Los Padres ForestWatch
Protecting Public Lands Along California’s Central Coast
Los Padres ForestWatch protects wildlife, wilderness, water, and sustainable access throughout Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument. We achieve this through education, advocacy, and when necessary, legal action for the benefit of our communities, climate, and future generations.
What We Fight For
Wild Places
Protecting lands and rivers where nature thrives, free from the threat of development.
Wildlife
Safeguarding our region’s plants and wildlife—large and small—and the places they call home.
Nature for All
Promoting public access and providing opportunities for youth and families to explore the outdoors.
Resilient Communities
Advancing smart, effective solutions to protect our neighborhoods from wildfire.
Forests & Climate
Defending mature and old growth forests and eliminating fossil fuel development from public lands.
Future Generations
Securing a livable planet and healthy environment for children and generations to come.
Latest News
ForestWatch is 20!
This short documentary beautifully captures our 20-year legacy as guardians of the Los Padres National Forest, protecting these treasured lands from threats like oil drilling, logging, and mining. Join us as we continue to be the eyes, ears, and boots on the ground, gathering crucial data to preserve these wild places where both wildlife and humans can thrive for generations to come.
Our Impact by the Numbers
700,259
Acres of stronger protections for public land
1,206
Kids and families connected to nature
158,106
Acres directly protected from development
35,580
Pounds of trash removed
89,832
Letters to decision-makers sent
139,619
Acres protected from fossil fuel drilling
68
Acres permanently conserved through land acquisition
Explore the Wonders of the Los Padres
From ancient tribal lands to towering peaks, from endangered species to dynamic ecosystems – explore the natural and cultural heritage of California’s Central Coast. Discover how we’re protecting these treasured landscapes for future generations.
Journey through pristine wilderness rising 8,800 feet from the Pacific, walk among spectacular wildflower displays at Carrizo Plain, and learn about the rich tapestry of Native American cultures that have called these lands home for centuries. Delve into the fascinating interplay of fire ecology, wildlife conservation, and human history that shapes our region’s unique character.
Upcoming Events
Nature, Culture, Art: 30×30 in Action
Celebrate Latino Conservation Week with a day outdoors centered on nature, art, and community.
The Power of Community Science and Monarch Conservation Webinar
Learn about the western monarch butterfly, some of the threats the population faces, and how community science is being used to advance conservation efforts in this webinar with The Xerces Society.
Save the Date: Online Silent Auction
Mark your calendar for the 2026 Online Auction: September 23-October 4!
The ForestWatch Store
From nature and hiking guides, to trail maps, to tees and hats, and magnets and stickers, your purchase today keeps it local and helps support our efforts to protect public lands throughout California’s central coast region.
What People Say
Great outfit, doing the good work of keeping public lands public and accessible for all of the Central Coast. They have also been key in the ongoing revitalization of the California Condor.
