Podcasts about Grand County

This week on the News Reel, we speak to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent. We start with a story about the recently announced candidates running for mayor and city council in the upcoming Moab election. Then, we discuss the latest updates on where things stand with funding for the Trail Ambassador program. And we finish with a quick story about which local businesses received state grant money recently and what that money will fund. - Show Notes - • Table is set for Moab city elections https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/table-is-set-for-moab-city-elections/ • County eyes $1M in reimbursements to resolve tourism tax dispute https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/county-eyes-1m-in-reimbursements-to-resolve-tourism-tax-dispute/ • Grand County awards $200K in state grant funding to local projects https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-awards-200k-in-state-grant-funding-to-local-projects/

Summer Tanagers - recent and uncommon visitors to Grand County.

Grand County reaches an eBird milestone.

This week on the News Reel, we speak to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent. We discuss Grand County's budget and new concerns about whether certain transient room tax funds can be spent on projects such as the Trail Ambassadors Program. We also discuss a new fundraiser for Community Rebuilds, which is trying to restaff its organization after recent AmeriCorps cuts eliminated seven positions at the nonprofit. And we finish up with a story about the county's decision to purchase a new building for the Children's Justice Center. - Show Notes - • Grand County to revisit Trail Ambassador funding after renewed TRT compliance concerns https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-to-revisit-trail-ambassador-funding-after-renewed-trt-compliance-concerns/ • Community Rebuilds launches $50K campaign after AmeriCorps cuts https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/community-rebuilds-launches-50k-campaign-after-americorps-cuts/ • Grand County to buy nearly $1M ‘forever home' for Children's Justice Center https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-to-buy-nearly-1m-forever-home-for-childrens-justice-center/

On the News Reel this week, we talk to Andrew Christiansen from the Moab Times-Independent about the Kane Creek development, now called Echo Canyon, which was recently rejected in the process of becoming a preliminary municipality, though developers are expected to re-apply soon. We also mention possible changes in the county's Building Department, which could be replaced by third-party contractors. And we finish with the latest water report, which shows record low snowpack in southern Utah this year. - Show Notes - • Controversial developer's bid for incorporation rejected by state https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/controversial-developers-bid-for-incorporation-rejected-by-state/ • Grand County weighs third-party option for building inspections https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-weighs-third-party-option-for-building-inspections/ • Southern Utah snowpack ‘record dry' https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/southern-utah-snowpack-record-dry/

Governor Jared Polis is flexing his executive power. He vetoed a priority bill for Democrats and threatens to withhold funds from cities that don't follow new housing laws. Also, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston talks about an evolving vision for downtown Denver and big project investments. Then, Denver Post reporter Sam Tabachnik on his investigation into the death of a 7-year-old Grand County boy and the questions it raises about child abuse investigations. Later, a human trafficking survivor shares a message of strength at the Front Range Community College commencement. And the Green Box Arts Festival is back! 

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Moab Times Independent, about a section of the Navajo Nation in San Juan County that recently got running water for the first time. We also discuss the Moab Museum's new co-directorship system, which was set up after the previous director was fired earlier this year. Plus, a quick update about the county's planning and zoning department, which is still struggling to fill the director position amidst a major overhaul of the land use code. - Show Notes - • A small Navajo community celebrates running water milestone after 25 years https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/a-precious-life-source-a-small-navajo-community-celebrates-running-water-milestone-after-25-years/ • Grand County hires recruiter to fill key vacancies https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-hires-recruiter-to-fill-key-vacancies/ • Moab Museum shifts to co-leadership after director's removal https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-museum-shifts-to-co-leadership-after-directors-removal/

This week on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Moab Times-Independent, about the federal government's plan to close the National Park Service's Southeast Utah headquarters building and two USGS offices in Moab. We also discuss the Arroyo Crossing housing development, which just received funding for the next phase of construction. Show Notes - • Grand County urges Utah delegation to evaluate pending federal office closures in Moab https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-urges-utah-delegation-to-evaluate-pending-federal-office-closures-in-moab/ • CDBG funds pave way for phase 2 at Arroyo Crossing https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/cdbg-funds-pave-way-for-phase-2-at-arroyo-crossing/

This week on the News Reel, we speak with Doug McMurdo, editor of the Moab Times-Independent, about upcoming parking closures on Main Street. We also discuss the possibility for Moab City to provide water services to Arches National Park, the potential for Grand County to incorporate the federal land currently in remediation at the UMTRA site, and whether Moab will be chosen for the state's next medical cannabis dispensary. Plus, a quick announcement about the upcoming car show. Show Notes - • UDOT will improve pavement markings on Main Street https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/udot-will-improve-pavement-markings-on-main-street/ • Moab looks to extend water and sewer to Arches https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-looks-to-extend-water-and-sewer-services-to-arches/ • Bill introduced to transfer UMTRA site to Grand County https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/bill-introduced-to-transfer-umtra-site-to-grand-county/ • ‘All eyes are on Moab' for Utah's next rural medical cannabis pharmacy https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/all-eyes-are-on-moab-for-utahs-next-rural-medical-cannabis-pharmacy/ • Moab Rotary Car Show returns for 33rd year at Swanny Park https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-rotary-car-show-returns-for-33rd-year-at-swanny-park/

This week on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen of the Moab Times-Independent about the Grand County Commission asking planning commissioner Laura Long to resign because of a conflict of interest with the Kane Creek development. We also discuss changes to Social Security, and how that could affect residents in rural Grand County. Plus, a story about the human remains that were found nine months after a Texas man went missing in Moab during a flash flood last summer. - Show Notes - • County Commission requests resignation of planning commissioner over impartiality concerns https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/county-commission-requests-resignation-of-planning-commissioner-over-impartiality-concerns/ • New Social Security rules: What Grand County residents need to know https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/new-social-security-rules-what-grand-county-residents-need-to-know/ • Remains of missing Texas man found nine months after Moab flood https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/remains-of-missing-texas-man-found-nine-months-after-moab-flood/

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about Fiery Furnace, a popular hiking spot in Arches National Park, which is closed indefinitely because of staff shortages related to federal budget cuts. We also discuss the funding structure for Grand County's EMS program, which has seen declining revenue in recent years. - Show Notes - • Arches temporarily halts Fiery Furnace permits and tours due to employee shortages https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/arches-temporarily-halts-fiery-furnace-permits-and-tours-due-to-employee-shortages/ • Grand County approves $350k to temporarily stabilize EMS amid financial struggles https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-approves-350k-to-temporarily-stabilize-ems-amid-financial-struggles/

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about the results from the official investigation into a plane crash that killed North Dakota state senator Doug Larsen and his family in Moab in 2023. We also discuss a new program to address domestic violence in Grand County, which has one of the highest rates of domestic violence cases per capita in the state. We finish up with a story about a new law that could roll back a program to relieve property taxes for low income and elderly homeowners, and how that might affect Grand County residents. - Show Notes - • Pilot error caused airplane crash that killed 4 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/ntsb-pilot-error-caused-airplane-crash-that-killed-4/ • National program aims to address Moab's domestic violence problem https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/national-program-aims-to-address-moabs-domestic-violence-problem/ • Low-income seniors, disabled Utahns could see property tax relief changes https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/low-income-seniors-disabled-utahns-could-see-property-tax-relief-changes/

This is the premier episode of "Codd's World!" It debuted on March 3, 2025. After hosting "Art Talks" for several years on KZMU, host Richard Codd wanted to explore more about the people who live and work in Moab and Grand County and how they make our community the amazing place it is! Codd will interview local artists, community leaders, visitors, business owners, musicians, and special guests from time to time who bring an unique perspective on the town we know and love. This episode features Mr. Dillon Folk, Manager of City Market, Moab. Mr. Folk discusses the challenges facing the supermarket's staff as they try to provide a first-class store in a small town and county of about 10,000 people. How do they manage their stock in a store that sees its customer base fluctuate by the thousands given the weather and the season. Mr. Dillon discusses the strategies they utilize in ordering products and how they meet customer demands. Also appearing in the episode is Mr. Douglas Caylor, RN, Director, Moab Regional Recovery Center. Mr. Caylor discusses the creation of the new out-patient program for individuals seeking professional help dealing with substance use disorders. The interview focuses on the kinds of services the Recovery Center offers, extent of substance misuse issues in Moab and Grand County, and the importance of treating mental health and addiction here in our community.

