The High Country Report, High Country Citizens’ Alliance’s newsletter is produced semi-annually. You may read the text from individual articles from the most current newsletter by using one of the program area selections on the left, or you may view the entire Autumn 2009 Newsletter. If you'd like to read past issues of our newsletter, you'll find an online archive of them at this link.

"Nothing endures but change." -Heraclitus

The philosopher had it right centuries ago as he considered our continually changing world. Change continues in the world, the Gunnison Valley and here at HCCA. With the departure of former Executive Director Wendy McDermott this spring, our organization is experiencing significant change, most of it good, some less so, all of it inevitable. I think I speak on behalf of the membership, the Board of Directors and staff from the past seven years when I thank Wendy for her tremendous contribution to the success of this organization and the conservation of the Gunnison Valley. Her enthusiasm and commitment will be missed.

What's the same?
With change comes the responsibility to continue and enhance the conservation efforts that are central to HCCA and its mission. We continue to be an organization focused on conserving the natural environment of the Gunnison Valley. We advocate for environmental protection using scientifically backed facts and community involvement and collaboration. We make concerted efforts to stay attuned to the organization's mission and the interests of the membership. Our volunteer Board of Directors performs this selfless task on a daily basis.

What's new?
I have stepped into the role of Executive Director and will fill that position while continuing to spearhead our Save Red Lady campaign.

The economy has had a substantial impact on our budget and forced us to scrutinize every expenditure, be increasingly creative in identifying funding streams and make cuts where necessary. These efforts have been ongoing and are achieving the desired effect of maximizing our finances in difficult times. Expanded fundraising efforts, such as our High Country Heroes campaign, are making a critical difference for the organization's financial future. At the same time we continue to make deliberate efforts to ensure that resources are available to the "on the ground" work that results in real conservation success and the advancement of our mission.

Another new development at HCCA is the expansion of the Climate and Clean Energy Program under the guidance of Chris Menges. The program will now address energy efficiency and the need for renewable sources of power across several local electrical cooperatives in southwestern Colorado. This expansion is a clear indication of the success of the program's work thus far.

What does the future hold?
The work that HCCA does to conserve the Gunnison Valley remains critically important and we will build on past successes in our future efforts. HCCA remains committed to finding a permanent solution to the threat of a mine on Mt. Emmons. We are encouraged by the efforts being made by the US Forest Service to re-start a Forest Planning process for the GMUG National Forest and will be active participants in that process. We are eager to assist with the transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy options and we will continue our work to protect water supplies and water quality for our area. We look forward to the work and, with your help, many successes for our local environment. Thank you for your support and please feel free to contact me at any time.

Dan Morse