The Colorado State Land Board has approved the sale of nearly 46,000 acres of land in the San Luis Valley, a transaction valued at $49.6 million. This land, known as the La Jara State Trust Land, has been under state management since Colorado’s statehood. The decision came despite concerns from board members regarding future federal public land management practices.
In a vote of 4-1, the board decided to sell the property primarily to the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, with a portion also allocated to Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The State Land Board oversees approximately 2.8 million acres across Colorado, managing these lands to generate revenue for the state’s public schools.
The consideration to sell the La Jara property began in 2017 due to insufficient revenue generation. After several years of negotiations, the board appeared poised to finalize the sale, which proponents argue will safeguard public access to the area for activities such as hunting, fishing, and recreation.
Concerns about federal management surfaced among board members, particularly under the administration of former President Donald Trump, which had a reputation for relaxing conservation measures and reducing agency personnel. Commissioner Christine Scanlan, who ultimately supported the sale, expressed her apprehensions about the implications of transferring such a significant area to federal control. She remarked, “We were all-in until the world went nuts,” highlighting the shifting political climate.
Public support for the sale was evident during a lengthy session of comments prior to the vote, with all speakers favoring the transaction. All three commissioners from Conejos County attended the meeting in Denver, voicing strong community backing. Commissioner Mitchell Jarvies emphasized the importance of maintaining access to the land for local residents who depend on it for various recreational activities.
The sale of the La Jara State Trust Land marks a significant development in Colorado’s land management and conservation efforts. As the deal moves forward, it highlights the ongoing dialogue about public land use and management in the United States.
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