The Old Fort at Hesprus is offering a one-day Farmer Training Convergence geared towards individuals in Southwest Colorado. Fort Lewis College is looking for local businesses to sign up for a fall job fair, an opportunity for first-year students to meet and network with local businesses. Registration for the La Plata County Economic Development Alliance Summit is now open. And the county is looking for feedback on the La Plata County Fairgrounds and Events Center master plan. By Hannah Robertson...
Aug 07, 2024•3 min
While Mesa Verde National Park is celebrated for its historic cliff dwellings and archaeological sites, many may be surprised to learn about the presence of wild horses roaming the park. The National Mustang Association of Colorado (NMACO) has undertaken the Mesa Verde Project to relocate these horses, aiming to preserve the park's cultural heritage. This effort is driven by the park's role, which excludes horse management responsibilities under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 197...
Aug 06, 2024•4 min
Nearly a decade after the Gold King Mine spill turned the Animas River orange, cleanup efforts continue in Silverton’s Superfund sites. The Bonita Peak Mining District , a Superfund site encompassing multiple mines, remains a focus of extensive remediation. Trout Unlimited, in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency , supports this effort through a Community Advisory Group (CAG) made up of local experts. The CAG is crucial in guiding the cleanup process and shaping long-term restora...
Aug 02, 2024•5 min
Miller Middle School students will begin the school year in temporary locations due to fire damage to the new building, which has delayed its opening. The San Juan Brewfest returns for its fourth year on August 23-24, featuring over 100 types of beer and cider from more than 40 breweries. Safely enjoy the event with discounted designated driver tickets and various transportation options to avoid drinking and driving. The 26th annual Boggy Draw Beat Down bike race takes place on August 3rd, offer...
Jul 31, 2024•4 min
La Plata County 's Road & Bridge Department spans vast distances across Marvel, Durango, Ignacio, and Bayfield, ensuring crucial infrastructure remains safe and reliable throughout the year. Managing over 650 miles of roads, including both gravel and asphalt, their efforts encompass everything from grading and snowplowing to long-term planning based on traffic and community needs. Despite budget limitations, their meticulous planning, informed by traffic patterns and community needs, ensures...
Jul 30, 2024•4 min
Durango's Local First initiative unites 250 local businesses to strengthen the community's economy. Through events like Noel Night and First Fridays, residents are encouraged to shop locally, keeping money within the community. The Local First Foundation's impact fund, fueled by local business contributions, further supports community projects, ensuring sustainable growth and preserving Durango's unique identity. By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/local-first-a...
Jul 30, 2024•4 min
Six new outdoor pickleball courts are open at Schneider Park in Durango. The courts are part of a handful of improvements to the park, including new bike racks, play area, lighting, and landscaping. Building the outdoor courts reflects the growing rise in popularity of the sport, across all ages, and the location makes it viable for visitors and locals alike to pick up a paddle. The courts are open from 7:30 a.m. until sunset and can be reserved for two dollars per hour on the City of Durango ’s...
Jul 26, 2024•3 min
On Saturday, July 14th, the U.S. Highway 550 Grandview Interchange opened with traffic shifting from Farmington Hill to the Bridge to the Future. Colorado Department of Transportation warns drivers to add extra time as everyone gets accustomed to the new traffic flow. Registration for all Durango School District 9-R fall sports is open - the deadline for registration is August 2nd. The City of Durango has announced a change to its open records request policy to reflect the increase in requests. ...
Jul 25, 2024•4 min
National touring film & arts fest Equus will visit the four corners for the first time on July 26 - 28 in Aztec, New Mexico. In addition to film & arts, the event will include panel discussions, visiting clinicians and a mustang summit to discuss management of the Jicarilla Mustangs. Local artists, filmmakers, policy managers and veterinarians will be on hand for Q&A sessions and panel discussions. The accompanying mustang summit will focus on management strategies for New Mexico’s J...
Jul 23, 2024•3 min
Darrin Parmenter has been at the heart of gardening in La Plata County for 17 years. He worked as county director and CSU extension horticulturist in La Plata County for 17 years, in addition to co-hosting the Garden Guys radio show on KSUT. Now he’s coordinating Extension efforts across 16 western Colorado counties as Colorado State University Extension’s Western Regional Director. Extension programs bring research and education from state land grant universities to members of the community who...
