Jeffco Open Space acquisition expands Coal Creek Canyon Park

The deal was completed Dec. 15 and adds land on the south side of Colorado 72, north of White Ranch Open Space Park.

“The property allows us to connect several properties that we already own,” said Thea Rock, manager of public information for Jefferson County Open Space.

The land will provide connectivity between Coal Creek Canyon Park, White Ranch Open Space Park and Golden Gate State Park.

The property was purchased for $3,995,586 from the Booth Land and Cattle Company, a family-owned and operated ranch for the past 127 years.

“It’s almost quintessential Colorado,” Rock said.

Duane and MurvaAnn Rodgers had owned the property — MurvaAnn being part of the Booth family — but decided to sell the land as they get on in age, according to Joy Luciano, real estate manager for Jefferson County Open Space.

Luciano said the Rodgerses had thought about selling the land to developers but was grateful they decided to go with preservation.

“It’s a large tract of unfragmented land that provides tremendous wildlife habitat and views,” she said. “We’ve purchased a number of parcels in the park. The Booth-Rodgers piece is the last remaining parcel of Ralston Creek and the only undeveloped corridor in the canyon.”

Rock said the Rodgerses will keep their home on the property.

She added that the land has been well cared for and that there will be educational opportunities in the future.

“It’s a wonderful habitat and wildlife corridor. There will likely be some trails there in the future,” she said.