Stewardship along the Alpine Loop, Colorado - THANK YOU YAMAHA!

Our 2022 Alpine Ambassador gives a huge should out to Yamaha for their Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Grant. While the increased visitation in many Colorado counties is declining following the boom in Covid-19 related outdoor activities, San Juan County continues to see the largest visitation numbers in the state. It is estimated that the Alpine Loop sees as many as 400,000 visitors annually between July and November each year! To contrast the challenge here, San Juan County, Colorado only has a population of 733 people! While partners at the BLM, County Sheriff's Department and adjacent Forest Service Ranger Districts continue to have limited presence on the alpine loop, it is evident that more staffing and public presence is a continued need. In steps Yamaha allowing SJMA to fund our Alpine Ambassador throughout the 2022 summer months to patrol the Alpine Loop completing public education regarding Stay the Trail, Leave No Trace, preparedness and travel safety recommendations and stewardship activities. including cleaning or naturalizing fire rings, removing over 1000 lbs of trash from dispersed campsites and roadside areas.