After their brother died, two siblings inherited 20.66 acres beside Zion National Park

Two siblings in Utah have turned a 20.66-acre inheritance beside Zion National Park into a permanent tribute to their late brother. They signed a conservation easement with the Virgin River Land Conservancy, giving up all future development rights and keeping the property undeveloped.

The agreement bars commercial construction, housing developments and residential subdivisions on the land in Rockville. The property includes native desert plants, wildlife corridors and open views of the red sandstone formations associated with the area.

The protected parcel forms part of the sensitive Virgin River watershed, providing habitat and travel routes for mule deer, desert tortoises and native birds of prey. The conservation restrictions will remain attached to the property permanently, including if the family transfers ownership. The land trust will conduct regular monitoring visits.

The siblings chose conservation rather than selling the property to developers. Their brother had originally purchased the land because of its natural beauty and its position near Zion’s protected wilderness. The Virgin River Land Conservancy said voluntary agreements with private landowners can prevent habitat from being fragmented along important river corridors.

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We proudly announce a new preserved area in Rockville.