High Country Conservation Center

Temporary Recycling For Political Yard Signs
2020-01-01 00:00 (America/Denver)
The High Country Conservation Center is partnering with the towns of Breckenridge and Frisco for a temporary yard sign recycling program. Dates vary and are limited. Some candidates collect their signs for reused – please check with your local candidate and/or campaign committee before recycling. Corrugated plastic political signs, along with the metal stakes (which should be separated from the signs), will be accepted for recycling at the following locations:

Frisco/Copper Visitor Information Center (300 Main Street in Frisco): Drop off signs any day Tuesday, Nov. 6 through Tuesday, Nov. 13 from 9am to 5pm.
Breckenridge Town Hall (150 Ski Hill Road in Breckenridge, leave in the Sustainability Office, lower level): Drop off signs weekdays only from Tuesday, Nov. 6 through Tuesday, Nov. 13 from 9am to 5pm.

Please do not leave signs outside, as they will blow away and become trash. Also, take note: yard signs are not accepted at the Summit County recycling centers or in curbside recycling.

Imagine a Day Without Water
2020-01-01 00:00
Imagine a day with no water in Lake Dillon, with stream flows too low to support wildlife. Water is not only essential to life, it’s an integral piece of our mountain lifestyle – from the places we play to the beer we drink. To raise awareness of this precious resource, water providers across Summit County will offer facility tours on and around October 10. Learn about where your water comes from and how water providers bring this precious resource from the stream to your home.

Copper Mountain Metropolitan District: call 970-968-2390 to set up a tour

Town of Dillon: call 970-262-3426 to set up a tour

Town of Breckenridge: call 970-547-3110 to set up a tour

Town of Frisco: Offering tours of the water plant in 3 one hour time blocks with a max of 25 people per block. The time blocks will be as follows: 10AM to 11AM, 1PM to 2PM and 3PM to 4PM. Please call Teresa @ 970-668-0836 to RSVP with your pick of time slot.

Imagine a Day Without Water: Join the national movement and share why you love water using #ValueWater.

Climate Action Collaborative Open House
2020-01-01 00:00
Please join HC3 and its community partners for a Climate Action Open House! We’ll kick off the evening with a brief presentation about the process we went through to develop a Climate Action Plan for our community. Afterwards, attendees will have the opportunity to visit stations to learn about different aspects of the plan and to provide their feedback.

Light refreshments will be provided, and the bar will be open.

DIY Home Energy Efficiency Workshop
2020-01-01 00:00
Join HC3’s energy experts for a free workshop on fast, easy & affordable home energy efficiency projects. Light refreshments will be served and all attendees will receive a free home energy efficiency kit.

Wild & Scenic Film Festival
2020-01-01 00:00
Continental Divide Land Trust and HC3 have partnered once again to bring you the 7th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival. This festival portrays individuals and communities across the globe solving climate change issues revolving around water conservation, energy, food systems, biodiversity, resource management, and the protection and restoration of wild lands and wild waters. You’ll explore the world improving movements with leading environmental activists and professionals, filmmakers and celebrities, celebrating the natural and human world in all its diversity.

The Wild & Scenic Film Festival is the closing event of Ullr Festival and provides inspiration for the whole family. Beer, wine, soda, and movie snacks are available for purchase. Epic prizes are given away at intermission.

Tickets available for $25 at Riverwalk Center event doors on event day, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019.

For questions, please send us an email, call HC3 at 970-668-5703, or visit our Resource Page. Check out the trailer below:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bu0ll_kkQ1s?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

Succulent Workshop
2020-01-01 00:00
Join HC3 & local, small business owner, Virginia Hammock, as we learn more about the fascinating world of succulents. This workshop will cover basic care of the plants, propagation techniques, and troubleshooting issues.

RSVP Here

Download flyer HERE

30th Annual Tim McClure Benefit
2020-01-01 00:00
HC3’s largest fundraiser of the year includes a beer tasting with 6 local breweries breweries – Angry James, Baker’s Brewery, Broken Compass, Dillon Dam Brewery, HighSide Brewing and Pug Ryan’s – plus, wine from Antler’s Liquor & Wine Cellar. The Tim McClure Benefit also includes one of the largest silent auctions in the county, music from Ms. Amy and the Jet Set, and live entertainment with the EveryBelly Dancers. Click to learn more about the Tim McClure Benefit.

