MAPF initiated and represented the local voice in the effort to
prevent the construction of thousands of homes and numerous golf courses in
the beautiful Martis Valley. This large Sierra meadow is sprinkled with
wetlands and surrounded by forest that serves as prime wildlife habitat.
In a collaborative effort of pooled resources, MAPF co-founded
Sierra Watch, and together with the help of other conservation allies
launched a campaign advocating for responsible planning and permanent
protection of the Martis Valley. Expert biologists and land-use planners
were recruited to identify conservation priority areas. The public was
engaged and mobilized in support of saving the valley. Public interest
lawsuits were filed. After winning the first lawsuit, the others were
replaced by negotiation and reasoned compromise won the day.
The resulting Martis Valley Settlement Agreement provides
permanent protection for thousands of acres of land, puts caps on future
growth in the Valley, and sets forth transfer fees in perpetuity on each
house constructed in the valley that has the potential to generate a $100
million for the acquisition of additional conservation lands, habitat
restoration and much-needed work force and affordable housing for Truckee.
Just last year, the Waddle Ranch on the east side of the valley
was purchased as public open space in part with funds generated by the
Settlement Agreement.
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