The Crested Butte News Serving the Gunnison Valley since 1999
The more sites the better
By Mark Reaman
The Crested Butte Town Council approved a draft letter to be sent to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) with comments on the proposed upgrade of the Oh Be Joyful campground in the Slate River Valley. The town owns or holds several conservation easements on several neighboring properties.
While stating that the town is “excited” about the planned upgrades, the council emphasized several points. They submitted about a dozen suggestions in the letter.
Among the points, the town is asking for trash service “including a bear-proof Dumpster.” They would like firewood collection in the area to be prohibited. They want more restrooms in the area. The idea of having potable water is a good one from the council’s perspective, along with the potential in the future for shower facilities. The council also asked that the BLM provide as many campsites as possible, given the increase in volume around the valleys in recent summers.
Town planner Michael Yerman said the BLM is asking for comments before June 15, so the letter will be sent this week.
“The takeaway from the letter is that the council is very happy the BLM is stepping up and improving that campground resource out there,” summarized mayor Glenn Michel.
