The 1% for Open Space program began in March of 1997, when the Alpineer (a local outdoor retail shop) became the first area business to collect a voluntary 1% on its sales receipts as a contribution for open space acquisition. Other businesses quickly followed the Alpineer’s lead, with over two dozen businesses signing up by the end of the ski season. Businesses from restaurants to retail shops and doctors to contractors have joined in, and the impact has been significant. Now, in 2004, almost $850,000 have been collected, which have aided the Crested Butte Land Trust in purchasing the Lower Loop, the Robinson Parcel, and the Rozman Ranch, as well as other smaller projects. 1% funds have also helped the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory with their Gothic Meadow project and the Gunnison Ranchland Legacy to preserve the Guerreri and Lazy F Bar Ranches. Due to the success of the program, 1% for Open Space, Inc, was formed in 2001 to keep track of and administer the collected funds. All donations accepted are available for use to any non-profit organization working to permanently preserve open space in the Gunnison Valley.

Participating businesses either add 1% as a voluntary donation to their bills, or donate 1% of their billings themselves. The great majority of the businesses are adding the 1%, as very few customers have declined to make the donation when asked. It appears that well over 95% of their customers or clients enthusiastically support the donation, and there is even evidence that some people are seeking out businesses to patronize that support this open space program. Most are more than willing to make a donation of a few cents in their daily purchases. All participating businesses post signs in their establishments so that the public is informed of their involvement.

Raising the awareness of open space preservation is another important part of the 1% for Open Space mission statement. Since grants are usually predicted on significant local contribution, a show of local support can increase the amount of funding from other organizations. We want participants to understand the program and the implications of their contribution.

Statewide and national publicity has been growing. 1% for Open Space, Inc. continually fields calls from land preservation entities across the United States interested in all aspects of the program. The Gunnison Valley is serving as an example for numerous organizations that are in the process of trying to establish similar programs.

We believe that preserving open space in our community is simply “good business” and that it is an important investment in our economy’s future. We feel fortunate to live in a beautiful place, which attracts thousands of visitors each year. Most residents agree that now is the time to be thinking of open space preservation in order to provide guests with a pristine and unique experience, and to maintain our quality of life. Colorado and other scenic destinations have been under siege in recent years. We want the Gunnison Valley to remain a special place, unique in its sweeping views, conscientious growth, and forward-thinking attitude. Controlled development is the key to the future. Our goal is to enlist as many valley businesses as possible—retail and service. As the program is enthusiastically supported by a majority of residents and visitors, the potential is there to raise several hundred thousand dollars each year, and to take charge of our future.