Conservation Easement to Protect Agriculture; Boost Local Communities

This collaboration came together with a shared goal to support rural communities, safeguard agricultural lands and curb biodiversity loss. TNC in Colorado acquired the property in 2021 to help establish a resilient, connected network of conserved lands stretching from the Huerfano Valley foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains westward into the San Luis Valley.

Since the acquisition, TNC in Colorado has implemented infrastructure improvements and piloted innovative grazing techniques on the ranch to enhance both agricultural productivity and ecological value for wildlife and people.

“Now protected by the easement, TNC in Colorado will sell to a private landowner who shares our commitment to preserving Colorado’s rural character and ecological integrity,” said Matt Moorhead, conservation business and partner development advisor for TNC in Colorado. “When land remains in the hands of private families who continue the ranching tradition, it does more than conserve open space—it sustains the vitality of rural communities. We’re proud to help protect a way of life that’s deeply woven into the fabric of this state.”

Silver Mountain Preserve encompasses a mosaic of habitats, including shortgrass prairie, piedmont grassland, pinyon-juniper woodlands, Gambel oak shrublands and mixed conifer forest. Elevations range from 6,700 to 10,000 feet, offering critical refuge and migratory corridors for wildlife as they adapt to rising temperatures and prolonged drought.

The landscape supports a rich array of native wildlife species, including elk, bighorn sheep and black bear, as well as migratory birds, amphibians and butterflies. Twelve miles of North Abeyta Creek flow through the property, sustaining freshwater ecosystems and riparian shrublands along its banks.

Prior to TNC purchasing the property, this land had been marketed to developers for a new subdivision.

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The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges to create a livable climate, healthy communities and thriving nature. Learn more about our work in Colorado at nature.org/colorado.

Since 1977, Palmer Land Conservancy has partnered with landowners and communities to permanently protect more than 200 square miles of land and water resources in Colorado, including parks and open spaces, working farms and ranches, critical wildlife habitat and scenic views. Learn more at palmerland.org.