We are a grassroots conservation nonprofit based in Crested Butte and Gunnison, Colorado. Since 1977, we’ve fought to protect our home from the threats of mining, development, and climate change - while building solutions through advocacy, education, restoration, and community action. Through collaboration with local stakeholders and policymakers, application of sound science, education, and High Country Conservation Advocates strives to uphold the environmental integrity of the Gunnison Country.
High Country Conservation Advocates is a grassroots non-profit dedicated to protecting the health, integrity, and beauty of the public lands, waters, and wildlife of Colorado's Gunnison Country.
High Country Conservation Advocates was founded in 1977 to protect the Gunnison Country from a proposed molybdenum mine on Mt. Emmons. Known locally as "Red Lady," Mt. Emmons rises directly above the Town of Crested Butte's historic district. After 47 years of advocacy, in August of 2024, HCCA, working in partnership with the Town of Crested Butte, the owners of the mine properties, and other community partners, was able to secure permanent protections on Mt. Emmons through the completion of a land exchange, mineral extinguishment, and conservation easements—therefore declaring Red Lady forever mine-free!
As an outgrowth of this work, we have become the Gunnison Country's environmental leader through the development of programs aimed at protecting public lands, waters, and wildlife in an area that covers more than 3,500 square miles. Gunnison County alone is comprised of over 80% public land and the Gunnison River is the 5th largest tributary to the Colorado River.
Our work ensures these iconic public lands, waters, and wildlife will be healthy for generations to come.
Organization name
High Country Conservation Advocates
other names
HCCA
1977
Tax id (EIN)
84-0772688
Category
Environment
Organization Size
Medium Organization
Address
P.O. Box 1066Mailing
P.O. Box 1066Gunnison County, CO, US