Colorado Lawmakers Take Bold Action to Safeguard Environment and Preserve Sangre de Cristo Land Grants – Insights by Jan Wondra, Ark Valley Voice

The land rights of Latino families in the San Luis Valley, known as Sangre De Cristo, stretch back generations—long before the United States was formed. This history adds weight to recent events, prompting action from Colorado lawmakers.

Recently, Representative Matthew Martinez and Senators Cleave Simpson and Julie Gonzales held a press conference to announce new legislation. This bill aims to strengthen local fence construction rules in San Luis Valley, particularly in response to a controversial eight-foot fence topped with barbed wire built by the billionaire owner of Cielo Vista Ranch.

The fencing violates historical land grant agreements that guarantee access to the valley for multi-generational families. Additionally, it disrupts wildlife movement in the area. The Denver Post highlighted the situation in a recent article, which you can read here.

“This legislation is vital to protect our community and our environment from unauthorized fences,” Rep. Martinez said. “I was shocked to see the negative effects of the fence. Many families have land rights that date back to before Colorado was a state. This bill aims to enhance local control and ensure environmental safety.”

History Colorado has noted that the San Luis Valley has a unique cultural blend of Indigenous, Hispano, and Anglo influences, making it a special area in the United States. Just last December, they hosted sessions regarding their “Colorado Heritage for All” initiative in the valley.

Sen. Gonzales expressed pride in sponsoring the bill. “Our local communities deserve a voice in how they access their land,” she stated. “I appreciate Representative Martinez’s leadership on this important issue.”

House Bill 25-1023 would require people to obtain local government approval before building fences of a certain height and size on land grant property. Local officials will evaluate whether the pros of a fencing project outweigh the cons, with the option for local governments to opt out of these regulations.

The recent fence construction at Cielo Vista Ranch has not only damaged the land but has also restricted access for local residents with historical rights. This legislation aims to prevent similar future projects and safeguard the natural habitat of the San Luis Valley.