HIGH LONESOME RANCH

Client: Private
Location: Garfield County, Colorado
Project Status: In Progress

High Lonesome Ranch, a multi-use conservation project, comprises 35,000 acres of private land in western Garfield County, Colorado. Within this land assemblage will be the High Lonesome Institute, a 300-acre research campus devoted to environmental science, applied research, landscape restoration and wildlife management programs on an unprecedented scale. Connect One Design has been responsible for overall master planning and design coordination of the campus.

Connect One Design was asked to create a land plan for the development of 300 acres at the primary entrance to the ranch. The goal of this development is to provide a nucleus for both research and recreation activities, create a revenue base to support and enhance the conservation and restoration of the land, and provide a fitting entry to what the ranch owner envisions as a model for preservation of large open spaces in the West.

The final plan was devised through extensive GIS mapping and intensive site visits to ensure that the proposed solution fit with the nature of the land. The development is nestled on the site in already disturbed areas, and near existing infrastructure. This allows more than 90% of the 300 acres to remain undisturbed and open for wildlife habitat and existing agricultural uses. The selected design is based on the concept of a small western ranch community. Facilities are provided for the headquarters of the conservation and research institute, as well as residences available for sale and lease to members and associates of the institute. Finally, the plan incorporates community facilities serving the researchers, residences, visiting scientists, and other groups recreating or taking part in research at the ranch.

Connect One spearheaded the Comprehensive Plan Amendment application and approval process with Garfield County to make this campus possible.