Montrose Daily Press, August 16, 2024-

Colorado West Land Trust, in partnership with the Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy, has permanently conserved Dancing Sunshine Farm, a 203-acre property in the heart of the Powderhorn Valley.

This project not only safeguards critical wildlife habitat, including that of the threatened Gunnison sage-grouse, but also preserves the region’s agricultural heritage and stunning landscapes along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway.

This significant achievement is the result of a collaborative effort between the landowners, Crockett and Bonnie Farnell, Colorado West Land Trust and the Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy. The conservation easement protects the farm’s crucial role in safeguarding the region’s water resources, wildlife habitat and agricultural heritage.

Protecting watersheds and wildlife

Dancing Sunshine Farm features a diverse landscape essential for maintaining healthy water systems. The property includes irrigated meadows, riparian areas and native grasslands that filter runoff and prevent erosion, ensuring clean water for downstream communities and ecosystems. This conservation easement protects these sensitive areas from future development that could compromise water quality.

“We are working to improve the irrigation system to use the water more effectively, giving life to the meadows and supporting the wildlife habitat and hay fields,” said landowner Crockett Farnell. “This easement will preserve wetland areas and the habitat of migratory animals that constantly move through the property in the fall and spring.”

The property supports a rich habitat for wildlife, including the threatened Gunnison sage-grouse, bald eagle, ferruginous hawk, northern leopard frog, and big game animals like elk, mule deer and moose. By protecting riparian areas and native vegetation, the easement ensures a robust food chain and essential breeding grounds for these species and others.

Promoting sustainable ranching

The Farnell family is dedicated to sustainable ranching practices on Dancing Sunshine Farm. Crockett implemented a 30-day rotational grazing program to prevent overgrazing and land destabilization, improving plant life and habitat quality.

The easement guarantees that the land will remain devoted to practices that effectively use water and promote healthy soil conditions, benefiting livestock health, production and overall ecosystem resilience.

“There is a long-time attachment to ranching and the ranching lifestyle in the Powderhorn community, and many of us feel that is an important legacy to maintain,” Crockett Farnell said.

The easement ensures the land will continue to support sustainable ranching practices, including livestock grazing and hay production, preserving the valley’s historic character and contributing to the region’s economic health.

Preserving scenic beauty

The rolling hills and vibrant meadows of Dancing Sunshine Farm are integral to the stunning landscapes of the Powderhorn Valley. The easement guarantees that these scenic vistas remain unobstructed, allowing the public to enjoy the area’s natural beauty for generations. Travelers along Colorado Highway 149, designated the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, will continue to be greeted with breathtaking views of the property.

A collaborative effort

The Dancing Sunshine Farm conservation easement is a result of the landowners’ commitment to conserving the property for future generations.

“We are honored to partner with the Farnell family and the Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy to conserve Dancing Sunshine Farm,” said Nick Jacobson, a conservation specialist with CWLT. “This project is a testament to the power of partnership in protecting vital ecosystems, supporting sustainable ranching, and maintaining a uniquely Colorado landscape.”

Read the Montrose Daily Press Article Here.