Valle Seco
Near Pagosa Springs, CO
Overview: Proposed in November 2019, this project involves the exchange of nine federal parcels of land, Parcel 1-9, on the San Juan National Forest (SJNF) totaling approximately 380 acres for one non-federal parcel of land, Parcel A, totaling 880 acres. Per the June 2022 Final Decision, the Forest Supervisor selected to approve Alternative 3 Modified for this project. The modification proposes to limit motorized road use on Parcel A and excludes a previously proposed exchange parcel. The heart of the issue is whether the value of the elk and deer habitat and their use of Parcel A warrants the loss of nine parcels of public land that include existing Colorado Roadless Area and land suitable for Wild and Scenic River designation.
• Status: In partnership with San Juan Citizens Alliance (SJCA), CWPL filed litigation on September 23, 2022 arguing against the Final Decision to approve the exchange. We await response.
• Federal Agency: San Juan National Forest, Pagosa Ranger District
• Proponents: Bootjack Ranch, LLC; David C. Lindner Trust; David C. Lindner Dynasty Trust; David K. Skidmore; and Cynthia A. Sites
• Representatives: Western Land Group
• Location: Archuleta County near Pagosa Springs, and land near the San Juan and Rio Blanco Rivers
• Public Land To Be Conveyed To Proponent: Nine parcels of Federal lands aggregating 380 acres.
• Non-Federal Land To Be Acquired By Public: One parcel of non-Federal lands of 880 acres.
• USFS Website for all project documents