2024.01.18 | New Bench Featured on the Ranch

A new stone bench premiered on the Ridge Trail during the last week of 2023.  This large, durable bench offers far-reaching views of the Pacific Ocean and a convenient destination for those who are looking for a short walk from the Huntington trail head.  Friends of the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve designed and installed the bench with the approval of the Cambria Community Services District Ranch Manager, David Aguirre.

     This bench is dedicated to Barbara Harootunian, who left a large bequest to FFRP in 2013.  Her plaque will be placed on one of the dedication stones.  Russ Wiggins will be honored as well for his bequest to the Ranch.  The wooden bench formerly on the site will replace a worn-out bench on the Forest Loop Trail.

     The new bench was installed under the leadership of FFRP Vice Chairperson Tom Loganbill with design help from former board member Walt Andrus and installer/designer Gustavo Galvin. Most of the Ranch’s benches were designed by FFRP’s talented volunteers, while a few are the products of local artists.  All the benches are maintained by FFRP volunteers.

     Under a 2004 agreement between the CCSD and FFRP’s predecessor, North Coast Small Wilderness Area Preservation, FFRP was allowed to install seventeen benches on the West Ranch.  Some of these benches were reserved to honor those who donated time and money to preserve the Ranch.  The rest were available for dedications.  All must be preserved in perpetuity, allowing for replacement as they wear out in the corrosive marine environment.

     After seventeen years, the bench dedication program closed in 2021 when all dedication spaces were full.  Two benches allow for future dedication: the Angel Bench is reserved for a select group of Fiscalini Ranch Preserve founders and this stone bench for major donors.  The new boardwalk linking the Bluff and Marine Terrace Trail also has room for dedications.

At 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 20, FFRP will hold its annual meeting at the Cambria Center for the Arts in the Green Room (1350 Main Street).  Items for discussion include the 2024 goals and objectives and budget.  All are welcome.

Article first published in https://cambriaca.org/