In 1992, Dino Cortopassi began converting 350 acres of family-owned agland into a “Balanced” (multi-flora / multi-species) marsh reminiscent of the natural Delta (BH-I).  In 2002, Dino began conversion of an additional 400 acres of family-owned agland (BH-II).  In 2014, the entire 750 acres were deeded to the Cortopassi Family Foundation (CFF); which subsequently formed/funded Wetlands Preservation Foundation (WPF) to provide 100% of the annual maintenance required to SUSTAINABLY maximize BH wildlife productivity. In 2020, CFF gifted the BH Habitat to WPF.

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Located 12 miles west of Lodi, California, the Black Hole has become a major wintering ground for a wide range of migratory waterfowl including ducks, geese, swans, ibis, and Sandhill Cranes – one of the oldest species of living birds.  In addition to migratory species, the Black Hole provides four-season habitat to resident species such as curlews, egrets, herons, and a wide variety of ground-nesting species.

 

The Black Hole (and adjacent Cortopassi Family farmlands) have become a leading example of how agriculture and conservation can coexist.  Through wildlife-friendly agricultural practices and a true

re-creation of the original Delta’s beauty, Wetlands Preservation Foundation and the Cortopassi Family have created a working model of long-term Delta sustainability.

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The creation of the BH Habitat was entirely accomplished from private funds provided by Joan/Dino Cortopassi.  The present and future maintenance of the BH Habitat is provided from private funds entirely provided by Joan/Dino Cortopassi.