Nestled in the rural landscape of Placer County, Emigrant Gap offers breathtaking greenery, dense forests, and stunning mountain vistas. However, despite its natural allure, not everyone feels welcome or safe in these outdoor spaces.
For many Black Americans, activities such as camping, hiking, and birdwatching have been tainted by experiences of racism and exclusion. Jade Stevens, a California resident, aims to change this narrative by founding the 40-acre Conservation League — the state’s first Black-led land conservancy. The organization focuses on conserving land while promoting inclusivity, ensuring all communities can enjoy the great outdoors.
Stevens envisions the conservancy as a means to bridge the “nature gap” or “adventure gap,” terms that highlight the underrepresentation of people of color, particularly Black individuals, in natural spaces.
In August 2023, the 40-acre Conservation League achieved a historic milestone when the Wildlife Conservation Board awarded it millions of dollars to acquire 650 acres of wilderness in Emigrant Gap. Located midway between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, Stevens views this acquisition as an opportunity to boost tourism and recreation while addressing disparities.
