Colorado Conservation Trust :: Celebrating Conservation in Colorado

CCT Programs & Accomplishments
CCT Initiatives

Roaring Fork Valley
The Roaring Fork Valley is located high in the Rocky Mountains surrounded by the White River National Forest. The Roaring Fork River runs through agricultural lands below the snow-capped peaks of several spectacular mountain ranges. This gold medal fishery supports a large diversity of species.

Much of the open land along the Roaring Fork Valley has been developed and converted into residential lots. However, there are still a number of key properties along the river that remain unprotected and are important to migratory wildlife and riparian species, as well as community separation. These properties will soon be lost to development if the funds are not raised to protect them. CCT’s support has included:

$50,000 toward the purchase of a conservation easement on the East Mesa above Carbondale. The East Mesa is comprised of a large block of productive agricultural land that serves as a buffer and wildlife corridor and is in the public view of Mt. Sopris. This is the first conservation easement purchased by the Aspen Valley Land Trust.
$35,000 to support a watershed study of the Roaring Fork looking at both quality and quantity issues and the threats to both.
$35,000 toward acquisition of water rights to ensure in stream flows in the lower Cyrstal River to protect aquatic species and riparian habitat.
$15,000 for public outreach and education related to open space acquisition and funding needs in Garfield County.

Additional High Priority Needs/Next Steps:

Passage of a ballot measure for Garfield County that would devote public funds to open space protection.
Raise additional capital to protect high priority ranches and wildlife corridors in the Crystal, Capital and Frying Pan river valleys.

Click map for larger view.

CCT Initiatives

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