Photo by Jerry Clark
July Mountain Memo E-Newsletter
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A Milestone Moment For Conservation
Have you heard the good news? We are thrilled to share with you that the Land Trust is working on several new conservation projects in the Gunnison Valley, including the recently announced Kapushion-Spehar Wetlands along the Slate River near the Town of Crested Butte.
Together, these projects will protect over 240 acres in the upper valley for agriculture, public access, and wildlife habitats.
Here’s a quick look:
Cement Creek Ranch | 121 acres
A conservation easement with the Baxter family will protect a stunning mix of wetlands, wildlife habitat, scenic views, and agricultural lands, all surrounded by National Forest.
Long Lake (Pristine Point Lot 18) | 14 acres
We’re purchasing a key piece of the shoreline to ensure permanent public access to one of the valley’s most popular recreation areas.
Cement Creek Corridor | 17 acres
This parcel near the Caves Trail sits right in the path of the Gunnison elk herd’s migration route. By protecting it, we’re preventing habitat fragmentation and ensuring wildlife have room to roam.
Kapushion-Spehar Wetlands | 90 acres
Our newest project! We’re under contract to protect this iconic piece of the upper Slate River Valley. The property includes irrigated pasture, important water rights, and intact wetland habitat just outside Crested Butte. Fundraising has just begun for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
All four projects align with our strategic conservation goals and reflect what we’ve learned over decades of studying the North Valley landscape. Some projects focus on habitat. Others on public access. Many offer a rare mix of both.
Your support is what makes it possible. From individual gifts to funding partners to showing up at events like the Crested Butte Land Trust Gala. These projects also rely on key partnerships with the Town of Crested Butte, Gunnison Valley Land Preservation Fund, 1% for Open Space, and Great Outdoors Colorado.
Read the full story in the Crested Butte News here.
Photos: Cement Creek Ranch, Long Lake, Cement Creek 17-acre parcel, Kapushion-Spehar Wetlands
Connect With Us
Join us at one of our free events this summer! From hikes to happy hours, there’s something for everyone, and we would love to see you soon. Email jessica@cblandtrust.org for more info and to RSVP.
Here’s what’s coming up!
July 30 (Wednesday), 8 AM – North Pole Basin Hike with Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory
Explore high alpine habitats and boreal toad research with RMBL scientists and Land Trust staff. Strenuous 3-hour hike; only 8 spots available. RSVP to jessica@cblandtrust.org.
August 12 (Tuesday), 10 AM – Watershed Walk and Talk with Coal Creek Watershed Coalition
Join the Crested Butte Land Trust and Coal Creek Watershed Coalition on a guided hike up the Gunsight Connector Trail to learn how both organizations work to protect land and keep our watersheds healthy. ~ 2.5 miles, intermediate hiking.
Thank you Volunteers and Supporters!
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your incredible dedication and support. This work truly takes a village, and the tireless efforts of our amazing volunteers, committee members, Board of Directors, and donors have been instrumental to our success in caring for and protecting the land you love. From hosting engaging events to getting your hands dirty in restoration projects, our community goes above and beyond to ensure that our natural spaces remain pristine and accessible for everyone. Your unwavering commitment to our mission is truly inspiring, and we are deeply grateful for your continued partnership. Together, we are making a lasting impact on the environment and our home. Thank you for being the driving force behind our success!
Email jessica@cblandtrust.org to be included in our volunteer and monthly E-newsletter mailing lists.
