The Westport Village Society pursues a wide variety of projects that are consistent with the mission and goals of the organization. We endeavor to support and nurture endeavors that contribute to the well being of our Community. We welcome new ideas and rely on our members and volunteers to carry out or collaborate with other local organizations to realize those goals. If you would like to contribute your energy and talents to our organization, please contact WVS. Some of our projects are highlighted below.
DeHaven Headlands
On December 15, 2022 WVS acquired a 26 acre oceanfront property on the west side of State Route 1 across from Branscomb Road with a grant from the State Coastal Conservancy and the generous support and donations of many contributors. The project was made possible by a landowner who shared our conservation vision and provided the opportunity to bring it to fruition. WVS thanks the owner, SCC, local community, and tribes who supported our effort to conserve the property for conservation and public access purposes. A Management Plan was developed for the DeHaven property taking into account environmental studies and input from project partners and the public. Released September 23, 2023, that plan discusses actions that will be pursued to conserve the property and facilitate public access in a manner consistent with preserving resources, habitats, and the scenic qualities of this sspecial place. We are in the process of obtaining permits and grant funding to build public access improvements on this property. Contact WVS by email or mail correspondence to PO Box 325, Fort Bragg CA, 95437 if you have comments, questions, suggestions, or want to make a donation that is targeted to assist with this ongoing project.
Westport Headlands
The first substantial undertaking pursued by WVS was the acquisition and improvement of the Westport Headlands. Ongoing maintenance is carried out by our dedicated volunteers. This nine acre parcel serves as the "commons" of the town, providing access to the coast for recreation, subsistence fishing, and community events. There is an ongoing need for active managemeent of this property due to high use and active bluff erosion. If you are interested in helping maintain the property, please contact WVS. Targeted donations are also welcome to address issues such as the repair and upgrading of the stairway to the beach.
Other Local Land
Conservation Projects
WVS collaborates with other local nonprofits to conserrve coastal land and improve public access to the coast when those opportunities arise. WVS has provided support for two large land conservation and public access projects that will preserve much of the coastal land between the south end of the village and the Pacific Star Winery in 2025.
The Mendocino Land Trust will finalize its acquisition of the 157 acre Bell Point property extending from the village south to the Caltrans slide repair in May 2025. This property stretches from the south end of Westport to just north of the slide repair on Highway 1. Protecting this spectacular property was made possible with a $2.505 million grant from the State Coastal Conservancy awarded to MLT in late 2024. The project is supported by the Westport Village Society and MLT’s project partner, the Kai Poma nonprofit. The Kai Poma is a nonprofit representing the Sherwood Valley Pomo Band of Indians, Round Valley Indian Tribes, and the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians.
A 143 acre parcel extending from Blues Beach (Chadbourne Gulch) south to the winery will be transferred to the Kai Poma land trust in the near future. A Management Plan for the Blues Beach transfer was approved April 8, 2025 by the California Coastal Commission, setting the stage for the transfer. Public access and conservation of resources will be cornerstones of the managemeent of both properties.
The Potter Valley Tribe has also recently acquired the 200 acre property on the east side of Highway 1 in the Wages Creek Valley. Together, these three acquisitions reflect the growing role local tribes will play in conserving local land and managing public access in the future. The map shown here depicts the approximate footprints of all three properties.
Community Center & Garden
WVS supports the existing community center with equipment, financial support, and by sponsoring activities and events at this venue. Scheduled community activities are listed in the Calendar each month. The Westport Community Garden is undertaken by volunteers on the grounds of the Church on Abalone Street with support from WVS! It is a self-serve organically grown garden. Anyone can visit to gather your own vegetables and salad greens and lend a hand! We're currently using donated giant containers and raised beds, wiht part of hte area covered in a hoop greenhouse. We're raising a large variety of organically grown fresh vegetables, herbs, and flowers at all times of the year. If you'd like to help, weeding and watering are always appreciated as the need arises. Please be susre to turn the valve for the hose OFF when you finish watering!! Please contact WVS to assist with planting and major improvements.
Mini Grant Program
WVS initiated a mini grant pram in 2014 to support activities and events that benefit the community. This program continues to support for local cultural enrichment activities, the community garden, and other WVS projects. You can use this application to request funding for local community enrichment activities.
Local History Project
WVS has a longstanding involvement in preserving local history and several resources are posted on our history to assist you in researching local history and geneology. In 2012 WVS engaged in a cooperative effort with the Kelley House Museum to publish a history of the local area. That book can be acquired at the Westport Community Store or requested from WVS. See the history page for details.