Over 200 people attended a public hearing on March 5 to challenge a feasibility study that approves Kane Creek developers to establish a preliminary municipality in Grand County. The study found that if incorporated, the luxury housing and commercial development would be financially viable, a requirement for moving forward with the project. But many Moab residents disagreed with the findings, arguing that the results were based on unrealistic assumptions about the local economy. While the hearing gave residents an opportunity to ask questions and air grievances, a representative from the Lt. Governor's Office who moderated the meeting, Jordan Schwanke, said the results of the study are final, and the project will move ahead regardless. Photo: Audience members display a banner that says: Repeal SB258. The bill established the preliminary municipality process, which enables landowners to incorporate their property even without any residents. A new bill to essentially repeal SB258 — House Bill 540 — is currently making its way through the Utah Legislature. Lawmakers will decide by March 7. Photo by Emily Arntsen / KZMU.

A very exciting Grand County sighting

This Week in Moab - Youth Garden Project's Jessie Shalvey shares about this year's online fundraiser; Country Line Dancers Tasia and Sean discuss their upcoming Dancing Event at Spanish Trail Arena; Grand County High School Students and Staff share the details about this weekend's annual Promenade Dance.

Recent reports put the avian flu very close to Grand County

On the show today, we have the weekly News Reel where we talk to other local journalists about what they reported this week. Today, we speak with Andrew Christiansen of the Moab Times-Independent about where the Kane Creek developers are in the process of becoming a preliminary municipality within Grand County. We also touch on the life and legacy of Moab geologist Lin Ottinger, who passed away last week at 97. And we finish up discussing changes to transient room tax that are making their way through the Utah Legislature. - Show Notes - • Kane Creek town proposal moves forward, public hearing set https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/kane-creek-town-proposal-moves-forward-public-hearing-set/ • Lin Ottinger, Moab's ‘Dinosaur Man' and rock shop founder, dies at 97 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/lin-ottinger-moabs-dinosaur-man-and-rock-shop-founder-dies-at-97/ • State could give Grand County more flexibility over tourism tax revenue https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/state-could-give-grand-county-more-flexibility-over-tourism-tax/

On Friday, the Utah Board of Education banned another book from all public schools in the state. "Like a Love Story" by Abdi Nazemian is the 16th book Utah has banned since a new law went into effect last summer that allows individual school districts to remove books from public school libraries statewide so long as at least two other school districts agree the book contains sensitive material. Critics say the ban is targeting books with queer and transgender characters. News of ongoing book bans comes as the most recent Nation's Report Card found that most American eighth graders are a full year behind in reading. And Utah's students are no exception, with many seventh and eighth grade students in Grand County reading below a sixth grade level. Today, we speak with Margaret L. Hopkin Middle School librarian Tracy Renn, Grand County Public Library director Carrie Valdes, and Grand County School District superintendent Mike McFalls about the issue. - Show Notes - • Nation's Report Card https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/ • Utah bans a 16th book from public schools https://www.sltrib.com/news/education/2025/02/07/16th-book-lands-utahs-list-those/ • Books Unbanned Project https://www.bklynlibrary.org/books-unbanned

Today on the weekly News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Moab Times-Independent, about Grand County's plan to acquire a federal pipeline that currently brings water from the Green River to the UMTRA tailings disposal site in Crescent Junction. The repurposed pipeline could eventually bring water to Grand County residents in Thompson Springs. We also discuss the results of the city's flood mitigation study, which was required for the city to receive federal funding to pay for repairs. And we finish up with a profile of a Green River resident who takes care of the town's booming feral cat population. - Show Notes - • Utah lawmakers back federal pipeline transfer to Grand County water district https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/utah-lawmakers-back-federal-pipeline-transfer-to-grand-county-water-district/ • Moab flood study yields a host of potential solutions https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-flood-study-yields-a-host-of-potential-solutions/ • One woman's mission to help Green River's feral cats https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/one-womans-mission-to-help-green-rivers-feral-cats/

Today on the weekly News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times Independent, about a loss of funding for the BEACON Afterschool Program. We also talk about the latest statewide report on drug overdose deaths, which found the rate of overdose deaths in Grand County were twice the state's average. And we finish with an update from the airport about restored air service to Denver. - Show Notes - • BEACON Afterschool Program faces financial growing pains https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/beacon-afterschool-program-faces-financial-growing-pains/ • Grand County drug overdose deaths roughly double in five years https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-drug-overdose-deaths-roughly-double-in-five-years/ • Canyonlands airport to have daily Denver flights starting April 1 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/canyonlands-airport-to-have-daily-denver-flights-starting-april-1/

On the news reel today, we talk to Doug McMurdo of the Times Independent about the city's plans to change parking, traffic lights and more on Main Street. Plus we cover the city's discussions about what to do with the Walnut Lane Property where they promised to build affordable housing. We finish up with a story about the county's new stance on the timed entry system at Arches National Park. This week, we also speak to Kenny Fallon from the Green River Observer. We discuss Green River's new subdivision process, which was changed recently to meet the requirements of a new state law. We also talk about a new ordinance in town that allows people to live in RVs and campers on their property while building houses. Plus, an update about pay changes for EMS workers in Green River and the latest on the lawsuit against the state engineer's office for approving water rights for a lithium mine in town. - Show Notes - • Big changes are coming to Main Street https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/big-changes-are-coming-to-main-street/ • Moab Mayor: Walnut Lane gets decided this year https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-mayor-walnut-lane-gets-decided-this-year/ • Grand County withdraws support of timed entry at Arches https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-withdraws-support-of-timed-entry-at-arches • Green River Observer https://thegreenriverobserver.substack.com/

Women break barriers in ranch bronc riding, New York's pheasant stocking program in jeopardy and could affect hunters,& Colorado ranchers seek $582,000 for damages due to wolves. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' and Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with The Bend Radio Show & Podcast, your news outlet for the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News! Season 5, Episode 219 Trailblazers in Rodeo, Hunting Challenges in New York, and Colorado's Controversial Wolf Debate & Compensation Fund Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Women in Ranch Bronc Riding The Women's Ranch Bronc Championships (WRBC), established in 2016 by the McElroy family, began as a platform for young female athletes eager to compete in the traditionally male-dominated rodeo sport of ranch bronc riding. With a mission to empower women of all ages and backgrounds to pursue their dreams in the arena, the WRBC has grown into a renowned competition circuit known as The Trail to Cheyenne Tour. This international platform continues to break barriers, showcasing the grit and talent of women ranch bronc riders across the globe. These women are excellent ambassadors for the western lifestyle and are a MUST SEE if ever given the opportunity! For two years in a row, Tigger & BEC (PRCA Announcer & Music Director) have had the pleasure of working the Leather & Lace New Year's Eve Party: Bull Riding, Women's Bronc Riding, and Bull Fighting in Watford City, North Dakota. The WRBC Women's Ranch Bronc Riding has become a much anticipated event during the performance. Congratulations to all of these women on paving the way for others! Reference: https://www.womensranchbronc.com/ New York's Pheasant Stocking Program Faces Threat—What It Means for Bird Hunters According to the New York Times and Outdoor Life; New York's pheasant stocking program, which provides hunting opportunities by releasing pen-raised birds, is under threat by a proposed bill from Assembly member Linda B. Rosenthal. The program aims to give hunters the chance to chase pheasants, as wild bird populations have drastically declined due to habitat loss. Despite the argument that releasing these birds is "state-sponsored cruelty," the program is essential for maintaining hunting activities in the state. Without it, pheasant hunting in New York could cease to exist. Though critics argue that hunting pen-raised birds is too easy, the program provides a crucial starting point for new hunters and young people. It also serves as a gateway to fostering future wildlife advocates. However, opponents, including animal welfare groups, push for an end to the practice, claiming it's not in line with ethical hunting standards. The state's Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) states that the program is necessary for creating hunting opportunities, especially for beginners. If the bill passes, it could significantly reduce hunting participation in New York, affecting conservation efforts and funding for habitat restoration. If other states follow suit, it would be a setback for bird hunters nationwide. Colorado Wolf Debate: Ranchers' $582K in Damages According to Outdoor Life; Ranchers in Grand County, Colorado, are facing severe financial losses due to ongoing attacks by gray wolves, and they are now asking Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) for $582,000 in compensation. This request, submitted at the end of December, is well beyond the state's $350,000 Wolf Depredation Compensation Fund, which is intended to cover all claims for livestock losses caused by predators. If approved, the ranchers' claim would deplete the fund, leaving the state with no resources to cover future losses. The claim comes from just three ranchers, but it reflects the growing challenges faced by those living in rural areas where wolves were reintroduced under a voter-approved program. These ranchers say the damage extends far beyond the confirmed wolf kills. They are claiming compensation for missing livestock, cattle sent to market underweight, and lower conception rates in affected herds, which they attribute to stress caused by the constant threat of wolf attacks. The Copper Creek wolf pack, responsible for many of these incidents, was reintroduced by CPW, but the pack's presence has been devastating to local ranching operations. Despite multiple requests from ranchers to remove the wolves, CPW opted to relocate them. With these mounting pressures, ranchers are now calling on CPW to pause the wolf reintroduction program. This plea follows months of escalating wolf attacks and frustration with how CPW has managed the situation. Ranchers argue that the state has prioritized wolves over the livelihoods of local agricultural families, putting their businesses at risk. Tensions are high, and the state's wildlife commissioners were set to meet on January 8 to discuss whether to pause or continue the program. This decision could determine the future of wolf reintroduction in Colorado and whether ranchers will be forced to continue bearing the brunt of its consequences. FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS Call or Text your questions, or comments to 305-900-BEND or 305-900-2363 Or email BendRadioShow@gmail.com FOLLOW Facebook/Instagram: @thebendshow https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow SUBSCRIBE to The Bend YouTube Channel. Website: TheBendShow.com https://thebendshow.com/ #catchBECifyoucan #tiggerandbec #outdoors #travel #cowboys The Outdoors, Rural America, And Wildlife Conservation are Center-Stage. AND how is that? Because Tigger & BEC… Live This Lifestyle. Learn more about Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner aka BEC here: TiggerandBEC.com https://tiggerandbec.com/ WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca 'BEC' Wanner are News Broadcasters that represent the Working Ranch world, Rodeo, and the Western Way of Life as well as advocate for the Outdoors and Wildlife Conservation. Outdoorsmen themselves, this duo strives to provide the hunter, adventurer, cowboy, cowgirl, rancher and/or successful farmer, and anyone interested in agriculture with the knowledge, education, and tools needed to bring high-quality beef and the wild game harvested to your table for dinner. They understand the importance in sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of our labor and fish from our adventures, and learning to understand the importance of making memories in the outdoors. Appreciate God's Country. United together, this duo offers a glimpse into and speaks about what life truly is like at the end of dirt roads and off the beaten path. Tigger & BEC look forward to hearing from you, answering your questions and sharing in the journey of making your life a success story. Adventure Awaits Around The Bend.

