Recent storms caused extensive damage at Arroyo Hondo Preserve, including flooding, landslides, and impacts to trails, roads, parking areas, and infrastructure. While the preserve is resilient, the effects of this storm are significant.

For safety reasons, Arroyo Hondo Preserve is currently closed. The land is still shifting and settling, and some areas remain difficult to access. Additional winter storms may further impact conditions.

Our stewardship team is actively assessing damage and planning recovery efforts. Some repairs cannot begin until the ground dries, and recovery will take time and meaningful resources to support cleanup, stabilization, and long-term care of the preserve.

We will use this page to share updates as recovery work continues.

Last updated: [January 8, 2026]

How You Can Help

This is the less-visible side of conservation. Protecting land doesn’t end when a property is conserved — it continues through moments like this, when the land needs care, patience, and responsible stewardship.

While assessments are ongoing, we know that many thousands of dollars will be needed to support recovery efforts at Arroyo Hondo, including repairs to trails and infrastructure, erosion mitigation, and site stabilization.

Your support allows our team to respond as needs become clearer and ensures we can care for the preserve safely and thoughtfully.

Support Arroyo Hondo Preserve Recovery

Press & Media

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County

Arroyo Hondo Preserve temporarily closes while storm recovery efforts are underway
KSBY
Storm Damage Temporarily Closes Arroyo Hondo Preserve, Recovery Efforts Underway
edhat
The Night the Hills Collapsed at Arroyo Hondo
The Montecito Journal
A nature reserve on the Gaviota Coast is closed because of damage from recent winter storms
KCLU
Storm Damage Forces Closure of Arroyo Hondo Preserve on Gaviota Coast
Santa Barbara Independent
Arroyo Hondo Preserve Temporarily Closes After Storm Damage
NoozHawk