The article tells the story of Craig and Aira Harris, a couple who purchased a farm in Santa Barbara, California, despite discovering a federally endangered plant, the Gaviota tarplant, on the property. The Harris family decided to work with conservation organizations and government agencies to protect the plant and its habitat, rather than abandoning their dreams of starting a family farm. With the help of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Gaviota Coast Conservancy, the family established a conservation easement on 30 acres of their 77-acre property. The easement will permanently protect the Gaviota tarplant and its habitat, allow for cattle grazing and outplanting of the tarplant, and provide incentives for sustainable farming practices. The Harris family believes that conservation and agriculture can be compatible, and they see the conservation easement as a way to ensure a sustainable future for their property and the community. The story highlights the importance of collaboration, conservation, and responsible land use.
