Conservation is our mission
WHY CONSERVE WORKING LANDS?
Not so long ago, our nation’s profound connections to the land were obvious. These ties may be less apparent now, but they are no less real. Vital needs such as fresh food and clean water still depend on the land. And that is only the beginning.
Land conservation keeps our rural heritage alive, fosters healthy communities, generates good jobs, supports sustainable agriculture, preserves diverse wildlife habitats, and maintains the wild landscapes of the West.
Our Future Depends on the Land
More than 80% of Colorado’s private lands are owned by farming and ranching families who are committed to stewardship and conservation. Carrying on this legacy so the land continues to thrive for future generations is the essence of conservation.
Colorado’s population is expected to grow by more than two million people over the next 20 years, putting millions of acres at risk of development. Stewardship of our agricultural lands has never been more important. CCALT is the only land trust in Colorado dedicated exclusively to conserving these working lands.
3 ACRES PER MINUTE
According to the American Farmland Trust, we lose 175 acres of farmland every hour in the United States—that’s 3 acres per minute.
705k
ACRES CONSERVED IN PERPETUITY
4th
IN THE NATION IN TOTAL ACRES CONSERVED BY A STATEWIDE OR REGIONAL LAND TRUST
400
FAMILIES PARTNERED WITH CCALT
INTRO TO CONSERVATION EASEMENTS
Conservation easements are voluntary agreements between a landowner and a qualified organization, like CCALT, to restrict development of a property. They are permanent and run with the land despite any changes in ownership. No two conservation easements are alike. Each is tailored to a specific piece of land and the conservation goals of its owner.
In general, conservation easements limit development to protect certain resources in perpetuity, such as open space, wildlife habitat, agricultural use, scenic vistas, historic landmarks and more. Conservation easements facilitate traditional activities such as farming, grazing, hunting, fishing, and recreation on the land. CCALT focuses on agricultural easements, which are designed specifically to preserve the land for farming or ranching.
Stewardship
A Personal Approach
Because the agricultural community differs significantly from the larger landowning community, CCALT takes a unique approach to stewardship.
- CCALT monitors each conservation easement annually and works diligently with landowners to resolve stewardship issues.
- The purpose of monitoring visits is to ensure that the terms of the easement are being met and to continue building a strong relationship with the landowner.
Ultimately, CCALT’s stewardship program has been successful because we share the goals and values of our partners in land conservation. For the past two decades, we have worked hard to be a faithful advisor to landowners and have been recognized for our character and achievements. But we are proudest to have earned the respect of the families that trust us with their heritage.
Take action
Dramatic changes sweeping across Colorado are putting our vital agricultural lands, wild open spaces and rugged natural beauty at risk. Preserving Colorado’s heritage starts with taking care of our land. Help us keep the Colorado way of life alive for future generations!
