Voices of Western Colorado: Transformation

TRANSFORMATION

In Western Colorado, fall sweeps across the mesas, pulls the heat from the canyon walls and turns the cottonwoods gold almost overnight. Lean into the transformations large and small that define life on the Western Slope.

We Asked These Western Slope Locals to Weigh in on This Topic

WENDY VIDELOCK

Poet + Artist

“Here on the Western Slope, I think of transformation as the fundamental force surrounding us all. Ours is a landscape sculpted by water, wind and ice erosion. The very ground on which we walk was once an inland sea, teeming with marine life. We’re reminded of transformation each time we walk across stone covered with ripple marks, discover coiled mollusks embedded in sandstone or find ancient rock art while hiking Escalante Canyon. Living in this constantly shifting landscape has gently taught me to accept my own life’s often difficult transitions. Time and again, I learn that change, like nature, requires letting go.”

CHANDLER SMITH

Executive Director of Grand Valley Outdoor Recreation Coalition

“In my work, I spend a lot of time thinking about Western Colorado’s future, how our communities and relationship with the outdoors are evolving and how we can thoughtfully manage that change. Transformation is inevitable. Landscapes change, communities grow and industries evolve. The challenge and opportunity are ensuring that change strengthens rather than diminishes what makes this place special. To me, transformation means embracing change while being intentional about what we carry forward: our connection to the land, sense of community and unique character. The best transformation honors our roots while creating new opportunities for the generations who will call Western Colorado home.”

LEATH TONINO

Author + Freelance Writer

“I track the transformations of my place, my home, my watershed, my beloved backyard, by noting firsts. First yellow leaf! First frozen puddle! First snow in the alpine! First sandhill crane overhead! First ski tour! First numb toes! The exclamation marks are nonnegotiable; every day I find some small something to celebrate. Waiting for Thanksgiving and Christmas isn’t an option.”

Originally published in the fall 2026 issue of Spoke+Blossom.