Last winter, the Outdoor Winter Rec. Initiative helped grow the level of participation by older adults in outdoor recreation outings by almost 500%. How? By working with the Gunnison Senior Center (GSC) to determine key barriers preventing seniors from engaging in outdoor activities. Key barriers for outdoor winter recreation include
It is a special time of year when the Gunnison River rises and the surrounding cottonwoods pop with green leaves. The lushness of the corridor pulls us in. Rafts bob down the river with smiling anglers. Friends convene on the shores where dogs race to fetch sticks. The Gunnison River
Given the on-going impact of COVID-19, the Gunnison Valley finds itself preparing for a unique winter. This summer, easy access to trails, parks, and open space provided residents the opportunity to responsibly recreate and socialize. The winter season is expected to present additional challenges for residents, including increased feelings of
A key role identified for MetRec to fulfill as part of its strategic planning process was to serve as a catalyst for recreation opportunities. MetRec’s 2020 Community Collaboration grant program brought many critical recreation needs to the forefront, including the opportunity to help launch Gunnison High School’s first-ever
This year, MetRec allocated $135,000 towards community recreation initiatives; the largest annual recreation contribution since MetRec’s inception. The majority of the funding went towards MetRec’s two grant programs. A total of $80,000 was awarded through the Developed Recreation Grant Program. The aim of this program is to
For the third year in a row, MetRec has partnered with Gunnison County, the National Forest Foundation and a variety of other local businesses and government entities to collaborate and help finance stewardship of our public and conserved lands; the Gunnison Stewardship Fund. “The Gunnison Stewardship Fund is an
This February, KBUT Radio’s West Elk Word host, Toni Todd, interviewed MetRec District Manager, Hedda Peterson. They discussed the impetus for MetRec’s formation, the growth of its mission, and the organization’s current momentum and direction. Listen to the entire conversation, here.