Grand County - Colorado Headwaters Land Trust

The headwaters of the Colorado River are a testament to nature’s resilience and quiet power. Nestled high in the Rocky Mountains, the headwaters begin their journey, drop by drop, flowing from snowmelt and rainfall into the rushing river that will shape the land and sustain life for hundreds of miles. The headwaters serve as a reminder of the strength that lies in small beginnings, and the possibilities that can unfold when nature thrives.

In 1995, a group of concerned citizens in the Colorado headwaters area saw the changes occurring in their community and felt the need to take action. They founded the Grand County Land Conservancy “to conserve and steward the open lands and natural character of the headwaters of the Colorado River in partnership with the local community.” Over time, the land trust changed names twice as clarity of mission evolved. In April 2013, the board of what was then called the Middle Park Land Trust decided to change the organization’s name to Colorado Headwaters Land Trust (CHLT). And at the end of 2024, that highly effective entity evolved once again, through a merger with Colorado Open Lands.

The CHLT board and staff were keenly aware of the river’s challenges. From its headwaters in Rocky Mountain National Park in Grand County, the Colorado River is struggling to retain its valuable natural attributes: critical cold-water aquatic habitat, wetlands, vital water rights, working ranches, scenic open space, and world-class rafting and fly fishing.

CHLT achieved significant accomplishments in land conservation, protecting vital landscapes, water resources, and wildlife habitats in Colorado. It had completed nearly 70 land protection projects totaling over 10,000 acres, including many of the critically important waterways, wetlands, and riparian areas within. CHLT’s conservation successes included productive agriculture land, significant wildlife habitat, scenic viewsheds, and treasured public recreation spots.

COL staff is ready to continue this legacy of vitally important work on Colorado’s most iconic river. Paul Phillips, president of the board of directors of Colorado Open Lands, said, “Grand County is home to some of Colorado’s most spectacular vistas, productive ranch lands and wildlife habitat, not to mention the headwaters of the majestic Colorado River. Colorado Open Lands is thrilled to be joining hands with Colorado Headwaters Land Trust to continue their legacy of outstanding work to protect these treasured resources.” 

COL is well-positioned to continue the legacy of careful stewardship of landowner and community relationships that CHLT has built. We have new staff dedicated to land and water conservation in CHLT’s service area. We have also established a local advisory board to provide area expertise and community connection going forward.