Gothic

In an effort to provide a buffer between the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (the lab) and development to the south of the Gothic town site, the lab donated a 44-acre conservation agreement to the Crested Butte Land Trust in 2005. The Maxfield Meadow sits at the slope beneath the saddle of Gothic and Snodgrass Mountains. National Forest borders the meadow to its west and south. In near pristine condition, the meadow is abundant with wildflowers and wetlands, and provides excellent wildlife habitat. Of interest is the sighting of the Gunnison sage grouse within one mile of the parcel.

bill schneider

The property includes aspen and spruce forests, irrigated hay meadows, and an important wildlife and avian corridor along the Slate River. Black bear, beaver, red fox, coyote and elk frequent the property.

Directly east of Maxfield Meadow, Dan Bench donated an easement on 43 acres in the upper East River drainage in 2005. A neighboring rancher uses a portion of this property for grazing. The property also contains wetlands and wildlife habitat, and three major ecological types are found here, including Thurber fescue grasslands, willow thickets, spruce, fir and aspen forests. Because of the relatively undisturbed ecological diversity, scientific research has been an important historical use of the Bench property. Scientists from the lab conducted research projects which do not conflict with the conservation values of the property. Additionally, the property provides important traditional rural scenery that is visible from public roads and trails.