-driven forest health projects
- Strategic vegetation management
- Wildfire risk reduction
- Ecosystem restoration
- Workforce development in natural resource management
Through targeted grant programs, technical assistance, and collaborative partnerships, we are building a more resilient Sonoma County. Our approach goes beyond fire prevention—we're creating a sustainable model of landscape stewardship that protects both natural ecosystems and human communities.By investing in local solutions and supporting landowners, resource managers, and community organizations, we are working together to ensure a safer, healthier future for Sonoma County.
Leadership
The Resilient Forests and Watersheds Initiative is led by the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District (Ag + Open Space), which has been at the forefront of wildfire resilience efforts since 2020. Through its Vegetation Management Grant Program, launched with $25 million in PG&E settlement funds, Ag + Open Space has been instrumental in supporting community-driven projects to reduce wildfire risks.
By providing strategic funding, technical assistance, and coordinating across multiple agencies and stakeholders, Ag + Open Space continues to build a comprehensive approach to landscape resilience and wildfire prevention in Sonoma County.
Our Mission
Resilient landscapes and communities through collaborative action
The Sonoma County Resilient Forests and Watersheds Initiative empowers local communities to enhance forest health, protect watersheds, and build wildfire resilience through strategic funding, technical expertise, and collaborative partnerships. We focus on implementing science-based solutions that promote both ecological and community resilience while leveraging resources for maximum impact across the landscape.
Our Vision
A Sonoma County where resilient landscapes sustain thriving communities for generations to come
We envision a Sonoma County where forests and watersheds are resilient to climate change and natural disturbances, supporting thriving ecosystems and vibrant communities for generations to come. This is a future where:
- Communities are adapted to wildfire, with residents and landowners actively engaged in forest stewardship and watershed protection
- Forest and watershed management practices enhance ecological health while protecting public safety and infrastructureA skilled local workforce supports ongoing vegetation management and prescribed fire activities
- Strong partnerships between agencies, organizations, and communities enable landscape-scale solutions
- Strategic investments in planning, education, and on-the-ground projects create lasting positive change
- Traditional ecological knowledge and scientific best practices inform natural resource management
- Projects deliver multiple benefits - from carbon sequestration to wildlife habitat to fire risk reduction
The County of Sonoma is the primary local government entity providing a wide range of services to residents of Sonoma County.
VISIT WEBSITE
The Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District is a special district dedicated to protecting the diverse agricultural, natural resource, and scenic open space lands of Sonoma County for future generations.
VISIT WEBSITE
The Gold Ridge Resource Conservation District assists landowners in western Sonoma County with conservation, restoration, and stewardship of their natural resources.
VISIT WEBSITE
Permit Sonoma is Sonoma County's consolidated land use planning and development permitting agency.
VISIT WEBSITE
Sonoma County Regional Parks manages and maintains a system of regional parks and trails throughout Sonoma County.
VISIT WEBSITE
Sonoma County Transportation and Public Works is responsible for maintaining county roads, managing solid waste, and overseeing various transportation projects in Sonoma County.
VISIT WEBSITE
The Sonoma Resource Conservation District works with private landowners in central and southern Sonoma County to promote responsible natural resource management through voluntary community participation.
VISIT WEBSITE
Sonoma Water is a special district that provides water supply, flood protection, and wastewater management services to Sonoma County and portions of Marin County.
VISIT WEBSITE
UCCE Sonoma County is a local partnership between the University of California and Sonoma County that provides research-based information to agricultural producers, small business owners, youth, and consumers.
VISIT WEBSITE
Fire Safe Sonoma has played a vital role in wildfire prevention through education, fuel reduction projects, and pioneering the county's first chipper program. They serve as a bridge between communities and agencies while actively pursuing grant funding for wildfire safety initiatives.
VISIT WEBSITE
CAL FIRE's Fire Prevention Program encompasses multiple strategies including wildland pre-fire engineering, vegetation management, fire planning, education, and law enforcement, with specific projects focusing on brush clearance, prescribed fire, and defensible space inspections.
VISIT WEBSITE