Addressing Equity: Discussion at Outdoor Recreation Roundtable in Leadville
A recent Outdoor Recreation (OREC) Business Equity Roundtable in Leadville became a pivotal forum for discussing barriers to equity in the outdoor recreation sector, particularly emphasizing challenges faced by the Latine population and local youth. Hosted with the participation of Senator John Hickenlooper and an array of local leaders, the roundtable identified pressing issues and potential solutions crucial for the community’s development.
Demographic Challenges and Economic Impacts
Leadville sits in Lake County, where the Hispanic community represents a significant portion of the population—40%. Alarmingly, demographic shifts show that 500 Hispanic residents have left the county over the past decade. This exodus raises concerns about inclusivity and belonging within the community and underscores the need to address barriers such as housing and job opportunities.
Economically, 76% of the county’s workforce commutes outside the county for employment, reflecting a lack of local job opportunities. The median home price in 2023 was a staggering $790,000, unaffordable for many, with 63% of renters being cost-burdened. These figures mark the highest rate in Colorado, illustrating the community’s severe housing crisis.
Outdoor recreation, a critical economic driver accounting for 25-35% of county revenue, has faced its own setbacks. The decline in activities such as 14er travel, down 37% from 2021 to 2023, signals potential economic shifts that require new strategies and participation from the community.
Seeking Solutions: Inclusive Programs and Industry Opportunities
Roundtable discussions explored methods to better involve youth and diverse populations in outdoor recreation. The consensus highlighted the need to develop programs that include these groups, address low industry pay, and tackle high living costs. Commissioner Hal Edwards emphasized the importance of culturally representative programs, drawing on his experiences with diverse outdoor programs in California.
Employee ownership emerged as a potential strategy for deeper industry engagement, with Melanzana Outdoor Clothing’s stock program serving as an example. Such initiatives can empower employees, increase investment in local businesses, and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Educational Partnerships and Language Barriers
Collaboration with educational institutions like high schools and Colorado Mountain College (CMC) was suggested to equip students with the necessary skills for the outdoor industry. However, limited backcountry permits restrict opportunities for new entrants, calling for policy adjustments.
Language barriers pose another significant challenge. Ensuring Spanish speakers aren’t excluded from discussions is vital, as noted by Luisa Porras, Lake County Build Generation Communications and Evaluations Coordinator. Porras shared concerns about the lack of accessible ESL classes and language justice, crucial to making non-English speakers feel welcome.
Senator Hickenlooper’s Recommendations and Community Implications
Senator Hickenlooper advocated for a comprehensive study on the congestion of public lands, suggesting bipartisan collaboration as essential to address housing and equity-related issues. His focus on creating community-centered programs and pathways for citizenship aligns with the need for a future where all community members are represented and engaged.
The implications of these discussions reach beyond the economic and into the heart of community building. By addressing housing affordability, job opportunities, and inclusive programming, the roundtable paved the way for actionable changes that could stabilize the local population and enhance the region’s quality of life.
Looking Ahead: Building Capacity and Representation
The roundtable underscored the challenge of keeping youth in Lake County and ensuring they find roles in the local economy. Programs like Get Outdoors Leadville! (GOL!) exemplify efforts to build community-centric career pipelines that engage young residents and prepare them for future opportunities.
“The ongoing dialogue and commitment to addressing these issues locally are essential,” remarked Adam Ducharme, Lake County Tourism and Economic Development Director. “Through creative problem-solving and shared goals, we’re focused on strengthening our community’s capacity to support all its residents.”
This conversation, capturing diverse perspectives and a commitment to inclusive growth, exemplifies how local interests can be aligned with broader economic development goals. As Leadville continues to face these challenges head-on, the community’s resilience and collaborative spirit remain its greatest assets.
For further information, residents are encouraged to contact the Lake County Tourism and Economic Development office or participate in upcoming public forums to voice their concerns and suggestions.
