This summer, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has ramped up testing and treatment of Colorado waters to prevent the further spread of zebra mussels in rivers and lakes. Between April and mid-August, the agency collected some 318 water samples from different spots along the Colorado River, plus 58 samples from the Eagle River and 26 […]
Annalise Grueter
Posted inEnvironment
Drought conditions persist, scorching local flora
After a winter in the bottom decile of historically documented precipitation, Western Colorado did not need more dry weather. Only in the past few weeks did monsoon patterns return to more typical levels. Moving into September, it is unlikely that precipitation or low pressure weather systems will significantly mitigate drought levels ahead of winter. As […]
Posted inEducation
RFSD Report: Policy discussions and a Crystal River Elementary art project
On Aug. 27, the Roaring Fork School District Board of Education discussed the start of the school year, considered policy adjustments in response to state legislation and reviewed academic strategies. Following adjustments due to unexpected challenges last school year, the district will move forward with a strategic plan put in place at that time. Notable […]
Posted inLocal Government
RFTA Report: Zero Fare fall pilot poised to launch Oct. 1
During the August meeting, Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) Director of Finance Paul Hamilton and Budget Manager David Carle presented preliminary considerations for 2026 budget planning. Efforts in progress include drafting operating budgets for each RFTA department, considering future transit service costs and accounting for potential state and federal revenue impacts on RFTA finances. Hamilton […]
Posted inBusiness
Adrian Glasenapp pops off RKYMTN Adult Drinks
Editor’s note: this interview has been edited for clarity and space. Adrian Glasenapp is no stranger to carbonated drinks. Though the Glenwood-born native moved back to the Roaring Fork Valley years ago, he spent over 16 years working for New Belgium Brewing. His expertise is in marketing and design, and that creative spark, led him […]
Posted inEducation
Carbondale parent questions whether movement activities in schools are adequate
Earlier this summer, a concerned parent reached out to this newspaper to raise their concerns about opportunities for physical activities in Carbondale Middle School (CMS). They asked to remain anonymous because they also work for the school district. “At CMS they have one 20-minute recess after lunch only,” they wrote, compared to a 20-minute midday […]
Posted inNews
Albert Schweitzer Day: Building upon a legacy of humanism
Editor’s note: This story is a follow up to a June 18 article, “Dr. Jim Withers to present at Albert Schweitzer Days,” in The Sopris Sun. “Kindness is the highest expression of the spiritin man.” – Dr. Albert Schweitzer Earlier this summer, humanists gathered in Willits to view a film about the Street Medicine Institute. […]
Posted inNonprofits
Raftoberfest rides the river to benefit cancer survivors
The first Saturday in September, a unique fundraiser is set to make waves in Glenwood Springs. Raftoberfest combines a love for water and the dramatic local landscape with fundraising. Epic Experience is an Arvada, Colorado-based nonprofit that facilitates adventures and empowerment for cancer survivors. One of the nonprofit’s many creative charity events is Raftoberfest, a […]
Posted inEnvironment
New studies indicate how Colorado ecosystems respond to wildfire
As of late, sunsets have been spectacularly colorful and horizon lines remain hazy. The air carries a distinct scent many associate with camping — some with fear — and air quality ratings oscillate between moderate to hazardous. Understandably, wildfire is at the top of many folks’ minds. And it’s no surprise that the Roaring Fork […]
Posted inEnvironment
Wilderness Workshop to host conversation with former BLM leaders
On Thursday, Aug. 21, outdoor enthusiasts will gather at the Third Street Center for a conversation about United States public lands, changing government policies and citizen conservation responses. From 5:30pm to 7:00pm, Carbondale-based nonprofit Wilderness Workshop will facilitate the free conversation with Tracy Stone-Manning, current president of The Wilderness Society and former director of the […]