$4.88M grant to build trails, visitor amenities at Watsonville Slough Farm approved

The project will provide free access to wetlands, grasslands and working agricultural lands in Santa Cruz County.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that the Wildlife Conservation Board approved $59,642,096 in grants to protect biodiversity, restore important wildlife habitat and improve public access to nature across California. In Santa Cruz County, a $4.88 million grant will help build a five-mile trail network and new visitor amenities at Watsonville Slough Farm.

Why it matters

The Watsonville Slough Trails project will open up outdoor access for underserved communities in the region, providing free access to natural areas and educational programming. This aligns with the state's broader 30x30 initiative to conserve 30% of California's lands and coastal waters by 2030.

The details

The $4.88 million grant to the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County will fund the construction of a five-mile trail network and new visitor amenities at Watsonville Slough Farm. The project aims to provide bilingual interpretation, educational programs, and improved connections to the wetlands, grasslands, and working agricultural lands for underserved communities.

  • On February 28, 2026, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the Wildlife Conservation Board's approval of the $59.6 million in grants.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California who announced the grant approvals.

Land Trust of Santa Cruz County

The recipient of the $4.88 million grant to build the Watsonville Slough Trails project.

John Laird

A California State Senator representing Santa Cruz County who praised the Watsonville Slough Trails project approval.

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What they’re saying

“The project will open the outdoors for young people and others who have historically been excluded from such opportunities. Hats off to WCB for its vision and support, which will enable people to explore and feel inspired by the natural world in this beautiful region of the Central Coast.”

— John Laird, California State Senator (ksbw.com)

What’s next

The Land Trust of Santa Cruz County will begin construction on the five-mile trail network and visitor amenities at Watsonville Slough Farm in the coming months.

The takeaway

This grant funding will help expand outdoor access and educational opportunities for underserved communities in Santa Cruz County, aligning with California's broader efforts to protect biodiversity and connect people with nature.