Volcan Mountain Foundation’s Nature Center Montane Forest Habitat Conservation Project has received a $10,000 grant from The White Feather Foundation, a global humanitarian and environmental charity founded by Julian Lennon.
The project targets montane forests, where chaparral and oak ecosystems give way to high-value groves of mature conifers at the upper elevations. Restoration began earlier this year before pausing for nesting season. Funded initially by a $1.55 million grant from the Wildlife Conservation Board, the project is estimated to run for three years and includes a 25-year monitoring period.
The Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve is located in Julian.
“We’re embarking on an important multi-year forest management project that embraces our responsibility to steward this strikingly biologically diverse and increasingly threatened landscape for all generations,” said Volcan Mountain Foundation President and Executive Director Eric Jones in a press statement. “Supported by The White Feather Foundation, our work on the mountain will restore health to the montane oak and conifer woodlands and increase its resilience to future wildfires and other long term damaging effects of climate change.”
As the sole recipient of The White Feather Foundation’s 2024 Environmental Grant, Volcan Mountain Foundation distinguished itself by “actively involve indigenous advisors in their stewardship practices, and by engaging a multi-disciplinary team of scientists to consult on projects and lead outdoor educational programs for children,” The White Feather Foundation stated in its announcement.
“We are thrilled to support this project and look forward to providing The White Feather Foundation community with regular updates on its progress.”
