As skiers, we’re proud to support their efforts. Here’s why:<\/p>\n
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Conservation Colorado fights for the future of skiing.<\/h3>\n
Not outwardly, like Protect Our Winters. But the core mission of Conservation Colorado aligns with skiers’ interests. How?<\/p>\n
Based on reports from the EPA, Conservation Colorado estimates that the Colorado ski season will shorten by 10 to 50 percent by 2050. Mountain snowpack in the state has decreased by 20 to 60 percent at many monitoring locations around the state. As ski resorts and their ownership groups grow and grow\u2014and introduce more skiers to the sport\u2014the ski industry keeps humming along. But decreasing snowpack spells an ominous future, one that increased snowmaking power won’t solve.<\/p>\n
Conservation Colorado drives policy action that moves away from fossil fuels and toward renewable energy. In 2018, the organization helped shut down two coal-fired power plants in Pueblo. Then they helped make Colorado the first interior state to pass Low Emission Vehicle standards for cars and trucks, which will reduce the pollution from tailpipes, help Coloradans breathe easier, and save money for families at the pump, according to strategic communications coordinator Audrey Wheeler. Now they’re pushing for a 100% renewable energy plan for Colorado. These are just a few of the ways they lead the charge against factors that cause warmer temperatures\u2014and deplete snowpack.<\/p>\n
Conservation Colorado cares about rural communities.<\/h3>\n
This year, the group worked to pass the “REACT” bill, which provides coordination and resources for state agencies to assist rural communities. It does so by designating a specific state agency, the Department of Local Affairs, to coordinate economic assistance.\u00a0 This effort helps support rural places facing difficult economic challenges, like a big industry leaving.<\/p>\n