Thousands of acres of agricultural lands surrounding Durango are protected by conservation easements held by LPOSC. While producing crops, livestock and other agricultural goods for our community, properly managed working ranch lands and farms protect important habitat for our wildlife and fish. These lands also maintain cherished scenic vistas and protect our water supplies through safeguarding the water quality of our lakes, rivers and streams. Further, conserving farm and ranch lands keeps farmers and ranchers on the land for generations to come, which protects our western heritage and a key component of our local economy.

Although not all of the agricultural properties protected by LPOSC are publicly known, we all benefit from their protection. Examples of conserved family farm and ranchlands that are well-known in our local markets and restaurants include:

• James Ranch
• Sunnyside Farms Market