Since its founding, the Conservancy has acquired 21,000 acres (85 km²) and identified another 15,000 acres (61 km²) within its zone as crucial for preservation. In addition to buying land outright, the Conservancy operates through public-private partnerships to promote low-density use among private land-owners. The conservancy also acquires rights to land through "time-leasing", receives land through donations and acquisition of foreclosures, and as mitigation for development projects.
The Conservancy was responsible for the acquisition of the Jordan Ranch in the Simi Hills from entertainer Bob Hope. The ranch was purchased by a developer and turned over the National Park Service as part of a land development deal, which allowed development of new housing and golf course on the Ahmanson Ranch just to the west. Late in 2003, the Conservancy secured state funds to purchase Ahmanson Ranch as well.
The Conservancy also acquired the Peter Strauss Ranch from the entertainer Peter Strauss, which was also turned over to the National Park Service.
