Current Projects:
Wilderness
We have been working towards greater protections in the San Juan Mountains region for over a decade. We helped to create the San Juan Mountains Wilderness Bill, which has now been included in the Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy (CORE) Act. Though the CORE Act has yet to be reintroduced in this congressional session, SMA continues to advocate locally for the CORE Act and its wilderness components.
To express your support and tell lawmakers that you care about these incredible places please sign the petition below!
Photo by Ryan Bonneau
Forest Health
Healthy forests are a critical part of our landscapes and watersheds. Resilient, healthy forests include intact ecosystems, species diversity and the ability to rebound and regenerate in the face of fire, drought, extreme weather, and climate change. We hold one of two conservation seats on the Forest Service’s SBEADMR (Spruce Beetle Epidemic and Aspen Decline Management Response) Adaptive Management group, where we advise and provide science-based guidance for common-sense forest management that balances thinning with ecological concerns.
Land Management Planning
Public Lands Policy Engagement
Winter Travel Management
Working alongside a coalition of groups including Winter Wildlands Alliance, SMA has been actively engaged in the winter travel planning process for the Grand Mesa Uncompahgre Gunnison (GMUG) forest. Travel Management Planning is the process by which the Forest Service designates specific trails and areas for motorized use. It can be thought of as a type of comprehensive “zoning” where some areas are designated for motorized use, and other trails and areas are set aside for human-powered recreation, or to protect wildlife and their habitat. SMA believes there are areas in Ophir and Bear Creek that should be closed to motorized use due to fragile habitats and avalanche risks. You can learn more about winter travel planning process from our friends at Winter Wildlands Alliance!
Telluride Trails Proposal
Sheep Mountain Alliance advocates for a balanced approach to public lands management and recreation, which includes expanding recreational opportunities across our landscape that are sustainable and environmentally aware. We will remain engaged in the Telluride Mountain Club’s Trails Proposal throughout the remainder of its NEPA process! You can learn more about the proposal at the Telluride Mountain Club’s website.
Public Lands Defense
Upon taking office, President Trump has enacted various executive orders and policy proposals that threaten public lands, wilderness, wildlife, and renewable energy production, among other threats. SMA is following along to monitor the potential impacts of these actions in Southwest Colorado. We will do all we can, and stand together against these immense threats to our public lands.
SMA members on a forest health tour with the United States Forest Service
Photo by Ryan Bonneau
Want to learn more about Public Lands in the San Juan Mountains? Check out the webinar recording below!
SMA Staff stationed out on the trail to tell passerby about our local lands!