Sierra Nevada Conservancy (SNC) is a California state agency created by bi-partisan legislation (AB 2600) and signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2004. The SNC was created with the understanding that the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada and its communities are closely linked and that the Region and the State of California would benefit from an organization providing a strategic direction.
The SNC Region, made up of all or part of 22 counties covering over 25000000 acres (101,171.5 km²), is one of the most significant natural and biologically diverse regions in the world. The Sierra Nevada constitutes about 25% of California’s land area and is the state’s principal watershed, supplying 65% of the developed water supply to residents, agriculture, and other businesses/industries across the state.

Vision Statement

The magnificent Sierra Nevada Region enjoys outstanding environmental, economic and social health with vibrant communities and landscapes sustained for future generations.

Mission

Sierra Nevada Conservancy initiates, encourages, and supports efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the citizens of California.

Program Areas

The SNC supports the Sierra Nevada Region by providing funding for local projects and offering technical assistance and other support for collaborative projects in partnership with local government, non-profit organizations and Tribal entities. Activities supported contribute to the following program objectives:

• provide increased opportunity for tourism and recreation in the Region;
• protect, conserve and restore the Region’s physical, cultural, archaeological, historical and living resources;
• aid in the preservation of working landscapes;
• reduce the risk of natural disasters, such as wildfire;
• protect and improve water and air quality;
• assist the regional economy; and
• enhance public use and enjoyment of lands owned by the public.

Financing for the implementation of the SNC’s programs comes from the California Environmental License Plate Fund and Proposition 84. Proposition 84, The Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and Coast Protection Bond Act, was approved by voters in 2006. The SNC was allocated a total of $54 million of Proposition 84 funds for grant distribution and necessary administration of the grants. The SNC has distributed nearly 30 million dollars to 146 projects throughout the Sierra Nevada.