Held in memory of Tim McClure, a conservation pioneer who began Summit’s first recycling program back in 1976, the benefit honors his legacy and supports the HC3 programs that continue his vision. The event also recognizes the conservation efforts of community members and businesses with the presentation of the Green Scene Awards. It takes place thanks to generous in-kind donations from Vail Resorts’ EpicPromise.

Recycling at the Rio
2020-01-01 00:00
Who should attend: Anyone with questions about or interest in local recycling, both current and future state. Topics include what we can recycle, what we can’t recycle and why, how recycling is funded, and opportunities – including the upcoming Ballot Measure 1A – for expanding recycling in Summit County.

Hosted by: High Country Conservation Center

What’s Taking Place: Did you know that recycling a TV is free to Summit County residents? Or that glass is not allowed in curbside recycling? Recycling rules and opportunities vary depending on where you live and how you recycle. On Thursday, Oct. 11, High Country Conservation Center will answer all your recycling questions and discuss the future of recycling in Summit County.

We’ll cover all the details of Ballot Measure 1A: it’s up for vote this November and offers a solution for funding recycling in Summit County. It’s an essential first step in meeting our community-wide goal of 40% diversion by 2035.

This family-friendly event includes free appetizers and “Classic Rio Marg” specials. We’ll wrap up with a quick trivia session, and attendees will have a chance to win gift cards courtesy of the Rio.

RSVP Here

Breckenridge Recycling Forum
2020-01-01 00:00
The Town of Breckenridge and HC3 invite Breckenridge residents to discuss a proposed “Save as You Recycle” program to increase recycling in Breckenridge. This program will allow residents to select different size curbside trash bins, with smaller trash bins (and large recycling containers) costing less than larger trash bins.

Thurs, June 28, 5:30-7pm. Presentation to begin at 5:30pm.

Breck Rec Center, Multi-Purpose Room

Download Flyer

10th Annual Harvest Dinner
2020-01-01 00:00
Growing and distributing local and sustainable food is part of the mission of the High Country Conservation Center (HC3). This year, HC3 celebrates our locally produced foods at the 10th Annual Harvest Dinner, Tuesday, September 18th from 5-9:30pm at Frisco Prime. This four-course meal is created solely with donations from local farms and food sources. Plates are $65 for adults and $30 for children, with all proceeds benefitting HC3.

Chef Vincent Monarca prides himself on being eco-minded as he prepares this five-course meal based on locally sourced, organic, or sustainably produced ingredients.

Limited reservations available. The following are current times and party sizes available. Please contact Barry Rubenstein by calling 970-668-5703 or emailing barry@highcountryconservation.org to reserve your spot!

Party of 6 at 8:45 pm

Visit our EVENT PAGE for more resources and information.

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

#BeLocal Day
2020-01-01 00:00
Come to The Crown in Breckenridge or Abbey’s Coffee in Frisco on Wednesday, July 25th from 7:30-9am for HC3’s #BeLocal Day. Chat with staff and board members of HC3, learn about our programs and grab a free water bottle (limited supply).

Being “local” isn’t defined by “us vs. them” or by how many years you may have lived in Summit County or by how many days you’ve skied. Being local is a state of mind. And, it’s how you act!

We believe that anyone and everyone who loves this place embodies the spirt of a local and can #BeLocal.

We want to celebrate our locals – for who they are and what they believe. And, most importantly, we want to activate you to care even more … to care enough to give back, to conserve, to recycle and to get involved.

So, let’s join together to create a brighter, better future. Because, after all, we can all #BeLocal! Join us.

Ribbon Cutting - Leslie's Community Garden
2020-01-01 00:00
Town of Dillon was the only community without a community garden until now! Thanks to a generous donation from the Stair family and the hard work of town staff, Dillon now has a community garden to call its own. Join us for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, July 5 from 6-7pm.

Please RSVP to Linda Oliver, Event Coordinator, at lmook3@gmail.com or 773-575-2623 by June 29, 2018.

