The mission of the Land Trust of Santa Clara Valley is to preserve agriculture, other working lands and open space in Santa Clara County and adjacent areas.
aBOUT
The Land Trust of Santa Clara Valley (LTSCV) is a private nonprofit public benefit corporation under the provisions of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. LTSCV has been accredited by the Land Trust Alliance (LTA) through November 15, 2026.
OUR WHY
Once celebrated as the "Valley of Heart's Delight" for its perfect climate and fertile soils, Santa Clara Valley has lost over 21,000 acres of farmland and rangeland to development in the past 30 years, with nearly 28,000 additional acres at risk. This loss threatens our local food security and agricultural economy while diminishing open spaces that provide crucial habitats for native species and help mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as extreme heat and flooding.
Once celebrated as the "Valley of Heart's Delight" for its perfect climate and fertile soils, Santa Clara Valley has lost over 21,000 acres of farmland and rangeland to development in the past 30 years, with nearly 28,000 additional acres at risk. This loss threatens our local food security and agricultural economy while diminishing open spaces that provide crucial habitats for native species and help mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as extreme heat and flooding.
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OUR MISSION
The mission of LTSCV is to preserve agriculture, working lands and open space in Santa Clara Valley and adjacent areas. OUR VALUES
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History
Founded in 1998, LTSCV has worked to preserve local ecology and agriculture by protecting over 2,190 acres of land throughout Santa Clara County. As an independent nonprofit organization, not tied to any government entity, LTSCV fills a unique role in our region’s conservation and restoration efforts. We are based in the same office as the Farm Bureau, and our presence there, plus our status as an independent organization, has helped build trust with local farmers and ranchers. We also have excellent relationships with other land trusts and open space authorities in our region. Since 2020, LTSCV has been growing and strengthening the organization, with a full-time Executive Director and the addition of a Conservation Project Manager and Finance Manager to the staff. LTSCV has brought on multiple new highly active Board Members who have helped protect 970 acres over the past five years. The public has welcomed LTSCV’s reemergence, and LTSCV is currently discussing several new partnerships with landowners, local Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs), and other land trusts and local agencies.
Where we protect
We conserve land through conservation easements, which are legal agreements with landowners that permanently limit land uses to protect its agricultural and conservation values. This ensures that the land remains intact for future generations. While most of our work is in Santa Clara County, LTSCV has recognized a gap in services in San Mateo County, and as a result, we are working to establish a presence there in coordination with other conservation agencies.
Priority Conservation Initiatives
Our priority initiatives focus on the preservation of critical agricultural areas, vital greenbelts, and unique habitats to support biodiversity, sustain local food systems, and enhance environmental health throughout the region.
Priority Initiative: Agricultural areas along the Pajaro River We focus on preserving farmland along the Pajaro River, currently maintaining conservation easements on approximately 1,165 acres of prime agricultural land. Preserving this land is crucial for sustaining local food systems, supporting biodiversity, and maintaining the region’s agricultural heritage for future generations. |
Priority Initiative: Coyote Valley Greenbelt We focus on protecting the Coyote Valley Greenbelt, a vital agricultural zone and watershed buffer between San Jose and Morgan Hill. This area is essential for preserving ecosystems, supporting agriculture, and maintaining water quality. By safeguarding this greenbelt, we ensure the viability of farming, promote biodiversity, and help maintain a sustainable balance between growth and conservation in the region. |
Priority Initiative: Habitat for Threatened and Endangered Species We focus on preserving habitat for threatened and endangered species on over 200 acres of serpentine grasslands. This unique ecosystem supports a rich diversity of wildlife, allowing these species to thrive alongside vibrant native wildflowers. By protecting this critical habitat, we promote biodiversity and ensure the survival of vulnerable species, contributing to the health of our region's natural landscape. |
Priority Initiative: Grasslands and Oak Woodlands We focus on preserving grasslands and oak woodlands that serve as valuable watersheds throughout the Santa Clara Valley. These ecosystems play a crucial role in water conservation, soil health, and wildlife habitat. By protecting these natural areas, we enhance watershed integrity, promote biodiversity, and support the overall environmental health of our region. |
Transparency and Accountability
At the Land Trust of Santa Clara Valley, transparency and accountability are central to our mission of protecting local lands. LTSCV is an accredited tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Our tax identification code is 77-0471102. Below, you’ll find our 2023 990 Form, which provides detailed insights into our financials and operations. If you have any additional questions or need more information, we’re happy to assist!
| ltscv_2023_990_public_copy.pdf |
