On our Alexander Mountain Estate we practice eco-sensitive farming to safeguard the grasslands, woodlands, chaparral, streambeds, wetlands, redwood forests and coniferous forests found there. Of the 5,100 acres we own, we have planted fewer than 1,000 to grapes and have cut down not one tree to make way for vineyards.

We maintain the uncultivated acreage as a wildlife habitat where 150 species of fauna-including rattlesnakes, wild turkeys, coyotes, jack rabbits, squirrels, mountain lions, golden eagles, bobcats, wild pigs, redtail hawks, peregrine falcons, black bears, deer, foxes, raccoons, jack rabbits and waterfowl of all sorts. No hunting is allowed.

One of our first projects upon purchasing the property was to restore Sausal Creek to its natural state after years of being affected by roaming cattle. Sausal is the main watershed for this portion of the Mayacamas range, with headwaters on nearby Black Mountain. The health of Sausal Creek is important, because it in turn is fed by numerous sweetwater creeks on our property, including Gird, Grapevine, Lover's Gulch, and Little Sulphur, before it flows into the Russian River.

As much as we can, we practice sustainable agricultural practices. We plant rye and barley to hold soil in place. These grasses also improve water penetration by slowing the movement of water down slopes. We also plant red clover to attract beneficial insects.