Century-Old Cross L7 Homestead Secures Legacy Through Conservation Easement

Cody, WY – Park County Open Lands has finalized its fifth conservation easement, permanently protecting the 173-acre Cross L7 Homestead. The conservation easement ensures the property will remain a working agricultural landscape, safeguarding its historic water rights, productive pasture, habitat for deer, and a critical stopover site for migratory birds just outside of Cody.
Homesteaded in 1901, the Cross L7 has remained in continuous agricultural use since. As one of the county’s few original homestead sites still haying and grazing cattle, it holds a deep-rooted history tied to the Cody Canal system and its early irrigation rights. Despite changing land-use pressures, the property has remained a productive working landscape rooted in long-term stewardship by the homesteading family.
The Cross L7 homestead features a natural spring and wetland habitat, alongside irrigated meadows and mature cottonwood trees that support a diverse range of wildlife. More than 185 bird species have been documented on the property, including sandhill cranes, avocets, herons, raptors, and songbirds. The area also provides seasonal range for big game such as mule deer and white-tailed deer.
“The Cross L7 Homestead tells the story of persistence — both of the land and the people who’ve cared for it,” said Alex Few, Park County Open Lands director. “This easement honors that legacy of stewardship and agricultural heritage of the homesteading family. It also ensures scenic open space and wildlife habitat for this gateway to Cody.”