The White River National Forest secured two parcels of land totaling 90 acres near Green Mountain Reservoir this month, according to a March 29 news release.

Through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, officials said they acquired a 66-acre parcel near Cow Creek South Campground and a 24-acre parcel near McDonald Flats Campground previously owned by the Summit County government. 

The funding for the combined purchase was $1.8 million, according to the news release. 

“Summit County has a long-standing partnership with the White River National Forest to acquire private inholdings in the county to improve access to National Forest System lands,” stated Summit County Open Space Director Katherine King. 

Forest Service officials said the acquisition of the Cow Creek area will secure necessary rights-of-way for access to the campground’s facilities and support ongoing management efforts with Colorado Parks and Wildlife related to the prevention and spread of aquatic nuisance species like the quagga mussel.

Acquisition of the McDonald Flats parcel provides an additional 2,500 feet of shoreline access for the public and improves the recreation opportunities adjacent to that area’s campground.

“This acquisition will help us resolve access and expansion opportunities at the campgrounds,” said Dillon District Ranger Adam Bianchi, in a statement. “Public use at Green Mountain Reservoir continues to increase, and this acquisition will allow us to proactively plan for future needs.”