On May 10th, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced that it had approved the Tehachapi Uplands Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (Plan), which will provide protections for 25 species of plants and animals, while permitting limited development and other land use activities on designated areas within Tejon Ranch. Founded in 1843, Tejon Ranch is the largest contiguous expanse of private land in California.
Many years in the making, the Plan will protect wildlife habitat and enhance species conservation on over 140,000 acres. The Plan provides protections for several species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), including the California condor (Gymnogyps californianus), least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus), and southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus). The Service’s approval of the Plan provides Tejon Ranch with a 50-year incidental take permit under the ESA, and ensures compliance with the ESA as it proceeds with development. An upscale mountain resort is planned on approximately 5,000 acres.
