MALT Announces the Conservation of 35 Acres in Southwestern Jefferson County
Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT) is pleased to announce the successful protection of the Crossons property, a 35-acre inholding rich in biodiversity within the Pike National Forest.
Thanks to the vision of Lee Driscoll, this beautiful US Forest Service inholding is permanently conserved, protecting nearly half a mile of the beautiful North Fork of the South Platte River, critical wetlands, steep rock outcroppings, ponderosa pine forest ledges, and exceptional biodiversity. The healthy, diverse forest provides food, shelter, breeding grounds, and migration corridors for numerous wildlife species, including black bear, mountain lion, moose, elk, mule deer, Abert’s squirrel, prairie falcon, northern goshawk, northern harrier, and many songbirds, amphibians, and small mammals.
Lee shares “I knew that Crossons was a unique property that needed to be preserved. I have over 25 years of experience working with conservation organizations and was very careful in doing my due diligence. MALT was recommended by several people who are deeply embedded in the conservation community. My experience with MALT exceeded my high expectations and their staff provided advice and guidance every step of the way. I could not be happier with my decision to do my conservation easement with MALT.”
Formerly the Crossons townsite, Lee’s land reflects the history of Colorado’s small, rail-dependent mining communities that disappeared as mining and railroads declined. Its permanent preservation also protects historically significant structures and land from the old townsite, a small mining camp, and a railroad stop between Pine and Bailey, Colorado.
Lynn Caligiuri, MALT Executive Director shares, “This project represents the heart of MALT’s mission — to protect Colorado’s most ecologically and historically significant lands for future generations. Thanks to Lee’s vision and commitment, this extraordinary property will forever safeguard vital wildlife habitat, clean water, and a remarkable piece of Colorado’s heritage. Collaborations like this remind us what’s possible when landowners and conservation organizations work hand in hand.”
