Billionaire real-estate developer Donald Bren transformed a significant part of the historic Irvine Ranch into protected public lands. After becoming chairman of the Irvine Company, he spearheaded major conservation milestones over the years. The Irvine Ranch now has over 57,000 acres preserved, providing habitats for diverse wildlife. In 2005, the Irvine Ranch Conservancy was established to ensure the ongoing care of these protected areas.