1st Gunsight Bridge

In 2002, 1% for Open Space granted $50,000 to the Crested Butte Land Trust for the conservation of 120 acres in the Slate River Valley. This effort was part of a larger effort, the Slate River Wetlands Preserve, whose aim was to protect over 475 acres of wetlands in the Slate River Valley. The protection of this 120 acre property completed this larger effort. The 120 acres referred to as Gunsight Bridge are located north of the town of Crested Butte about two miles out on Slate River Road. The Slate River runs through the property which also encompasses a large swath of wetlands.

1% for Open Space found value in this conservation effort because the land provides protection of wetlands therefore preserving the watershed and ecosystem integrity surrounding the Slate River, a tributary to the Gunnison River. The land is also located in a key spot for recreational access, improving access for the public to the Lower Loop from Slate River Road. Some of the land is also used as grazing pasture for cattle and therefore helps preserve our valley’s ranching heritage. The Crested Butte Land Trust along with 1% for Open Space, the Gunnison Valley Land Preservation Board, the Town of Crested Butte, Crested Butte Mountain Resort, Great Outdoors Colorado and other private donors made this project possible.