Western Colorado Climbers’ Coalition
http://westernslopeclimbers.blogspot.com
Jesse Zacher, Chair
Western_co_climbers@hotmail.com
Mothers Buttress, a major crag in Unaweep Canyon near Grand Junction, Colorado, has been sold to the local climbers’ coalition by the parcel’s new owners, John and Marti Peterson of Gunnison, Colorado, where the Petersons work for Western State College. Local climbers formed a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation in part to purchase the land so that climbers may access the granite climbing area in perpetuity. With grants from the Access Fund, REI, and donations from the National Outdoor Leadership School as well as gifts from several individuals, the WCCC raised money and in-kind donations to help the deal move forward.
Dave Foley, a surveyor, and Steve Johnson, an attorney, both from Telluride, donated hours of service to ensure the success of the exchange. Realtor John Eakins donated part of his fee to the project, as well. The coalition still seeks approximately $4,000 to seal the deal. Tax-deductible donations may be made by contacting the WCCC.
At the Adopt-a-Crag day on October 26, a small group from the WCCC built a new trail to access the crags from the highway. Donations of food and gear made for a happy crew.