On the News Reel today, we talk to Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times-Independent, about a sergeant with the Grand County Sheriff's Office who won Investigator of the Year for his work against internet crimes. We also discuss a new state law that requires the county to review subdivision applications within 160 days, among other changes. We finish up with a quick forecast of what's to come for the Grand County Commission, which will welcome its new commissioners at their first meeting on Jan. 7. - Show Notes - • Grand County sergeant honored as ICAC Investigator of the Year https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-sergeant-honored-as-icac-investigator-of-the-year/ • Here's how Grand County's subdivision review process is changing https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/heres-how-grand-countys-subdivision-review-process-is-changing/ • Renewal amid challenges: The Year in Review Part 2 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/renewal-amid-challenges-the-year-in-review-part-2/

Today we speak with Moab Mayor Joette Langianese and Grand County Commission Chair Jacques Hadler about some of the biggest projects and changes from the past year. We discuss the status of the city's flood repairs, Moab's new property tax, future plans for the UMTRA site, new safety precautions on Highway 191 and more.

On the News Reel today, we talk to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about the county's search for a 1992 zoning map for Kane Creek development property. We also discuss the final steps Grand County must take to resolve the state's audit report. Plus, we talk about the county's proposed 2025 budget, which will be approved before the end of the month. - Show Notes - • Watch group and developers clash over Kane Creek subdivision zoning https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/watch-group-and-developers-clash-over-kane-creek-subdivision-zoning/ • Grand County moves closer to audit resolution https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-moves-closer-to-audit-resolution/ • Grand County Commission nears final proposal for 2025 budget https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-commission-nears-final-proposal-for-2025-budget/

On the News Reel today, we talk to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about financial struggles at Grand County EMS and a recent request for funding for new ambulances. We also hear about the county commission's support for making a timed entry system at Arches permanent. Plus, we hear about Moab Solution's annual holiday fundraiser. - Show Notes - • Moab Solutions annual fundraiser begins Nov. 29 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-solutions-annual-fundraiser-begins-nov-29/ • Grand County EMS faces financial strains https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-ems-faces-financial-strains/ • County commission supports permanent timed entry system at Arches https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/county-commission-supports-permanent-timed-entry-system-at-arches/

In this powerful episode of the Tame Wellness Podcast, we are joined by Joy, a long-time member of the Grand County community and a board member of Tame Wellness. Joy opens up about her deeply personal journey, sharing the strength and resilience she's discovered while coping with the heartbreaking loss of her soulmate to alcohol addiction. Her story is one of hope, healing, and the profound impact of embracing wellness in the face of tragedy.We also explore the shifting societal norms surrounding mental health, addiction, and wellness across generations, and discuss how these changes are shaping the future of support systems. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about love, loss, and the power of healing.www.tamegrandcounty.orgEmail us: tamegrandcounty@gmail.com

On the News Reel today, we talk to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about an upcoming county commission hearing that will address zoning discrepancies at the Kane Creek Development. We also discuss free dental screenings at the elementary school. Plus, we hear about the county's new administrator, Mark Tyner. - Show Notes - • Kane Creek zoning discrepancies set to be addressed at public hearing https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/kane-creek-zoning-discrepancies-set-to-be-addressed-at-public-hearing/ • HMK students undergo dental screenings https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/hmk-students-undergo-dental-screenings/ • New Grand County Administrator Mark Tyner brings decade of experience https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/new-grand-county-administrator-mark-tyner-brings-decades-of-experience/

Today on KZMU News, we review yesterday's election results across the county and the state. - Show Notes - • Election results: https://electionresults.utah.gov/results/public/utah/elections/general11052024

Polls are open in Grand County today until 8:00 p.m. at the Grand County Clerk's Office on Center Street in Moab, and in San Juan County until 8:00 p.m. tonight at The Montezuma Creek Dine Building, the Monument Valley Welcome Center, the Navajo Mountain Chapter House, the White Mesa Community Center, the Blanding Library, and the San Juan County building in Monticello. The deadline for returning mail-in ballots was yesterday. But residents can still cast ballots in person today, either by dropping off mailed ballots at polling stations, or by filling out new ballots in person. Utah also offers same-day voter registration. Residents can register and cast provisional ballots today with a valid ID and proof of residency, such as a utility bill. - Show Notes - • Election Results: https://electionresults.utah.gov/results/public/utah/elections/general11052024

On Monday, KZMU News Director Emily Arntsen and Public Affairs host Christy Williams Dunton facilitated a two-hour forum with the eight candidates running for Grand County Commission. The conversation is separated into four 30-minute segments by district. - Time Stamps - • 00:00 - 00:30 — District 3: Incumbent Jacques Hadler & Howard Trenholme • 00:30 - 01:00 — District 2: Melodie McCandless & Jason Ramsdell • 01:00 - 01:30 — District 1: Incumbent Trish Hedin & Brittney Bohannon Melton • 01:30 - 02:00 — At-Large: Brian Martinez & Ashley Korenblat

On the News Reel today, we talk to Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times-Independent. We discuss the recent arrest of Grand County public defender Kristine Rogers for attempting to illegally evict tenants. We also talk about some possible plans to bring more water to the wetlands, which flood less and less as water levels drop on the Colorado River. And we finish up with an update on road construction behind City Market in Moab. - Show Notes - • Grand County public defender charged in alleged illegal eviction attempt https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-public-defender-charged-in-alleged-illegal-eviction-attempt/ • Moab city wrestles with 2 expensive plans to help wetlands preserve https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-city-wrestles-with-2-expensive-plans-to-help-wetlands-preserve/ • Moab begins work to improve road between City Market and middle school https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-begins-work-to-improve-road-between-city-market-and-middle-school/

