The Big Sur Land Trust announced today that it has acquired a trail easement on Carmel Valley property owned by Jeff and Paula Taylor. The trail easement is located on the south side of the lower Carmel River between existing trail systems at Palo Corona Regional Park and the Quail Lodge area. Acquisition of the easement will enable construction of a one-mile long trail segment that will feature both inland and riverside views.

“With the purchase of this trail easement the Land Trust continues to make progress in our efforts to enhance the community’s access to and enjoyment of the Carmel River system,” said Bill Leahy, executive director of The Big Sur Land Trust. “We are grateful to the Taylors for their willingness to work with us.”

The Land Trust used private funds to purchase the trail easement from the Taylors. The Land Trust has received a grant from the California Resource Agency River Parkways Program to build the trail segment in collaboration with the Monterey County Public Works Department. The trail segment is expected to be completed in late 2011.

“We are fortunate to be a part of helping to make this river trail possible and to provide continual access to Palo Corona Ranch,” said Jeff Taylor. “My family and I are looking forward to the walking and hiking access to Palo Corona Ranch, Carmel River Lagoon and the coast from Rancho San Carlos Road.”

Beginning in 2004, The Big Sur Land Trust has been leading efforts with a diverse group of partner agencies, organizations and community members to build a comprehensive and collaborative approach to protecting and restoring the Carmel River and inspiring local community involvement.

Founded in 1978, the mission of The Big Sur Land Trust is to conserve the significant lands and waters of California’s Central Coast for all generations. BSLT has worked with its partners to protect more than 30,000 acres of land since its inception. The Land Trust is committed to pursuing land and water conservation work that strengthens our communities and inspires a stewardship ethic so that Monterey County can maintain its unique and special place in the world. The goal and commitment of the Land Trust is to pursue resource conservation that supports the well-being of land and people and sustains our region’s unique quality of life for us all. For more information visit www.bigsurlandtrust.org