Created in April 1968, the Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve became America’s first preservation ordinance of its kind, currently protecting 32,000 acres of agricultural land in the valley and foothills of Napa Valley, and is one of the primary reasons why the Napa Valley is, and will remain, a world-famous wine-growing region for generations to come. In 2018, the Napa Valley Museum Yountville (NVMY) worked with the Jack L. Davies Napa Valley Agricultural Land Preservation Fund (JLD Ag Fund), local historians, and stakeholders to create an exhibition celebrating the 50th Anniversary of this landmark environmental achievement. This interactive exhibition with bilingual (English and Spanish) components was created to inform and educate museum visitors about the history of the Agricultural Preserve, including its key players, why and how it was initiated, the major challenges and successes of its first 50 years, and a view into its future priorities and anticipated challenges.
Now in 2026, the NVMY is revisiting the subject to explore new challenges, including the impact of regional wildfires and resulting fire hardening efforts, the regulatory environment, population growth, and wine and tourism industry changes, which together could impact the ongoing effort to preserve the natural beauty and agricultural profile of the Napa Valley. The exhibition will also highlight the efforts of the wine industry, environmental groups, and local regulators to create a “Green Certification” program as a catalyst to empower local businesses to undertake environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
The exhibition is open now and will be curated in real time as we work with the community and industry and other engaged constituents to revisit this important topic and incorporate new material.
The exhibition’s scope is broadening to include the Agriculture, Watershed and Open Space area, known as the “Ag Watershed,” which was established by a 1991 regulation of hillside and valley floor vineyard development. Its intent was to address erosion and create setbacks from Napa Valley’s vital streams and waterways. Exhibit viewers will learn more about the impacts of these conservation efforts, and meet the wine growers, vintners, local leaders and residents who have worked over decades to preserve the natural beauty and agricultural profile of the Napa Valley for future generations. The exhibition is in the NVMY’s Spotlight Gallery and is sponsored by the Jack L. Davies Napa Valley Agricultural Land Preservation Fund, and by the members and supporters of Napa Valley Museum.
Revisiting the Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve
in the NVMY Spotlight Gallery
Admission to the Spotlight Gallery is free with general museum admission.
