UPPER LAKE, Calif. – A springtime tradition for the Lake County Land Trust is just around the corner.

The group’s annual Spring Celebration and Fundraiser will be held on Sunday, June 9, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Blue Wing Saloon Restaurant courtyard in Upper Lake.

Attendees can expect to enjoy a variety of appetizers and local wines while David Neft, the Piano Man, regales with musical entertainment. Land Trust board and staff members will be present to describe the major projects underway.

“This is an opportunity for anyone who has heard of the Lake County Land Trust but isn’t sure what we really do, to come and get to know us. Supporting the Land Trust is a great way for Lake Countians to support our beautiful landscapes and unique habitats,” said Melissa Kinsel, the Land Trust's outreach leader.

The Lake County Land Trust is currently focusing on protecting land in the Big Valley Wetlands area, between Lakeport and Clear Lake State Park.

The organization recently completed their fundraising goal for the Wright Property, a 200-acre parcel located in this priority area.

Guests can expect to hear more about the status of the property purchase and the accompanying protection plan, other opportunities in the Big Valley area, learn about conservation easements, and find out about upcoming Land Trust activities.

The Land Trust currently owns and protects four properties: Rabbit Hill, Boggs Lake (as a management agreement for The Nature Conservancy), the Rodman Preserve and the Melo Property in the Big Valley Wetlands. Rabbit Hill, Rodman, and Boggs Lake offer public access for hiking and recreation.

The group also has three conservation easements around the county and has been instrumental in getting other properties, namely the Black Forest, Silver Spur Ranch and Indian Springs preserved in perpetuity. Anyone desiring more information is encouraged to attend the event on June 9.

The Lake County Land Trust Spring Celebration Fundraiser is hosted by Lynne and Bernie Butcher, so all proceeds go directly to support the Land Trust. Tickets for the Land Trust Spring Celebration are $50 each and can be purchased online at www.lakecountylandtrust.org or by sending a check for the total amount to LCLT, P.O. Box 1017, Lakeport, CA 95453. Reserve your spot by purchasing tickets in advance.