Conserved lands help maintain habitat connectivity, watershed function, and ecosystem resilience. Our portfolio of protected lands includes more than 20,000 acres of essential winter range for elk and other big game species, about 1,900 acres of elk migration corridors, more than 280 acres of riverine and lake systems, and 19,000 acres of black bear fall concentration habitat. These lands support biodiversity, water quality, and regional climate adaptation. 

LPOSC has helped preserve more than 8,200 acres of active agricultural land, including about 5,600 acres of irrigated farmland. By keeping water rights connected to the land and supporting ongoing farming and ranching, LPOSC helps sustain the agricultural identity and working landscapes that define Southwest Colorado.  

LPOSC has partnered with the City of Durango and other public partners to conserve more than 1,700 acres of public parks, recreation areas, and open spaces. These include community-loved places such as Overend Mountain Park, Horse Gulch, Dalla Mountain Park, and Oxbow Preserve. LPOSC also helps steward more than 57 miles of public trails on conserved lands, supporting hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, photography, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities that contribute to physical and mental health. 

LPOSC connects young people to the outdoors through internships, restoration projects, and community events. Partnerships with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Colorado, Southwest Conservation Corps, and Fort Lewis College create hands-on opportunities in GIS, conservation, habitat restoration, and place-based science. Programs such as the Firefly Viewing Party introduce youth to rare wetland habitats and species through experiential learning while fostering curiosity and a long-term connection with the outdoors.