Security, Open Space, and Agricultural Resilience (SOAR) Initiative

Colorado Springs, Colorado is known for its breathtaking landscapes, recreational opportunities, and rich connection to the land. This city is a hotbed for adventure and draws people from around the country to connect to the outdoors.

But as the rapidly growing city continues to see growth of housing developments—especially along the area’s eastern edge—Trust for Public Land is partnering with local organizations to conserve over 80,000 acres of this area’s identity that is deeply rooted in nature, ranching, and military institutions.

We’ve already protected over 11,900 acres at Bohart Ranch, roughly 30 miles east of the city. Ranches like Bohart help sustain the area’s economy as cattle ranching is the lifeblood for many rural communities. Generations of cattle ranchers have maintained the rolling grasslands at Bohart Ranch. Now protected, this ranch can continue to support its tenant family, the local economy, and native habitat for over 200 plant species, 40 native mammals like bison and elk, and over 48 miles of streams.

The SOAR initiative is also critical to maintain the effectiveness and sustainability of military installations under the United States Department of Defense. Students at United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) train in the surrounding airspace, and the initiative will limit encroaching development and environmental degradation that can negatively impact defense-related operations.

Through the SOAR initiative, TPL is working to protect priority open space, safeguard important ecosystems, boost the local economy, and mitigate the impacts of climate change, making Colorado Springs more resilient and livable for its community members.