50 years ago: “The Animas River is just one of the many rivers and streams in Southwestern Colorado polluted from mining and milling projects in the Silverton area,” reported Darrell Bingham, project leader for water pollution studies in the state. Bingham states that deposits of zinc, copper, iron sulfide and other injurious minerals have been found in the Animas River as a direct result of mining and milling operations in Silverton. “The Animas may become an aquatic desert unless appropriate action is taken to classify the stream according to a plan outlined by the federal government,” he added.

25 years ago: A fire lookout tower with a view over much of the Four Corners and declared obsolete with the advent of firespotting from aircraft will be available next year for overnight lodging, the U.S. Forest Service says. Jersey Jim Lookout, built near Mancos in 1942 and replaced with a new tower in 1963, is named for a local rancher Jim who grazed jersey cattle in the meadow around it.

Most items in this column are taken from Herald archives, Center of Southwest Studies and Animas Museum. Their accuracy may not be verified.