Rio Grande National Forest - Nature & Science

Multi Agency Parade Float Discourages Mischief on Public Lands - December 29, 2023 – We also see an opportunity to remind folks that the employees of these agencies live and work here too.

The holiday connection of Land, Water, and People - December 14, 2023 – These three elements of our lives are so ingrained in us, part of our DNA so to speak, that they are worth reflecting on each year and counting as part of our blessings.

The Christmas Tree Cutting Tradition - November 30, 2023 – What fun I get to have when I talk about one of my favorite subjects-family Christmas traditions.

Winter in the Mountains - November 16, 2023 – If we’re going to enjoy the mountains in the winter, we’re going to need to prepare ourselves.

Why the Forest Service? - October 19, 2023 – If we want our National Forests to be around for our grandkids to enjoy, we are all going to have to be a part of the solution.

Adventures in Fall Foliage - October 5, 2023 – There are many forest roads that do not require four-wheel drive where you can enjoy miles of leaf peeping bliss.

The Hunt is On - September 22, 2023 – As the primary archery hunting season comes to its inevitable end during the peak of the annual fall colors display, myself and thousands of hunters like me, begin our final preparations for our upcoming hunts.

A Wilderness Tribute - August 25, 2023 – We’ve all heard and probably used the term “wilderness,” but what does it actually mean?

A Campfire Story - August 10, 2023 – I always do my best to ensure any fire that I have is a safe one. A cleaned-out fire ring served to concentrate the heat and burn more efficiently.

Missing the Monsoon - July 14, 2023 – , Generally, a monsoon refers to the seasonal reversal in atmospheric low-level circulations, particularly the surface winds and associated precipitation.

Feeling Good About Another Forestry Camp - June 29, 2023 – , Teaching my third forestry camp at the Beaver Creek Youth Conservation Camp on June 6 – 8 went off without a hitch, again.

Celebrating Our New Headquarters - June 1, 2023 – , We’d like to thank everyone that played a role in our long and complicated journey that culminated in us moving into our new office earlier this year.

Volunteers – The heartbeat of Public Lands - May 19, 2023 – Katie Goodleaf is the Volunteer and Partnership Coordinator for the San Luis Valley. Join her in the outdoors this summer by registering for a volunteer project.

Meeting Misty – Not a horse tail - May 4, 2023 – Gregg Goodland is the Public Affairs Officer for the Rio Grande National Forest. An avid outdoor enthusiast, he promotes the responsible and safe use of our public lands.

NEPA is a four-letter word - April 21, 2023 – The National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, signed on January 1, 1970, is arguably one of the most important environmental protection laws created.

Introducing Kelly Defaye - April 6, 2023 – While not technically a native, Kelly grew up in the San Luis Valley. She’s a Colorado girl at heart

Celebrating Women in the Forest Service - March 24, 2023 – From the earliest days of the agency, women have played a key role in accomplishing our mission.

Mud-season and Forest Road Closures are Here Again - March 10, 2023 – The melting snow softens the dirt roads of the Forest. Learn about why the roads are closed to protect them.

Winter From Home - February 23, 2023 – Not everyone enjoys getting out in the snow and cold of winter. You can still enjoy the Forest from the comfort of your home.

Invitation From A Powder Hound - February 9, 2023 – Enjoy fresh powder on the Forest by skiing at Wolf Creek Ski Area.

Avalanche When You Least Expect It - January 20, 2023 – It is important to stay safe this winter regardless how you enjoy the snow. Learn some of the best resources for avalanche forecasts and information.

Stalking Cats - January 7, 2023 – There are several species of cats that live on the Rio Grande National Forest. Follow a biologist as he tracks a cat!

In the Rivers - December 7, 2022 – Rio Grande cutthroat trout are found only in the Rio Grande River watershed. Many partners are working to conserve this fish and using the help of our buddies the beavers.

Thankful for Our Public Lands - November 23, 2022 – There are many things to be thankful for this time of year. One we may often overlook is our public lands!

Geology of Our Area - November 10, 2022 – Learn what forces shaped our mountains and valleys from massive volcanoes to glaciers.

