WHAT
WE DO
We are visible and active at the Park, contributing to the success of environmental and educational programs, and the experience of Park visitors.
Fund Educational Programs & Scholarships
Friends of Ridgway State Park recognizes the importance of education in achieving the goal of preserving our Park, its wildlife, geology, flora and recreational areas. We work to support the Park's many educational opportunities to equip visitors with the knowledge necessary for fishing, camping, hiking and wildlife viewing at the Park. We provide funding for the transportation of underserved populations to the Park, facilitate purchases of equipment and supplies for educational programs, as well as educational interpretive displays and signage throughout the Park and in the visitor center. We support other organizations that visit the Park to provide an educational experience to area youth such as Girl Scouts and local school districts.
Our scholarship program has provided over $40,000 in the support of young Coloradans pursuing careers in environmental conservation and other related subjects. Learn more about our scholarship program here.
Recent Projects
Bike racks were installed at the beach and the Visitors' Center courtesy of the Friends of Ridgway State Park. We were pleased to fund these two items for the Park and note they are well used.
Fundraise for Park Projects
Through sales of wood bundles and bags of ice to campers, Friends of Ridgway State Park has made a significant financial contribution to the Park and its programs. Contributions include:
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Microscopes and animal skulls for Parks in Education (PIE) Program.
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50% of busing for school age children to Parks in Education Program.
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Bird banding.
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Special Needs Program.
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Scholarship Program for college students enrolled in conservation, wildlife, park management, or similar areas of study (currently funding two $2500 scholarships annually).
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Eagle Scout, Boy Scout, and Girl Scout Gold Award Projects.
Other major projects funded include:
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2021 - Weatherport global dome over picnic area at Pa-Co-Chu-Pak.
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2020 - Shed for Friends of Ridgway State Park equipment.
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2016 - Weatherport global dome over picnic area in Dutch Charlie.
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2014 - Landscaping at the swim beach, and 10 benches at the Visitor Center patio.
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2011 - Bridge between the ponds at Pa-Co-Chu-Pak, and 4 new benches.
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2008 - Friends of Ridgway State Park Memorial Tree Grove.
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2007 - 2010 Flower Beds at the pavilion at Pa-Co-Chu-Pak
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2007 - 18 tent pads on Elkridge, and Visitor Center mural by artist Dan Aragon.
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2006 - 6 benches.
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2005 - 3 shade shelters.
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2004 - Log replacement bridge over Dallas Creek (original bridge destroyed in 1999 flood).
Event Planning & Organization
Friends of Ridgway State Park is active in assisting Park staff with planning and organizing events such as Lake Appreciation Day and others.
Bluebird Monitoring & Bird Banding
Friends of Ridgway State Park participates in bluebird monitoring and bird banding at the Park to assist in determining population trends and identify problems birds may be having with predators and competitors.
JOIN US TODAY
In our Mission to Protect the Wildlife, Plant Communities and Recreational Areas of Ridgway State Park