From The Fields to The River: Conservation in the South Fork Valley

Growing up on a farm outside of Powell, Jamie Ohl always felt a deep connection to the land. Her husband, Mark Ohl, shared a similar upbringing in central Oklahoma, where his family was in agriculture, and he worked for many local farmers as a young teenager. When the couple had the opportunity to purchase farmland on the South Fork of the Shoshone River in their later years, it was a chance to return to their agricultural roots.

Today, they grow hay and barley on their farm. The Ohls partner with their friends and neighbors to ensure this land stays in agriculture, supporting the South Fork Valley through their crops and by leasing a portion of their property to a first-generation rancher working to establish a foothold in the industry.

As they looked ahead to the future of their land, the couple knew that without children to inherit it, development was likely. “We wanted to guarantee it stayed in agriculture,” Jamie said. “The riverfront, views, and wildlife make it vulnerable to subdivision.”

The couple chose to partner with Park County Open Lands on a conservation easement—the fourth completed since the program’s launch in 2023. The new Ole Wiley Conservation Easement protects 145 acres. “We are deeply grateful for the Ohl’s commitment to protecting the character of the South Fork and supporting the region’s agricultural and wildlife heritage,” said Alex Few, the director of Park County Open Lands.

For Mark, a critical part of the conservation easement process is the partnership between the land trust and the landowner. “The reassurance in knowing that the land trust will continue to steward our vision into the future through completing annual site visits gives us real peace of mind,” he says.

Mark and Jamie’s commitment to thoughtful land stewardship and the balance between agriculture and wildlife is evident. In the past, flood irrigation led to excessive runoff into the South Fork River, eroding its banks and disrupting fish habitat. To address this, they installed a more efficient pivot irrigation system, improving water management. This investment not only enhanced their agricultural operation but also improved fish and wildlife habitat along the South Fork.

The property provides a diverse landscape, from the upland hay and barley fields to the river bottom, creating a range of habitats that support wildlife year-round. Mule deer and elk depend on the land for winter range, while in spring, a variety of bird species use the area for nesting and foraging. The riparian corridor also serves as a migration route for grizzly bears. This mix of habitats provides essential resources for wildlife, underscoring the property’s importance in supporting both the local ecosystem and the broader landscape.

Mark and Jamie’s decision to place a conservation easement on their land reflects their deep commitment to the community and the landscape they love. “Our ability to give back to the South Fork community is a big part of why we wanted to do this,” Mark shared. “It’s important for this valley to remain open not only for wildlife and for agriculture but also for people to enjoy.”

Photo: Quick Draw Productions