Big Sur Land Trust Receives Environmental Grant from American Water Charitable Foundation

The American Water Charitable Foundation has awarded a grant to the Big Sur Land Trust. The foundation is part of American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States.

The funds are designated for improvements to hiking trails and stewarded lands within the Big Sur area. The projects aim to enhance coastal access through safer and more welcoming outdoor pathways. These enhancements are intended to support healthier lifestyles and strengthen community connections to local open spaces.

Sarah Digness, Institutional Giving Manager for the Big Sur Land Trust, described the grant as "truly transformative" for their organization. She stated the support will enable expanded efforts in protecting local waterways and engaging more community members in environmental stewardship.

Trail maintenance helps reduce erosion and protects nearby waterways and habitats by guiding hikers onto durable routes and minimizing sediment runoff. Josh Stratton of California American Water highlighted the company's pride in supporting the Big Sur Land Trust's work to improve coastal access and protect the region's watersheds.