Together with Rancho Llano Seco, we welcomed farmers, conservationists, friends, water managers and community leaders to A Day at the Ranch yesterday.
Tucked along Butte Creek just outside of Chico, Rancho Llano Seco provided the perfect setting to experience a working ranch where agriculture and conservation exist side by side, with a deeper look into the ranch’s history, operations, and approach to land stewardship. Established in 1861 and still family-run today, the ranch reflects a long-standing commitment to caring for the land.
The day began with a BBQ talk and a locally sourced meal, followed by remarks from NCWA Board Chair Roger Cornwell. Guests also heard from Charlie Thieriot, CEO of Rancho Llano Seco and Chair of NCWA’s Conservation Task Force, and Bill Weller of Farmers Brewing Company, who shared his perspective on running a business and how incorporating conservation practices simply makes sense.
Following lunch, some guests stayed for a walking tour of the ranch, offering a closer look at how the land is managed for agriculture, wildlife habitat, and long-term resilience. Being there in person—hearing birds overhead, the rustle of leaves, and the hum of tractors and equipment, while taking in the ranch’s more natural areas—helped make these connections more tangible and immediate.
This gathering marked a new chapter for NCWA’s annual spring event—designed to be more place-based and rooted in the landscape and culture of each operation. With strong turnout and engagement, A Day at the Ranch is already shaping up to be a meaningful way to bring people together while offering something new to learn at each ranch or farm.
We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years ahead, highlighting different landscapes and communities across the region.
