Natural Resources

Almost half of Swanton Pacific Ranch (1,355 acres) is covered with mixed forest, of which over 63% contains redwood as the dominant species (Todd, 1988).  The majority of the remaining land is grassland with about 330 acres of brush.  The major riparian corridor extends through the center of the property along Scotts Creek and widens to 120 feet at the estuary to the ocean. 

There are several riparian corridors along the subsidiary creeks, but, except for Little Creek, these are only a few feet wide due to steep slopes.  There are 102 acres of cultivated land, primarily in vegetables, and irrigated and non-irrigated oat hay. 

For purposes of natural resource management, the Ranch is divided in four major habitat areas, grassland, wetland, riparian land and forestland, with the latter divided into three separate forestry type areas.