Red Lodge sits at the base of the magnificent Beartooth Mountains surrounded by rolling hills, valleys, and incredible wilderness. The mountains are populated by all types of wildlife. What would life be without a few white tail deer or wild turkeys wandering through the yard, let alone a moose or black bear? The mountains, the parks, the open spaces, the animals and the fresh air all contribute to our outstanding quality of life. Several organizations in our community work tirelessly to protect these valuable resources to be enjoyed far into the future.
The Beartooth Recreational Trails Association (BRTA) is responsible for the Red Lodge Nordic Center making it possible to enjoy cross country skiing. They also partner with other organizations in planning, constructing, and maintaining trails for non-motorized use around our community. The Airport Trail is a premiere trail close to residents, very well-used and with portions of it available year-round.
Several organizations seek to educate the public about the wise use of our resources and find ways to protect our environment. The focus of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Foundation is appreciation of wild lands and stewardship of those lands. The Foundation helps to build and maintain trails, eradicate invasive weeds and educate the public about good wilderness stewardship. The Green Space Fund encourages development and completion of Green projects in support of the natural environment. The Carbon County Resource Council affords people the opportunity to have a voice in advocating responsible use of our resources and finding solutions to problems that affect our unique quality of life. Peaks & Prairies Land Trust works in partnership with landowners to conserve and link natural areas, agricultural lands, wildlife habitat, cultural properties, trails and scenic open space in our area.
How about traveling to Yellowstone Park in one of the vehicles restored and maintained by the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust. These distinct yellow buses were used by the National Parks prior to World War II and their restoration preserves part of the heritage of Yellowstone Park and they are a great way to travel. Restore, Reuse, Revitalize Old Roosevelt intends to save an historical landmark and bring it back into the heart of our community as a space for arts, meetings, performances, retail, and community gatherings. Let’s get behind REWIND – Recycle E-Waste into New Devices and keep thousands of pounds of E-waste out of our landfills.
Animals are an important part of our way of life whether they are wild or pets. The Beartooth Humane Alliance assists animals and people in Carbon County by helping companion animals in need, promoting responsible animal care, and providing solutions to dog and cat overpopulation, and serving as an animal welfare resource. Canine Assistants places service dogs with people who have different disabilities which can be minimized with the assistance of a highly trained, capable canine. Double Ditch Dog Park, on the western edge of Red Lodge, provides outdoor recreation for pets of local residents as well as visitors to our area. And let us not forget those wild animals, the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary cares for animals that cannot be returned to the wild. A primary focus of the Sanctuary is to educate the public about protection and conservation of the Yellowstone Area and its natural habitats.
August 30, 3014 is our day to join others in support of the Red Lodge Fun Run for Charities. Make it a good day.