Photo by Trevor Bona
October Mountain Memo E-Newsletter
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Two New Parcels Protected in the Gunnison Valley
We are excited to share with you that the Crested Butte Land Trust has recently acquired two new parcels, a 14-acre Pristine Point Lot 18 at Long Lake and a 17-acre parcel in Cement Creek near the caves trail, marking another step forward in conserving the Gunnison Valley’s most treasured landscapes.
At Long Lake, the Land Trust expanded its footprint with the protection of 14 acres adjacent to our existing 120-acre parcel. Together, these lands ensure continued public access to one of Crested Butte’s most beloved recreation spots, whether for summer swims, wildflower walks, or peaceful reflection by the water. Thanks to community support, this cherished landscape will remain open and protected for generations to come.
Just south of town in Cement Creek, a new 17-acre acquisition protects a vital link in the Gunnison elk herd’s migratory corridor. The parcel forms a natural transition between the most densely populated part of the valley and the wild lands beyond, preserving the open space and wildlife movement that make Cement Creek so special.
These new projects highlight what’s possible when this community comes together. With the support of the Town of Crested Butte, the Gunnison Valley Land Preservation Fund, and individuals like you, we’re continuing to protect the places that make this valley extraordinary.
Slate River Working Group Updates
Last month, the Slate River Working Group, a partnership of 18 local stakeholders, met to review a successful season educating river users about responsible recreation within the sensitive Slate River corridor and to discuss plans for next year’s stewardship and outreach efforts. The group works collectively to ensure the Upper Slate River remains a healthy, sustainable resource for the community.
Partners shared updates on the status of the heron rookery, floater compliance with the Voluntary No Float Closure on the upper Slate River reach, and the outcome of river flows on the Slate River this past summer season.
The group plans to host “Float with a Ranger” events on the lower reach of the Slate River and coordinate new river clean-up initiatives during the 2026 season. These efforts encourage community connection to stewardship values that support the long-term resilience of the watershed.
Read more here about the creation of the Slate River Working Group and our local resident heron rookery!
Thank You for a Fantastic Summer!
From CBLT Week community hikes and happy hours, fly-fishing fun, and art-filled gatherings, we loved seeing so many familiar faces and meeting new ones throughout the summer. Your enthusiasm for the Land Trust’s work fuels everything we do.
Thank you for joining us out on the land, celebrating conservation, and sharing your stories along the way. We’re so grateful to be part of such a passionate and engaged community. And if we missed you, we hope to see you soon!
