For Both Candidates, Colorado is Key

For Both Candidates, Colorado is Key

Brian Olsen of Art in Action creates art foreshadowing the presidential debate at the University of Denver. Photo courtesy University of Denver.

ASPEN PUBLIC RADIO

Tonight’s presidential debate brings both President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney to Denver. But it’s hardly the first time the two candidates have made the rounds of the Centennial State. With poll numbers tight between the two candidates, Colorado has emerged as a key battleground state. Obama seems to be leading here, but strategists say the state may be even more important for Romney. From Washington DC, David Frey reports.

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Udall a Windbag for Wind Power

Udall a Windbag for Wind Power

ASPEN PUBLIC RADIO

It’s become an unexpected political issue. Governor Mitt Romney says he opposes the wind production tax credit, which offers incentives for energy companies to produce wind power. President Obama, on the other hand, says he supports them. It’s one of many issues for voters in swing states, like Colorado, where wind power is in action. The tax credits are set to expire this year, and supporters, like Colorado Senator Mark Udall, say Congress must act fast to extend them. David Frey reports from Washington.

Listen to the story here: Udall Windbag (more…)

Skiing the Trees

Skiing the Trees

Matt Cudmore, founder of Meier Skis, shapes a ski at his shop. David Frey photo.

ASPEN PUBLIC RADIO

If you’re a skier, you’ve probably heard of brands like K2 and Salomon. But what about Meier Skis? The one-man operation, which handcrafts custom skis from local wood, is part of a boom of boutique ski makers that’s making its mark on the industry.

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Planning a Future Forest

Planning a Future Forest

Red trees, the telltale sign of beetle kill, rise amid the snow in Eagle County, Colorado. David Frey photo.

ASPEN PUBLIC RADIO

Many trees on the White River National Forest are dying. Bark beetles are killing lodgepole pines. Aspens are experiencing what biologists call sudden aspen decline. So the Forest Service is trying to actively manage for the future forest. It’s part of a national priority called “forest resiliency.” But some critics wonder if humans should be trying to play Mother Nature. (more…)

CCC Legacy Lingers on Forest — With a Little Help

CCC Legacy Lingers on Forest — With a Little Help

Civilian Conservation Corps laborers in 1933 work on the foundation for the Tigiwon community center, a building intended for pilgrims coming to view the Mount of the Holy Cross. US Forest Service photo.

ASPEN PUBLIC RADIO

In the midst of the Great Depression, thousands of out-of-work young men from across the country found jobs in Colorado in the Civilian Conservation Corps. The government relief program hired laborers to build roads, cut trails and raise buildings on public lands throughout the United States. Nearly eighty years later, their work can still be seen in some of the most popular trails and landmarks on the White River National Forest. Now, some of those sites are getting a little extra protection to preserve their legacy into the future. (more…)