Funded ProjectsPreserving the Natural Beauty of the Gunnison Valley

Chris was passionate about protecting the natural beauty he experienced in Crested Butte and the Gunnison Valley. The Foundation has donated another $5,000 to the Crested Butte Land Trust to help preserve that beauty.

Photo courtesy of Crested Butte Land Trust

These funds have helped the Crested Butte Land Trust complete projects such as preserving another stretch of the North Pole Creek, as it cascades through scree fields and spruce forests from 11,500 feet above sea level. In addition, the Discovery Lode adds more than 7 acres of publicly-accessible hiking paradise, complete with stunning views of Treasury and Galena mountains.

An important network of habitat was also preserved between the Raggeds and the Maroon bells – Snowmass wilderness areas. This type of “corridor” is increasingly important for wildlife as Colorado becomes more developed – elk, mountain lion, black bear and mountain goats rely on protected lands to move with the seasons, find food and take shelter, according to the Land Trust.

Over the life of the Foundation, $47,000 has been donated to the Crested Butte Land Trust to help them continue their mission of land preservation.