The Nature Conservancy Acquires Two New Conservation Easements in Grand County

The Nature Conservancy in Colorado has recently closed on two conservation easements to protect 655 acres in the South Cameron Pass conservation area outside of Granby. One of these easements was donated by the C Lazy U Preserves LLC, adding to the 1,950 acres of the C Lazy U Ranch that have already been protected by The Nature Conservancy.

“C Lazy U Ranch is proud to announce its recent conservation easement grant of 550 acres with The Nature Conservancy,” said Don Bailey, President of C-Lazy-U Operations. “This builds on a legacy, guided by sustainability and conservation, which is responsible for preserving over 2,600 acres of ranch property in Grand County, Colorado. The history of the ranch spans over 104 years as one of the nation’s top rated guest ranch destinations. C Lazy U Ranch is committed to preserving wide open spaces by honoring and preserving the traditions of the American West and is grateful for its ongoing partnership with The Nature Conservancy.”

Protecting this area will help maintain key habitat and movement corridors for wildlife, while providing buffers from development in the Granby area and connection to adjoining public land and previously conserved landscapes.

Rich in sagebrush shrublands with areas of montane grasslands, scattered conifer forests, and montane wet meadows, the property is home to a variety of wildlife including Greater Sage Grouse, Elk, mule deer, Pronghorn, Moose, and Mountain Lion. The area also supports many important bird species, including the Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle, Long-eared Owl, and Willow Flycatcher.

“We are thrilled to work with such great landowners to protect these amazing landscapes,” said Greg Lambert, conservation and stewardship manager for The Nature Conservancy in Colorado. “These easements are an important piece of the puzzle to connecting protected lands in this region, which will allow the plants and animals that live here to thrive.”