Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy
970-641-4386
On June 13 the Peterson family protected another 430 acres of the Razor Creek Ranch about 20 miles east of Gunnison. The Petersons granted a conservation easement to Colorado Open Lands, a statewide land trust. The project was coordinated by Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy (GRCL), a local grassroots organization. GRCL was also responsible for obtaining the grants and donations needed to fund the project.
Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), funded by the Colorado Lottery, granted $275,000 for this agricultural land preservation project. Additional funding was provided by The Jim Gebhart Memorial Fund, the Gunnison County Land Preservation Fund, and the Gunnison Sage Grouse Mitigation Fund. The Peterson family donated $123,125 worth of easement value.
The Razor Creek Ranch includes irrigated hay meadow and seasonal pasture. The ranch also provides habitat for the imperiled Gunnison sage grouse and other wildlife. The easement does not allow public access.
Since 1998, Gunnison Ranchland Legacy has facilitated the placement of 32 easements on 14,868 acres in the Gunnison/Crested Butte area. GOCO has provided more than $10 million in lottery proceeds to assist with many of these easements. The Gunnison County Land Preservation Fund has contributed more than one million dollars. GRCL still has an additional 15,000 acres, worth over $30 million in development value, on the waiting list for funding, according to Lucy High, Executive Director for the organization.
“Legacy is constantly seeking additional donations and grants,” High commented. “We are very grateful for our many supporters whose contributions ensure that we can continue our mission to preserve ranching and conserve ranchlands in the Gunnison-Crested Butte area. Conservation easements help protect productive ranch lands while also preserving wildlife habitat and scenic views.”
Further information is available at Gunnison Legacy’s website, gunnisonlegacy.org.