Grand County purchases Windy Gap Ranch for just over $1 million

Grand County has taken a significant step in preserving its natural heritage with the purchase of the Windy Gap Ranch, also known as the Kobayashi Family Open Space. The acquisition secures more than 58 acres along the Colorado River, ensuring the land remains undeveloped while opening new opportunities for recreation, habitat protection and river connectivity. 

The Board of County Commissioners approved the acquisition on Nov. 26, following months of negotiations that reshaped the original contract. County Manager Ed Moyer explained that the final purchase price, $1,056,300, was reduced by $84,000 after the Windy Gap Fire last August left hazardous trees across the property. The reduction was based on the estimated cost of removing and masticating those burned trees.  

“Grand County purchased the Windy Gap Ranch/Kobayashi Open Space to preserve this section of the Colorado River, ensuring it remains undeveloped and accessible for future generations,” commissioners said in a statement.

The original contract expired during negotiations over the fire damage. A new agreement was drafted to reflect the reduced price, and commissioners rescinded their earlier resolution authorizing a higher wire transfer. The final purchase was funded primarily through Open Lands, Rivers and Trails (OLRT) funds, which covered $1,048,416.71. The entire project cost is projected to cost $1,436,708.

Stewardship and Access

The county has already approved an $84,000 contract for tree removal, with work beginning immediately. Public access will roll out in phases:

• Short-term: Fishing and walk-in access via adjacent BLM property and existing U.S. Highway 40 parking.
• Long-term: Expanded recreation in collaboration with Northern Water, complementing the upcoming Colorado River Connectivity Channel project.

For now, access will be limited during periods when contractors are on site clearing fire debris.

Beyond recreation, the acquisition secures 1.9 cubic feet per second of water rights in the Schmuck Ditch and protects roughly 3,600 feet of river corridor. Commissioners emphasized the benefits for wildlife habitat, water protection and community enjoyment.

“This initiative will foster community engagement, support local economies and ensure sustainable use of the property and the Colorado River,” the county noted in its OLRT grant application.

Officials thanked residents and visitors whose 0.3% sales tax contributions make OLRT acquisitions possible, as well as the OLRT Advisory Committee for reviewing and recommending the purchase.