Dry Creek Preserve
Ecologically-based aggregate mine reclamation

Dry Creek runs through the
nature preserve

Dry Creek Preserve is a 152-acre former gravel quarry located just northwest of Lemon Cove. 

This special nature preserve, now fully restored, is the first example of an ecologically-based aggregate mine reclamation in Tulare County.  It is also home to SRT’s native plant nursery.

Why It's Unique

The combination of biological and environmental conditions that give rise to the sycamore alluvial woodland community occurs only rarely.  Thus, while the California sycamore is not an uncommon species, the sycamore alluvial woodland is only found in just 17 stands scattered across central California. The community at Dry Creek is of particular conservation value, ranked third in size and health of all the remaining stands.

Restoration and Stewardship of Dry Creek Preserve

In 2004, California Portland Cement Company retired their Dry Creek gravel operations and donated the property to Sequoia Riverlands Trust.  The twelve years of gravel mining operations significantly altered the Dry Creek streambed and resulted in the felling of numerous mature sycamores and valley oaks, which caused significant damage to one of the largest and last remaining sycamore alluvial woodlands in California. 

Since 2004, SRT has partnered with community members, educational institutions and other conservation organizations to re-establish natural stream patterns and restore the land's woodland vegetation with hundreds of oak and sycamore plantings and native grasses.  Now, the Dry Creek Preserve once again provides critical habitat for an ever-increasing population of resident and migratory birds and supports native species such as the great blue heron, bald eagle and herds of mule deer.  The preserve also delights visitors with a stunning wildflower show every spring.  To learn more about Dry Creek Preserve, read the Dry Creek success story.

What to do if you'd like to visit Dry Creek

This nature preserve is not yet regularly open to the public, but we are in plans to open it for visitor use very soon.  Check our online calendar or sign up for our e-newsletter to learn about public programs and special events at Dry Creek Preserve.  Parking, an information kiosk, trails and restroom facilities are planned for the near future.

How to get to Dry Creek Preserve

Located outside of Lemon Cove. From Visalia, travel east on Highway 198. Take Highway 216 toward Woodlake. Follow west one-half mile and turn north on Dry Creek Road.  The preserve is located five miles down on your right.

Get Involved:  Your memberships, donations and volunteer efforts help Sequoia Riverlands Trust steward special places like Dry Creek Preserve. Get involved today!

For more info on Things to Do in/around Visalia, visit the Visalia Convention & Visitor's Bureau.

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