On this episode of Common Air, host Louise Snodgrass is joined by Emily Bell, Farmer Training Program Coordinator at Old Fort Lewis in Hesperus, Colorado. Nestled 16 miles southwest of Durango, the Old Fort at Hesperus is steeped in the history of the Southwest. Now, the Old Fort hosts Farmer Training Programs, a market garden feeding Fort Lewis Campus and the Community, and more.

Emily dives into the evolving history of the Old Fort, once a military base and Federal Indian Boarding school now a functioning farm that is focused on reconcilitation for the property's past and supporting farming education for the community. Together, Louise and Emily talk about the farming training programs, the interesting growing conditions of our region, and their upcoming 5th Annual Convergence event.

Tune in to learn about the impact of the Old Fort at Hesperus and some tips for growing at high altitude.

On August 4th, Angela Reynolds, Fairgrounds Manager with La Plata County, Angela Fountain, 4-H Youth Development Specialist with CSU Extension joined the show to talk all things La Plata County Fair. For over 70 years, the La Plata County Fair has stood as a valued institution, inspiring pride in all who take part. 4-H has been a vital part of the La Plata County Fair with the earliest record of their work in La Plata County dating back to 1918.

Angela and Angela begin by talking about the history and the legacy of La Plata County 4-H and the La Plata County before diving right into this year's events and activities. Tune in to learn all about the hype surrounding our local County Fair and County Fairs across the country!

Happy semiquincentennial! On this episode of Common Air, Susan Jones, collections manager at the Animas Museum joins us to dive more into the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of the Independence and the major moments happening in our region.

150 years ago Colorado become the 38th state, and right here in La Plata County, Animas City (now a part Durango, Colorado) become an incorporated town. Susan discusses the history of our region and how it ties to our state history and our nation's history. She also highlights the exhibits at the museum, including "Moments That Made US", "Animas City, Looking Down on Durango since 1876", as well as "Crossroads: 1776–2026".

Tune in to hear some fun history, what the Animas City Museum is up to, and how you can celebrate our nation's semiquincentennial.

Common Air is back for Season 2! We’re kicking things off with Jennaye Derge from Bike Durango to talk all things bike safety, advocacy, and making everyday trips around town a little easier by bike.

Since 2021, Bike Durango has been inspiring more people to hop on two wheels while advocating for safer streets and better connections throughout our community. Jennaye shares how education and community advocacy are helping create a future where biking is a practical, accessible, and comfortable way for more people to get around Durango.

In this episode, we chat about what makes streets safer for cyclists, Colorado bike laws, and tips for anyone interested in trying bike commuting. Jennaye shares helpful advice to build confidence and make the road a more welcoming place for everyone.

With extra dry weather and fire-restrictions popping up across Southwestern Colorado, getting outside responsibly is important for visitors and locals alike. In this episode of Common Air, Louise Snodgrass is joined by Jennie Green, Executive Director at Visit Pagosa. Jennie shares her tips and tricks for recreating safely, and expands on the role of tourism in our communities.

Love it or hate it, visitors make a big impact in our communities. In recent years, resort communities have shifted to 'destination management' over 'destination marketing'. Jennie explains this shift and the work her organization is doing to educate visitors. But the responsibility to protect our landscape and prevent unexpected events doesn't just fall on visitors, it is our responsibility, too.

Tune in to learn about education tools, fire-restrictions, and what the future of our region's tourism could look like.

The June primary is upon us! DYK, primary elections have the lowest turnout of any election? On this episode of Common Air, Louise Snodgrass is joined by La Plata County League of Women Voters Board Members, Wendy Pollack and Jan Phillips. Wendy and Jan discuss the importance of voting and getting involved with our democracy.

Jan and Wendy also discuss the League of Women Voters history as well as who the League is totday. La Plata County's chapter hosts events and programs throughout to inform the community about national, state, and local issues as well as provide opportunities to learn about the democratic process.

Tune in to learn all about the superpowering that is voting and don't forget to turn in your ballots but June 3oth, 2026 by 7pm!

Over the past 15 years, the Powerhouse has empowered kids of all ages to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math. On this episode of Common Air, Sydnie Golden, Deputy Director of the Powerhouse, joins us to share more of their mission and impact across Southwest Colorado.

Orginally a coal-fired steam-power AC generating plant, the Powerhouse has transformed into a welcoming space to learn and explore through play. Sydnie shares current opportunities for families, including their Summer Discovery Camps, field trips, and science exhibits. She also shares exciting new things on the horizon. The Powerhouse is opening Wonderlab Early Learning, a liscened childcare facility where they will provide WonderLab Early Learning is a licensed childcare center that will provide full-day, year-round care.

Don't miss a chance to connect with the Powerhouse at their summer Community Concert series! Learn more at https://powsci.org/calendar/

Flowing from the Colorado's San Juan Mountains to the San Juan River in New Mexico, the Animas River has shaped people, wildlife, and our landscape from time immemorial. On this episode of Common Air, Louise Snodgrass is joined by Willis Wood, Boardmember of Animas Rivers Days and avid kayaker to discuss today's community surrounding the Animas River and the impacts this river has on our lives.

Since 1985 the Animas River has been celebrated at Animas River Days in Durango, CO. This year Animas River Days takes place on May 30 & May 31, 2026 with professional river sport competitions and community events. Willis shares new exciting events to encourage greater participation from everyday river lovers, including a Hot Dog Relay, Live Music, and an all-day Slam "Raft" Ball event. He also discusses the local river scene and how any one should get on the river in their own way.

Learn more about Animas River Days at https://www.animasriverdays.com/