On the News Reel today, we talk to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about the candidates for the upcoming Senate and House races in this region. We also discuss the county's tax revenue, which is still on hold after Grand County was late in submitting its 2023 annual report. We also hear from Kenny Fallon, editor and publisher of the monthly newsletter, the Green River Observer. Fallon tells us about the city's preferences on which types of industry they hope to entice with the Inland Port project. Plus, we hear about Green River's new city manager. - Show Notes - • 2024 Senate District 26 Voter's Guide https://moabtimes.com/articles/senate-district-26-sen-david-hinkins-faces-challengers-corbin-frost-and-oran-stainbrook/ • 2024 House District 69 Voter's Guide https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/house-district-69-voter-guide-davina-smith-faces-logan-monson/ • Grand County submits 2023 annual report, taxes still on hold https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-submits-2023-annual-report-taxes-still-on-hold/ • The Green River Observer https://thegreenriverobserver.substack.com/

On the News Reel today, we talk to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about the upcoming Grand County commission race. In this week's paper, eight candidates answer questions about public lands, affordable housing, Moab's economy, taxes, and the county's relationship with state lawmakers. Andrew gives us some background on each of the candidates and a brief overview of their answers. - Show Notes - • 2024 Grand County Voting Guide https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/2024-grand-county-voting-guide/

On the News Reel today, we talk to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about delays in Grand County's 2023 financial report. We also discuss the upcoming county commission election and give updates about repairs needed at the library. Plus, we hear from Kenny Fallon, editor and publisher of the monthly newsletter, the Green River Observer. Fallon tells us about the annual Melon Days harvest festival, updates about the lithium mine in Green River, and an upcoming event at the River Runners Hall of Fame. - Show Notes - • Grand County's tax revenue suspended, but hold could end soon https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-countys-tax-revenue-suspended-but-hold-could-end-soon/ • Grand County Library will need to pay for repairs, renovations in coming years https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-library-will-need-to-pay-for-repairs-renovations-in-coming-years/ • Commission races heat up as the weather cools down https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/commission-races-heat-up-as-weather-cools-down/ • The Green River Observer https://thegreenriverobserver.substack.com/

https://coloradosun.com/2024/09/20/arikaree-peak-grand-county-search-and-rescue/  Today – Sun outdoors reporter Jason Blevins discusses the difficult decision by officials to cancel the recovery of the body of a hiker who died after a fall in the Colorado mountains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on the Weekly News Reel, we talk to Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times-Independent, about the recent decision to nullify Amendment D from the Utah ballot prior to November's election. If passed, Amendment D would have given the Utah Legislature the power to repeal citizen-passed ballot initiatives. We also discuss Grand County's new planning and zoning director, Amy Weiser, who says land use codes need a "complete overhaul." We finish up with a story about 11 recent school bus violations that will result in $1,000 fines per vehicle. - Show Notes - • ‘Amendment D is void': GOP lawmakers' constitutional amendment won't be counted in 2024 election https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/amendment-d-is-void-gop-lawmakers-constitutional-amendment-wont-be-counted-in-2024-election/ • New county P&Z director: Land use code needs ‘complete overhaul' https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/new-county-pz-director-land-use-code-needs-complete-overhaul/ https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/july-was-arid-throughout-utah/ • MPD cracks down on school bus scofflaws https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/mpd-cracks-down-on-school-bus-scofflaws/

On the News Reel today, we talk to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about disagreements among commissioners on how the state's audit of Grand County tourism funds was represented at a recent legislative meeting. We also discuss a report on National Park Service revenue in southeastern Utah during 2023. And we finish up with a story about Moab's Taiko Dan group, which is celebrating 30 years of drumming with an event on Sept. 28. - Show Notes - • Commissioners clash over ‘misrepresentation' at legislative meeting https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/commissioners-clash-over-legislative-meeting/ • Parks, monuments visitors spent nearly $400M in southeast Utah https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/parks-monuments-visitors-spent-nearly-400m-in-southeast-utah/ • Moab Taiko Dan celebrates 30 years of drumming https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-taiko-dan-celebrates-30-years-of-drumming/

Episode 201 Details Hunting Survival, Colorado Wolf Debate, & Global Travel Fee Hikes: Key Updates Latest News: Hunting, Outdoors, Travel & Western Living ALASKA: HUNTER SURVIVES BEAR ATTACK & GUNSHOT WOUND Tyler Johnson, a 32-year-old hunter from Sterling, Alaska, survived a brutal brown bear attack and a self-inflicted gunshot wound while hunting on the Kenai Peninsula. Johnson was hunting black bears with his father, Chris, a former US Federal Wildlife Service officer, when they accidentally startled a sleeping brown bear in the dense grass. The bear charged Tyler, who struggled to draw his sidearm before being knocked down. Despite sustaining severe injuries from the bear's claws and a gunshot wound to his leg, Tyler managed to fire seven rounds into the brown bear, eventually incapacitating the animal. His father, Chris, helped finish off the bear and immediately began treating Tyler's injuries which included an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound to Tyler's leg. Tyler Johnson always carries a trauma kit hunting that has QuikClot and a slingshot band which the men used on the gunshot wound. The two men worked quickly, applying a tourniquet and calling for help using a Garmin InReach. It took search and rescue over an hour to get to the hunters, Chris made his son tell him hunting stories in order to help keep him awake and mind off the pain. Tyler was airlifted to Alaska Medical Center, treated, and released the same evening. This incident marks the third bear attack in the U.S. this year. Essentials: Hunting & Hiking Trauma Kit Before hitting the trails during hunting season or out for a fall hike; carrying a trauma kit is absolutely necessary. The backcountry is treacherous, and must be taken seriously. First rule - Always notify someone of your hunting, hiking or camping plans, destination, and time expected to be gone. Second rule - Always fully understand how to use any of the items in your trauma kit. The field is for reaction, home is for learning, understanding and practice. Trauma Kit Must Haves Tourniquet, Elastic Bandage, Gauze, Trauma Dressing & Trauma Sheers. QuikClot / Blood Stopper Emergency Heat Blanket, Headlamp, Fire Starter, Battery Pack. GPS Satellite Communicator: Garmin InReach or AtlasTrax for example. Duct Tape, Paracord, Moleskin, Tweezers. Benadryl (antihistamine), Tylenol, Ibuprofen. Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/survival/kenai-brown-bear-attack/ https://quikclot.com/ https://www.garmin.com/en-US/c/outdoor-recreation/satellite-communicators/ https://usa.atlastrax.com/ Impact of Wolf Relocation on Colorado's Livestock Industry Colorado's plan to relocate the Copper Creek wolf pack, responsible for most livestock depredations in the state, has sparked controversy among ranchers. The pack, introduced from Oregon, has been linked to the deaths of cattle and sheep in Grand County, Colorado. Despite repeated requests from ranchers for lethal removal, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) opted for relocation, stating that this decision does not set a precedent for future wolf-livestock conflicts. The relocation decision aims to balance the state's wolf restoration goals with the needs of affected ranchers. This action follows the denial of permits for lethal control, despite rising livestock losses. The Cattlemen's Association criticized CPW for prioritizing wolves over ranchers' rights, highlighting the significant impact of the wolves on local livestock. The agency's strategy faces scrutiny as it walks a fine line between wolf conservation and livestock protection, with the future location of the relocated wolves still uncertain. Reference: https://cpw.state.co.us/news/08282024/media-statement-colorado-parks-and-wildlife-begins-operation-capture-wolves-copper https://www.skyhinews.com/news/colorado-parks-and-wildlife-to-relocate-depredating-wolves-from-grand-county/ https://www.summitdaily.com/news/can-colorados-producers-and-wolves-find-a-way-to-coexist/ https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/colorado-depredating-wolves-relocated/ Beware of Tourism Taxes & Price Hikes New Zealand Raises Tourism Fees: What Travelers Need to Know According to CNN, starting October 1, New Zealand will increase its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) from NZ$35 ($22 USD) to NZ$100 ($62 USD), making it more expensive to explore the country's lakes, mountains, and wineries. This fee, originally introduced in 2019, helps cover the environmental and infrastructure costs associated with international tourism, which brought in over $11 billion from March 2023 to March 2024. However, the Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) criticizes the hike, warning it could hurt New Zealand's global competitiveness as tourists may choose more affordable destinations like Canada or the UK. In addition to the IVL, tourist visa fees will also rise on October 1, from $131USD to $211USD, potentially leading to longer processing times. Despite concerns, similar "tourist taxes" are common in around 60 destinations globally, such as Venice and Bhutan, and studies suggest these fees don't deter tourists. Reference: https://www.cnn.com/travel/new-zealand-tripling-its-tourist-tax-intl-hnk/index.html https://www.cnn.com/travel/tourist-taxes-do-they-work/index.html https://www.doc.govt.nz/news/media-releases/2024-media-releases/ivl-increase-to-ensure-visitors-contribute-more-to-new-zealand/ https://www.tia.org.nz/assets/Uploads/20240903-MR-Tourism-Industry-says-increased-border-taxes-wont-close-gaps.pdf   FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS Call or Text your questions, or comments to 305-900-BEND or 305-900-2363 Or email BendRadioShow@gmail.com FOLLOW Facebook/Instagram: @thebendshow https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow SUBSCRIBE to The Bend YouTube Channel. Website: TheBendShow.com https://thebendshow.com/ #catchBECifyoucan #tiggerandbec #outdoors #travel #cowboys The Outdoors, Rural America, And Wildlife Conservation are Center-Stage. AND how is that? Because Tigger & BEC… Live This Lifestyle. Learn more about Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner aka BEC here: TiggerandBEC.com https://tiggerandbec.com/   WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca 'BEC' Wanner are News Broadcasters that represent the Working Ranch world, Rodeo, and the Western Way of Life as well as advocate for the Outdoors and Wildlife Conservation. Outdoorsmen themselves, this duo strives to provide the hunter, adventurer, cowboy, cowgirl, rancher and/or successful farmer, and anyone interested in agriculture with the knowledge, education, and tools needed to bring high-quality beef and the wild game harvested to your table for dinner. They understand the importance in sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of our labor and fish from our adventures, and learning to understand the importance of making memories in the outdoors. Appreciate God's Country. United together, this duo offers a glimpse into and speaks about what life truly is like at the end of dirt roads and off the beaten path. Tigger & BEC look forward to hearing from you, answering your questions and sharing in the journey of making your life a success story. Adventure Awaits Around The Bend.