Jul 19, 2024•3 min
The City of Durango has received grants to enhance bus safety and fund a specialty court aimed at assisting unhoused individuals. The Durango Problem Solving Court, supported by various local organizations, seeks to address chronic homelessness, untreated mental health issues, and substance dependence through a structured, multi-phase program. Durango Public Library experienced a significant increase in youth engagement in May, along with a rise in overall circulation and visitor numbers. By Han...
Jul 17, 2024•3 min
Since the death of a pedestrian on Animas View Drive in 2023, there have been a number of safety improvements implemented by the City of Durango . Still, residents and safety activists say more needs to be done to make the road adequate for pedestrians and cyclists. The September 2023 accident is the focus of a recent outside study conducted by Strong Towns , inspired by residents who are asking for more to be done along the road. By Connor Shreve. Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newss...
Jul 16, 2024•3 min
The Nurse-Family Partnership , provided by the La Plata County Public Health Department , offers essential support to first-time mothers in La Plata County. This program partners nurses with new parents to guide them from pregnancy through the child's first two years, providing resources for healthy habits, parenting confidence, and secure homes. Prioritizing Medicaid-eligible families, NFP creates a non-judgmental space to empower parents and foster family well-being. By Sadie Smith. Watch this...
Jul 16, 2024•4 min
The first Píinu Núuchi Farmers Market and Outdoor Biz Lab launches July 12th, offering both vendor space for growers and makers alongside live business workshop demonstrations. Vendor sign-ups are still available through the Southern Ute Economic Development Department . Help Smokey Bear celebrate his 80th birthday with the Ignacio Community Library this summer with the Smokey Bear Reading Challenge . And sports physicals for any student interested in participating in school sports will be offer...
Jul 12, 2024•2 min
The second phase of the Wolf Creek Fiber Optic Project has begun with work-related delays on Highway 160. Durango Public Library 's new EV charging stations are now operational, offering free charging until the end of July. Animas Museum will host a talk and book signing with Ed Horvat, author of Images of America: La Plata County , on July 13th. Three trails leading to Miller Middle School have been closed for safety and security reasons. By Hannah Robertson. Watch this story at www.durangoloca...
Jul 11, 2024•4 min
Durango Trails is celebrating the addition of two new trails at Animas Mountain. The Lupine and Merve trails add to the network of multi-use trails available from the Animas Mountain trailhead. The Durango Running Club celebrated with a group run on the Lupine Trail while Durango Trails hosted a mountain bike ride on Merve, a downhill flow trail. The grand opening marks the completion of three years of work by Durango Trails, a local, volunteer-based non-profit. By Connor Shreve. Watch this stor...
Jul 09, 2024•2 min
A $1.9 million project is underway at Lake Nighthorse to address entrance congestion issues and construct a more efficient decontamination station. The project is a cost-share partnership with the Bureau of Reclamation and the City of Durango . The Four Corners Gem and Mineral Club invites all to their 70th annual Gem and Mineral Show July 12th - 14th at the La Plata County Fairgrounds and Events Center . And El Pomar Foundation selected four Durango-based non-profits for $20,000 in grants. By H...
Jul 03, 2024•3 min
Durango has a little something for everyone this Fourth of July. Whether your thing is eating, live music, parades, or fireworks, with 30 different activities between July 3rd and July 6th, there’s bound to be something for everyone. The City of Durango , Business Improvement District , Durango Chamber of Commerce , and the La Plata County Fairgrounds and Events Center have partnered together to put together a full itinerary of Fourth of July Fun this year. By Hannah Robertson. Watch this story ...
Jun 28, 2024•4 min
Community Connections is dividing its community-centered work with Our Own Lives to continue its long-standing support as part of an organizational redesign process. La Plata Electric Association is opening applications for the new Sunnyside Community Solar Program on July 1st, offering solar options for individuals and businesses who might not otherwise be able to access solar power. And the City of Durango has launched its Economic Development Incentive Program for local businesses. By Hannah ...
Jun 27, 2024•4 min
Pagosa Springs-based company Voormi embodies Southwest Colorado. Its equipment is developed in a local warehouse, then tested in the San Juan Mountains. With a background in guiding, co-founder Dustin English wanted to get more performance out of less gear, so he decided to try to change the textile industry. Voormi weaves locally developed technology into traditional textiles to create some of the most versatile gear available. By Connor Shreve. Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newssto...
