Why is preserving open space in COLorado important to you?
We feel that COLorado is a place of great beauty and serenity with its combination of both public and private lands. We have greatly enjoyed hiking, backpacking, and snow shoeing on the public lands. We know that well-managed private lands, such as ranches, provide important wildlife hab- itat and migration paths to the public lands. We would hate to see all these private lands divided, developed, and lost forever.
Do you have a place or two that is most special to you?
We often spend long weekends in Summit County so that is a special place for us. Since 2017 we have spent time in the summers section hiking COLorado’s portion of the Continental Divide Trail. We have passed through some incredible remote areas along the way. The alpine areas in the San Juan Mountains, James Peak Wilderness, Indian Peaks Wilderness, and Rocky Mountain National Park have all been amazing.
How has access to open space been important to you in dealing with life during a pandemic?
After staying home for almost two months, we were more than stir crazy. These open spaces have given us an outlet and a reconnection with nature in what has been a tough year.
Why do you support COL and how does that support factor into the legacy you seek to leave on COLorado?
We would like to see COLorado remain a place of majesty and awe, a place where people can breathe and enjoy our amazing lands. We would like COLorado to be an area where nature and wildlife thrive. COL provides an important link in making this possible.
What advice do you have for people who want to have an impact on the future of COLorado?
Climate change is a threat to humans and nature. We would encourage everyone to support orga- nizations like Colorado Open Lands, the wilderness initiatives and legislation aimed at protecting the environment. We’ve enjoyed our association with COL. The staff and leadership are passionate about their goals and effective at implementation.