Frequently Asked Questions

About the Buffer Zone Project

1.  What is the Buffer Zone Project?

The Buffer Zone Project is officially called the Mesa County Community Separator Area Project.  The project began in 2000 through an agreement between Mesa County and the municipalities of Fruita, Grand Junction and Palisade who are the project partners. The project areas are commonly known as the “Buffer Zones”.  The Buffer Zones are designated areas created to maintain separateness between our communities and preserve some of the County’s agriculture, open space and wildlife habitat.  Within the buffer zones, eligible landowners can sell their development rights to the Mesa Land Trust through a conservation easement.  The project partners contribute towards the funding to purchase the development rights.

2.  Where are the Buffer Zones?

There are two buffer zones in Mesa County.  One lies between Fruita and Grand Junction and the other lies between Grand Junction and Palisade.

3.  Is there a map that shows the Buffer Zone boundaries?

Yes, a map of the two buffer zones can be found below.

4.  How do I know if my property is eligible for the program?

If your property falls within the Palisade Buffer, you must have a minimum of 12 acres to be eligible.  If your property falls within the Fruita Buffer, you must have at least 20 acres to be eligible.  Your property must also have conservation value to be eligible.  Some conservation values include, prime agriculture, scenic open space, good wildlife habitat.  The project partners and Mesa Land Trust make the final determination as to whether or not your property has conservation value.

5.  What is a conservation easement?

A conservation easement is a voluntary land protection tool that allows a landowner to either donate or in unique situations, such as for properties inside the Buffer Zones, to sell their development rights to protect all or part of their land.  Development restrictions specific to the property and determined by the landowner are outlined in the easement.  The landowner retains all other rights to the property and continues to own and use the land.  The easement is permanent and remains with the land in perpetuity, whether the land is sold, bequeathed, leased, or gifted. 

6.  Where does the funding come from to purchase my development rights?

The primary source of funding used to purchase development rights within the Buffer Zone areas is from the Great Outdoors Colorado Open Space Program.  This funding is generated from the Colorado Lottery.  Other funding used is from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) Farm and Ranchland Protection Program.  The project partners of Mesa County, Fruita, Grand Junction, and Palisade all contribute funds to the purchase of development rights.

7.  What if my property falls just outside the Buffer Zones?

If your property is not inside the Buffer Zones, it is more difficult to find the funding needed to purchase your development rights.  If you still want to protect your property, you can donate a conservation easement to the Mesa Land Trust and reap the State and Federal tax benefits.  State tax benefits in Colorado can be sold for cash. 

8.  Who can I talk to about my property to learn if I am a good candidate?

Contact Margie Latta, Land Protection Specialist at (970) 263-5443 or e-mail her at margie (at) mesalandtrust (dot) org