Nearly 40,000 acres of open space on the historic Irvine Ranch have been designated a Natural Landmark by both the State of California and the U.S. Department of Interior. This honor recognizes the exceptional value of these lands to California and the entire nation. The open space of the Natural Landmarks is part of the 50,000 acres of open space preserved on The Irvine Ranch.


The land first received national recognition in 2006 when most of the protected areas on The Irvine Ranch were singled out for their rare biological and geological features through designation as a National Natural Landmark (NNL). NNL's are designated by the U.S. Secretary of Interior for natural areas in both public and private ownership. They are recognized as outstanding examples of the natural heritage of the country alongside national parks, recreation areas and monuments. Nationwide, fewer than 600 sites have received this special designation.

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