Regional Significance
The BRBNA's regional significance stems from its three distinct values – first, its biological diversity and unique habitats; second, the presence of large working ranches; and third, its broad range of recreational opportunities.  These values co-exist in a sparsely populated landscape with clearly defined natural boundaries.  Maintaining and enhancing the region's abundant resources will depend on the long-term conservation and enlightened stewardship of the entirety of this extensive contiguous land area.

Largely undisturbed by development, the BRBNA supports a rich natural landscape.  Unique geologic features, such as serpentine soils, provide exceptional habitat for specialized species.  Extensive contiguous ranches and natural areas provide for the movement of large wildlife species and allow the ecosystem to function on a larger scale than is possible in more fragmented landscapes. The BRBNA is part of California's North Coast Ecoregion that has been identified by The Nature Conservancy as having nationally significant biodiversity values. Few locations in the country host such a large concentration of rare species and habitat types (Figure 1-3).

Large working ranches reflect the region's economy and history, revealing a landscape shaped by decades of human use.  Poor agricultural soils, limited water, and remoteness have suppressed competition from other land uses, allowing these working ranches to remain at least marginally economically viable despite sometimes wildly varying markets. Generations of families have operated these ranches and they provide a rich legacy of California's heritage that has vanished from many regions of the state.