Welch Ranch
The multi-generational Welch Ranch is being offered for the first time since the late 1940’s. The property totals for 6,865 deeded acres (+/-) and is conveniently located on the southern periphery of Walsenburg, Colorado. With direct frontage and visibility along I-25, future commercial development is possible. LandThe ranch is bisected by Interstate 25 with approximately 900 of the 6,865-acres contained on the west side of the highway. Access is provided by frontage roads extending along the interstate and there is pass-thru access between the east and west parcels beneath a highway bridge.
There is a sizable cottonwood-lined arroyo that extends through the upper portion of the ranch that serves as both a big game corridor and winter shelter for the livestock. Antelope and Mule Deer are common with the occasional sighting of Elk. The topography of the ranch is gently rolling with pr...
There is a sizable cottonwood-lined arroyo that extends through the upper portion of the ranch that serves as both a big game corridor and winter shelter for the livestock. Antelope and Mule Deer are common with the occasional sighting of Elk. The topography of the ranch is gently rolling with prominent hills extending along the southern boundary. The snowcapped Spanish Peaks, Sangre De Cristo’s and Wet Mountains provide a picturesque view shed to the west.
The property is not encumbered by a conservation easement, but would be an ideal candidate.
ImprovementsExisting ranch improvements are limited to older grain bins and a Quonset building. A set of working pens are positioned in the north-central portion of the ranch.
Recreation
AgricultureThe ranch is fully perimeter and cross fenced into (9) pastures ranging from 321 to 975-acres along with 100-acres of irrigated crop (currently planted in an alfalfa/bromegrass mix and sorghum). Carrying capacity for the ranch is estimated at up to 125 AU’s annually and the pastures have been well-managed.
Water/Mineral Rights & Natural ResourcesThe property contains senior water rights that will also convey to a new buyer:
Gomez Ditch – Priority #10 for 3.2 c.f.s. – irrigation up to 160-acres (appropriation date of June 8, 1868)
Gomez Ditch – Priority #124 for 7.0 c.f.s. – irrigation up to 350-acres (appropriation date of April 10, 1888)
Sharps Orchard Reservoir Priority #11
La Jolla Reservoir Priority #7
La Jolla Ditch
Overflow Ditch
Underflow Ditch &
Farr Seepage Ditch
In addition to the deeded water rights, there are (2) gallery wells that distribute water to (12) above ground stock tanks dispersed throughout the individual pastures. The wells were producing at rates of 50 and 98 g.p.m. when drilled in 2014. There also several dirt tanks and ponds that gather seasonal run-off.
The seller is offering a 50% interest in all minerals.
General OperationsThe ranch is leased to a grazing tenant through December of 2021 who would consider an extension of the lease/caretaker duties if desired.
Region & Climate
History
LocationThe city of Walsenburg is situated at the junction of Interstate 25 and US Highway 160 which, provides a good number of modern conveniences a five-minute drive from the ranch. There are numerous recreational opportunities a short-distance to the west.
From elevation to risk assessment
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