Dear Friend,
Water is a difficult but important topic to discuss in the West. Conflict over water goes back generations, especially along the Colorado River from its start here in Grand County, through seven states and many Native American reservations, and across the border into Mexico.
The Colorado River is once again at the top of the annual America’s Most Endangered Rivers list published by American Rivers. This is not the first time the Colorado River has been on this list. This year, American Rivers lists the three main risks as: reliable water supply, regional economy, and river health.
This River defines our area. Everyone in Grand County draws their water from the Colorado River or one of its tributaries, like the Fraser River (which has also previously been on the Endangered Rivers list). Our local economy is driven by tourism and agriculture – from skiing to ranching to angling, a healthy, productive river is vital for the viability and growth of the economy as we know it.
Your generosity allows us to protect the Colorado River and its headwaters.
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It is the mission of Colorado Headwaters Land Trust to conserve and steward the open spaces and natural character of the headwaters of the Colorado River, in partnership with the local community. The River begins its 1450-mile journey from within Rocky Mountain National Park and travels through the county on its way to the Sea of Cortez. It touches every resident and visitor of Grand County.
We use conservation easements to protect the land and resources of Grand County. Landowners have the option of encumbering water rights with the easement, as well. This does not transfer the water rights to the land trust, but it does add a layer of protection over the water rights to ensure they stay connected with the land of Grand County and continue to benefit our local water supply, our local economy, and our local river health.
Development is important to the economy and community of our region – Middle Park is a spectacular place to live, visit, and recreate. One of the first European reports of the area describes it as ‘the Switzerland of America,’ remarking on its beauty and splendor, and of course the bountiful recreational opportunities our mountains, meadows, and rivers have to offer. We at CHLT believe it is our role to understand and appreciate the history and heritage of this region, and work to provide future generations with opportunities to do the same.
Thank you to all who help protect the open lands and natural character of Middle Park.
This spring we announced our new website! Created by EcoPixel, the new site is attractive and easy to use. As before, it contains information for landowners about how to protect their land in perpetuity. Visitors to the website can also learn about the organization’s history, the staff and board, and events and news. Two of the biggest updates are the Spanish translation and the compliance with the American Disabilities Act, with the goal of meeting the more stringent Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 level AA requirements. The site was funded in large part by the Grand Foundation, the Land Trust Alliance, and the Fraser River Valley Lions Club.
We also hired a new Development Manager, Caoilfhionn Schwab. She is taking on events, marketing, and fundraising for the land trust. We have a wonderful list of summer events in the works, including a Summer Kick-Off at the Granby Garage on July 10, our annual Wildflower Walk on July 17, and our annual Stargazing Evening on August 13! Also, the land trust is again co-sponsoring Plein Air at Altitude with the Fraser Arts Council, as well as National Public Lands Day, both events held in September. You can find more information through our email listserv, on our website and social media, or by contacting the office.
These events are possible because of your ongoing support and enthusiasm for our work.
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Your tax-deductible donation will help us continue protecting Grand County’s land and resources, educating others about the value of open spaces, and bringing the community together over our shared love of where we live.
Please also consider signing up for recurring donations, which we can continuously count on to protect the land we love.
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Jeremy D. Krones
Executive Director
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Paula Metcalf Stuart
President, Board of Directors
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