FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Darryl Seibel, Darryl@ccalt.org , 720-557-8266

November 13, 2025

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust (CCALT) is proud to announce the completion of a conservation easement on Eichler East Ranch, a 1,669-acre property in Las Animas County, Colo. This easement adds to an existing 1,200-acre conservation easement already conserved by landowner Fred Eichler, bringing the total conserved acreage under his stewardship to nearly 3,000 acres. Managed by Fred and his sons, the ranch represents a multi-generation commitment to land stewardship. With this easement, the ranch’s working lands and wildlife habitat are now permanently conserved — ensuring its legacy endures for future generations to graze, hunt, and experience Colorado’s open landscapes.

Eichler East Ranch is characterized primarily by shortgrass prairie, with additional cover types including woodland areas, shrubland, and riparian wetlands. The property includes a half mile of the Purgatoire River, which provides critical water resources and supports prime farmland soils. A water right from the Purgatoire River irrigates approximately 136 acres, ensuring the long-term viability of agricultural production.

Historically, the ranch has been used for cattle grazing during the spring and summer months, with a small herd of buffalo grazing year‑round. Hunting also plays a role in the property’s use, reflecting its balance as both a working landscape and a place of recreation.

“Fred’s respect for wildlife shines through in conversations with him, and the dedication to conserve important habitat is evident in the management and conservation of his ranch. Knowing that an additional 1,669 acres of important rangeland will be forever protected for future generations of agricultural stewards and wildlife is why I love the work we do,” said Monica Shields, CCALT Manager.

The Eichler East Ranch lies adjacent to State Land Board property and contributes to a broader network of conserved lands in southern Colorado. It provides habitat for a remarkably diverse range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, elk (including a resident population), pronghorn, mountain lion, black bear, mountain plover, and bald eagles. The property also falls within the Purgatoire Prairie Potential Conservation Area of High Biodiversity Significance, as identified by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program, underscoring its ecological importance.

“I am proud to have worked with the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust to conserve this property for future generations,” shared Fred Eichler. CCALT and the community at large extends its gratitude to Fred Eichler and his family for their vision in placing Eichler East Ranch under easement. By doing so, they have ensured that this meaningful landscape will forever remain intact and available for agricultural use, wildlife habitat, and scenic value.

About the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust

The mission of the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust is to conserve Colorado’s Western heritage and working landscapes for the benefit of future generations. Since 1995, CCALT has partnered with more than 400 families to conserve more than 815,000 acres of Colorado farmland, ranchland, open space, and wildlife habitat.

Members of the media: for more information, please contact Darryl Seibel, CCALT Director of External Relations, at (720) 557-8266 or darryl@ccalt.org.