Alex Few

As we savor the cool breeze that marks the end of another growing season and the beginning of autumn, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the growth of Park County Open Lands, your first community-led land trust. 

This past growing season Park County Open Lands experienced a growth of its own that surpassed our wildest dreams. The outpouring of support and enthusiasm for protecting the open space, wildlife habitats, and working lands of Park County has been nothing short of astounding. 

Our dedicated 11-member local advisory council has given the green light for our team to move forward with nine potential conservation easements covering over 2,900 acres. These projects are not just about open space; they’re about protecting vital wildlife habitat and sustaining working lands from Sunlight to the South Fork and Wapiti to Powell. It’s been heartwarming to witness the community come together for this important cause, and our journey in the program’s first seven months has been nothing short of spectacular. 

In this season of growth and change, I’m thrilled to introduce a new member to our team, Cody’s own Emily Reed. Emily joins us to help meet the unprecedented demand for conservation easements across the county. Her passion for working lands, wildlife, and the people who steward the majestic landscapes of Park County is infectious, and we can’t wait to see the positive impact she’ll make. 

(Alex Few is the Park County Open Lands director)