SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah – The United States Forest Service awarded $40 million in funding to Utah’s Wasatch Back Forest Conservation to complete the purchase of what will be Summit County’s largest open space purchase in its history.
According to a news flash from the county, the award from the Forest Legacy Program, in addition to $15 million from a General Obligation Bond, completes the necessary funding to purchase the 8,588-acre 910 Cattle Ranch property.
“The County is incredibly grateful for this federal support and our strong partnership with Utah’s Forestry, Fire and State Lands department. This is a momentous acquisition for current and future generations of Summit County residents.” – Summit County Manager Shayne Scott
The county will assume stewardship over the land until the summer of 2025, when the county will take on full ownership. Until then, current conditions, including present animal species and identification of sensitive areas, will be documented and plans for land management will be developed and implemented.
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“We are thrilled to finalize the purchase of the 910 Ranch and are thankful for all our local, state, and federal partners. The County is eager to discuss what conservation, watershed restoration, and responsible recreation opportunities look like on the 910. We encourage our community to stay involved in this process at every step.” Summit County Council Chair Malena Stevens
According to KSL, the 8,588-acre land will connect a larger 52,000-acre corridor of other protected lands, including National Forest land and state parks. The land is the largest open space acquisition in the county’s history.
