It does not get much more Sheridan County than a field full of fresh-cut hay with the Bighorns in the background. It is a scene that speaks to our shared values of open space and productive ag land that raises families alongside cattle, deer, turkeys, cranes, antelope, and so many other animals. Sadly, it is a scene under more and more threat each year.
Because of you, a family in the Tongue River Valley conserved their homestead so it remains productive forever.
“We call this home for many reasons,” relayed Kris Korfanta and Bill Bensel, saying the views of the Bighorns, the diversity of all kinds of wildlife, and the productivity of the land combine to make this patch of paradise between Wolf Creek and the Tongue River a compelling place to call home. “It conveys a sense of place, a connection,” they continued, adding, “Our irrigated hay and even dryland production is really impressive this year.”
By partnering with SCLT, Kris and Bill were able to create an agreement that puts agricultural use and open space at the center of everything that happens on their land. It also prevents the property from being subdivided for development down the road.
“We’re a part of wider efforts in our county to maintain traditional land use and the values that go with it.”
~ Bill & Kris on why they conserved their homestead ~
“The land has been good to us and maintaining open space benefits the wider community, too.”
Bill and Kris are the most recent family you have helped conserve what they love most. And they are not alone. More families than ever before have asked SCLT how they can conserve their land. Right now, Conservation Director Meghan Kent is working with families from Parkman, Beckton, the Big Goose Valley, the Tongue Valley, and east of I-90 that would voluntarily conserve vital open spaces, healthy rivers and creeks, working ranches, and wildlife habitat.
More families can conserve what we all love about Sheridan County. But they need help! This is why you are needed.
