Who is FOND? - From private land owners to public land users, from ranchers to recreationists and the rest of us who love Unaweep  Canyon, Gateway, CO, and the Dolores River - Friends of Northern Dolores -share a love for this landscape and a commitment to its future!

What is FOND? - FOND is not a dues paying organization. It is a concept around which people have organized. FOND believes the public should be able to respectfully and responsibly explore and enjoy their portion of this incredible landscape, and as such empowers supporters to do just that through FOND sponsored group hikes and astronomy campouts, volunteer days and heritage events. Click here for a list of past and upcoming FOND events. Inspired by the landscape and our collective experiences FOND is committed to supporting a pro-active future for this region which -

• Honors, conserves, and maintains the cultural, historic, and ecological integrity of the current landscape;
• Fosters reliable and diverse economic opportunities in the community based on cultural heritage tourism, sustainable recreation, and traditional agriculture;
• And, ensures that local input informs a conservation-based response to how this region will address an increased popularity among a range of interests.

The sign to base camp at the FOND Fall Fest! photo © Thad V'Soske

What can you do?...What can’t you do!

• Stay Informed - Sign-up for the FOND Newsletter and 'Like' FOND on Facebook!
• Start Exploring - Use the FOND Resources Page to research suggested hikes, scenic drives, heritage sites, and naturalist hotspots. Can't find any FOND resources about your area/topic of interest? Help FOND develop one!
• Get Involved - Join/Lead a FOND adventure to explore your interest on the ground! Click here for a list of past and upcoming events!
• Spread the Word - Are you a member of a local community organization? Request a FOND presentation for your next meeting!
• Share Your Story - Did you grow up in a rural community that is now a hot spot for tourism and recreation? How has this development changed the community? Were locals involved in planning for the changes or did it 'just sort of happen'? What advice would you offer the people of Gateway and the surrounding communities? What advice would you offer FOND in helping navigate this situation?
• Sign On - Sign on as a supporter!