Summit County Finalizes Acquisition of 910 Ranch

SUMMIT COUNTY, UTAH (January 26, 2026) — Summit County, the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands (FFSL) and the U.S. Forest Service proudly announce the successful completion of the 910 Ranch acquisition (aka the Wasatch Back Forest Legacy Conservation Project), a monumental achievement that secures the largest conservation victory in Summit County’s history.

“We are finally here, and it feels incredible,” Summit County Council Chair Canice Harte said. “This is a meaningful day for Summit County. Securing the 910 Ranch is not just a land purchase; it’s a legacy. It represents our community’s commitment to conservation, our partnerships and our shared vision to protect these landscapes for generations to come. This is the biggest land acquisition in Summit County history, and I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”

This acquisition permanently protects 8,588 acres of pristine forestland and vital wildlife habitat in Summit and Morgan County. It forever safeguards one of the last remaining contiguous expanses of undeveloped land in the greater Snyderville Basin and underscores Summit County’s commitment to preserving natural landscapes, strengthening wildlife corridors and ensuring public access to community open spaces.

This historic achievement was made possible through the vision and support of Summit County residents, who approved a $15 million commitment from the 2021 General Obligation Bond for Open Space, and through a generous $40 million grant awarded to the Wasatch Back Forest Conservation Project by the Forest Legacy Program (FLP) — a collaborative initiative administered by the Forest Service and FFSL. Summit County extends its deepest gratitude to these partners for their leadership and dedication to conservation.

"The Forest Legacy Program continues to be impactful across the state”, said Doug Campbell, Forest Operations Manager for the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands. “Through this program, open space is preserved and working forests are protected that provide wildlife habitat, clean water, and recreational opportunities. Forest Legacy aims to protect these lands and natural resources close to population centers for all Utahns to benefit from and enjoy.”

Home to exceptional ecological diversity and abundant wildlife, the 910 Ranch serves as a critical link in a broader conservation landscape. The property connects with adjacent national forest lands, state-owned parcels and protected private estates: creating a vast and continuous corridor for wildlife movement, habitat connectivity and regional recreation opportunities.

“This acquisition marks a defining moment in Summit County’s land conservation history,” Summit County Lands and Natural Resources Director Jess Kirby said. “The 910 Ranch will forever stand as a legacy parcel, representing more than a decade of collaboration with the landowner and the steadfast commitment of Summit County, whose Council provided the leadership and support essential to advancing this initiative. Committing to a $55 million purchase without certainty of full funding required courage and vision, but together, we made it happen. But most of all, I am deeply grateful to the landowner for embracing conservation for his land and for trusting Summit County to honor and care for this extraordinary landscape. His decision ensures that its beauty, heritage, and ecological value will be protected forever.”

Public input has been integral to the acquisition process, and the county has carefully considered the community’s clear message that we have only “one chance” to get this right, a principle that will continue to guide decision-making. Summit County will maintain a transparent process for public engagement as it develops and implements long‑term management plans, ensuring the property’s stewardship reflects the community’s priorities and values.

Although Summit County now owns the 910 Ranch, the property is not open to the public until a formal Recreational Management Plan is adopted. Until then, access remains limited to East Canyon Road, which closes to vehicles annually from December 1–April 30. Hunting on the property is strictly and permanently prohibited — this is a non-negotiable commitment to the landowner. Fishing will also remain restricted until restoration efforts establish a sustainable fishery. The Volunteer Ambassador Program will continue to play a vital role in stewardship and education during this planning phase.

Community members interested in learning more about the history and future planning efforts can visit summitcounty.info/910ranch. To stay connected with the Summit County Lands and Natural Resources Department, subscribe to the newsletter at: summitcounty.info/countylandsnews.