The American River Conservancy (ARC) is an environmental non-profit organization located in Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma, CA. ARC’s mission is to serve the community by protecting and enhancing natural habitats where biodiversity can flourish. Since 1989, the ARC has acquired approximately 25,000 acres of land to protect the American River and Cosumnes River watersheds. Through successful grassroots conservation, preservation, restoration, and education efforts, ARC promotes a broad ethic of stewardship to help ensure healthy ecosystems now and for future generations. Along with many other community benefits, ARC offers exciting public programs, hikes,events, outdoor environmental education, summer nature camp,and rewarding volunteer programs to residents and visitors in El Dorado County.
In 2017, ARC is partnering with the Bureau of Land Management to complete a new trailhead and connector trail at Salmon Falls Ranch. Located on Salmon Falls Road, the new Acorn Creek Trailhead provides access to the South Fork American River trail system. It features a parking lot with ample room for equestrian trailers and passenger vehicles. This mile-long multiple-use trail crosses Acorn Creek and meanders through riparian, oak woodland, and chaparral habitats. A small day use fee ($5) is collected for parking. The Acorn Creek Trailhead grand opening is weather-dependent and anticipated November 2017.
ARC is the honored landowner of Wakamatsu Farm in Placerville, site of the first Japanese colony in America established in 1869. Tours, events, and programs are part of the Wakamatsu Farm experience for both visitors and volunteers alike. To celebrate 150 years of Japanese-American heritage, ARC is planning the 4-day festival called WakaFest150 in June of 2019. To sponsor, participate, or volunteer for WakaFest150, please email wakamatsu@ARConservancy.org
Chili Bar River Park is managed by ARC and funds collected at the park are used to help maintain the park & river conservation.
Learn more about the American River Conservancy at www.ARConservancy.org. Keep up with the ARC on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
