Open Space!  Parks! Connecting Children to Nature!  Trails! …and More!

Welcome! Throughout South Metro Land Conservancy’s 26-year history, the organization has focused on the acquisition and preservation of open space in the south metro area. As a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, SMLC has initiated or participated in conservation and land preservation projects totaling over 10,300 acres of protected open space. Click here to see what we've accomplished! We believe that SMLC’s efforts have been key to the quality of life that we enjoy. There is no question that open space, parks, trails and natural areas are integral to what we are as a community.

Trails and Connectivity -- Improving Access to Open Space
During the past few years SMLC has devoted more resources and advocacy to trails and connectivity.  For example, SMLC is an active participant with the South Platte Working Group to build and enhance connections to the Platte River and other destinations important in people’s daily lives.  In fact, SMLC is a strong voice with South Suburban Park and Recreation and the City of Littleton about the importance of natural recreation and connectivity.

Connecting Children with Nature
Under the auspices of Great Outdoors Colorado’s “Generation Wild: Kids Grow Better Outside” program, SMLC took on a project in 2018 to reconnect children with nature link.  SMLC partnered with Bemis Library on its summer reading program by designing a scavenger hunt booklet to get children out in our parks and awarding them with a SMLC-purchased book about nature.  In 2019 this partnership continued with the Friends of the Library/Museum (FOLM), as well as with the Village Preschool. SMLC funded high-quality, nature-themed books for these reading programs. 

The Importance of Natural Areas in Neighborhood Parks
​While you may be familiar with our role in procuring additional land for South Platte Park, an 880-acre natural open space gem, SMLC also is turning its attention to helping people understand the importance of natural areas in their neighborhood parks.  These parcels are often misunderstood, yet they provide habitat for birds, animals and native plants close to home.  SMLC is exploring how it can provide more educational opportunities about these important areas.

Support SMLC

Please consider supporting our work to preserve and enhance open space in one of these ways:
​
• Contribute to our efforts with a tax-deductible donation in any amount you choose:

​• Create an open space legacy in your estate plan

    Join our list of supporters!

News and events

June 24, 2020. The masked members of the SMLC board hold a socially distant meeting. To hear about the exciting ideas and projects we're discussing, please join our email list by entering your address to the left of the photo.
​Photo by Rick Cronenberger.