Demolition, Discovery, and a Stunning New View

A full view of the Mayacamas Mountains is now visible from the property.

The building that once housed Oakville Pump has been fully demolished and cleared, and tree removal is well underway. The site is transforming quickly, and the progress is exciting to witness.

That said, nature had a small say in our schedule.

Near the end of the workday, the tree crew made an unexpected discovery: a nest with fledgling ravens tucked high up in one of the conifer trees on the east side of the property. Our Senior Project Manager at Nordby shared the following update:

"During the tree removal work today, we discovered a bird's nest with live baby birds in one of the pine trees located directly in line with the new building foundation. To comply with environmental and wildlife protection regulations, we are unable to remove the tree until the birds have safely left the nest. This may take three to four weeks. As a result, this will temporarily delay grading and foundation work in that specific area. We will continue to monitor the situation and proceed as soon as it is permissible to do so. In the meantime, we are evaluating options to minimize any overall project impact."

So for the next few weeks, you'll notice one half-trimmed pine tree standing on the property as we wait for the young ravens to take their first flight. It's a small delay, and frankly, one that reflects the kind of environmental stewardship we're committed to as an organization. We're following established wildlife protection regulations, and we wouldn't have it any other way.

If you hear questions from colleagues or community members about the lone remaining tree, now you have the full story.

On a more breathtaking note: the removal of the trees has revealed something truly spectacular. With the canopy cleared, the full view of the Mayacamas Mountains is now visible from the property, and the site feels beautifully woven into the surrounding vineyard rather than separated from it. It's a reminder of just how special this place is, and how much we have to look forward to as the building takes shape.

More updates to come as construction progresses. Stay tuned!