About Us

Our History

Friends of the Vineyards was founded in 1981, originally as “Save the Vineyards,” in an effort to stop development from taking over and pushing out our local vineyards and wineries. We were active participants in the founding of the South Livermore Valley Area Plan (SLVAP, a specific Alameda County plan for our area) and County Measure ‘D’ which ensures the preservation and enlargement of the vineyard/winery area and limits development outside of city boundaries. Friends of Open Space and Vineyards supports Tri-Valley Conservancy (TVC), founded under SLVAP. Because we are one of the stakeholders, we appoint one of the TVC’s board members. The TCV holds conservation easements on vineyard land, thus preserving them against future development in perpetuity– one of our major goals. We look for further preservation and extension of the vineyards, other agricultural uses and open spaces.

The FOV Board is pleased with the South Livermore Plan & Tri-Valley Conservancy's stewardship of the land through conservation easements.

We Are Dedicated

To preserving and enhancing the Livermore Valley area as one of California's most historic and premium wine-growing regions. FOV vigorously promotes the area through programs, projects and activities. Vineyards are an important part of the heritage of the Livermore Valley; grapes thrive in its gravelly soil and moderate Mediterranean climate. This picturesque setting is home to over 60 wineries and numerous grape growers. The potential exists for many more wineries and vineyards in the Livermore AVA.

We Encourage

Support for the valley wineries and grape growers. We work to ensure the preservation of the viticultural lands in what has become known as the "Fertile Crescent" south of Livermore and east of Pleasanton. This valuable resource must not be allowed to slip away to encroaching development. It is an important asset of the Livermore Valley, the East Bay Area and the State of California. We invite you to join us in this endeavor!