North Cottonwood Creek - Buena Vista
Acres: 73.2
County: Chaffee County
Date Recorded: 12/18/06
LTUA ID: 18

This beautiful conservation easement was finalized on 12/18/2006 and has 73.2 acres of the most natural, scenic, open space and wildlife values that are wanted in a conservation easement. This property is part of four properties contained in the North Cottonwood Creek area and lies on the western edge of the Arkansas Valley on the toeslopes of the Sawatch Range in Buena Vista near Trailwest. The properties have particular importance for American elk and mule deer, as it provides severe winter range and is part of a winter concentration area for both species. Suitable habitat is found on the property for 4 species of amphibians, 158 species of birds, including bald eagles, golden eagles, great horned owls and goshawks. Foxes, coyotes, black bear and bobcats have also been sited on this property. The Property is not open to the public but qualifies as open space because it will be preserved for the scenic enjoyment of the general public and as a wildlife habitat. Conservation of the Property, combined with the adjacent conserved lands, also helps create a buffer to existing development in this area.