Q&A with Jake Jones, Executive Director, Crested Butte Land Trust
K: Tell us a bit about your land trust and how it’s working for Colorado’s future.
J: The Crested Butte Land Trust has a diverse portfolio of conservation easements and fee owned lands that span the spectrum of conservation values. We have traditional CEs with agricultural producers that do not include public access and we own some of the most heavily used recreation sites in the Crested Butte area including trails, river segments and lake access. We believe that agriculture, recreation, education and wildlife habitat protection can coexist but the management of those conflicting resources requires collaboration with family ranches, land managers, partner non-profits and local government.
K: What is one thing you wish every Coloradan understood about the work of land trusts?
J: Private land protection is complex in areas with a lot of development and recreation pressure. Conservation requires many arrows in the quiver to protect the land, water, wildlife and agriculture that Coloradan’s love.
K: What inspired you to join the board of Keep It Colorado?
J: KIC helps complete a virtuous cycle between Colorado conservation organizations, national interests and the public that benefits our work. I am looking forward to strengthening the role of private land conservation in the state.
K: What does conservation mean to you?
J: Conservation protects my community’s way of life. Agricultural production, recreation, wildlife habitat protection, historic preservation and education are all essential to how we live in the Gunnison Valley.
K: What is your favorite thing to do outdoors in Colorado?
J: I love it all. I’m a lifelong outdoor enthusiast, skier, runner, angler, mountain biker and lover of wildlife. Working in conservation is my version of living from the land and giving back to the land.
K: What is your favorite…
River, lake or stream in Colorado? The Gunnison River and its tributaries.
Mountain peak? Mt Emmons AKA The Red Lady, located just above my hometown of Crested Butte.
Prairie or grassland? The lower Gunnison Basin sage brush steppe.
Ranch or farmland? The numerous family ranches of the Gunnison Valley.
Colorado-grown food? Palisade Peaches and Olathe Sweet Corn.
Form of wildlife? Great Blue Heron and Elk.
Thank you for your service to Colorado and your leadership on our board, Jake!
