Garna Greater Arkansas River Nature Association - Education, stewardship, river ecosystem volunteering - garna logo

Protecting our Heritage

Photo Credit: William Helms

Protecting our critical viewshed is an important part of GARNA’s work, and part of that is preserving and celebrating our rich history.

Heritage Programs

Chaffee County Heritage Logo

Chaffee County Heritage Advisory Board

The board was created to provide advice and assistance on matters associated with planning an implementation of the Heritage Area Program and revisits the stories of the land and the people who once stood where we stand. GARNA holds an integral role on the board as administrator, and was a key player in the 2023 Collegiate Peaks Scenic & Historic Byway Conservation Corridor Plan Update. Designated in 2005, the Collegiate Peaks Scenic and Historic Byway is Colorado’s 25th official byway. The Heritage Board also produces and interactive map of Historic Registries.

Stage & Rail Logo

Stage & Rail Historic Route

The Leadville to Salida Stage & Rail Historic Route follows the historic stagecoach road and railroad corridors. The route parallels the Arkansas River through 70 miles of diverse and stunning landscapes. The route is a mix of paved highway, dirt roads and non-motorized trails.

Chipeta Agents of Discovery App

Chipeta Agents of Discovery

In partnership with the US Forest Service – Salida Ranger District, GARNA created the Chipeta Agents of Discovery Mission. Agents of Discovery is a educational technology platform that provides interactive way to get outside and learn about the surrounding landscapes. The Chipeta Mission takes place at Mountain Heritage Park on Tenderfoot Mountain to learn about Chipeta, who was an important Native American historical figure in the valley.

Latest GARNA News

Friends of Fourmile work to Improve Camping in Fourmile

GARNA chapter, Friends of Fourmile, worked with the BLM and National Forest Foundation to improve dispersed camping in the Fourmile Travel Management...

Beasley Memorial Scholarship – Deadline Extended to April 8

GARNA Renews the Brett Beasley Memorial Scholarship Local students pursuing careers in outdoor recreation and natural resource management have a...

GARNA Youth Program Seeks Volunteers!

GARNA Youth Ecological Literacy Program (YELP) Days and Ways to Volunteer! Spring 2024 Edition We love (and need to!) incorporate community volunteers...
Garna Greater Arkansas River Nature Association - Education, stewardship, volunteering Salida - Plants alonside the riverbank
Gone to Seed by Kari Vanderburg
Our members make a huge difference each year, funding 55% of Garna's work. We cannot do what we do without these vital community members.
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