Posted: 11-15-07 Paradise Found  --- 1/2 mile of Paradise Beach preserved --- --- in the Guadelupe-Nipomo Dunes ---  (Point Sal, CA)   Aerial View Of Point Sal and Paradise Beach The California coast has long captivated people with an intangible, perhaps even spiritual appeal. We all recognize the enchanting feeling of watching ocean waves crash upon the shore or discovering mysterious creatures hiding in the shadows of tidal pools. These experiences help us develop a lasting bond of appreciation and love for the landscapes that elicit such captivating memories. It is an honor for us to protect special places like these forever.    The Land Conservancy is overwhelmingly excited to announce that we have entered into a purchase agreement with Don and Irene Gragnani for their 143 acre property located just north of Point Sal and fronting Paradise Beach. Operating under the auspices of the Dunes Collaborative Land Acquisition Task Force, we found the Point Sal and Paradise Beach area to be one of the highest priorities for land conservation initiatives in the entire Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Complex. We have been developing a deal with Mr. & Mrs. Gragnani over the past year and a half and are thrilled to be moving forward to permanently protect this spectacular area.    Tide Pools on Paradise Beach The property includes roughly a ½ -mile stretch of the white sands of Paradise Beach and several tidepool areas tucked into small, protected coves. According to the Point Sal Reserve Management Area Plan prepared by the firm of Storrer & Semonsen (c. 1990), other natural resources include thriving coastal dune and bluff scrub habitat, freshwater seeps, a marine mammal haul-out area, and several populations of endangered Surf Thistle (Cirsium rothophilum). The upland area of the property is described as a critical wildlife area that contains important habitat for mountain lion, bobcat, coyote, and deer.   “This is one of the most pristine and beautiful beaches I have ever been to in my life. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to protect it forever.” - Bob Hill, Conservation Director This spectacular place provides stunning 360-degree views of ocean and dunes, and is an unspoiled example of what our native coastline looked like long ago. But this area also held a special appeal to The Gragnani’s who experienced its magic for many years. They regularly visited the property for picnic lunches and camping expeditions, and they are pleased to know that it will be maintained as a protected natural area for others to enjoy as well.   Walking along the ridge towards Point Sal Our project partners will include the State Coastal Conservancy, the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, The Nature Conservancy, and Santa Barbara County Parks.We anxiously await consideration of our funding proposals at the State Coastal  Conservancy board meeting in January and at the Regional Board in February. The deal is expected to close shortly thereafter in early March. Santa Barbara County Parks has expressed a strong interest in the long-term ownership and management of the property as they are already adjacent landowners.   The project is representative of The Land Conservancy’s ongoing commitment to protecting, restoring, and stewarding the unique and fragile ecosystem that makes up the world class Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes through collaborative efforts with our many good partners.     Interested in contributing toward similar future projects? Make a Donation Today! All donations are tax-deductible and should be made payable and sent to: The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County 743 Pacific Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 To make an online donation: Please feel free to call the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County Office for more information at (805)544-9096