Valley Of The Moon Natural History Association

Programs: Valley of the moon natural history association (vmnha) was established in 1977 to support the interpretive needs of three sonoma county parks: annadel state park, jack london state historic park (jlshp) and sugarloaf ridge state historic park. Vmnha has played a key role in providing monetary support for training, coordination and recognition of volunteers who carry out the essential functions of these parks. Vmnha has also overseen the development of cultural and recreational programs, educational exhibits, signage and historical displays at jlshp. Among the organization's accomplishments is the award winning restoration of the cottage that jack london lived in after acquiring beauty ranch. In may 2012, vmnha became the first non-profit to enter into an operating (continued from page 2 part iii, line 4a) agreement with the state of california to prevent jlshp from closure. Vmnha dba jack london park partners (jlpp) oversees management of the park. Currently over 400 volunteers, and a staff of 12 carry out essential operations and maintenance responsibilities at jlshp. Jlpp receives no funds from state parks to subsidize the management and operation of the park and depends entirely on private donations to execute programming, maintain the grounds and administer operations. Since may 1, 2012 vmnha has been the operator of jack london state historic park, under contract with the california state parks. Of the over 90,000 visitors to jack london state park annually, nearly 20% are foreign visitors and an additional 40% travel more than 50 miles to experience the 1,400 acre beautiful ranch where jack london lived, wrote, farmed and died. Stewardship of this national historic landmark property requires the staff of 12 and over 400 volunteers to carry out the essential operations and maintenance of the park. Raising funds for services, programs, restoration and outreach is the sole responsibility of vmnha. Programs such as summer theatre, school and docent tours, piano concerts, outdoor recreation programs, interpretive education and cultural programs are all developed and overseen by the vmnha. In addition, there is a reciprocal arrangement between the operator and sugarloaf ridge state to create an exchange of labor between the two parks to maximize efficiencies. Vmnha has a contract with the park operator of sugarloaf ridge state park to provide coordination of volunteer services. Maps, guides, books and interpretive publications are designed and printed by vmnha for use in jack london state historical park. Exhibits and outdoor signage enhance the vistors experence and are a continuing project of vmnha.