As of July 1, Grand County and the City of Moab are no longer accepting glass in single stream recycling. Residents can still recycle glass for free at the Moab Community Recycling Center. But now, Grand County will join the rest of the state and most of the country in cutting glass from single-stream recycling. - Show Notes - • Moab Community Recycling Center: https://www.moabrecycles.org/

On the Weekly News Reel today, we talk to Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times-Independent, about the state's audit of Grand County, which found that over $1 million in tourism-related funding was misused. We also discuss the status of a sexual battery case involving former elementary school teacher, Bruce Hucko, and a 12-year-old student. - Show Notes - • State audit finds Grand County misused, misreported TRT money https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/state-audit-finds-grand-county-misused-misreported-trt-money/ • Charges dismissed against former HMK art teacher https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/charges-dismissed-against-former-hmk-art-teacher/

Grand County has multiple alert systems to warn residents and tourists of local emergencies. On Friday, all cellphones within the identified high-risk area were pinged with a flash flood warning from the county. Residents not within the high-risk area did not receive the notification, leading some to believe the warning system failed, an issue the county ran into during the last major flood in August of 2022. But Cora Phillips, emergency management director for Grand County, said the system worked as planned, despite receiving inaccurate updates from the National Weather Service, which only predicted .5 inches of precipitation compared to the 1.02 inches Grand County received in just 15 minutes. - Show Notes - • MyAlerts App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/myalerts/id1102847004 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.AlertSense.PublicApp&hl=en_US&pli=1 • Grand County Alert Sense: https://public.alertsense.com/signup/?regionid=1367 • Grand County Emergency Management Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/GCSOEM Photo by Emily Arntsen/KZMU

On the Weekly News Reel today, we talk to Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times-Independent, about the hostile work environment that prompted Grand County Administrator Mallory Nassau to resign. We'll also talk about an upcoming rate increase for trash collection in Moab City and changes to how residents will have to recycle glass. We finish off with an update from Lena Pace, the National Park Service Superintendent for southeastern Utah, about timed entry and possibly going cashless for park admittance. - Show Notes - • Citing improper actions by Winfield, Nassau resigns https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/citing-improper-actions-by-winfield-nassau-resigns/ • City, solid waste district agree to new contract https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/city-solid-waste-district-agree-to-new-contract/ • Pace outlines her goals for area parks, monuments https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/pace-outlines-her-goals-for-area-parks-monuments/

On the Weekly News Reel today, we talk to Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times-Independent, about Grand County's response to a state investigation into whether transient room taxes were misallocated during an economic diversification program that was cut short in 2023. We'll also talk about the county's reaction to a new state law that could give developers of a controversial housing project on Kane Creek the power to create their own municipality and bypass Grand County zoning codes. Plus, we'll talk about uranium mining in southeastern Utah as the industry picks up amid recent import bans and an increased demand for nuclear energy. And we finish off with a quick story about a father and two sons who were rescued by Moab locals last week after the family's kayak flipped on the Colorado River. - Show Notes - • As Utah's uranium booms again, miners and land will be protected this time, industry vows https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/as-utahs-uranium-booms-again-miners-and-land-will-be-protected-this-time-industry-vows/ • Commission responds to state auditor's draft report that claims financial mismanagement of TRT https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/commission-responds-to-state-auditors-draft-report-that-claims-financial-mismanagement-of-trt/ • What does SB258 do — and how did it slip by the commission? https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/what-does-sb258-do-and-how-did-it-slip-by-the-commission/ • Dad and sons rescued on the river after kayak flips https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/dad-and-sons-rescued-on-the-river-after-kayak-flips/

Nathaniel Clark, a victim advocate with the Moab Police Department, won the System-Based Advocate of the Year award from the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault. We discuss crime trends in Grand County, which has the most domestic violence cases per capita in the state. - Show Notes - • Utah's shelter crisis has gotten worse after a change meant to help domestic violence victims https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/utahs-shelter-crisis-has-gotten-worse-after-a-change-meant-to-help-domestic-violence-victims/ • Moab's victim assistance program https://moabcity.org/673/Victim-Assistance-Program

A new state law makes it easier for unincorporated land to become a municipality. The new legislation was passed earlier this month, just days before Grand County denied developers of the controversial Kane Creek housing complex the permits they would need to construct a wastewater treatment facility on the property. The developers have already applied to become a municipality through this new program, and if approved, they would be able to bypass county laws and establish their own land use codes. Organizers with Kane Creek Development Watch have reason to believe the new law targets Grand County. Plus, we hear from Aspen Public Radio about a new initiative in Colorado to test drinking water at mobile home parks. - Show Notes - • State Bill 258 https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/SB0258.html • New law could override county's vote against wastewater facility at Kane Creek https://soundcloud.com/user-452372146-352514478/new-law-could-override-countys-vote-against-wastewater-facility-at-kane-creek-development • Kane Creek improvement district helmed by developers, not county https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/kane-creek-improvement-district-helmed-by-developers-not-county/

This year, the Grand County School District started a program called the Student Career Success Center to help boost historically low graduation rates. The program is intended to help students earn enough credits to graduate by offering a flexible, online schedule that allows students to work while still attending high school. The program director says it will have helped at least 6 students graduate who otherwise would not have received a diploma. - Show Notes - https://gchs.grandschools.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=4251335&type=d&pREC_ID=2517314

Today on the Weekly News Reel, we talk to Doug McMurdo, editor of the Moab Times-Independent, about why the high school principal, Todd Thompson, was fired last week. We also talk about why a policy that was supposed to help local businesses provide workforce housing hasn't really succeeded. And we finish up with a story about a rally for motorized vehicle use that turned into a Phil Lyman campaign event in Monticello last weekend. We also talk to Kenny Fallon, editor and publisher of a new, monthly newsletter called the Green River Observer. We discuss Green River's hopes for a partnership with the state's inland port authority. Fallon also updates us on the new lithium mine in Green River, which was just approved for water rights from the state. And we finish up discussing how a new state law will enable two coal-fired power plants in Emery County to stay open longer than anticipated. - Show Notes - Moab Times-Independent: • GCHS principal fired by state board https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/gchs-principal-fired-by-state-board/ • Arch Canyon protest rally turns into campaign event https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/arch-canyon-protest-rally-turns-into-campaign-event/ • The company that helped propel the ADO is ditching it https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/the-company-that-helped-propel-the-ado-is-ditching-it/ Green River Observer: • Wanted: ideas for potential Inland Port Authority project https://thegreenriverobserver.substack.com/p/wanted-ideas-for-potential-inland • Lithium mine gains more water rights and coal plants gain time https://thegreenriverobserver.substack.com/p/eye-on-energy

