The Daily Sun-Up Big patch of western Colorado land becomes public
Mar 9, 2026
Jason Blevins, Colorado Sun outdoors reporter who covers Western Slope public lands, breaks down a $7 million BLM acquisition of the 4,012-acre Escalante Ranch. He explains new river access, campsites and climbing areas. He outlines how conservation purchases are funded and how grazing, water rights and local concerns factor into the deal.
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BLM Acquires 4,012 Acre Escalante Ranch
- The BLM added 4,012 acres of Escalante Ranch to the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area using Land and Water Conservation Fund money.
- The parcel sits below Highway 50 near Delta and protects a canyon along the lower Gunnison River and Escalante Creek that conservationists call a crown jewel.
New Public Access Opens First Seven River Miles
- The acquisition unlocks early river access and recreation along the first seven miles of the lower Gunnison River that were previously restricted by private ownership.
- BLM will add reservable campsites, reopen the Cabin Wall climbing area, and connect tens of thousands of acres of public land for users.
Conservation Fund Buys First, Federal Government Reimburses
- Conservation groups like The Conservation Fund buy at-risk ranches quickly then wait for federal LWCF dollars to reimburse them.
- The Conservation Fund bought the Escalante parcel in 2024 to prevent development while federal funding processed.