For Immediate Use Contact: Garrison Frost, (510) 601-1866, Ext. 225
September 11, 2009

Weldon, CA – As part of its effort to conserve and protect cottonwood riparian forest in the South Fork Kern River Valley, Audubon California today announced that it has purchased a 26-acre ranch directly adjacent to the Audubon Kern River Preserve. This purchase will protect critical bird habitat on the property from development, and further secure adjacent lands on the Preserve for conservation.

“This property is a beautiful addition to the Audubon Kern River Preserve,” said Reed Tollefson, manager of the Preserve. “The cottonwoods and native pastures provide important habitat for birds, and it is a great comfort that we can protect all this from development.”

The South Fork Kern River Valley has been named a Globally Significant Important Bird Area by Audubon California because it hosts nearly 200 nesting species, including Western Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Southwestern Willow Flycatchers, Summer Tanagers, and Kern Red-winged Blackbirds. The Audubon Kern River Preserve is at the heart of this critical habitat area, and has made the protection of nearby cottonwood and red willow habitat in the Valley one of its core goals.

“This area is clearly one of the natural gems of California,” added Tollefson. “When we put more property under protection, we preserve that much more of it for the enjoyment of future generations.”

About Audubon California 
Audubon California is building a better future for California by bringing people together to appreciate, enjoy and protect our spectacular outdoor treasures. With more than 50,000 members in California and an affiliated 48 local Audubon chapters, Audubon California is a field program of the National Audubon Society.