Hood Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve links thousands of acres of public lands with key acquisition

SONOMA COUNTY, CA – Sonoma County Regional Parks has taken a significant step to enhance the ecological and recreational landscape of the Sonoma Valley and northeast Santa Rosa by acquiring an important property adjacent to Hood Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve’s Los Alamos Road entrance. Although modest in size, the property, known as 100-Acre Ranch, serves as a critical lynchpin, linking a vast network of more than 11,000 acres of protected public land across the southern Mayacamas Mountains along the Napa County line. This acquisition expands the park and preserve to more than 3,700 acres and offers even more opportunities for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers to experience this vast wilderness park.

 
“Protecting Sonoma Valley's rural character and ecological health is a top priority,” said Sonoma County Supervisor Susan Gorin, whose 1st District includes the park. “With this expansion, we help maintain the natural beauty of the area, prevent unnecessary development along scenic ridgelines, and maintain crucial wildlife movement corridors while paving the way for expanded opportunities for recreation in the future.” 

The 100-Acre Ranch bridges the gap between the eastern boundary of the Saddle Mountain Preserve east of Rincon Valley (owned by Sonoma Ag + Open Space) and the northernmost boundary of Hood Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve, which is contiguous with Sugarloaf Ridge State Park near Kenwood. Solidifying this network of open space acquisitions sets the stage for future interconnected trail networks and supports biodiversity, wildlife habitat and environmental education opportunities.  

The property, purchased for $555,000, is adjacent to the recently acquired 888-acre Salt Creek Addition (also known as Weeks Ranch North). This land was transferred from Sonoma Ag + Open Space in December 2023 after being purchased from the same landowners, members of the Rasmason family, who’ve owned and operated working ranches on both Weeks Ranch North and 100-Acre Ranch for generations.  

Regional Parks has invested heavily in wildfire preparedness and vegetation management across its parks. Extending these efforts to the 100-Acre Ranch will enhance the wildfire resilience for both the property and the surrounding community. "Hood Mountain Regional Park played a key role in fighting the wildfires of 2017 and 2020,” said David Rabbitt, chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. “By protecting more land, we can better prepare for future wildfires, fight climate change and keep our environment healthy and safe for the future.” 

The 100-Acre Ranch is at a vital intersection of existing public parklands and conserved open spaces, enhancing habitat connectivity for wildlife movement, supporting diverse plant and animal communities and promoting a healthier ecosystem. The surrounding Mayacamas Mountains are an important water source for Sonoma County residents, encompassing tributaries and creeks that feed into the Russian River, Napa River and Sonoma Creek. 

Collective funding for this purchase by Regional Parks was made possible with contributions from the Sonoma Land Trust ($250K), Dave and Vicki Stollmeyer Family Fund, managed by the Sonoma Valley Catalyst Fund ($50K), Sonoma County Parks Foundation ($25K) and its Bill & Dave Legacy Fund ($25K). Additional funding was provided by local Measure M – Parks for All ($200K) and local park mitigation fees ($30K).  

“The Sonoma County Parks Foundation proudly supported this important acquisition, made possible through community collaboration and a commitment to preserving our vital natural resources,” said Melissa Kelley, executive director of the Parks Foundation. “We thank the Sonoma Land Trust, Dave and Vicki Stollmeyer Family Fund, and donors to the Bill & Dave Legacy Fund for their dedication to Hood Mountain Park and Preserve. Hood Mountain offers unparalleled wilderness experiences, and this new link enhances opportunities for through-hiking and multi-day adventures within the Mayacamas.” 

“Expanding public parks adjacent to Hood Mountain is also the best strategy for ensuring regional wildlife corridors remain intact,” said John McCaull, acquisitions director for Sonoma Land Trust. “We are pleased to continue our partnership with the Parks Foundation and Sonoma County Regional Parks by supporting this acquisition.”  

Regional Parks will provide occasional tours to the property beginning in 2025, until a property master plan is developed that will identify resource management, future trails, trail connections and public access. 

"The 100-Acre Ranch is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers," said Sonoma County Regional Parks Director Bert Whitaker. "Imagine traveling from Sonoma Valley to Santa Rosa via trail, through stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. This keystone property makes that vision possible, offering new trail opportunities and expanding our management of this wilderness just minutes from Santa Rosa. We are deeply grateful to our local community for their support in preserving our natural resources for future generations to enjoy.” 

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Contact Information:  
Sarah Phelps, Marketing Specialist 
Sonoma County Regional Parks
Sarah.Phelps@sonoma-county.org 
(707) 331-9027 
 

Sonoma County Regional Parks provides essential opportunities for people to connect with nature. We contribute to the vibrancy and well-being of our community by expanding access to recreation experiences, serving as responsible stewards of cultural and natural resources, and ensuring that our parks are clean, safe and welcoming. Learn more at SonomaCountyParks.org.