Napa's 2,300-acre former vineyard to become public wildlife preserve

The former Walt Ranch, a 2,300-acre tract in Napa County’s eastern hills, was bought in 2005 for $8 million by vintners Craig and Kathryn Hall. Plans to convert the land into commercial vineyards sparked opposition over old-growth trees, wildlife habitat and watershed impacts. In 2023 the Land Trust of Napa County secured the property for $24 million, financed by the State Coastal Conservancy, the Wildlife Conservation Board, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and a $6 million donation from the Halls.

Renamed Osos Ridge Preserve, the area serves as an uninterrupted wildlife corridor from Foss Valley to Howell Mountain, supporting species such as black bears, mountain lions and rare plants. It also protects key watersheds feeding the Napa River, Putah Creek and Lake Berryessa. The Trust will partner with the Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District to develop trails and visitor amenities, aiming for public access in spring 2027.