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 […]
Environment
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 […]
Posted inLocal Government
Dr. John Emerick of Redstone appointed to CPW Commission
The opportunity of a lifetime has arrived for Redstone resident Dr. John Emerick as he was recently appointed to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Commission on July 3 by Governor Jared Polis. Filling the member at large position, Emerick, a retired professor of environmental biology, will use a scientific lens to help set regulations […]
Posted inNews
Coulter Creek Fire quickly contained
Around 11am on Sunday, Aug. 3, Carbondale and Rural Fire Protection District (CRFPD) responded to a wildfire in the Missouri Heights area. “Upon arrival, firefighters found an active fire burning in grass, pine trees, juniper trees and sage, and spreading at high speed. The brigades immediately began extinction work from the ground, as air resources […]
Posted inEnvironment
New NEPA regulations reduce public voice in energy development
In response to President Donald Trump’s Unleashing American Energy executive order, multiple governmental agencies have introduced new rules for implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Eight federal agencies have introduced policies like faster deadlines, page limits and removal of public input in order to expedite domestic energy production. The White House lauds these new […]
Posted inNonprofits
Cultivating community, connection and fresh food at Highwater Farm
This article originated from Sol del Valle and has been translated for English-language readers. Highwater Farm was founded in 2020 and has since made its mark along a dirt road outside of Silt that leads to a space full of life and connection to the land. From the soil to the table, the farm has […]
Posted inBusiness
Spreading light: Sunsense Solar celebrates 35 years
Last month, Carbondale-based energy company Sunsense Solar marked its 35th anniversary. The milestone is an impressive one amid a new era of changes for the organization. Founder Scott Ely shared reflections on the company and its evolution with The Sopris Sun. This interview was edited for length and clarity. What appealed to you about solar […]
Posted inEnvironment
Threat to public lands surfaced bipartisan resistance
Last month, Coloradans rose in solidarity against a proposed section of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. While the bulk of the controversial legislation ultimately passed with a tie-breaking vote by Vice President J.D. Vance on July 1, the final draft of the bill removed text regarding public lands sales. Senator Mike Lee of Utah […]
Posted inSports
Like riding a bike, Inspire Cycling builds community
With summer in full swing the thrill of bike season is here. For the women of Inspire Cycling, gliding on the trails and bike paths is made sweeter when friends, new and old alike, join the adventures. Since 2022, Inspire Cycling has cultivated an intentional women’s cycling collective from Rifle to Aspen. The non-competitive group […]
Posted inEnvironment
Pollinator Conservancy abuzz with intention
The Pollinator Conservancy has had a busy year. Flitting between community events and speaking before local municipalities, founder and Valley resident Lisa McKenzie is on a mission to raise critical awareness and education about our most vulnerable creatures: the pollinators. A vast collection of species, pollinators consist of bees, butterflies, moths, birds, bats and others […]