Jun 26, 2024•3 min
With hot, dry conditions forecast in the months ahead, utilizing water efficient practices in your yard can provide major benefits. Though the Southwest climate makes saving water difficult, a rain garden can help lower your water bills, reduce water waste and mitigate flooding. By Connor Shreve. Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/maximize-water-use-with-rain-garden This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Serious Texas BBQ . Support the show...
Jun 21, 2024•3 min
The Colorado Department of Transportation began chip seal operations this week on U.S. Highway 160, affecting approximately 36 miles between Durango and Mancos and Bayfield and Pagosa Springs. Table to Farm Compost now offers a bi-weekly pick-up option for curbside compost collection in response to customer feedback. The La Plata County Health Department warns residents about the risks of rabies from bats, with guidance on safely capturing them for testing. Additionally, the gazebo at Rotary Par...
Jun 19, 2024•3 min
The Ute Mountain Roundup Rodeo celebrated its 94th year with flair and excitement. From honoring First Responders and Military personnel to showcasing the thrill of rodeo competition, this event brought together the community for a weekend of entertainment and camaraderie. With over $80,000 in payouts and strong community support, this year's rodeo proved to be one of the most memorable yet. By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/ute-mountain-roundup-rodeo . This s...
Jun 18, 2024•3 min
La Plata County 's Foster Care program continues to serve our community's children, guiding families through a thorough certification process to ensure each child finds a nurturing environment. Despite emotional challenges, foster families provide vital care. Initiatives like Foster Friendly Durango unite businesses and communities to offer essential support. By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/community-insights-lpc-foster-care This story is sponsored by Alpine...
Jun 17, 2024•4 min
Summer is here, and La Plata County is asking residents to notify 911 dispatchers via a new form when planning a controlled burn. Make sure that you’ve signed up for CodeRED notifications, and if you have signed up, make sure your information is up to date if you’ve recently moved or changed your number. After a mountain lion spotting in early May, the Southern Ute Wildlife Division has tips and tricks for keeping safe and reducing the chance of encountering these elusive but dangerous animals. ...
Jun 14, 2024•4 min
The Mountain Studies Institute and Wright-Ingraham Institute are partnering to research the impact of dust on snow , exploring how dust accelerates snowmelt and exacerbates drought conditions. The first 72 units of affordable housing at The Residences at Durango are on track to be completed by year-end, transforming the former Best Western Inn into a mix of renovated studios and apartments. Additionally, the Durango Public Library ’s summer reading program, which began on May 31st, offers readin...
Jun 13, 2024•3 min
Nearly three years after the historic administrative building was sold to the city of Durango, Durango School District 9-R has opened a new headquarters. 46 district employees work out of the new, smaller building, located in Bodo Park. Departments in the new facility include the superintendent, executive team, communications, curriculum and instruction, student support services, human resources, finance, safety and security, and the Durango Education Foundation . By Connor Shreve. Watch this st...
Jun 11, 2024•3 min
Fort Lewis College Professor Justin McBrayer has won a prestigious award from the Fulbright Program. McBrayer will spend a term in Italy both conducting research and teaching at the University of Genoa, Italy in 2025. This is the second time McBrayer has received an award from the prestigious Fulbright Program , which is “devoted to increasing mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.” McBrayer said the award will allow him to continue explor...
Jun 07, 2024•2 min
Purgatory Mountain Resort looks to kick off the summer season on June 15th, with the Sunset Shred offering extra hours for mountain biking in July. Clean Commute Day is back on Wednesday, June 25th with a day full of activities. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has opened the second round of Clean Fleet and Technology grants to incentivize the purchase of more environmentally friendly fleet vehicles. And the Colorado Department of Transportation has announced that the Gra...
Jun 05, 2024•3 min
The La Plata County Public Health Department ’s Harm Reduction program is actively addressing the opioid crisis by providing life-saving tools, such as Narcan and fentanyl testing strips, and creating a non-judgmental space for people struggling with substance use. The program offers essential support, including sterile supplies and education, to reduce infectious diseases and overdose deaths. The Harm Reduction program highlights the importance of meeting people where they are in their substanc...
Jun 03, 2024•4 min