Careful Planning is Required for Climbing 14ers - October 14, 2022 – Make your plan before you head out to tackle some of the state’s 14ers. Gregg Goodland shares some tips and tricks for your next big adventure.

Understanding the Fall Color Change - September 27, 2022 – What makes leaves change color and why do they change color?

Hunting the Rio Grande - September 2, 2022 – There are many users on the forest, even during hunting season. Learn a little about how to stay safe this season.

Was Smokey Bear Wrong? - August 18, 2022 – It’s been over 75 years since Smokey Bear first showed up in the media. Is his message still relevant today after decades of fire research and policy changes?

Pika of the Peaks - August 5, 2022 – Who are those cute little critters that scamper around the rocks and peaks? Learn more about pika, our pint sized rock rabbits.

Monsoons in the Mountains - July 22, 2022 – Take a hike and experience summer in the San Juans with the monsoon season in full swing.

Single Track Mind - July 8, 2022 – Learn some tips and tricks to make sure you are prepared before you head out on your next adventure.

The Next Generation of Land Stewards - June 10, 2022 – Teaching forestry to a group of young students helps them observe the world around them.

Summer Is When the Magic Happens - May 31, 2022 – Many people work across the Rio Grande National Forest to help manage the 1.8 million acres. From timber to range or recreation we have many seasonal and year round staff.

Stay the Trail - May 27, 2022 – Richard Trotter shares how he helps take care of our forest while driving along 4x4 roads. He shares how you can take care while you are out exploring by vehicle.

It Takes a Valley to Care for the Land - May 16, 2022 – Volunteers play a huge part in helping steward our public lands.

Fire Restrictions Explained - May 13, 2022 – The Forest is in fire restrictions, what does that mean? Can you have a fire? Read more about how you can help keep our Forest safe through this year’s fire season.

Wildfire Preparedness Should Begin Now - April 29, 2022 – What can you do to be ready for this year’s fire season? Learn what you can do to be prepared and protect your home.

Desert Journal 2017: Photographing Factory But - April 19, 2022 – Spring in Colorado is a great time to head to Utah! Join Mike Blakeman’s journey to get the perfect photo.

The Challenges of Travel Management - April 18, 2022 – Many different things go into determining how to manage travel across the forest. Mike Blakeman provides some insight into the process and challenges.

Anticipating an E-Bike Film at Future Mountain Film Tours - April 14, 2022 – Attending the Mountain Film local showing inspires more outdoor adventures and what future films may cover.

Mud Season Stewardship - March 31, 2022 – The days are warmer and longer and you want to hit the trails. Make sure you are prepared and still practicing good stewardship on early season trails.

The Women in My Life - March 17, 2022 – Recognizing the women in your life for Women’s History month.

Life Under the Snow - March 3, 2022 - There are many critters still out and about all winter, just under the snow in their own little subnivean world.

Forest Specialist Series Offers a Great 2022 Line-up - February 3, 2022 - We have come up with a great lineup of speakers and topics for this next year in our Forest Specialist Series.

Encouraging Avalanche Awareness for Winter Recreation Enthusiasts - January 20, 2022 - The San Juan Mountains are infamous for their avalanche danger. Learn a little more about how you can be prepared.

A New Year, a New Look - January 6, 2022 - In the new year we may make goals to make changes. Animals also make changes with the seasons. Learn more about the critters that change color.

Connecting Land, Water, & People During the Holidays - December 24. 2021

Volunteer Stewardship of Public Lands - December 9, 2021

Winter Greenery - November 25, 2021

The Absence of Prescribed Fire- November 12, 2021

Partners in Stewardship- October 28, 2021

Friendly Forest Interactions During Hunting Season- October 14, 2021

The SLV Rattlers mountain biking team- September 30, 2021

Photographing the fall colors contest- September 17, 2021

Woodsy Owl is Turning 50!!- September 2, 2021

Large wildfires becoming more frequent- August 19, 2021

Fabulous Forest Flowers!- August 5, 2021

Appeal to firewood cutters to scatter slash appropriately- July 8, 2021