Q&A with Jeffrey Boring, Executive Director, Estes Valley Land Trust
K: Tell us a bit about your land trust and how it’s working for Colorado’s future.
J: The Estes Valley Land Trust was formed in 1987 to protect land primarily for wildlife habitat and beautiful mountain scenery. Seeing elk, bighorn sheep, craggy peaks and meadows defines the Estes Park experience, and the founders of the land trust wanted to ensure that Coloradans and visitors to our state could forever share this experience.
K: What is one thing you wish every Coloradan understood about the work of land trusts?
J: Land trusts bring together people who care about the environment and give them an opportunity to make a real and lasting difference in their community. There is so much chaos in life, especially in these times. Our work creates stability. It's reassuring to know that no matter how chaotic life becomes, conserved lands endure.
K: What inspired you to join the board of Keep It Colorado?
J: I was inspired to learn from my peers. The conservation community is thoughtful, resourceful, caring and cooperative. It's a joy to share ideas and experiences and work together to help preserve what we love about Colorado.
K: What does conservation mean to you?
J: Recognizing what is special about a place and sharing it with others.
K: What is your favorite thing to do outdoors in Colorado?
J: We just bought a small, used camper after backpacking for many years. The whole family – my wife and my 10-month old puppy – is very excited to find a quiet spot on a conserved property, hiking and vegging out for a few days. Any recommendations?
K: What is your favorite…
River, lake or stream in Colorado: Sky Pond in Rocky Mountain National Park. There's nothing more tranquil than an alpine lake.
Mountain peak: Longs Peak. Great memory of climbing it and I live in Longmont, so I see it every day.
Prairie or grassland: Soapstone Prairie in Larimer County. It's a beautiful natural area purchased by the City of Fort Collins. Lark buntings galore!
Ranch or farmland: Elk Park Ranch in Larimer County. It's owned by a wonderful woman in her seventies who takes great care in preserving it.
Colorado-grown food: Craft beer. Not a food per se, though about half of my caloric intake.
Form of wildlife: Generally, birds. They're almost everywhere; you may just get a glimpse of them. And some of them sing!
Thank you for your service to Colorado and your leadership on our board, Jeffrey!
