The Roundup | How to prop up Powell, a Cloud Nine gondola and ICE oversight

Recently at Aspen Journalism, we’ve been writing stories that showcase the challenges facing our community including questions of local governance, development and accountability, and how to hedge bets in uncertain times. 

Water remains a defining concern across the West. Reporter Heather Sackett examines how Upper Basin states are testing new methods to bolster Lake Powell, including a proposed “contribution pool” that could reshape how conservation is shared. Also in this edition, Laurine Lassalle reports on striking warming trends in this winter’s climate data, which combined with below-normal snow accumulation are pushing critical snow-water-equivalent readings to historic lows — underscoring the long-term challenges facing water supply even in years when precipitation rebounds.

Closer to home, accountability questions regarding matters of immigration enforcement are emerging. Data shows an ICE holding facility in Glenwood Springs exceeded its 12-hour detention limit in a number of cases last May, reports Eleanor Bennett for our Social Justice Desk collaboration with Aspen Public Radio, prompting a city investigation that could lead to a permit review or revocation. In a related story, also published in Spanish, a cease-and-desist letter sent to the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office alleges unlawful cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, raising broader legal concerns.

Development and land use also remain in focus. Kaya Williams covers Aspen Skiing Co.’s updated master plan for Aspen Highlands — which still retains its cherished “maverick” mountain vibe — that includes a proposed 10-person gondola reaching the Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, a new mid-mountain lift, expanded on-mountain dining, more snowmaking, new summer operations and more. A smart plan that adapts to warming temperatures? Pandering to the tourist economy at the expense of the spirit of a place? A bit of both? Expect all viewpoints to be aired during a county review the planning document will likely receive, as well as when specific components come up for local land use and federal environmental approval. 

Finally, Sackett explores a growing local conversation about the “rights of nature,” as an Aspen activist calls on officials to recognize the Roaring Fork River as an entity with inherent rights, part of a broader movement to redefine how communities relate to their waterways.As always, these stories reflect Aspen Journalism’s commitment to in-depth, independent reporting on the issues shaping our communities. This work is made possible by the support of readers who value in-depth local journalism that gives voice to communities and causes across Aspen, the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond.

– Curtis Wackerle
Editor and Executive Director
Aspen Journalism

Upper Colorado River Basin states are testing new methods to create a “contribution pool” in Lake Powell, aiming to boost reservoir levels amid ongoing drought and management negotiations. New Mexico plans to release leased water from Navajo Reservoir, while officials explore alternatives to traditional agricultural conservation, which can be unreliable in dry years. The effort reflects growing consensus that a formal Upper Basin conservation pool is likely in future river management.Continue reading…

Data analysis shows an ICE holding facility in Glenwood Springs may have detained individuals longer than the 12-hour limit set by both internal policy and its city-issued special use permit. City officials say they are investigating further, and if confirmed, it could trigger a planning and zoning hearing and possible permit revocation, potentially forcing the facility’s closure.
Continue reading…

Aspen Skiing Co.’s proposed master plan for Aspen Highlands centers on a new gondola linking the base to Cloud Nine with a mid-mountain stop, as well as expanded snowmaking infrastructure, summer operations, lift system upgrades or replacements, expansions of the Merry-Go-Round and Cloud Nine, glading and grading projects. The concept remains preliminary, requiring federal, county and environmental review before any construction could proceed.
Continue reading…

A warm and dry winter has pushed snowpack in the Roaring Fork basin to historic lows while temperatures reach near-record highs. About 75% of days from November through February were warmer than normal, and snowpack is about 65% of average — the lowest since modern measurements began in 1981. Experts say warming winters could shift spring runoff timing and affect water availability even if snowfall returns.
Continue reading…

The rights of nature movement aims to shift the legal view of rivers from human-owned resources to entities with intrinsic value and a right to exist. Environmental psychologist and Aspen Times columnist Lindsay Branham is urging local officials to adopt a resolution recognizing the Roaring Fork River’s rights and the government’s duty to protect it.

Indigenous communities have been some of the first to take up this cause, and a handful of Colorado communities have given rights to local waterways. Will the Roaring Fork River be next?
Continue reading…

Follow us on social media and share stories with your community

• Facebook
• Instagram
• X

local. nonprofit. investigative