The guest for today’s episode is Ben Scott. Ben is perhaps best known for his role as president of the Northern Colorado Climbers Coalition (NCCC), a position he has held for more than a decade. But Ben’s creative nature has taken him well beyond his experience as NCCC president. Ben has etched his name in the history books by establishing many first ascents around the greater Fort Collins area, using his skills as a graphic designer to publish several guidebooks for the region, and creating several dozen short films documenting northern Colorado climbing. His passion for the region is unmatched.

The NCCC was born out of the need to solidify legitimacy around an outdoor climbing competition at Horsetooth Reservoir, located immediately west of Fort Collins. Once he took over as president, Ben quickly saw the need for the organization to focus on the greater Fort Collins area, rather than just one area and one event all year long. Since then, the group has helped replace hundreds of bolts and anchors, build sustainable trails, and maintain strong community engagement. After 2020 put a lot of NCCC’s work on hold, the organization now has some great projects lined up for this year, particularly in the aftermath of the Cameron Peak fire. Cheers to Ben for leading the NCCC into another year of climbing advocacy.

Enjoy!

0:00- Ben’s Intro
9:49- Origins of NCCC
13:49- Ben’s vision for the NCCC
16:17- Reflecting on the past 10 years with NCCC
19:06- Working with land managers
30:40- Cameron Peak Fire
39:51- NCCC’s educational efforts
42:41- Fixed anchor replacement
46:16- Lowering vs. rappelling
49:41- Success of events and volunteer recruitment
53:37- Guidebooking
1:00:46- Ben’s short climbing videos
1:04:26- Ben’s definition of advocacy

Northern Colorado Climbers Coalition: https://nococlimbing.org/

NCCC’s Instagram: @nococlimber

Ben’s Instagram: @poudre_guide

Lory State Park: https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Lory

Cameron Peak Fire information: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6964/

Ben’s short climbing videos: https://vimeo.com/user3347032

Poudre Canyon Guidebook, 3rd edition: https://www.fixedpin.com/collections/climbing/products/poudre-canyon-rock-climbing-guide-3rd-edition

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