November Mountain Memo – CB Land Trust

Photo by Xavi Fane

November Mountain Memo E-Newsletter

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Cement Creek Ranch Conserved

The Crested Butte Land Trust is thrilled to announce the permanent protection of the Baxter family’s Cement Creek Ranch, a 120-acre property located 4.7 miles from Highway 135 up Cement Creek. CBLT will hold the conservation easement and will serve as the forever steward of Cement Creek Ranch’s conservation values. Financial support for this landmark conservation easement came from the Baxter family, the Crested Butte Land Trust, Town of Crested Butte, Gunnison Valley Land Preservation Fund, Keep it Colorado, 1% for Open Space, and community supporters like you.

Surrounded by National Forest lands and encompassing nearly 80 acres of vibrant wetlands, open meadows, and 1.9 miles of meandering creek, the Cement Creek Ranch conservation easement protects critical wildlife habitat, water resources, and incomparable mountain views. Recognized by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program as an area of high conservation importance, this ranch is a vital puzzle piece in preserving the integrity of millions of acres of surrounding public lands.

While the property will remain privately owned by the Baxter family and not open to public access, the conservation easement permanently removes the risk of future subdivision, ensuring this extraordinary landscape remains undeveloped and intact for generations to come.

The Cement Creek Ranch conservation easement represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity made possible through the vision and stewardship of the Baxter family, along with the continued support of partners and community members like you. Together, we’re protecting the open spaces, wildlife, and rural character that make the Gunnison Valley so special.

Slate River Wetlands

The Slate River is where the Land Trust’s story began. Our first-ever project, protecting 55 acres at the confluence of the Slate River and Coal Creek, sparked more than three decades of conservation in this watershed.

Today, that work continues as we partner with the Spehar and Kapushion families to acquire 90 acres of irreplaceable wetlands, riparian habitat, and wildlife corridor just north of Crested Butte. This stretch of the Slate River floodplain provides vital wetland habitat, supports sustainable cattle grazing, and frames the iconic views toward Paradise Divide.

We are excited to share the strong community support from our partners at the Town of Crested Butte, Gunnison Valley Land Preservation Fund, 1% for Open Space, and from dedicated community members who recognize the importance of protecting this valley for future generations, continuing a conservation legacy more than 30 years in the making.

Visit our website to learn more about the Slate River Wetlands.

Season of Giving

As winter settles into the Gunnison Valley, we’re reflecting on the incredible year your generosity made possible, from new conservation successes at Long Lake and Cement Creek, to continued care for our trails and the first anniversary of Mt. Emmons’ protection.

This season reminds us that conservation, like community, depends on shared commitment. Whether you’ve joined a field trip, volunteered your time, or supported our work with a gift, you’re part of a legacy of stewardship and conservation that endures.

With Colorado Gives Day approaching on December 9, we invite you to keep that spirit of generosity alive. Gifts made through the Colorado Gives platform from now through December 9 are boosted by a statewide incentive fund, helping your support go even further to protect the lands, waters, and wildlife that make this valley home.

As the holidays draw near, we’re wishing you warmth, gratitude, and joyful days ahead.

Recreating Responsibly on Mt. Emmons

As snow starts to fly, the season for winter adventure returns. Thanks to the 2024 Mt. Emmons Land Exchange and Conservation Easement, Red Lady is now permanently protected and open for public access. With that privilege comes shared responsibility to care for this remarkable landscape.

Winter recreation on Mt. Emmons is non-motorized. Please stay within designated public access areas, respect private property, and follow trailhead signage. Before heading out, check current avalanche conditions, travel prepared with safety gear, and remember there are no facilities on-site; pack out everything you bring in.

By recreating thoughtfully, we can all help preserve Red Lady’s watershed, wildlife, and wild character for generations to come.

Learn more about winter use online here.