Preserving Legacy: Enhancing Conservation at Parelli Ranch
Over the past year, LPOSC worked to complete a project enhancing conservation protections on an existing conservation easement. The conservation easement on the 212-acre Parelli Ranch, which was home to Pat Parelli’s renowned Parelli Natural Horsemanship for nearly the last 30 years, was established to protect the property’s wildlife habitat, agricultural lands, scenic qualities and educational opportunities. As a result of LPOSC’s recent work, over 25 acres of the ranch has been excluded from future development to improve protections for the property’s unique qualities. Although the ranch has recently sold, Parelli’s legacy will live on in perpetuity through the conservation easement.
Upcoming Events
Attention realtors!
Earn three continuing education credits in this state-approved course on conservation easement basics for realtors and those in related professions. Wells Group Realtor Justin Osborn and staff from La Plata Open Space Conservancy and Tax Credit Connection will help you understand what a conservation easement is, how and why they are established, and what to be aware of when handling a real estate transaction involving a conservation easement.
This course is free of charge, thanks to support from our generous sponsor, Colorado Title & Closing Services. Registration is required and space is limited – please register at the link below.
Earlier this month, LPOSC welcomed interns Derrik Echevarria and Sofie Hill. Thanks to generous funding from the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, LPOSC is welcoming three interns this fall from Fort Lewis College to work on various projects and research for the organization while providing valuable job training experience for those seeking career pathways in the outdoor sector.
Derrik and Sofie will serve as ‘Stewardship Assistants’ helping monitor LPOSC conserved properties with high recreation uses and assist with various GIS projects.
Sofie Hills says, “My name is Sofie and I am a Junior at Fort Lewis College. I am extremely passionate about the outdoors and adventuring wherever I can. I love to bike and run on all the trails in Durango and want to help preserve these areas!”
Derrik Echevarria says, “There is peace in the wind and inspiration in the stars, if we only take the time to listen. My name is Derrik Echevarria, I am a senior at Fort Lewis College studying Environmental Science. I am returning to school in my 30’s to actualize my desire to build a career in conservation. I’ve spent so much time planning hikes or experiencing new places and have been enjoying building my education around preserving the natural world that I enjoy so much. I am excited for the opportunity this internship provides and to be involved with the work that LPOSC does!”
A Wonderful Ska Anniversary Party and Brewers Invitational
LPOSC staff stands next to 10.5′ Rio Craft Raft that was raffled off. (Left to right) Christy Curd (Stewardship Director), Jennifer Zahratka (Executive Director), and Clara Bertany (Conservation Programs Coordinator)
LPOSC was thrilled to be the recipient of Ska Brewing’s Anniversary Party and Brewers Invitational. We want to express our heartfelt thanks to Ska Brewing, our sponsors, and everyone who stopped by to chat with us, purchase ska-themed hats, and buy raffle tickets!
Our raffle was a success, and we’re happy to announce that Scott from Parachute, Colorado, was the lucky winner of the prized Rio Craft Raft.
Scott says, “Probably a week beforehand I was looking to actually purchase a raft. I saw the opportunity to enter into the raffle. When I got the phone call saying I won the raft I was so happy, I had to call my mother and tell her. I am so excited to get out on the water! I’m planning on going to guide school very soon so this will help me out big time!
Huge Thanks to Jennifer and La Plata Open Space Conservancy. Support Open Spaces!”
Business Partner Highlight: Momentum Tree Experts
Is your property in need of forest management with an eye towards restoration? Do you have an iconic tree you’d like to preserve? Whether you have one tree or a large forest, Momentum Tree Experts is our recommended tree service company. With their attention to wildlife habitat improvement and overall ecosystem enhancement, they are a great choice for private lands – whether conserved or not. Plus, Momentum generously contributes a portion of its proceeds to LPOSC, making your investment beneficial for the community as well.
