Taramarcaz Ranch

In 2000, 1% for Open Space granted the Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy $600 for the purchase of a conservation easement on the 650 acres that make up the Taramarcaz Ranch outside of Gunnison, CO. The Taramarcaz Ranch is located off Highway 50 approximately 20 miles east of Gunnison in the Tomichi Creek Valley. The conservation easement put on the land is held by the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust. The easement was put in place to protect the ranch’s agricultural practices and the ecological and scenic values of the property.

1% for Open Space granted a small sum of money to this project because of its location a little ways outside of the Gunnison Valley. 1% strives to work within the Gunnison Valley, however, this project was funded because of its many conservation aspects. The land is two thirds irrigated pasture and one third upland sagebrush. Both of these ecosystems provide habitat to many species including pronghorns, deer, elk and the endangered Gunnison Sage Grouse. Waterfowl and other avian species find a home here too. In keeping with 1%’s mission to preserve ranching heritage, the Taramarcaz Ranch has been a family run ranch for over 100 years and placing a conservation easement on this land will allow it to continue to be used agriculturally. About 300 cattle are grazed on the property for the greater part of each year. There is also the scenic view and open space value that comes with the preservation of this ranch. Preserving 650 acres of open meadow and untouched sagebrush habitat was important as the Tomichi Creek Valley was being developed.