Colorado Conservation Trust :: Celebrating Conservation in Colorado

CCT Programs & Accomplishments
CCT Initiatives

Vail / Eagle Valley /
I-70 Corridor
The Colorado mountain valley corridor that is a top-draw for both natives and visitors alike is the Eagle Valley and the I-70 corridor. Millions travel this route for its scenic splendor, its diverse recreational resources, and to view the abundant wildlife in adjacent wilderness areas. There are large deer and elk populations, bighorn sheep and mountain lions.

Without immediate action, the individual mountain communities along this corridor will soon sprawl together, losing their separate identities and, more importantly, the spectacularly scenic open spaces between them. CCT has contributed to conservation efforts here in the following ways:

$100,000 towards the purchase of conservation easements on Bair Ranch, a well-known landmark that is viewed by approximately 15,000 visitors a day from the I-70 corridor. The easement eliminated the threat of subdivision, buffering the adjacent public lands and preventing the loss of important elk and deer wildlife and riparian habitat. CCT funds helped serve as a catalyst for the remaining private fundraising necessary to complete the deal.
$10,000 in matching funds to the local Eagle Valley Land Trust for development support. The added capacity will help EVLT reach the full fundraising potential that the Vail area holds, greatly benefiting conservation by leveraging private dollars with county open space funds to attract out-of-county funds for projects.

Additional High Priority Needs/Next Steps:

Conserve ranchlands and wildlife habitat in river valleys throughout the county.

View the Vail / Eagle Valley / I-70 Corridor Assessment (8/04).

Click map for larger view.

CCT Initiatives

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