Laura Wisner joins the podcast to discuss Kowtown Gravel, a gravel cycling event that takes place in Kremmling, Colorado. She shares her background in cycling and how she found her way to gravel cycling. Laura talks about her connection to Kremmling and the beautiful gravel roads in the area. She describes the different terrains and challenges that riders can expect on the Kowtown Gravel course. Laura also discusses the spirit of the event and how it is a fundraiser for the community gym in Kremmling. She invites cyclists to come and experience the unique gravel roads and welcoming community of Kowtown Gravel. Key Takeaways: - Kowtown Gravel is a gravel cycling event that takes place in Kremmling, Colorado. - The event offers three course lengths: the Bull (90 miles), the Cow (60 miles), and the Calf (35 miles). - The course features a mix of smooth gravel roads, chunkier sections, and climbs. - Kowtown Gravel is a fundraiser for the community gym floor in Kremmling. - The event welcomes both competitive riders and those who want to enjoy a scenic ride. Kowtown Gravel Website Episode Sponsor: Dynamic Cyclist (code TheGravelRide for 15% off) Support the Podcast Join The Ridership  Automated Transcription, please excuse the typos: [00:00:00] Craig Dalton: Hello, and welcome to the gravel ride podcast, where we go deep on the sport of gravel cycling through in-depth interviews with product designers, event organizers and athletes. Who are pioneering the sport I'm your host, Craig Dalton, a lifelong cyclist who discovered gravel cycling back in 2016 and made all the mistakes you don't need to make. I approach each episode as a beginner down, unlock all the knowledge you need to become a great gravel cyclist. [00:00:26] Craig Dalton (host): This week on the podcast. We welcome Laura Wizner to the show to talk about cow town, gravel Cowtown gravel is a Colorado event happening on July 6th, 2024 in Kremmling, Colorado. Kremmling as a town you might've been through on your way to Steamboat Springs, but it's a town. The race organizers want you to remember as the gravel is fantastic as are the views. Laura's come on to talk to us about all you can expect from Cowtown, gravel, and an interesting story about how she became familiar with crumbling in the first place. I hope you enjoy this episode. Before we jump in, I did need to thank this week. Sponsor, dynamic cyclist. Dynamic cyclist has been producing, cycling, specific stretching and strengthening routines for many years. Now. They've got a vast library of content, both focused on you as a general cyclist, but also many different programs based on specific areas of weakness. It's during this period every year in the winter that I start thinking about how limiting my personal low back problems have made my cycling. So I love to dig into the dynamic cyclist. Low back routine six week program, just focusing on getting those stretches needed, to get deep into everything related to my hip flexors and lower back. It's a great reminder that stretching only takes a short amount of time for having a huge impact. All their videos are no longer than 15 minutes. So none of us has any excuses not to squeeze them into our winter routines to get us prepped for this season. I say that, and I'm not going to lie. I miss a day or two here or there, but it's on my mind, frankly, constantly this idea that stretching is probably one of the most important things I can do to set myself up for success in 2024. So go on over to dynamic cyclists.com. They've got a seven day free trial. So it's easy to see if, if it's something that you would like, they're also offering our listeners a 15% off discount on any of their programs. Which include either monthly or annual billing. So it's pretty flexible. If you're someone who just wants to do some routines in the winter, for example, anyway, head on over to dynamics, cyclists.com. Use the coupon code, the gravel ride, or follow the link in the show notes to get directly over there. With that business behind us, let's jump right into my conversation with Laura. [00:03:01] Craig Dalton: Laura, welcome to the show. [00:03:02] Laura Wisner: I'm so glad that you have me here. Thank you. [00:03:05] Craig Dalton: Where are you sitting today? [00:03:07] Laura Wisner: I am based in Boulder, [00:03:08] Craig Dalton: Colorado. Okay, and I'm excited to get you on to talk about Cowtown Gravel, which is not in Boulder, Colorado. So why don't you just set the stage by telling us where Cowtown Gravel takes place, and why don't you drop the, the month it takes place as well. [00:03:24] Laura Wisner: Okay, so Cowtown Gravel is in Kremling, Colorado. Um, it's going to take place for the second time on July 6, 2024. And Kremling, for those who have been to Steamboat, if you are coming from the Front Range Denver area, and you get a high 70, you go, um, north, we are the crook in the road in between Silverthorne and Steamboat Springs. Um, so Kremling is that, that little town that everybody has to go through, but may not have ever stopped there. [00:04:02] Craig Dalton: Yeah, I think as we discovered offline on my way to steamboat gravel, I definitely went through Kremling. I lived in Boulder, and if you had asked me to point to it on a map prior to this conversation, I wouldn't have been able to do it. But it's clear from my driving through that area, it's absolutely a beautiful part of the state. So we'll get into why and how the event got started. But first, let's just learn a little bit more about you and how you found your way to cycling and gravel cycling specifically. [00:04:31] Laura Wisner: Yeah, well, I mean, old, old school is Anybody who grew up in upper Midwest gravel road when they were kids, because not all roads were, um, paved back then. So, I mean, I started as a kid, just getting on my bike when you're up at our, um, vacation cottage and just take off for hours and hours on a gravel road, you know, no cell phones, parents have no idea where I was, um, no helmet, probably riding in cutoff jeans or something like that. But, um, you know, those are the, the good old days and then as I became an adult and got into, um, riding proper, uh, you know, got into road riding, mountain biking, cyclocross, and, um, the blessing of living in Boulder County is that we have these amazing gravel roads and, you know, people ask, well, why are you riding gravel? And I liken it to, if you live along one of the coasts, You learn to surf because it's right there and you should take advantage of it. So living here in Boulder County, it's crazy not to have a gravel bike or at least, you know, change out your wheels so you can get on our back roads and just go for miles and miles and hours and hours. So [00:05:50] Craig Dalton: yeah, I'm thinking back to which probably my first quote unquote gravel event was Boulder Rue Bay. In the early 90s when I lived in Boulder, and I certainly rode that on 23 C road tires. There's no doubt about it in my mind. Yeah, and [00:06:07] Laura Wisner: with my, my cycling friends and club, you know, we would, you know, even 10 years ago, we, a lot of us were just riding on gravel roads with, you know, road tires, um, and that was okay because they're, they're so smooth around here. And if you got a little chunky, well, I hope you're by handling slower. Up to the challenge, but, you know, this, uh, gravel revolution happened and all of a sudden you have all these options, um, not only in tires, but all of a sudden frames and, you know, it just became this. Um, the celebration of all things gravel. And so now it's just another bike in your quiver. Um, so yeah, we did that too. [00:06:54] Craig Dalton: As gravel started to become popularized and specific bikes started to arrive. Were you someone who found your way to gravel events outside of Boulder County? Yeah, you know, [00:07:05] Laura Wisner: I did the very first, um, seaboat gravel. Um, did that for a couple of years and at that point I was racing cross and so what I would do is use my cross bike and just switch out. Um, the wheels, but, you know, the one by there's some pretty good grades around here. If you head up the mountains straight from Boulder, um, you can go up to Gold Hill or Ward. Um, it's a little hard on a 1 by, you know, that's a pretty good workout in and of itself. And geometry is not quite right, so it. Became a love of mine to the point where, okay. I'm going all in, I'm buying the frame, you know, the specific. Um, gravel bike and got rid of the road frame and. And then got rid of the cross bike and gravel is pretty much it at this [00:08:00] Craig Dalton: point. Nice. And so let's talk about your connection to Kremling, Colorado, and how you became familiar with the area in the first place. [00:08:10] Laura Wisner: Yeah. So Kremling, other being the, other than being the, uh, the bend in the road as you go up the steamboat, it's the, uh, West Grams County area. So people know Winter Park. Winter Park is. East Grand, Kremling is West Grand, and so I've been in Grand County quite a bit, skiing and cycling and things like that, but my husband has a family practice position, and for five years, he was Kremling's town doc, and so we kept our family home base here in Boulder, and he would go up to Kremling midweek, and it's a small community, it's predominantly a ranching community, And he got to know the people and, um, I got to slowly know more of the people and when I would go up to visit him midweek. We would go for gravel rides, and I was just blown away by roads that I didn't know existed. Um, the quality of the gravel was incredible. Um, and I had ridden, you know, boulder roads, I had ridden around steamboats. Um, and, and crumbling is just unsurpassed as far as the quality of its gravel. And the roads that we rode for three hours, and I think one truck passed us. Um, so, um, being part of Cowtown Gravel is just my way of giving back to that community and being able to lend my excitement for what the area has to offer to other folks who love gravel as much as I do. [00:09:51] Craig Dalton: I've gotten many questions about Cowtown Gravel, but I have to take