Fort Ord Natural Reserve

UCSC Bioe 20f visits Fort Ord
Anabelle Carter talks with Marina, California kindergarteners about herpetology

Incorporated into the UC Natural Reserve system in June 1996, Fort Ord Natural Reserve was created from 610 acres of the former army base on the Monterey Peninsula. Fort Ord offers opportunities for students, scientists, and members of the general public to learn about rare species and habitats, land management, and conservation biology.

Land Acknowledgement

The UC Natural Reserve System recognizes that reserves sit on the territory of Native peoples of California, and that these lands were and continue to be of great importance to those peoples. Every member of the NRS community has and continues to benefit from the use and stewardship of these lands. Consistent with our values of community and diversity, we acknowledge with gratitude and make visible the University’s relationship to Native peoples.

Fast Facts


Established: 1996
Location: Monterey County, 6.5 km (4 mi.) north of downtown Monterey;
65 km (40 mi.) south of Santa Cruz.
Size:
 245 Hectares (605 acres)
Elevation: 21 to 58 m (70 to 190 ft.)
Average Precipitation: 46 cm (18 in.) per year
Average Temperature: 15 ºC (59 ºF)

UCSC FONR Student Employee Nicole Gramlich hiking with Kindergarteners from Marina, CA at Fort Ord Natural Reserve
Last modified: Dec 19, 2023