How crucial is water to our community's survival? Discover the answer as we chat with Evie Guay from the Headwaters River Journey Museum about the indispensable role of water resources in Grand County, Colorado. Evie unfolds the mission of the museum, which through engaging, interactive exhibits, educates visitors on the vital importance of the Fraser and Colorado Rivers. We also explore the museum's history, their community-first approach, and the strides they have made over the past five years. Evie shares i insights and practical tips on water conservation, emphasizing the ongoing challenges posed by water diversions even amidst recent snowfall. This conversation underlines the importance of accessible, public education on water issues.

But that’s not all! We dive into the museum’s diverse and educational programs designed to captivate young minds. The Kids Learning Labs, aimed at children aged 6 to 12, offer hands-on activities like water quality testing and lessons on macroinvertebrates, all in collaboration with Rocky Mountain National Park to teach about endangered species and their unique adaptations. We also touch on the museum’s efforts to make learning affordable with initiatives like the monthly Family Day, boasting free admission for kids and students, and discounted rates for adults. And mark your calendars for some fantastic community events, including a blood drive with Vitalant and an upcoming river cleanup. All the event details can be found on our website, headwatersriverjourney.com. 

What happens when a natural disaster threatens to destroy a century-old legacy? Join us for a heartfelt episode as we sit down with Brady Johnson from C Lazy U Guest Ranch to hear about the harrowing experience of evacuating over 200 horses during the East Troublesome Fire of 2020. Brady recounts the logistical nightmare and emotional toll of that night and the extraordinary community support pouring in through a social media call for help. We also touch upon the rich 105-year history of the ranch and how this crisis revealed the true spirit and resilience of everyone involved.

But that's not all—this episode also celebrates innovation born from adversity. Brady's long-time friend Owen Locke, founder of Locke and Co Distilling, joins us to share how a chance discovery led to creating a unique whiskey aged with charred Aspen wood. Together, they embarked on a special edition whiskey using Aspen trees affected by the fire, turning a tragic event into a remarkable venture. Lastly, we reflect on the Grand County community's commitment to rebuilding and looking forward to a brighter future. This episode is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and community in overcoming challenges.

Have you ever wondered how to stay safe while enjoying the beautiful lakes and rivers in Grand County? Join us as we chat with Sheriff Shroetlin, who provides essential water safety tips that could save lives this summer. Sheriff Schroetlin shares crucial information about monitoring river flows and reservoir levels, the inherent risks of fluctuating water conditions, and the importance of self-preparation before embarking on any aquatic adventure. From checking your safety gear to utilizing resources like the LifeVest loaner stations from the Christopher Mullinex Water Rescue Fund, this episode is packed with actionable advice to ensure your water activities remain enjoyable and secure.

But that's not all—we're also giving you an inside look at the vital role of Grand County's K-9 unit in law enforcement. Meet K-9 Apollo, the newest addition to the team, and celebrate the retirement of K-9 Danny, who has served with dedication for years. Sheriff Schroetlin explains these incredible dogs' multifaceted duties, from drug detection to patrol, and how they help keep officers and the community safe. We also emphasize the importance of community support for these units and encourage you to stay connected through the Sheriff's Department's active social media channels. Finally, thank you to the deputies and the community for their strong partnership, which makes Grand County a unique and unified place to live.

How do we balance the growing demand for outdoor recreation with the need to preserve our natural landscapes? Join us as we chat with Eric Frieels, the District Ranger for the Sulphur Ranger District in Grand County.  Eric talks about the myriad of recreational options, from hiking and biking to horseback riding, and discuss the crucial role of water management projects like the Colorado Big Thompson Project. Learn how partnerships with Winter Park Ski Resort help enhance year-round activities, ensuring there's something for everyone, no matter the season.

We talk about  the stewardship of the public lands, emphasizing the surge in outdoor activities since COVID-19 and the anticipated population growth in Colorado's Front Range. Eric shares key insights on responsible recreation, including planning ahead, staying on trails, and being fire-wise. Discover how the seven principles of Leave No Trace  and Stand Grand can help us all contribute to preserving these natural treasures. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about enjoying and sustaining our public lands.

