08/06/2026
Yesterday, Alameda County proclaimed 2026 as the "International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists"!
The resolution for the County’s declaration was presented by David Haubert and recommended by the Alameda County Agricultural Advisory Committee (AAC). Karen Sweet, representing the AAC, accepted the Board proclamation.
This local declaration mirrors the original declaration by the United Nations, and governments around the world who are celebrating the 2026 International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists through education, outreach and adoption of policies that are supportive of rangelands and pastoralists.
Covering about half the world's land, rangelands are home to unique biodiversity and pastoral communities whose livelihoods depend on them.
In Alameda County, these ecosystems include 188,000 acres (40% of Alameda County) of private and public grasslands, shrublands, wetlands, woodlands, chaparrals.
Pastoralists raise animals, contribute to food security, and hold diverse cultural heritage and local and indigenous knowledge, preserving ecosystems across the world.
Thank you to David Haubert, Karen Sweet, and all who made this momentous recognition of rangelands happen!
