Planting Kids in Nature Since 1970
Mission
We connect children and people of all ages to the outdoors and partner with community groups, families and educators to provide transformative learning experiences on our organic farm and national park land along the California coast.
Vision
We envision a world in which everyone feels a sense of belonging and wonder in the outdoors. Life-changing experiences in nature are an important part of every child’s education. All people understand and value the connections between their own health, food and the environment. All people are inspired and empowered to actively protect the environment and live in ways that sustain it.
Core Values
Nature Immersion: Spending time and learning in the outdoors supports mental and physical well-being and fosters respect, love and understanding of nature.
Inclusion: An equitable, just approach to inclusion must address the systemic barriers that exist in our society. People of all races, backgrounds and abilities have a right to access nature, feel welcome and safe outdoors, and be able to learn in programs that are relevant to their cultures and their lives.
Community: Gathering together outdoors creates meaningful connections among people, facilitates mutual respect and understanding, enhances learning, and promotes a shared joy in nature. Building community through nature with inclusion promotes equity and justice.
Stewardship: Protecting and giving back to the land is our collective responsibility, recognizes indigenous culture and knowledge, and promotes healthy ecosystems in which people, animals and nature thrive together.
Sustainability: Sustainable farming and organizational practices honor our interconnection with nature, promote the health of our food systems and environment, and mitigate climate change.
History
Slide Ranch is located on the Marin coast, on land that has a rich history in connecting people to food. The Miwok once fished and foraged for food at this site, and in the late 19th century Portuguese dairy farmers purchased the land and produced milk and butter for residents of San Francisco. In 1969, 134 acres of this fertile coastline were rescued from commercial development and purchased by the Nature Conservancy thanks to our Co-Founder Doug Ferguson, and his role in preserving Slide Ranch from future developments. The Slide Ranch nonprofit organization was established in 1970, becoming one of the first Park Partners in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
The 1950s- Slide Ranch was operated as a dairy until the land was purchased by a Southern California developer with plans to build a resort. The plans were never realized thanks to Co-Founders Doug Ferguson and Huey Johnson.
Fun fact! Did you know that Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead was one of our first donors? He gave $500 which was a lot back in 1970. Check out this interesting article on the Grateful Dead's contribution to Slide Ranch.