For information on camping:
https://www.recreation.gov/camping

For information on the Sulphur Ranger District:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/arp

Curious about how land conservation can shape and enrich a community? Join us for an  discussion with Jeremy Krones, the d Executive Director of the Headwaters Land Trust. Jeremy takes us through almost three decades of the Trust’s efforts to protect the Fraser Valley, now overseeing 66 conservation easements across 9,310 acres in Grand County. Learn how these easements work and how the Trust is bringing the concept of land conservation closer to the community through their innovative outreach and programs.

Jeremy and Gayleen dive into the three events the land trust is hosting this summer. including a 6-kilometer race, wildflower tour and night sky program.

www.coloradhttps://www.coloradoheadwaterslandtrust.org/news-events/news

 Maria Chavez discusses the upcoming 22nd annual Blues From the Top Music Festival, set to take place in Green County from June 28th to June 30th. Maria talks about the festival's exciting lineup of performers, including Eddie 9V, Big Head Todd and the Monsters, and Ben Harper with Charlie Musselwhite. Maria shares the festival's history, originating in Sol Vista (now Granby Ranch) and relocating to downtown Winter Park. The festival is known for its community involvement and educational programs, like the cigar box guitar project with local schools. They also highlight the Blue Star Connection, a program that donates instruments to children's hospitals. For more information and tickets- bluesfromthetop.org.

Kim White, with the town of Grand Lake, and Mark Laurin, a dedicated advocate for dark skies, discussed their efforts to achieve dark sky certification. Their journey began with Kim's application for a grant from the Colorado Tourism Office, aiming to preserve the sky quality in their area. Mark's extensive experience in astronomy and advocacy led him to mentor Kim in this endeavor. Together, they educate the community on the importance of dark skies through outreach events and measurements of sky quality. Their goal is to implement sustainable lighting solutions, enhance safety, and make stargazing accessible to all residents and visitors. With their dedication, Grand Lake aims to achieve dark sky certification by next summer, promising a safer, more enjoyable environment for all.

For more information:
https://www.skyhinews.com/news/town-of-grand-lake-selected-for-darksky-colorado-mentorship-program/

I interviewed Mary Price and Ryndi Zastrow from the Shining Stars Foundation today about their August 24, 2024  event, the Byers Peak Stampede Half Marathon and 5K. They discuss the history of the Shining Stars Foundation and its mission to provide social and recreational programming for children and families facing cancer. In its fourteenth year, the event features a half marathon and a 5K race, starting at the High Country Stampede Rodeo grounds and traversing scenic trails. They highlight the event's family-friendly atmosphere, community support, and fundraising efforts, all proceeds going directly into the foundation's programming.

For more information: https://www.shiningstarsfoundation.org/stampede

Learn about the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater as I  introduce you to Michael Querio, the guiding force behind the curtain. From his early days as the music director to his current role as the Executive Artistic Director, Michael's journey mirrors the growth and evolution of the theater itself.
Michael shares insights into the theater's past, present, and future in our conversation, from its humble beginnings in 1967, a time of uncertainty and yet immense creativity, to the grandeur of its current home.
 Michael shares the secrets behind selecting each season's lineup. With a keen eye for balance and variety, he curates a tapestry of shows that resonate with audiences young and old, blending timeless classics with bold new experiences.
This upcoming season features beloved favorites like "Kinky Boots" and "The Music Man" alongside compelling dramas like "Come From Away." The Season ends with "I Left My Heart: A Salute to the Music of Tomy Bennett".
For more information:
https://www.rockymountainrep.com/

Today's interview with Amy Woilf and Nat Sullivan from Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA of the Rockies discussed the new LEED-certified Camp Chief Ouray dining hall building, the first LEED-certified building in Grand County. Nat and Amy discussed the need for a bigger dining space to serve more campers, the process of designing and constructing the building, the challenges of getting LEED certification, the efficient and sustainable technologies used, and plans for more development at the camp.