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Lame Johnny Creek Ranch © TNC Staff

The property is or will be encumbered by a conservation easement as described below.

Description

The Swint Ridge Parcel includes 560 acres of undeveloped open space and timbered ridges with magnificent views. The parcel provides secluded elk and mule deer habitat. There are no structural improvements on the property.

Primary Conservation Objective

Maintain a functioning landscape that conserves terrestrial and aquatic biological diversity and has relatively intact ecological processes to sustain systems and species over a long period of time (e.g. 100+ years). Maintain a selected set of conservation targets that represent the diverse array of ecological systems and species and will capture key ecological processes.

Biodiversity Highlights

Priority conservation targets on this property include ponderosa pine forests and several different prairie communities including Northern Great Plains Little Bluestem Prairie and Western Wheatgrass – Green Needlegrass Mixedgrass Prairie. The northern and northwestern areas of the tract are dominated by ponderosa pine woodlands with some juniper present. Sun sedge dominates the understory with chokecherry, golden current, western red current and skunkbush sumac present. Chokecherry is the dominant understory in the deciduous woodland draws. Prairie falcons, merlin, and golden eagles can be found within 5 miles of the property.

Easements and Restrictions

Easement terms prohibit subdivision of the property, building of new roads or trails, introduction of non-native species, and construction of new buildings and structures except in the designated building envelope. Placement and size of the building envelope will be determined by TNC staff so as to maintain and protect the riparian areas; sensitive plant species and associated habitat (Hooker townsend); preserve the overall biological integrity of the property; and be aesthetically pleasing.