Fifteen years ago this summer, conservationists convened at Starr Ranch Sanctuary in Orange County. The US Fish and Wildlife Service had been petitioned to protect the California gnatcatcher – flagship for the imperiled coastal sage scrub ecosystem – under the Endangered Species Act. As the building industry organized in opposition, EHL formed to save the bird.



Over the intervening years, the gnatcatcher was not only listed, but catalyzed collaborative regional habitat planning in four counties under State of California Natural Community Conservation Planning. Through both disappointment and accomplishment, EHL has been in the forefront of these efforts. As reported in 15 years of Newsletters, an impressive regional reserve is in the making, of which we all can be proud.

At the base of habitat destruction, though, are land use policies that inefficiently, unnecessarily and tragically consume enormous quantities of land. EHL has tackled this problem head on, making progress in updating local general plans. In struggles large and small, our goal is the same: protecting what remains of the subtle, rich, and beautiful ecosystem of Southern California.

On a shoestring budget, EHL has become a credible and distinctive presence. Our approach is strategic and pragmatic rather than doctrinaire, seeking partnerships with other interest groups and local government that increase the reach of conservation. Through advocacy, collaboration, and litigation where necessary, we will continue as long as we can.