Ranch Manager, Ken Levine.

 

"I’ve always considered our family to be stewards of this special land, and we have always focused on improving and maintaining the unique environment with which we have been blessed," said Levine, who co-owns the ranch with wife Elaine, son and ranch manager Ken, and three of Ken’s siblings.

Only one Colorado Outstanding Forest Steward is selected annually by the Colorado Forest Stewardship Coordinating Committee to recognize individuals or groups who demonstrate an exemplary commitment to a forest stewardship land ethic.

Two old friends, Mayor Ross Aragon and Bill Dawson have long worked for Pagosa Springs and appriciate the Levines efforts.

A summary of ranch accomplishments includes forest thinning on 152 acres to improve forest health; a half-mile of stream restoration; improved infrastructure for irrigation and access; and an active weed control program.

Located just south of Pagosa’s hot springs and adjacent to open space, the Reservoir River Ranch boasts a balanced blend of actively managed forestland, rangeland and pastureland. The property is also managed for wildlife habitat, watershed protection and recreational values.

CSFS Director and State Forester Jeff Jahnke presented the award. Jeff stated, " This is land ethics from the heart."

"The Levine family has done an exceptional job of managing multiple resources on their land in an environmentally sound way," said Jahnke.

THE LEVINE FAMILY HAVE KINDLY ALLOWED USE OF THEIR PROPERTY FOR TRAIL RACES. BELOW ARE SCENES FROM BOTH WINTER AND SUMMER EVENTS.

This lovely ski track courtesy of the Levine family.

James Dickhoff, leader of the local Nordic movement.

Challenging & beautiful fall trail run. 

Pagosa was all about foot racing for the Chile Cha Cha - Gecko Trail Marathon and a high school cross country meet. Starting and finishing in Town Park, the longer marathon races went up the hill and into the forest on Reservoir Hill, to the right, and for miles south.

On your mark, get set,...

Gone!