The Idarado Houses: Historic Preservation Update
When nobody else could figure out how to clean-up a 100-year old mining-smelter site threatening an otherwise pristine 54-acre wetlands complex bordering the Crystal River, Yule Creek, and the Town of Marble, the Trust for Land Restoration stepped in to get the job done, accepting ownership of the property to boot, thanks to the incredible generosity of an anonymous donor. Working with partners Trout Unlimited and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the smelter site has just now been remediated, protected by a wooden-rail cross-buck fence, allowing us to open what had been private property to the public for hiking and beaver and bird-watching in the summer, and for skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Just watch out for the moose. Re-named the Marble Wetlands Preserve, TLR’s plan is to study and observe the property for the next 12 to 18 months before donating it to the Town of Marble with a long-term management plan in place, prepared in consultation with the Town, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and the Aspen Valley Land Trust. Please come check this most special place out. Your donation to TLR made saving it possible!
Annual Red Mountain Monitoring Day: Sept 30, 2021
The Trust for Land Restoration held its fourth Red Mountain Mining District Monitoring Day yesterday, and we would like to give a big shout out to our volunteers for helping with this annual effort as we could not do it without you! This year, our volunteers, staff, and board members inspected and photographed ten conserved, historically-significant sites, above or in Ironton Park, including the Yankee Girl, the Guston Depot, the Corkscrew Turntable, the American Girl, the Turk & White House, the Larson Brothers, Beaver Belfast and the Idarado Houses properties. In addition, significant time was spent at the Ironton Historic Site meeting with representatives of Ouray County to discuss road closures and better protection of the historic value of the site. Annual Monitoring Day is a great way for individuals to explore and learn more about our restoration and preservation efforts on Red Mountain Pass, and in turn help contribute to the long-term care and protection of these conserved sites. For those of you that were unable to join us and would like to learn more, please contact Pat Willits in our Ridgway Office at 970-626-3236 or email: willits@independence.net.
TLR Hires New Program Coordinator: Rachel Griego
Growing up in Colorado, I spent my days outdoors exploring mountains and trails. Those early introductions provided me with a deep appreciation and love for the importance, benefits and history these mountains hold for all of us. The San Juan mountains and surrounding valleys have always held a special place in my heart, and why I am grateful to call this region my home and be a part of the Trust for Land Restoration (TLR).
As TLR’s Program Coordinator, I will be utilizing my skills in non-profit coordination, development and fundraising to help restore, preserve and protect these majestic scenic sites and historic landscapes. I look forward to connecting with you and learning how we can collectively support TLR’s mission and projects!
Rachel Griego trustforlandrestoration@gmail.com
Please considering joining us in our efforts and making a donation today! Your gift will help preserve and protect the significant scenic sites and historic landscapes in the San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado.