EXHIBIT 23.1 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-88712 on Form S-3 and Nos. 033-61850, 333-30055, 333-58273, 333-35352, 333-88780 and 333-106438 on Form S-8 of St. Mary Land & Exploration Company (the "Company")of our report dated February 26, 2004, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2003. /S/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP Denver, Colorado, February 26, 2003.