Wildlife Sanctuary in the Santa Cruz Mountains: Pond, Boulders, and Fire-Safe Buffer Zone

Wildlife Sanctuary in the Santa Cruz Mountains: Pond, Boulders, and Fire-Safe Buffer Zone

Birds and chipmunks thrive in this Boulder Creek miniature oasis amid dry chaparral. Landscape architect Steve Sutherland created a naturalistic pond with granite boulders, low wall, and native/Mediterranean plants, while addressing wildfire threat.

• Required 75-ft vegetation-free buffer for fire safety—potential eyesore from house.
• Solution: dual-purpose wall hides buffer zone and provides seating for views.
• Arched opening at wall base ensures quail access.
• Large unpaved area around pond encourages diverse bird visits.
• Colored concrete in pond complements golden sandy soil.

Jurors applauded the simple, highly creative design: "It's very original."

DESIGNER: Steve Sutherland, SSA Landscape Architects, Santa Cruz, CA (831/459-0455)