Like many of you, I am extremely concerned about so many issues these days. However, I can’t help but feel our overriding concern should be with the environment because if we screw that up, not much else will matter.
I believe we had a very up-close and personal experience this summer with seeing what “Christmas future” could look like for us. In an attempt to try and feel less powerless, my husband and I have supported Mountain Studies Institute for many years now. Their stated mission is: “To empower communities, managers, and scientists to innovate solutions through mountain research, education, and practice.”
In 2017 alone, they hosted 50 solution-based projects that put science into action. They facilitated 44 events, workshops, and conferences. They mentored 650-plus high school students in our area in hands-on projects and internships. They led 98 volunteers and 10 college interns to donate 4,652 hours of community service and restoration. And that’s just the tip of the melting iceberg of all the things they do.
So please check out their website (www.mountainstudies.org) or, better yet, come and see in person what they’re about on Aug. 28-30 at the Silverton Innovation Expo (supporting the evolution of mining and reclamation in the Rocky Mountain West) at the Kendall Mountain Center.
It’s educational, it will be fun, and it’s a great way to go from feeling powerless to powerful. I’ll be there and hope you will too!
Marcia Sabeti
Durango
