We’re joined by Bridget Fithian, Executive Director of the Sierra Foothill Conservancy and a leader in land conservation across the Central Sierra. Born and raised in Mariposa, Bridget’s deep connection to open spaces has shaped her career in conservation, where she has helped protect over 30,000 acres of land through innovative partnerships and creative solutions. 

Under her leadership, the Sierra Foothill Conservancy has expanded public access to nature, preserved critical landscapes, and played a key role in conservation planning, fire resilience, and environmental stewardship. Bridget also serves as Board Chair of the California Council of Land Trusts and holds leadership roles with the Sierra Cascade Land Trust Council and the California Conservation Action Fund. 

In this episode, we’ll explore how land trusts shape conservation, the role of environmental planning, and what it takes to protect and restore California’s landscapes for future generations.