High Country Shopper, March, 5, 2025- Colorado West Land Trust (CWLT) is pleased to announce the permanent conservation of Hawk Ranch, a 270-acre property in Delta County, nestled beneath the iconic Needle Rock. This collaboration with the Hawk family ensures the protection of agricultural heritage and critical wildlife habitat, securing its legacy for future generations. This project was made possible by the support of Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) through the Keep it Colorado Transaction Assistance Program, the North Fork Committee of the Colorado Parks, and the Wildlife Habitat Protection Program. 

Conservation has long been central to Darold and Christy Hawk’s vision for their land. Witnessing nearby properties sold and subdivided only deepened their resolve to shield Hawk Ranch from development pressures. By partnering with CWLT to place the ranch under a conservation easement, the Hawks have guaranteed that its agricultural and ecological values will endure. 

“In the end, you hope to leave a legacy,” Christy Hawk said. “The land is what you leave, and you leave it untouched. We’ve worked so hard to keep this ranch, and we don’t want to see it developed. Once the land is gone, you never get it back—this land is going to stay the way it is.” 

The Hawk family’s ties to the land run deep. Darold’s father, a World War II veteran, purchased the original property in 1951. Darold and Christy inherited 40 acres and five cows, embarking on a journey that has spanned over four decades. Today, Hawk Ranch is a thriving cattle and hay operation, a testament to their hard work and commitment. 

Darold’s contributions to the local ranching community extend beyond his land. As a farrier for more than 45 years, he has cared for generations of ranching families’ horses and was recently honored with the Delta County Livestock Association’s Service Award. “Horseshoeing isn’t just a trade; it’s a way of serving the community,” Darold said. “I’ve helped the same families for generations.” 

Hawk Ranch is more than an agricultural operation—it’s a sanctuary for wildlife. The property’s diverse habitats provide vital resources for elk, mule deer, turkey, black bear, and other native species, enriching the region’s ecological health. By conserving the ranch, the Hawks are preserving a vital connection between agriculture, wildlife, and the people of Delta County. 

“We are honored to partner with the Hawk family on this significant conservation project,” said Nick Jacobson, CWLT Conservation Specialist. “Their actions safeguard a vital connection between the land, its history, and the wildlife that call it home.” 

Hawk Ranch stands as an example of the power of conservation. The Hawk family’s dedication to their land and community has not only secured a brighter future for the region but also created a lasting legacy that will inspire others to steward the natural beauty and resources of Western Colorado. 

Read High Country Shopper article here.