Project at a Glance

• Year conserved: 2012

• Acres: 2,995

• Project partners: Truckee Donner Land Trust, The Trust for Public Land, The Nature Conservancy

• Owned by: Truckee Donner Land Trust

• Things to do: Camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, running, mountain biking, swimming

Conservation History & Values

With help from the Northern Sierra Partnership, The Trust for Public Land, and The Nature Conservancy, the Truckee Donner Land Trust purchased Webber Lake and Lacey Meadows in 2012 from Clifton and Barbara Johnson, whose family had owned the property for almost a century. The Johnsons used to graze sheep at Lacey Meadows in summer, herding the sheep up from their ranch near Roseville in a trip that took 15 days up and 10 days back.

The Johnsons were delighted to see their property protected by the NSP partners: “This is truly a special occasion,” said Barbara Johnson. “Our wishes have been fulfilled, and the legacy of our family will be remembered. The beautiful lands we have worked on and cared for are, at long last, protected for future generations to enjoy forever.” While the Johnsons received higher offers for the property, their wishes were always for Webber Lake to remain intact and undeveloped.

The acquisition was made possible by generous support from the Wildlife Conservation Board and the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, as well as by the donations of numerous individuals. The Wildlife Conservation Board stepped up again in 2015, to help the Land Trust acquire adjacent Coppins Meadow, an important 153-acre parcel at the entrance to Webber Lake.

Webber Lake and Lacey Meadows provide critical habitat for a number of animals protected by state law, including the pine marten and the Sierra Nevada red fox. Other animals recorded on the property include black bear, mule deer, mountain lion, bald eagle, raptors and the endangered willow flycatcher. The wildflower displays in Lacey Meadows are among the best in the Sierra and include lupine, larkspur, elephant heads, alpine buttercups, monkshood and leopard lilies.

Recreation & Restoration

From the grassy shore of Webber Lake, you can fish, swim, launch your boat or take a hike or bike ride through Lacey Meadows. Webber Lake is also open to the public for seasonal overnight camping. Sites are available for tents, RVs and trailers, but hookups are not available. Reservations for camping can be made ‎online. For more information, visit ‎TDLT’s website.