TLN August 31, 2023

Man found deceased in San Miguel River is identified, BLM proposes more stringent regulations and fees on oil and gas leasing, meteorologists are forecasting the peak for fall colors, and Moonbeam Girl jewelry dazzles the stars at Telluride Film Festival.

Telluride kids are back in school and 2022 performance assessments are out, Telluride Medical Center is in a financial crisis and seeking a mill levy for funding, Planet Bluegrass owner Craig Ferguson faces harassment allegations, and bears that broke into local homes escape capture and are not euthanized.

Pella Ward, a 16-year-old cyclist from Telluride, has been ripping up the Enduro circuit this summer. This was her first season competing, and after taking third place in her first race as an amateur, she went on to take first place at the next four events held across the West. In her final enduro race in Snowmass, Ward registered in the pro division, and won again. Congrats, Pella!

National Monument boundaries survive legal challenge and President Biden creates new National Monument outside the Grand Canyon, County Commissioners approve rezoning of Ilium property for community housing, Thor Energy receives a permit to do exploratory drilling for uranium in the West End zone district, and yes, Black Bear Pass is still closed.

Bridal Veil Falls, at the east end of the Telluride valley, is the tallest waterfall in Colorado—and also one of the most beautiful. There is a nice trail where you can hike up and check it out for yourself.

Cornet Creek trail is closed due to rockslide, Zach Van Stratt competes in U.S. finals of the DMC DJ Battle in New York City, wildlife officials are considering reintroducing wolverines in Colorado, and Jagged Edge sports store is hosting the Ballard Badass Challenge this month.

Check out a few of the highlights from the 2023 San Miguel Basin Fair & Rodeo.

Thunder Fire near Norwood is completely contained, San Miguel County to issue refunds to Aldasoro homeowners who were charged impact fees in error, Telluride Top Chef competition is heating up, and monsoon season arrives in town.

Results of Telluride's short-term rental study released, Homewood Ranch property on Wilson Mesa listed for sale, Search and Rescue responds to hikers stuck on El Diente route, San Juan National Forest officials warn people to avoid contact with bears when hiking and camping, and get your ducks in a row for next week's KOTO Duck Race.