Stewardship

At Rio Bravo Ranch, we feel a responsibility for this land. It belongs to us, to our ancestors, and to our children¹s children. This land also belongs to the community, for we know its beauty and landscape brings joy to so many. We understand that it is not just soil that is affected by any developmental changes brought to the area, and we are constantly aware of the consequences of our decisions.

When George Nickel annexed over 3000 acres of this land to the City of Bakersfield in the early 1977, the intention was to dedicate a portion of the land to residential use, with a large percentage to remain as open space. Rio Bravo Ranch is currently in the process of updating our long-term plans to better serve the needs of our growing community. We are considering plans for an 1800 acre residential and mixed use development that would include 700 acres of open space. A small town center is planned for the corner of Highway 178 and Rancheria Road, as well as public trails along the Kern River and through the hills.

Rio Bravo Ranch has been regarded as a local treasure for generations, but its 9,000 acres of rolling hills and rushing waters were already a natural wonder for centuries prior to our acquisition. As we plan for future residential development, we are ever conscious of the big picture. We know we must work with our surroundings and not against them. We must strive to prevent the excessive loss and damage of natural habitats and to retain the quintessential character of Rio Bravo Ranch for the generations to come.