Wild Bear energized for "net-positivity"

CHRISTOPHER KELLEY

MUD LAKE — The beautiful surroundings of the Peak to Peak area face several natural and manmade challenges, from climate change causing increased fire risk and diminished water levels, to suburban, commercial, and recreational expansion threatening the health and stabilization of the ecosystem and local wildlife.

Mountain residents—already well-versed in exercising their resiliency—are forced to adapt to the new reality caused by these challenges as they learn to navigate Public Safety Power Shutoffs due to severe winds and increasingly dry weather conditions. 

Luckily, the Peak to Peak area is home to one organization which carries these concerns and advocates for the environment and for the community as they become increasingly impacted by environmental issues: Wild Bear Nature Center (WBNC). 

Throughout 2025, The Mountain-Ear covered the non-profit nature education organization’s progress in both the capital campaign for and construction of its brand new 8,500 square foot campus located right next to Mud Lake, just north of Nederland, conveniently close to Nederland Elementary School.