This coming Saturday, June 3rd is National Trails Day, founded by the American Hiking Society. It means a lot to me as I have wandered many miles over the years here in Summit County and beyond. The trails have led me to many magnificent experiences.

Tent camping in quiet wilderness areas with a book is priceless. I’ve been on volunteer outings at the Summit Huts 11,000 feet above sea level. Those times allowed me the privilege of getting to know great people who share my love for the beauty of nature.

One of the core values of the American Hiking Society is hiking inspires sustainability. I can attest to the legitimacy of that tenet, because it has led me to take care of our natural world.

Locally, I participate in the County compost program. I believe this is one initiative with multiple benefits. My food scraps avoid the landfill. They would otherwise contribute to methane gas release. But instead, end up as top-quality compost for the land and soil.

This is consistent with FOLBR’s healthy soils initiative. Our focus is to achieve healthy soil for drought resiliency, while maintaining habitat for wildlife, retaining water and capturing carbon in the atmosphere. We are doing our part to address climate change through this important initiative.

It still amazes me that just a few years ago I took my first steps on the magnificent trail system. I am inspired to continue stewardship work taking care of those same trails.

The journey continues working on FOLBR’s dynamic climate resiliency initiatives with our like-minded partners. We’re advocating for strong environmental legislation to promote the health of this beautiful Blue River Valley and beyond.

Tom Koehler
Director of Climate Action