09/03/2026
Rivendell Wildlife Sanctuaries.
The sanctuary system was organized by Tom and Carolynn Rodgers and Janeece Webb (1940-2006) who at one time were friends and neighbors living in Paradise. They developed "Guiding Principles of Rivendell Wildlife Sanctuaries" that contained the policies of "managing the land in a way that makes our presence compatible with the wildlife of the area. We are trying to improve our ability to live in harmony with nature." The principles included:
1. Within the limits of health and home harden production we will not shoot, trap, poison or otherwise mo**st animals that normally live in the area.
2. We will preserve the soil by avoiding erosion and by not burning any organic material that was produced by the soil.
3. We will not favor the use of poisons in pest control that leave biodegradable residues in the soil, air or in plants and animals that serve as food for our wildlife.
4. Except for emergency use, we will not light the night in any way that interferes with normal activity of nocturnal animals.
5. We will not allow our pets to disturb the wildlife.
6. Within the limits of reasonable safety, we will maintain ground cover and trees suitable to wildlife. For such plantings, we will favor native over introduced plants. We may also add structures such as bird houses, feeding trays, denning sites or other structures that will serve wildlife.
7. We will cooperate in the education of each other in the art of living in harmony with nature, and will help the youth of our sanctuaries maintain, as much as possible, the feeling of oneness with nature...
Those who agreed with the above policies and who desired to manage their property accordingly, "may become members by adding their names to the membership list and posting their property with signs provided (at cost) or with sign of their own design that convey a similar message."
There were no dues to become part of the organized Rivendell sanctuary system.
