A private investment firm hopes to make a large profit while preserving the natural habitat, possibly leading the way for other firms to follow the model.
By purchasing an 807-acre ranch, a private investment firm hopes to make a large profit while preserving the natural habitat. The Laguna Beach group will receive conservation credits for dedicating Hidden Ranch as a preserve. The group will then sell the credits to developers and public agencies who need the them to offset planned construction on other sensitive habitats. Hidden Ranch is home to various natural species of plant and animal. Although several factors make the venture risky, if the Laguna group project succeeds it could encourage others to make money through land conservation. The National Audubon Society will manage the preserve and investors will ensure a $1 million endowment over the next five years.
Thanks to California 2000 Project
FULL STORY: AIMING TO PROFIT FROM PRESERVATION
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Economic & Planning Systems, Inc.
UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies
Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
City of Piedmont, CA
Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research