Photo by Xavi Fane
August Mountain Memo E-Newsletter
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One Year of Forever: Mt. Emmons Conservation Anniversary
Today marks one year since Red Lady, the mighty mountain at the head of our watershed, was permanently protected. On August 29, 2024, the Mt. Emmons Mining Company extinguished its rights to mine Red Lady through a Conservation Easement and Mineral Extinguishment Agreement with the Crested Butte Land Trust. As the stewards of that easement, our responsibilities began the moment it was signed, and they will last forever.
This landmark project was a true team effort. The Land Trust worked alongside the Mt. Emmons Mining Company, the US Forest Service, the Town of Crested Butte, Gunnison County, and local conservation champions, including High Country Conservation Advocates and the Coal Creek Watershed Coalition. Together, we ensured that Red Lady Bowl remains open for winter recreation and that 885 acres of high alpine habitat are protected in perpetuity.
While last year’s celebration marked the culmination of decades of work, the year since has been about the trail ahead. Our stewardship now is ongoing, monitoring the property, caring for the land, and safeguarding Red Lady for generations to come. Here’s to year one of forever, and the many years ahead.
Click here to read more about this landmark conservation project.
Save the Date: CBLT Week 2025!
From hikes to happy hours, join us for a week of events celebrating the lands we love. See below for the full schedule; there’s something for everyone! Email jessica@cblandtrust.org to RSVP.
Zuni Street Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest | Saturday, September 27
Come say hi to us at our booth at Zuni Street Brewing Company’s annual Oktoberfest in CB South at Red Mountain Park. Live music, great food, drinks, and a good time.
Happy Hour at Redline Gallery with Sam Heart | Monday, September 29, 5–8 PM
Enjoy live tunes from Sam Heart and connect with friends and supporters of local conservation at the Redline Gallery at 429 Elk Ave.
Gunsight Bridge Day – Booth & Guided Hike | Tuesday, September 30
Visit our tent at the Gunsight Bridge trailhead from late morning into the afternoon for information, maps, and CBLT swag. At 12 PM, Executive Director Jake Jones will lead a guided ~2.5-mile hike on the GB Loop, highlighting the area’s natural beauty, history, and conservation story.
Long Lake Day – Booth & Guided Hike | Wednesday, October 1
Find our booth out at the Long Lake parking lot from late morning into the afternoon to chat with staff and pick up maps and swag. At 12 PM, join a guided hike on the Lilli Loop Trail, offering scenic views and insights into local conservation.
Elk Avenue Tent with Coffee and Pastries | Thursday, October 2, 9 AM – 11 AM
Visit with us outside LIV Sotheby’s at 401 Elk Avenue for coffee, pastries, and conversation.
Lower Loop Day – Booth & Guided Hike | Friday, October 3
Stop by the Alien Shack parking lot from late morning into the afternoon to learn more about our work and pick up some CBLT swag. At 12 PM, Jake Jones will lead a guided hike along the Budd Trail, sharing stories about the land and its protection.
Bluebird Project Update
This summer, new bluebird boxes were installed on several CBLT-conserved properties as part of the Gunnison chapter of the Colorado Bluebird Project. These small, vibrant birds, once in decline, are making a comeback thanks to local volunteers who build, maintain, and monitor nest boxes across the valley.
We’re proud to support ongoing research and community-led conservation efforts like this, and we look forward to hearing how our feathered friends fared this summer.
Partners in Conservation
Here, we highlight fellow organizations and businesses committed to preserving the lands that make our home so special.
Check out this video from the Crested Butte Museum and check out their collection of free lectures celebrating the history and traditions of the Gunnison Valley.
