On October 8, a sold-out crowd of 150 guests gathered at The Station in Los Alamos, California, for Reunir with the Rangeland Trust, our signature Central Coast event celebrating the people, traditions, and landscapes that define the Western way of life.
For seven years, Reunir has brought together longtime friends, new faces, and Rangeland Trust supporters united by a shared appreciation for the Western lifestyle and a commitment to preserving the region’s working lands. More than a celebration, the gathering reminds us that conservation is about the people, families, and communities who steward the land.
As always, this year’s event felt like a family reunion, filled with warm embraces, lively conversations, and the connections that make this gathering so special.
This year, the Rangeland Trust also recognized the women shaping the future of ranching. In recognition of the United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, the event featured a panel celebrating women’s experiences and contributions to the ranching community.
Moderated by television personality and local rancher Elizabeth Poett Campbell, the panel featured six women representing different generations and experiences on the land: Helen Hames of the conserved El Chorro Ranch; Juliann Donati, ranch hand at Rancho San Julian; Lauren Varian of the conserved V6 Ranch; Stephanie Mathis of the conserved Mathis Gaviota Ranch (formerly known as the Hanson Ranch); Mary Heyden of Ted Chamberlin Ranch; and Janet Wickenden Kraus of Rancho Tinaquaic.
The conversation balanced humor, tradition, innovation, and reflection. Helen, the youngest panelist, shared her favorite snacks to bring along for branding, offering a lighthearted glimpse into the everyday realities of ranch life. Juliann spoke about her aspirations as she completes her degree in accounting and economics, with plans to become a CPA specializing in ranching operations.
Lauren and Stephanie highlighted the evolving role of technology in ranching. Stephanie shared her experience introducing virtual fencing on her property, while Lauren discussed using social media to showcase ranch life and attract more visitors to the ranch.
Drawing on experience, Mary and Janet shared lessons learned over their years on the land, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, resilience, and learning to navigate the challenges that come with life on the land.
Throughout the discussion, guests responded with laughter, cheers, and enthusiastic appreciation. Despite their different experiences, the panelists shared a deep connection to the land and a commitment to carrying ranching traditions forward.
Elizabeth closed the discussion with a reflection on the many roles women play in ranching and the importance of welcoming the next generation into the industry: “As women, we wear a lot of hats. We love the land, we love our animals, but we also love to do so many different things. And we don’t have to be born into it to love this way of life. And I think as women, we reflect that in how we live and carry forward in the industry.”
Reunir remains one of the Rangeland Trust’s most beloved events. It was made possible this year by the generosity of our sponsors: Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Farm Credit, Farmers and Merchants Trust Company, La Paloma Ranch, Happy Canyon Ranch, and Nancy and Peter Jackson. Their support helps keep ticket prices affordable and makes it possible for more members of our community to take part in this special gathering.
We are also grateful to the Reunir Planning Committee: Eric Hvolboll, Russell Chamberlin, and Pam Doiron. Since 2019, they have worked alongside Rangeland Trust staff to develop program ideas, recruit Host Committee members, advise on guest outreach, and provide invaluable support in bringing Reunir to life each year.
As Reunir celebrates its seventh year, it remains a testament to the power of community and shared purpose. Thank you to everyone who joined us in Los Alamos and helped make this year’s gathering so meaningful. Together, we celebrate the people, traditions, and working landscapes that define the Central Coast while supporting their future for generations to come.
California Rangeland Trust is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 31-1631453) under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
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