Easement to protect land in Catron County

A conservation easement will protect 1,760 acres on the western flanks of a mountain in northern Catron County. The New Mexico Land Conservancy and the state Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department’s Forestry Division announced the Alegres Mountain Ranch agreement. The property, just south of Pie Town, “exemplifies the quality and importance of the scenic, wildlife and agricultural land values of Catron County," according to a news release from the conservancy. It described Alegres Mountain as “one of the most prominent natural features in the area and a high point along the Continental Divide, which runs through the property." The 10,229-foot mountain provides habitat for elk, mule deer, black bears and mountain lions. The easement also will help protect the headwaters of Nester Draw and Middle Mangas Creek. The landowner, Blake Tollett, last year donated an easement on another 1,480 acres in the southern part of the ranch. “Forests and woodlands on the private lands of northern Catron County are very important for wildlife habitat and wood products," said State Forester Arthur “Butch" Blazer. “(The Forestry Division) is glad to assist landowners in protecting these forest values by establishing perpetual conservation easements." He noted that the state “paid a small amount" for the easement, with most of the land’s value contributed by Tollett...SilverCityDailyPress