Fort Garland Revitalization Committee plans for 2023

Photo by Diane Drekmann The Fort Garland Revitalization Committee is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the beauty of Fort Garland through programs and actions that benefit the community now and for future generations. Picture left to right are Marguerite Hoaglund, Vice President; Lisa Gonzales, Treasurer; Aleysha Williams, CIO; Sharon Gibson, President; and Nadine Barron. Not pictured is Pam Thompson, new Secretary.

FORT GARLAND — The Fort Garland Revitalization Committee is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the beauty of Fort Garland through programs and actions that benefit the community now and for future generations.

Their name may not be familiar, but evidence of their work is seen throughout Fort Garland. From lilac bushes in the cemetery to the flower boxes in town, the Fort Garland Revitalization Committee is responsible for that as well as providing water and the sprinkler system for the cemetery.

Their volunteers run the visitor center. Repainting and repairing signs are other examples of what the Fort Garland Committee does.

The non-profit organization was formed in 1989. The committee consists of residents, volunteers, and neighbors of the Fort Garland area. They only meet in summer — from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The committee had a meeting on Aug. 11. Their final meeting of the year is Sept. 8, at the Fort Garland/Blanca Community Center at 5:30 p.m.

The meeting on Aug. 11, discussed mainly items for next year. They hope to have more regular hours at the visitor center.

Grants through the Colorado Garden Foundation help fund the maintenance of the cemetery and the park. A drip sprinkler system was installed for greater water efficiency.

The Fort Garland Revitalization Committee also collaborates with the San Luis Valley Tourism Board. They hope to create a memorabilia book that people can get stamped at different locales. They also want to create postcards.

The Fort Garland Revitalization Committee also supports the Suicide Awareness and Prevention community walk in San Luis on Sept. 10. The committee supplies food and drinks which are provided by the Fort Garland farmer's market, creating a solution where everyone benefits.

If interested in being part of Fort Garland Revitalization Committee, contact Sharon Gibson at 719-588-7242.