This local institution was founded in 1980 by Ellen Straus, the matriarch of the Straus Family Creamery and honorary Cowgirl. When she saw that rapid development threatening farm and open lands in Marin County, she and other local farmers, ranchers, and environmentalists came together to permanently protect this precious resource. Since then, MALT has permanently preserved over 44,100 acres of farmland, particularly through its conservation easement program that empowers farming families to meet financial challenges of their work without having to sell, divide, or develop their open lands. To support their efforts or learn more, visit www.malt.org.