Small Wilderness Area Preserves

Overview

Small Wilderness Area Preserves, previously known as the Los Osos/Morro Bay Chapter of Small Wilderness Area Preservation (SWAP), is a nonprofit organization involved in the preservation and management of natural areas. Notably, they have been instrumental in the stewardship of the El Moro Elfin Forest Natural Area in Los Osos, California.

Mission

The mission of Small Wilderness Area Preserves is focused on preserving and maintaining unique natural environments like the El Moro Elfin Forest. They also aim to educate the public about the natural history of these areas, promoting awareness and appreciation of their ecological significance.

History and Impact

Small Wilderness Area Preserves played a pivotal role in acquiring and protecting the El Moro Elfin Forest. The organization's efforts led to the transfer of the land to San Luis Obispo County Parks and California State Parks, ensuring the forest's preservation and accessibility for the public. The forest opened to visitors in 1994. In recent years, the organization evolved, changing its name to Friends of El Moro Elfin Forest.

Conservation Efforts

The El Moro Elfin Forest, supported by Small Wilderness Area Preserves, is a 90-acre nature preserve featuring diverse habitats such as coastal sage scrub, pygmy oak woodland, and maritime chaparral. The forest supports a wide range of flora and fauna, including more than 200 plant species and numerous animal species. The preserve includes a nearly one-mile boardwalk loop, allowing visitors to explore while minimizing impact on the sensitive ecosystems.

Educational and Community Engagement

Small Wilderness Area Preserves also engages in educational initiatives, highlighting the natural and cultural importance of preserved areas like the El Moro Elfin Forest. Their work includes promoting awareness about the unique ecosystems and the historical significance of sites within their stewardship.

Organizational Evolution

As of 2020, the organization was renamed Friends of El Moro Elfin Forest (FEMEF), marking a continuation of their dedication to preserving and promoting the Elfin Forest and similar natural areas.

[1] https://www.natlands.org/visit/saunders-woods-preserve/ [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elfin_Forest_Natural_Area [3] https://natlands.org [4] https://www.elfin-forest.org [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/23-7117658