Agriculture at the Cosumnes River Preserve

Scope of Agriculture on the Preserve

The Preserve covers more than 50,000 acres of habitat + agricultural lands. According to GIS data, about 37,500 acres are used for agricultural production — including roughly 16,500 acres on fee-owned lands and 21,000 acres under easements. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

In particular, on the fee-owned lands there are approximately 4,200 acres used for grazing and about 12,300 acres used to grow crops. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Wildlife-Friendly Farming Practices

The majority of the agricultural lands—such as row crops like corn—are managed in a “wildlife-friendly” way, benefiting primarily wintering migratory waterfowl and waterbirds (for example, the Greater Sandhill Crane and Swainson’s Hawk). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

For example: sandhill cranes begin arriving around the time of the corn harvest; while they do not use standing corn, they forage extensively on post-harvest corn fields that are flooded. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Crops & Grazing: A Diverse Mix

Crop types vary annually depending on land-management needs, market conditions, and farmer coordination. As of the year 2000, approximately 21 different crop types were grown on Preserve lands, including apricots, green beans, dry beans, cherries, corn, general field crops, grain and hay, melons, squash, cucumbers, irrigated pasture (alfalfa, clover, mixed), rice, safflower, sudan grass, tomatoes, vineyards, and non-irrigated grassland. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Grazing lands also play a role in the system, helping maintain a mosaic of habitat and buffers between farmland and wildlife zones.

Benefits to Wildlife and the Community

• Creates a **buffer** between more urban land uses and core wildlife habitat near the river corridor. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• By having on-site farmers and managed operations, the land helps deter illegal activities such as trespass or dumping. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• Maintains open space and aesthetics for local residents and visitors. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Supports habitat value for target species—especially waterbirds relying on post-harvest flooded fields. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Fosters long-term social capital: local farmers remain engaged, contribute to the economy and property tax base, while conservation goals are achieved. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}