Owl Canyon Pinyon Grove

The pinyon pine grove is 658 acres and located on the east (right) side of 287 as you reach the crest of the Gage Hill before descending to the Forks. The pines  are clearly visible on the right, however most of the pinions are not visible because they are on the other (east) side of the ridge. The pinyons are first visible coming up the road at Owl Canyon, on both sides of the road.

Some of the land belongs to the Colorado Lien Company, but most is leased (mineral rights) from the State, and some from the Roberts Ranch to mine limestone for glass and similar purposes. The limestone was once (still?) used in sugar beet processing, a major agricultural activity in Weld County.  Previously the Holly Sugar company owned the land and used it for a quarry, cutting some of the trees in the process.  For years, beginning in 1951 the Livermore Woman's Club worked to preserve the site.  However, most of the land belonged to the State Land Board which by law needs to generate revenue to support schools.  When the Brackenbury family made a gift to the State of 658 acres (elsewhere) the State swapped for Pinyon Grove land thus enabling the land in 1978 to be designated a Natural Resources Area.

The following information is from the website and The following information is from the website and information provided during the visit. http://parks.state.co.us/NaturalResources/CNAP/NaturalAreasInfo/AlphabeticalListing/OwlCanyonPinyonGrove.htm