Electric mountain biking
The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on a proposal to allow Class 1 e-bikes on all currently designated mechanized mountain bike trails within the Colorado River Valley Field Office boundary. Approval would affect more than 220 miles of trail in Eagle, Garfield and Pitkin counties. “Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that only works when you pedal and stops helping once you reach 20 miles per hour,” a press release described. Comments on the proposal will be accepted through March 25. Public meetings will be hosted in Eagle on March 11 and Silt on March 18, each from 4 to 6pm. Find more information at www.bit.ly/blm-e-bikes
So long, Chief Knott
After 13 years as Basalt’s police chief, Greg Knott has announced his retirement. “Under his leadership, the department expanded community policing efforts, enhanced officer training standards and prioritized collaboration with regional partners,” stated Mayor David Knight in a press release. “We are grateful for his service and his legacy.” The Town will announce plans for leadership transition in the coming weeks.
Red Dog Road fire
A residence on Red Dog Road, between Carbondale and Redstone, was ablaze when Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District responded on Feb. 21, just before noon. The fire was brought under control by 1:35pm, according to a press release from the department, but crews remained to search for hidden hot spots and ensure it was fully extinguished. “We appreciate the rapid response and strong partnership from our neighboring fire departments, whose assistance [was] critical in sustaining water tender shuttle operations and supporting firefighting efforts,” said Incident Commander Harlan Nimmo. No injuries were reported and the cause is being investigated.
A high note
Twenty-eight elementary school students from Roaring Fork School District earned the chance to learn from professional clinicians and perform at this year’s All-State Elementary Choir on Jan. 31 at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, a record turnout from the district. Ensemble selection for the annual choir event, organized by the Colorado Music Educators Association, is a highly competitive process, according to a district press release. “I was impressed by the work ethic of the students, who showed incredible perseverance and teamwork throughout this process,” said Katrina Toews, Basalt Elementary music teacher.
‘Art in Motion’
Aspen Public Art and WE-cycle invite Roaring Fork Valley-based artists, 16 and up, to submit pieces for a chance to be featured on the Aspen system’s e-bikes and kiosks during the upcoming summer season. “We welcome this opportunity to co-create a mobile art gallery that will shine a spotlight on the deep talents of Valley artists,” said Lara Whitley, program lead of Aspen Public Art. The five winning artists will also receive a $1,500 stipend. For details and to submit, visit www.redbrickaspen.com The deadline is March 18.
Safe Passages
A new video produced by Roaring Fork Safe Passages in partnership with the Colorado Wildlife and Transportation Alliance, Pew Charitable Trusts, Western Resource Advocates and the Muley Fanatic Foundation highlights three Coloradans, including local ski legend Chris Davenport, whose lives were permanently altered by vehicular collisions with wildlife. In 2024 alone, at least 7,497 animals were hit and killed across Colorado, resulting also in tragic consequences for drivers and passengers. Find the video with information on advocacy for wildlife crossings at www.bit.ly/CO-wildlife
Da bears
Colorado Parks and Wildlife received 5,299 reports of sightings and conflicts with bears in 2025 — 15% higher than the previous six years. Trash continues to be the number one attractant, followed by livestock, chickens and beehives. An estimated 17,000 to 20,000 bears live in Colorado. Conditions such as drought or a late freeze affecting natural food availability often push bears into urban areas in search of sustenance.
Fickle support
Congressman Jeff Hurd (R-3) lost Donald Trump’s endorsement over his vote this month to repeal tariffs on Canada by ending a national emergency declared by the president to justify the action. Rep. Hurd argued that the administration’s tariffs are harming people and businesses in Colorado. “My responsibility is to defend the separation of powers regardless of political convenience,” he wrote. Trump’s support has shifted to Republican primary challenger Hope Scheppelman.
Hogback route
The Garfield County Commissioners opted not to subsidize Roaring Fork Transportation Authority’s (RFTA) Hogback commuter route beyond the fall, citing budget constraints. The county, which has subsidized the service since 2002, approved an intergovernmental agreement that includes $250,000 in funding that will sustain the service until Nov. 22. “This is providing service to around 200,000 rides annually,” David Pesnichak, RFTA’s chief operating officer, told the commissioners. “About 100,000 of those are boarding between Silt and Rifle, so right about 50% are within the service area we are looking to end service on, unless other funding is identified.” Service from Glenwood Springs to New Castle would not be affected.
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Barb Bush, Dottie Daniels, Dorsey Moore and Marty Rynearson (Feb. 26); Jeremy Dwiggins, Gaby Mata Serafin and Sara Tymczyszyn (Feb. 27); Junior Ortega (Feb. 28); Cole Buerger, Emma Duke, Robert Weinhold and Pusa Vhrin (March 1); Sean Jeffries (March 2); Barbe Chambliss, Bella Frisbie and Judey Kess (March 3); Kurt Trede, Jr. (March 4).
