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How a science experiment to grow native plants on Copper’s slopes is inspiring collaboration in the ski industry
By Ryan Spencer Follow
rspencer@steamboatpilot.com at Glenwood Springs Post Independent
· July 18, 2026
· 7 min read
Katherine Riesberg, a graduate of Middle Park High School in Grand County, has been skiing since the age of two.
Riesberg said her love for outdoor recreation is a big part of what led her to pursue a Masters of Science and Ecology at Western Colorado University, where her thesis project led h...
Key takeaway “I was absolutely jazzed when I first heard about this project,” Riesberg told a crowd gathered on the steep, rock slope of the Bittersweet Trail.
Why this matters in Aspen News
Aspen 's own experience with drought and low snowpack makes the Copper Mountain carbon sequestration study particularly relevant. The Roaring Fork Valley's ecosystem is similarly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, and the collective action approach being taken at Copper Mountain could serve as a model for local conservation efforts. The involvement of major ski companies and resorts in the study is also noteworthy, given the significant role that the ski industry plays in Pitkin County's economy. As the study continues to develop methods for increasing native plant diversity on ski trails, it will be worth watching to see whether similar initiatives are undertaken at Aspen's own ski resorts, and how these efforts might intersect with existing conservation work in the area, such as efforts to mitigate wildfire danger and protect the Roaring Fork River.
About this story
Original reporting by Glenwood Springs Post Independent . Aspen News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: schools ·
Published: July 18, 2026 ·
Source: Glenwood Springs Post Independent ·
Reading time: 7 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Katherine Riesberg, a graduate of Middle Park High School in Grand County, has been skiing since the age of two.
Riesberg said her love for outdoor recreation is a big part of what led her to pursue a Masters of Science and Ecology at Western Colorado University, where her thesis project led h...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 18, 2026 by Glenwood Springs Post Independent and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Ryan Spencer Follow
rspencer@steamboatpilot.com at Glenwood Springs Post Independent. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more schools coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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