STORIES FROM THE WILDLANDS CONSERVANCY
Meet Carlos: The New Ranger at Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve
Carlos Santana grew up in Moreno Valley, California, where he spent his weekends exploring the trails and mountains around Lake Perris with family and friends. Read about his journey into a career focused on preserving the environment and protecting natural resources.
Breaking Down Barriers: How the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve Protects Wildlife
The Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve (SMRTP) in Fallbrook plays a crucial role in protecting Southern California's wildlife by serving as a vital corridor that connects fragmented habitats. As urbanization continues to encroach on natural spaces, the Preserve provides critical resources for a wide range of species, from mountain lions to beavers. Through the use of wildlife underpasses and landscape linkages, The Wildlands Conservancy ensures safe passageways for animals, helping to maintain biodiversity and genetic diversity.
Rise of the Reptiles at our South Coast Preserves
Spring and summer feature long, warm days, inviting cold-blooded reptiles to emerge from their wintertime dormancy. Several species of snakes are commonly found at our South Coast Preserves, the most common being the San Diego Gopher Snake and the Southern Pacific Diamondback Rattlesnake.
Meet South Coast’s Regional Director, Zach Kantor-Anaya
Zach Kantor-Anaya joined The Wildlands Conservancy in 2010 and worked as a ranger at our North Coast preserves and preserve manager in Sonoma County at Jenner Headlands Preserve prior to becoming the regional director for Wildlands South Coast region in 2018.
Born in Flagstaff, Arizona Zach Kantor-Anaya was raised by parents who worked for the National Park Service at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon — instilling a love of nature in Zach at a very young age.