While Mesa Verde National Park is celebrated for its historic cliff dwellings and archaeological sites, many may be surprised to learn about the presence of wild horses roaming the park. The National Mustang Association of Colorado (NMACO) has undertaken the Mesa Verde Project to relocate these horses, aiming to preserve the park's cultural heritage. This effort is driven by the park's role, which excludes horse management responsibilities under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971, placing such duties with the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and Blondie's Trophy Room.

Nearly a decade after the Gold King Mine spill turned the Animas River orange, cleanup efforts continue in Silverton’s Superfund sites. The Bonita Peak Mining District, a Superfund site encompassing multiple mines, remains a focus of extensive remediation. Trout Unlimited, in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency, supports this effort through a Community Advisory Group (CAG) made up of local experts. The CAG is crucial in guiding the cleanup process and shaping long-term restoration goals, aiming to improve water quality and support a thriving fish population in the Animas River. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Tafoya Barrett & Associates and Sky Ute Casino Resort.

Miller Middle School students will begin the school year in temporary locations due to fire damage to the new building, which has delayed its opening. The San Juan Brewfest returns for its fourth year on August 23-24, featuring over 100 types of beer and cider from more than 40 breweries. Safely enjoy the event with discounted designated driver tickets and various transportation options to avoid drinking and driving. The 26th annual Boggy Draw Beat Down bike race takes place on August 3rd, offering various race categories including a new one for participants over 65 and a family-friendly ride. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings and FASTSIGNS Durango.

La Plata County's Road & Bridge Department spans vast distances across Marvel, Durango, Ignacio, and Bayfield, ensuring crucial infrastructure remains safe and reliable throughout the year. Managing over 650 miles of roads, including both gravel and asphalt, their efforts encompass everything from grading and snowplowing to long-term planning based on traffic and community needs. Despite budget limitations, their meticulous planning, informed by traffic patterns and community needs, ensures essential routes remain operational and safe. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

La Plata County's Road & Bridge Department spans vast distances across Marvel, Durango, Ignacio, and Bayfield, ensuring crucial infrastructure remains safe and reliable throughout the year. Managing over 650 miles of roads, including both gravel and asphalt, their efforts encompass everything from grading and snowplowing to long-term planning based on traffic and community needs. Despite budget limitations, their meticulous planning, informed by traffic patterns and community needs, ensures essential routes remain operational and safe. By Sadie Smith . This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.