Ouray Ice Park, an ice climbing hub in the Rockies, has found new hope through a partnership with Ouray Silver Mines, which will provide millions of liters of water annually to sustain its operations amidst climate change threats. This collaboration ensures the ice park’s future and supports local tourism. Former mine CEO Brian Briggs highlights the partnership as a beneficial community gesture, impacting both the park and the town’s economy.
The Ouray Ice Park, a renowned destination for ice climbing, faces profound challenges due to climate change. Located in the Rockies at an elevation of 2,400 meters (7,800 feet), this artificial ice park has been sustained for 30 years through a dedicated water supply from a local gorge. However, ongoing drought conditions have diminished this water source, threatening not only the park but the local economy reliant on winter tourism. Mountain guide Clint Cook remarked on the necessity of conserving water, stating that residents sometimes advised, ‘Don’t shower tonight! We need that water in the tank to build ice.’
In a turning point, Ouray Silver Mines has pledged to lease millions of liters of water annually to the ice park at a nominal fee of $1. This agreement will significantly enhance the park’s water supply, according to Peter O’Neil, executive director of Ouray Ice Park, who stated, “The water from the mine will give us anywhere from three- to five-times more water than we have access to right now.” This additional resource will ensure continuity for the park’s operations and the associated local businesses during the winter season.
The presence of the ice park is vital for Ouray, whose population is around 900, as it greatly affects local tourism. O’Neil noted the potential consequences of the park’s closure, mentioning that without it, “the town would be a ghost town” during winter months, with many accommodations likely shuttered. The renewed interest in silver mining, spurred by contemporary technological advancements, has rejuvenated the industry, allowing for such cooperative endeavors.
Brian Briggs, former CEO of Ouray Silver Mines, expressed that this partnership was mutually beneficial, enhancing the mine’s community image while safeguarding the park’s future. Under Colorado water rights, the mine possesses allocations for recreational use, which remained underutilized until now. Briggs considered the donation a gesture toward community goodwill, emphasizing, “People need to know that the mine’s not just this bad group of people.”
The environmental impacts of climate change present ongoing risks to the park. Essential to the ice formation process are prolonged periods of freezing temperatures, which have become increasingly uncertain. As visitors contribute significantly to local revenue, the cooperation with the mine will bolster the park amidst these challenges. Longtime visitor Jen Brinkley reflected on the longevity of her visits and her hopes for the future of the ice park, stating, “With more routes open, you definitely have people that can spread out and so everybody can have a chance to climb.”
The partnership between Ouray Ice Park and Ouray Silver Mines represents a significant development in addressing the existential threats posed by climate change to this vital recreational area. With the provision of additional water resources, the future of the park and its role in the local economy appears secure. The collaboration reflects a positive shift in community relations surrounding mining operations. It is essential to recognize that climate change remains a critical concern, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions that ensure sustainability for both natural and economic landscapes.
Original Source: www.communitynewspapergroup.com
