One of the largest opportunities for grassland conservation in the U.S.
The Southern High Plains of Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas are home to pronghorn, grassland birds and more iconic wildlife. TNC is working with partners to conserve a network of land and water across state boundaries that boosts climate resilience, preserves biodiversity and supports sustainable agriculture. Together, we’re increasing the pace and scale of grassland protection.
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JE Canyon: In 2015, TNC protected this 50,000-acre ranch in SE CO. © John Fielder/TNC

Black-footed ferret: TNC is working to provide habitat for this endangered species. © Bob Gress

Barber Pole Grasshopper: This colorful grasshopper is an example of the unexpected diversity of life you may encounter in the Southern High Plains if you slow down and look closely. © Gustavo Lozada/TNC

Connecting Landscape: Conservation Easement in Hamilton County, Kansas. © Jim Griggs
Bartlett Mesa Ranch: This New Mexico ranch was recently acquired by TNC. © Brad Cory/TNC

Biodiversity: The lesser prairie chicken is emblematic of grasslands. © Justin Roemer/TNC

Bison: Smoky Valley Ranch is home to a satellite herd of bison with unique genetics originating from Wind Cave National Park. © Justin Roemer/TNC

Four Canyon Preserve: The Canadian River flows through this preserve in OK. © Chris Hise/TNC

JE Canyon: TNC protected this 50,000 acre ranch in SE Colorado. © Lauryn Wachs/TNC

Cactus Bloom: A diverse array of cacti blooms at JE Canyon in CO. © Audrey Wolk/TNC
All You Need to Know About the Farm Bill
Did you know that the Farm Bill is one of the country's most successful and important conservation programs? From encouraging regenerative agriculture practices to opening doors for permanent land protection, it provides billions for conservation efforts every year.

Stories in the Southern High Plains
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SOAR-ing to New Heights
In a new initiative, TNC and partners are working with the Department of Defense to conserve a vast landscape in the Colorado Springs area while supporting agricultural, conservation and military interests. Learn about SOAR Colorado
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Live from the Lek
Each spring, lesser prairie chickens gather on lek at TNC's Smoky Valley Ranch Preserve in Kansas to dance, sing and show off for female birds in hopes of mating. Learn about the lek and watch footage from our preserve
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Hear from TNC Staff in the field
In this podcast episode of Mountain & Prairie, TNC's Matt Moorhead and Galen Guerrero-Murphy join Ed Roberson to discuss grasslands, ranching, building relationships and purpose-driven work in the Southern High Plains Initiative. Listen here
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