Western Slope Conservation Center

Conserving the lands, air, water and wildlife of the Western Slope since 1977

FROM OUR BLOG

BLM’s New Oil and Gas Rule Offers Positives for the North Fork Valley and Western Slope of Colorado

At WSCC, we strive to provide our members with  accurate, well-researched information. We are intentional about not using alarmist messaging and present information to you along with our analysis so that you can make an informed decision on how you want to engage. With that being said, the BLM has embarked on several several important rulemaking processes that impact our local public lands. Of recent note is the new Oil and Gas Rule, common-sense solutions

WSCC Special Announcement!

WSCC Names New Executive Director FRIDAY, September 1, 2023 PAONIA, CO   The Western Slope Conservation Center in Paonia, Colorado is pleased to announce that Hannah Stevens has been named Executive Director! Hannah joins WSCC with an impressive history of conservation science, fundraising, project management, research and team leadership experience. She is joining us from High Country News where she served as the Donor Stewardship Manager, and previously worked advancing botanical science and conservation at

2023 Trail Days are here!

We are excited to announce Trail Days 2023! Join WSCC on TWO trips in the West Elk and Ragged Wilderness Areas for two days of trail work and a night under the stars. Supported by a horse crew, participants will complete trail work projects before arriving at a backcountry camp. Dinner will be prepared by WSCC and provided free to those who join us. These projects will be two long days, so come ready to

Help Us Rebuild River Park Trails Damaged By Flooding

2023 has been an epic year for moisture. Between the snowpack and the spring rains, the flooding has hit the Paonia River Park and K-8 School Loop trails hard. WSCC and The Nature Connection are partnering to rebuild the trails, and we need your help. First a little background. The Paonia River Park and K-8 Trails encompass 27 total acres and include 1.3 miles of soft surface accessible trails, Paonia’s only public boat launch, picnic

PROGRAM AREAS

WHO WE ARE

We formed in 1977 to disseminate information about regional energy development and its impacts on the region’s natural resources. Today, our mission is to build an informed and engaged community to protect and enhance the lands, air, water and wildlife of the Western Slope.

We envision landscapes defined by resilient ecological systems, where water management, agricultural practices, and recreation opportunities allow people and the environment to flourish.

STAY UP TO DATE ON THE WORK WE’RE DOING… JOIN OUR MONTHLY MAILING LIST!

PAONIA RIVER PARK

Once an in-stream gravel mine, we have worked hard and received several grants to restore riparian habitat and make the Park a family-friendly recreation area.

WATER QUALITY

The Conservation Center is dedicated to keeping a watchful eye on the quality of our water quality and public lands. Our stewardship program matches community volunteers with hands-on projects in the field

LOCAL MAPPING

The data illustrated in our interactive maps tell the true story of conservation in Delta County. Layers represent oil & gas development, roadless areas, irrigation ditches and more.