Ouray Ice Park Secures Future Through Partnership with Silver Mine
The Ouray Ice Park, a crucial destination for ice climbing, has secured an alliance with Ouray Silver Mines to ensure a sustainable water supply amid climate change challenges. This partnership enables the park to thrive by providing more water, which is essential for creating climbing routes, ultimately benefiting local businesses and the community dependent on winter tourism.
America’s premier ice-climbing destination, Ouray, is confronting the adverse effects of climate change, which has jeopardized its water supply. Fortunately, the nearby Ouray Silver Mines has emerged as an unexpected ally, providing much-needed water resources to ensure the sustainability of the ice park, renowned for its challenging climbing routes. The partnership is crucial as climate-related droughts threaten to diminish water availability, while the popularity of winter tourism continues to rise.
For three decades, Ouray has piped water from a gorge to freeze and create climbing routes in its artificial ice park, attracting enthusiasts globally. Clint Cook, a mountain guide, emphasizes the park’s significance, stating, “It’s definitely an ice climbing Mecca” and is unparalleled in its appeal as a winter destination. As the number of winter visitors increased, local residents worried about water rationing impacting climbing activities, reminding each other to conserve water for ice creation.
The situation has transformed thanks to Ouray Silver Mines, which agreed to lease substantial water rights at a nominal fee of $1. Peter O’Neil, the nonprofit’s executive director, expressed optimism regarding the arrangement’s potential, noting that the mine’s water supply could be three to five times greater than the existing resources. This development promises to alleviate reliance on municipal water supplies, securing the ice park’s future for local business owners who depend on winter tourism.
Ouray, with a population of approximately 900, has historical roots tied to the Colorado Silver Rush. Although silver mining declined in the 20th century, industrial resurgence has occurred due to increased demand from renewable energy technologies. Brian Briggs, the former CEO of Ouray Silver Mines, confirmed the partnership enhances community relations and demonstrates a commitment to the local area, stating, “People need to know that the mine’s not just this bad group of people.”
Ongoing climate change presents challenges beyond drought, including the need for specific temperature conditions essential for ice formation. The park necessitates several days of temperatures below -7°C (19°F) to allow for successful ice generation. The alliance with the silver mine plays a vital role in providing the necessary water for ice production and maintaining the park’s operations.
Annual visitors contribute approximately $18 million to the local economy, further underscoring the park’s significance. Long-time climber Jen Brinkley recalls her earlier trips to Ouray, stating, “There was never a thought of, ‘oh, wait, what if there’s no ice?'” She expresses hope that the mine’s water provision will enhance the park’s climbing experience by increasing the number of accessible routes, benefiting all visitors.
The partnership between Ouray Silver Mines and the Ouray Ice Park marks a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by climate change on water resources. This collaboration not only ensures the survival of the ice park for future generations of climbers but also supports the local community reliant on winter tourism. By providing a sustainable water supply, the mine helps preserve an iconic recreational site while fostering positive relations with the community, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Original Source: www.communitynewspapergroup.com
