Multi-million dollar home sites near Rancho Santa Fe threaten a regional California gnatcatcher population, and historic ranchlands near Julian are proposed for ranchette subdivision. On both fronts, EHL sprung into action.



The Bridges project would remove prime gnatcatcher nesting habitat. Responding to concerns from state and federal wildlife agencies, the County of San Diego initiated an exemplary scientific inquiry into the potential effects on the Multiple Species Conservation Program-North habitat preserve, now under development. The inquiry led to a staff recommendation for denial of the project. EHL provided important scientific input and legal comments. We will keep you informed as we seek “win-win” solutions.

Developers are attempting to subdivide the 1570-acre Hoskings Ranch into residential ranchettes. This would violate the Williamson Act, which provides tax breaks for enrolled agricultural properties. EHL submitted a legal analysis in support of the staff and planning commission recommendations for denying the application, and testified before the Board of Supervisors. However, the Board allowed the applicant to proceed with an EIR for the subdivision, which EHL will monitor closely. This breathtaking expanse of Engelmann oak woodlands exemplifies the need for limited density and effective consolidation of any home sites.