DIY Energy Efficiency Workshop
2020-01-01 00:00
Just in time for summer project season, join HC3’s Energy Team for a crash course on DIY energy efficiency improvements. Learn home energy basics and how to tackle projects like caulking windows, replacing door weather stripping, installing programmable thermostats, and swapping aerators on faucets. This free workshop will take place Thursday, June 21st from 5:30 – 6:30 PM at the Summit County Community & Senior Center. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Each person that registers will receive a free energy-saving tool kit valued at $30 plus a code for $20 off a home energy assessment. Sign up today by emailing Jess.

23rd Annual Keystone Bluegrass & Beer Festival - Zero-Waste Event
2020-01-01 00:00
The High Country Conservation Center is proud to be working with The Keystone Neighbourhood Company and Keystone Festivals as Zero-Waste educators at the 23rd Annual Keystone Bluegrass & Beer Festival, August 3 & 4, 2019.

Volunteers will receive an event t-shirt, tickets for food and drinks, discounts on taster glasses, and plenty of good Karma! There are a lot of different positions available so if you would like to volunteer for this great event. About the Event:
Keystone brings the wonders of Appalachia to the Rockies. Down-home cooking, frothy flavors, and mountain music are just pieces of the pie. In a whirlwind of hillbilly luxuries, folks gather while 40+ craft breweries from Colorado and beyond showcase their unique blends of hops and barleys while some of the best national and regional bluegrass acts entertain on three different village stages.

HC3 Board of Directors Meeting
2020-01-01 00:00

2018 CSA Celebration
2020-01-01 00:00
In celebration of locally grown food, the High Country Conservation is hosting its Annual CSA Celebration, Tuesday, August 14th from 5-7pm at the Summit CSA greenhouses in Frisco. Appetizers and libations will be served, and you’ll get the chance to tour the greenhouses and mingle with HC3 staff & board members, as well as other community members. RSVP to Barry Rubenstein at barry@highcountryconservation.org.

Click Here to RSVP

Shred Day
2020-01-01 00:00
Alpine Bank invites you to a free community Shred ay on Wednesday, June 20, 2018 from 10am to 2pm at Alpine Bank Dillon. Shred any unwanted documents with personal information at this on-site event. Staples or paperclips do not need to be removed. All donations benefit the Rotary Club of Summit County.

*Limit four boxes per person & business.

Download Flyer

Frisco BBQ Challenge: Zero Waste Event
2020-01-01 00:00
Volunteers are the backbone of the Colorado BBQ Challenge in Frisco. They do everything from selling beer to moving tables to assisting with registration and selling t-shirts. This event would not happen without the hundreds of volunteers who donate their time year after year.

The Colorado BBQ Challenge is also extremely proud to be a Zero Waste event proving that you can eat great BBQ, have fun AND care for our beautiful mountain environment all at the same time. Come make a difference by volunteering with the High Country Conservation Center to make our Zero Waste efforts successful! Volunteers receive an event t-shirt and food and drink tickets along with some good karma. [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VTxWDSsvNI&w=500&h=315]

Free Recycling Event
2020-01-01 00:00
Click to see what’s accepted.

Drop off your hard to recycle items | Saturday, August 28

High Country Conservation Center in partnership with Summit County will be helping residents properly dispose of their household hazardous waste (HHW) by making dropping off these items easy. The community is invited to bring their unwanted paint, household cleaners, electronic waste, medications, and gently used clothing to the Summit Stage Bus Barn on August 28th from 8AM – 2PM. See what’s accepted. Certain HHW exclusions will apply.

HHW materials are also accepted year-round at the Summit County Resource Allocation Park Monday – Friday 7am -3:30pm and Saturday 7am-noon. Learn more about HHW recycling or call HC3 at (970) 668-5703.

Blue River Explorer Hike
2020-01-01 00:00
Join the High Country Conservation Center (HC3), Blue River Watershed Group, Town of Silverthorne and Trout Unlimited for the Blue River Explorer Hike – a part of Silverthorne’s First Friday lineup – from 4-7pm on June 1, 2018.

Taking place at the Bandstand on the Blue at the Silverthorne Pavilion, this celebration will showcase Cycle Silverthorne and the Blue River Explorer Hike, a ¾-mile activity-based hike where one can record their observations about water management and stream ecology. Interpretive signs along the Blue River Trail through the Silverthorne Town Core highlight various aspects of the river system including water management, trout biology, watershed mechanics and water conservation.

