Summit Land Conservancy

Outreach: In 2024, Summit Land Conservancy deepened community connections through events that celebrated the lands and waters we protect. From solstice hikes and wild hop harvesting to sunset meditations and educational hikes with guest speakers, we offered diverse ways to engage with nature. Connecting to nature and with each other builds a strong community and reinforces an appreciation for open spaces. We collaborated with local ranchers on regenerative agriculture, volunteered on farms and trails, and celebrated at our Tenth Annual Hoppy Hour. We also tabled at community events and partnered with Recycle Utah and Swaner Nature Center to launch Summit County's first Latino Conservation Celebration. Through hands-on learning - including land and water education for all Summit County fifth graders - we continue to inspire a strong, conservation-minded community, of all ages.

Stewardship and Monitoring: This year, Summit Land Conservancy conducted in-person monitoring on 57 properties, totaling over 19,000 acres. Staff visited each conservation easement on foot, by bike, or by vehicle to conduct thorough inspections and speak with landowners about their land management practices. Before each visit, staff reviewed baseline documentation, conservation easements, and past monitoring reports to ensure a thorough understanding of the property's current condition and any changes since the previous visit. In addition to annual monitoring, staff conducted site visits in response to reserved rights requests and violations. Several reserved rights requests were reviewed and approved this year, including tree-thinning projects, contaminated soil mitigation, weed management, and a proposal to lease water rights on an agricultural property.