The East Foundation

The Mission

The East Foundation promotes land stewardship through ranching, science, and education. Managing over 217,000 acres of South Texas native rangeland across six separate ranches, their goal is to conserve healthy rangelands while addressing important issues in wildlife management, rangeland health, and ranch productivity.

Ranching

The East Foundation owns and manages one of the largest ranch holdings in Texas, spanning over 217,000 acres. Their ranches are located in Jim Hogg, Kenedy, Starr, and Willacy counties. These ranchlands were acquired by the East family over approximately one hundred years in the Wild Horse Desert region, also known as the South Texas Sand Sheet and the Coastal Sand Plains.

Check out their Story Map to find out where they are located and what they are up to.

Cattle Operations

As a working cattle ranch, the East Foundation engages directly with ranch managers to maintain a balance between land, cattle, and wildlife. They focus on cow-calf and stocker operations, aiming to produce high-quality maternal and terminal cattle while improving native forage supply and rangeland health. Their cow herd consists primarily of Santa Gertrudis and Red Angus type cattle, adapted to the arid environment of their ranches.

The Brand

The East Foundation proudly utilizes two distinguished brands from the East family, namely the Lazy Diamond and the Diamond Bar. These brands, which boast a rich history spanning over a century, are more than just symbols; they epitomize independence, perseverance, and a deep commitment to the land. The legacy of these brands goes back to the early days of the East family, reflecting their enduring values and long-standing dedication to maintaining and nurturing the land for future generations. This profound connection to their heritage is what drives the East Foundation's mission today.

Science

The research program at the East Foundation aims to understand and enhance the productivity of native rangelands for wildlife conservation and livestock production. With over 700 million acres of native rangelands in the U.S., private ranches play a crucial role in water, wildlife, and livestock productivity. The East Foundation conducts science-based research to help ranchers conserve wildlife habitats while sustaining livestock production. Their lands serve as a living laboratory for these research efforts.

Education

The East Foundation is committed to building future leaders through land stewardship education programs. They work with schools and organizations to spread the message of natural resource conservation. Their education program includes classroom activities, on-land experiences, and partnerships with various organizations. They offer virtual and in-person field lessons, a Land Stewardship Ambassadors program for high school students, and a 10-week course on natural resources. By providing programming, knowledge, and leadership skills, the East Foundation aims to empower students to make educated decisions regarding natural resources.