us on a quick detour because I'm curious. I had recently, I'm curious about becoming the town doctor for a community. Is that was your husband sort of offered employment at the city or county level to come and be a physician for that community? And my only point of reference is watching Doc Hollywood recently with my 9 year old son, [00:10:20] Laura Wisner: my husband was a position on the front range for a while and part of the, the bigger system that sometimes is kind of beholden to insurance companies. And he just wanted something different. Um, and in Boulder, a little bit of his frustration was continually patting people on the back thing. You're healthy as a horse, you know, continue that marathon training or, you know, climbing or whatever you're doing. Um, if you wanted something a little bit more challenging, and when you go to a rural community, you get to see a lot more. Um, Kremlin does have an incredible, uh, health system up there. They were the first in Colorado to have a trauma one emergency room, uh, decades ago. And, um, they're, they're top notch, uh, health care up there, but it's hard to find doctors in rural areas. So, um, he, he, his attention was called to this position and he went up there and thought, you know, what? I want to do this, um, and truly the only reason that he came back. To the front range, uh, after five years is because we have a, a kid who's finishing up high school and he wanted to be present for that last year. So, so he made the change, but there is a part of both his and my heart that is still in K Town. [00:11:49] Craig Dalton: Yeah, you had mentioned, obviously part of his journey was getting to know members of the community and de facto with your visits there, you started to get to know. some of the community members and as avid cyclists exploring. It sounds like you found other gravel cyclists who are based out of Cowtown. Can you talk about some of those characters you met? Oh [00:12:10] Laura Wisner: yeah, and, and the biggest character of all is Sean Scholl, who is a co race promoter with, uh, along with Blaine Day. And Sean is Big Shooter of Big Shooter Coffee. And he is this incredibly loud, large character who is just incredible and so full of fun and has a lot of energy. And he, he was a world class athlete. And I would even say still is. Um, so he lives up there and he and Blaine are cycling buddies. And they wanted to create an event. Up in Kremling, welcome the world, come and check it out, check out the back roads. And when I heard through the grapevine that they were going to have this gravel race, I reached out to them and I said, I'm in, I want to help, what can I do? My background is in marketing and so I was able to lend that to them. The organization and so the, the really incredible thing about Blaine and Sean is that they're not trying to create an event that is just, you know, really easy. Come on up and, you know, we'll show you our background roads and we'll just have a great day. They surprised people in our first year with how hot it was. So, the Kremlin gravel, uh, we call it untapped and untamed, which is when you drive into Kremlin, that's the sign as you come into town, welcome to Kremlin, untapped and untamed. And we decided to put that as our gravel moniker. Um, there are roads that you couldn't even tell that's gravel because it almost feels paved. Um, and then you can go a little further in and, you know, get a little bit chunkier, um, a little bit rowdier. Um, and and what these guys are doing is they are creating an experience for, um, all 3 of our porcelain that people are just blown away by. Um, they're blown away by the climbing. They're blown away by, um, sections. Of roads or trails that they didn't even know existed. So we had such good feedback last year that the team had scientists went back to the drawing board. That my ride this year and made it even rowdier. So, really excited to have those people who joined us last year. Come and see what we have in store this year. [00:14:50] Craig Dalton: Yeah, that sounds amazing. So I want to talk a little bit about the gravel. I mean, obviously, if you go a little further up the road, an hour to steamboat, they talk about champagne gravel. You've been describing it a little bit, but it sounds like the team at Cowtown is trying to make sure that both our climbing legs, as well as our technical skills are explored. So what type, you know, if you think about through the course of the, the longer course, Think about the types of terrain and describe some of the different areas, whether it's single track, double track or dirt road that you might find yourself on. [00:15:23] Laura Wisner: Yeah. So, um, right now on calicongravel. com, we have the maps available to folks with the one caveat is that these might change because we're working with the Bureau of Land Management and the PLM. Um, Bill are going to tell us yes or no on some sections. So we put the scenario on that has more paved segments than non paved. I should say. All of our 3 races are predominantly gravel. If the BLM will give us permission, we're going to take off more paved sections and add more gravel for unpaved. So, um, our longest course is called the bull. It's 90 miles and it has 8, 000 feet of climbing. So, as it stands right now, worst case scenario, 76 percent unpaid, which is pretty incredible in and of itself. So, uh, we start right outside of town square. Um, we're going to start the high school, all downtown Kremling. Um, and we're going to start going northeast and if we're starting with paves, it's going to be a pretty fast start. There will be a peloton and, and, um, some people can hang on for dear life and some are just going to, you know, hard charge from the start. From there, we get to a really smooth gravel. It's very similar to Of pavement and you will hardly even tell that it's it's gravel. Um, and it's just a hard pack. It's beautiful. And from there, we go to what we call the whoopie moves and, um, just rolling, um, up and down and that is probably 1 of our chunkier sections, um, you know, a little bit looser, a little bit larger, uh, rock section, but It is something that anybody with, you know, halfway decent bike handling skills is going to be able to accomplish, um, and they're fun. And so we go from there back to a nice hard pack gravel. Um, something that is new this year is we're going up Black Mountain, um, which is about a 1600 foot climb. And both the bull long course and the cow mid length course will go up Black Mountain. Um, and at the top they're going to go down through three miles of private ranch land, which is super cool because, you know, part of the fun of gravel is exploring roads and places you've never been. So this private ranch land is only going to be accessible on race day. So you can't pre ride it. Can't check it out the day before. So that is going to be, um, a really fun first climb and I'll probably set the, the pack apart a bit there. [00:18:30] Craig Dalton: And how about on that, on that descent, is it the type of thing that it's sort of wide open and it's full gas or are there some technical elements to it that you need to be cautious about? Um, [00:18:42] Laura Wisner: it's going to be fine. It's not going to be super technical because we are taking, um. The mid and the long course through it. We wanted to make sure that, you know, we're not, uh, less than anybody going down that. So, um. It's totally rideable, and, and you won't need shocks, and, and you won't need, uh, mountain bike handling skills. But, I mean, those people who are, who want to go fast certainly can let it loose on that. It'll be great. Yeah, [00:19:13] Craig Dalton: yeah, and then it looks like from the course profile that you hit another big climb. Well, [00:19:17] Laura Wisner: here's where the two, uh, courses diverge. So, the bull, will go up again, and they'll go up Grouse Mountain. This was a part of the course from last year that people really enjoyed. Um, so they'll go up, and Grouse Mountain is, um, it's a, it's a paved, not a paved, it's a gravel road for ranchers to access their ranches. So, I mean, it's just a normal road. Once you get up towards the loop, there is going to be a little bit more, um, dirt section versus gravel, um, and. The whole loop has been expanded this year, so people can catch their breath this year. Check out the views, that's our highest point in the race. And, um, it's really beautiful. There's an abandoned cabin up there. There are streams that people often just fill their water bottles with, unfiltered water. Um, and are totally fine. So, we are going back up Grouse Mountain on the long course. Doing a lollipop and then coming back down [00:20:28] Craig Dalton: again. Got it. And I forgot to mention, or ask, what elevation is crumbling to start with? [00:20:34] Laura Wisner: Oh, crumbling is, uh, sorry about that. Crumbling is a little bit lower. I'd have to check that out. [00:20:45] Craig Dalton: Yeah, so a little bit lower than Boulder. So we're, we're not in the stratosphere when we climb up 1600 feet. [00:20:50] Laura Wisner: Um, I'm not going to say it's lower than Boulder, but it's, it's not, um, oh, 73, almost 7400 feet. [00:20:59] Craig Dalton: Okay. So that's no joke for us. Flatlanders. [00:21:02] Laura Wisner: Well, we have to give you some, some elements of the mountains here, but it's not like you're starting up at 11, 000 feet and you're going to feel the altitude a little bit if you're coming from, [00:21:15] Craig Dalton: yeah, that's part of the fun. Okay, so we've gone up and down grass mountain. What, what comes next? [00:21:22] Laura Wisner: Okay, so what we're doing this year is we are reversing course around our reservoir. Williams Fork Reservoir is just beautiful. And last year we started and went around it counterclockwise and so the Peloton was pretty tight through all of that. This portion is paved, um, to get to the, um, Williamsport Reservoir, you just have a little bit on the highway, but then a little climb again, about 500 feet, and then, um, you'll go around the water, um, um, And start heading back towards