In a historic deal announced Wednesday, Point Reyes National Seashore will largely do away with ranching at the park, a tradition long etched into the identity of this rural stretch of Northern California coast but one that has been controversial with visitors and environmentalists. The families running beef and dairy operations in the park under an unusual arrangement with the National Park Service have almost unanimously agreed to retire their leases in exchange for undisclosed payments. … For the environmental community, the removal of thousands of cattle from the park is seen as a boon for the natural lands and waterways dominated by agriculture. Critics of ranching say park visitors will soon be able to enjoy a more pristine landscape while native plants and animals will thrive, including the tule elk population, which will have more room to roam and grow.