Bring the kids as the Wish for Wheels organization will be building 25 bikes for needed children. With the Explorer Hike the kiddos will also receive a free kids activity booklet and stickers.

The Shaky Hand String Band will be on hand with live music and vendors on-hand to help you learn about water conservation and the case for action for managing water.

Meeting the Demand For Water – Water Usage
Meeting the Demand For Water – Challenges
Water Conservation

Energy/Business Committee Meeting
2020-01-01 00:00

Fundraising Committee Meeting
2020-01-01 00:00
Quarterly fundraising committee meeting for the High Country Conservation Center. Open to the public.

How a Garden Can Give Back to the Community
2020-01-01 00:00
Come out for a tour of the beautiful, new Leslie’s Garden in Dillon. Meet and greet with the steering committee & gardeners, as well as learn tips, tricks and tactics on leadership, funding, garden aesthetics, and how to produce a community garden that can give back to the community.

Planning to Grow for You, Planning to Grow to Share
2020-01-01 00:00
Join HC3’s Community Program Coordinator, Hallie Jaeger, for lessons on food waste prevention and how to donate excess harvest to families in need through the Grow to Share Program. WIC (Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children) Director, Whitney Horner, will be on-hand to share healthy recipes and speak about the impact of your donations.

Download Flyer

The Seed Library
2020-01-01 00:00
Did you know Summit County Libraries has a seed library? Join HC3 Board Member and expert gardener, Jenny Hammock, as she teaches you how to use the seed library, how to “check out” seeds, and how to plant them so they grow to seed. Environmental Educator, Dana Wissmiller, will be on-site to share a live participatory demonstration of planting seeds as well!

Download flyer

Seed Starting & High Alpine Gardening Info
2020-01-01 00:00
Are you ready to get a jump start on gardening? Join HC3 as expert gardeners, and High Country CSA farmer Kyla LaPlante, instruct you on how to start seeds indoors in preparation for gardening season. Summit County’s short growing season makes it hard to grow plants that take loner to mature, but starting seeds is a great way to get a head start. Get answers to your gardening questions at this free workshop!

Download Flyer

Tiki Tuesday Luau
2020-01-01 00:00
Join the High Country Conservation Center, Broken Compass Brewing & Après Handcrafted Libations for the Tiki Tuesday Luau! Broken Compass will be providing a special “outside the taproom” release of its Coconut Porter and Apres will be issuing a special Tiki Tuesday menu featuring a few tiki-inspired cocktails.

10% of all cocktail and Broken Compass purchases will benefit HC3, so get ready to get your tiki on!

More event details to come soon ….

Summit County Green Drinks
2020-01-01 00:00
Welcome to Summit County Green Drinks!
Green Drinks is a social networking event for individuals interested in sustainability and the environment.

Please join us for a conversation about local sustainability efforts and conservation trends here in Summit County. Find out what’s happening with Summit County, the local towns, non-profits, and businesses. Attendees are encouraged to share any current or future sustainability initiatives with the group. Come network and engage with members of our community.

March Giving Tap
2020-01-01 00:00
What’s better than beer? How about beer for a cause?!
Join HC3, Broken Compass Brewing and Apres Handcrafted Libations all month long for the Giving Tap. 10% of all proceeds from the Broken Compass tap line will be donated to the High Country Conservation Center in March 2018.
All you have to do is order a Broken Compass beer and enjoy. Of course if you would like to make an additional donation aside from your draft purchase, you can do that too!
Thank you for supporting your local non-profits!

"What Will Summit County's Winters Be Like in 2050" with NOAA Research Scientist, Klaus Wolter
2020-01-01 00:00
Join the High Country Conservation Center and Friends of the Dillon Ranger District for a presentation at Colorado Mountain College in Breckenridge about climate issues in Summit County, including snowpack, drought, wildfires, and pine beetle epidemic.

Klaus Wolter is UC-Boulder Scientist that works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). He recently has been working on predicting climate patterns for the entire country. He has created statistical tools that help to predict season climate and assess extreme weather events. Klaus is also involved in studying the level of impact that humans have on our current climate patterns, especially in regards to weather extremes.