crumbling. So it's really scenic. Uh, and just really kind of a nice thing to see water, uh, water is a big issue for us here in the West. And so you're going to cross the Colorado on a bridge and then go around and work and see mountains in the background and it's. It's just really spectacular if you can catch your breath and look up once in a while. [00:22:26] Craig Dalton: I forgot to ask this on air, but how do you sort of cast the event in terms of a race versus a ride? And are there, is it a heavily competitive element in the front end? So [00:22:39] Laura Wisner: the spirit of Kowtown Gravel is we wanted to A, welcome people to the Kremling and and have them stop in our earlier than steamboat. Um, Kremling is only an hour and a half, two hours from the front range, depending on where you are. Um, we wanted to invite people to Kremling and check out our gravel. Secondly, it is a fundraiser for the community gym floor. The floor is half pulled out, and the multi generational community just really needs a place to work out that there's, you know, the schools need, um, a place to have the kids sports. The older folk need a place to work out, and so this is a fundraiser for the Middle Park gym, and so we don't have a prize purse at this point. We are trying to raise money. And so we have had some really competitive people come the first year. We had some semi pros and some pros come. And again, this year we are not going to offer a prize purse. Um, because this is a fundraiser, but that said, there were some pretty fast calves who came and raced, but we welcome those who just want to come out for an event and get access to this ranch that they're never going to be able to ride on again. Um, do the short course, which we call the calf course, which is, um, just really a welcoming section of Kremlin gravel. Um, E bikes are welcome on it, families are welcome on it, people who just don't want to commit the time or the distance. This is a 35 mile, just on a 35 mile course. 2200 miles of elevation gain. So, uh, we hope that some, some more pros come out. We're going to, you know, reach out and invite folks. Um, but you're going to, you know, the fun of gravel is you can come race an event or just come out and ride it because you're with, you know, a few hundred of your like minded [00:24:48] Craig Dalton: friends. Yeah, absolutely. Yeah. You're a great distance away from the front range to kind of come out and experience something unique. And I always love when events are able to negotiate access to land that we wouldn't otherwise get to ride because it just adds a sort of additional special elements to the [00:25:05] Laura Wisner: day. Well, in Special Elements, the, one of the things about Kremling is that it being a ranch community, um, big shooter, Sean, is a fifth generation rancher, and so he goes out and personally talks to the ranchers along the course. And ask them, please don't do your cattle drive a few days before, or this day, because we're going to have a lot of cyclists coming to, um, you know, you imagine a herd of cattle on the road, trying to compete for the road with cyclists. Or if they do their cattle drive a couple of days before, you're going to have a lot of cow pies being flipped up with the gravel. So, it's a unique, um, a unique aspect that Cowtown has. I mean, it really is, uh, true to its name in that aspect. Yeah, [00:25:58] Craig Dalton: that's great. I'm sure that Sean as a local and a cattleman himself is able to get his His peers excited for the option of allowing cyclists to come through town and not get too annoyed that their, their day might be a little bit disrupted by a Peloton at some point. [00:26:16] Laura Wisner: Well, you could get that in an urban setting or anywhere, but, um, the, the community of crumbling was really wonderful. We had. People from the retirement community make breakfast burritos and still those before the race of the fundraiser. Um, we had the high school band come and play at the after party. We had ranchers who were just out on their horses along the course and waving us on and cheering for us and. Um, it's just a really cool, unique [00:26:45] Craig Dalton: event. That's fun. I was going to ask you, like, if someone was interested in coming to the event, are there accommodations in Kremling, or do people typically drive in that day, or are they staying over? You know, [00:26:58] Laura Wisner: it's a mix, because, um, We're about an hour from Winter Park, about an hour from Steamboat, um, less than an hour from Summit County, and so there are a lot of folks in Colorado who have vacation homes, and so they might come up, do the event for the day, and because we're so close to the front range, you know, within two hours, some people might just make it a day event, go up and back. Kremlin does have lodging, we have A little bit of lodging, so if you're going to want a hotel to sleep in a bed, I'll get your lodging early. We do have an RV part. We have, um, camping. There's camping around the reservoir that we're going to ride around so. I would recommend that if people want to come up and we would love to have you, we're going to have a great time afterward. Uh, spend the night before, spend the night after, but make your plans early, especially because it is the 4th of July holiday. Okay. [00:28:02] Craig Dalton: And so what's the experience like once we cross the finish line? What should riders expect at that point? [00:28:09] Laura Wisner: Well, we have expanded our finish line experience this year. Um, and you know, we learn things as every race. Organization does. So this year we're going to have an arch welcoming people in. So it feels like I'm done. Um, we finished at Town Square, which has a brand new pavilion. So there's going to be a lot of shade. Um, we're going to have a band again. We're going to have food for people. There's a beer trailer. Um, kids can run around with their shoes off. It's just a really clean park and people just they hung out. You know, it's the I'll pray experience. You say hello to old friends. You talk to people. You might have met on course and road with for a while. So it was really nice event that it's the kind of thing where people hang out for a few hours and just chat it up and talk about their experience. [00:29:08] Craig Dalton: And prior to prior to this recording, you'd sent me a photo and you told me there was an interesting story. So it's a photo. I'm looking at a wide expanse of beautiful grazing land backdrop of beautiful Colorado mountains. I think that's a mosaic bike, but the writer is wearing what seems to be a bull. Skull on their head. [00:29:33] Laura Wisner: So that writer is Ben Delaney, and he came up in order to check out the course last year and Ben is a cycling journalist journalist who's been around forever. So that was on the top of Grouse Mountain and it took a little stop at the top to look around, take pictures and he points at the ground and says what's that? And of course, Cowtown. It's a cow pelvis bone, and the thing is, is really funny because it just looks like something out of a action hero movie. And so he started wearing it as a mask, wore it as a breastplate, was just hamming it up in front of a camera. But, you know, it's, it's, you know, it's trembling and there's going to be cow bones laying around. So, that, that's the [00:30:21] Craig Dalton: cow pelvis. It's a great, it's a great image and I'll, I'll make sure to put that as part of the part of the episode art so people can check it out. So, what's the best way for people to find out more about cowtown gravel? When are you opening up registration? [00:30:38] Laura Wisner: So, we are opening registration to the public on January 6, 2024. Um, people who sign up for our newsletter get to register a full day early. So we, in our inaugural year last year, we had 350 spots and we sold out and people were begging for a wait list. And so this year, we are going to open up to 700 spots. Um, and we do fully expect to sell out again. So again, go to CowTownGravel. com and put as much information as possible on our website, including a link to register the course maps, descriptions. Um, where do you find lodging? Um, it's all on our website. [00:31:25] Craig Dalton: Great, and definitely give them a follow on Instagram and see some of those great views we've been talking about. It looks like a lot of fun. I definitely love these sort of rural town starts. It's really cool to see another part of Colorado kind of raising their hand and saying, Hey, we've got great riding here too. And it's exciting that Sean and Blaine Kind of took this opportunity to sort of write a gravel love letter to their hometown and invite 700 of their new friends to come join them in 2024. Yeah, [00:31:56] Laura Wisner: we, we promise that it'll be experience that will not soon be forgotten. [00:32:01] Craig Dalton: Awesome. Thanks for the time. [00:32:03] Laura Wisner: Come back out Colorado. We'd [00:32:05] Craig Dalton: love to see you. Yeah, I definitely need another Colorado trip in my life. That's for sure. Thanks for all the [00:32:12] Laura Wisner: time, Laura. All right. Thank you. [00:32:15] Craig Dalton (host): That's going to do it for this week's edition of the gravel ride podcast. Big, thanks to Laura for coming on the show and talking to us about cow town gravel. If you're listening to this in early January. Registration opens up on January 6th. So make sure to head on over to the Cowtown gravel website, which I will link to in the show notes and grab a registration. If this event sounds like your cup of tea. Big, thanks to our friends at dynamic cyclists for sponsoring the show. Remember use the code, the gravel ride for 15% off any of their programs. If you're interested and we're able to support the show, ratings and reviews are hugely appreciated. It really helps in our discoverability. Better yet, send a text message to one of your riding buddies and share the show with them. That's another great way to grow the community. Until next time, I'm wishing you a happy new year and here's to finding some dirt under your wheels.