In October, the Ragged Mountain Foundation (RMF) completed a two-year process of negotiations and formally assumed management of Connecticut's most famous cliff, Ragged Mountain.
The RMF, a very active local climbers organization, was formed several years ago to confront access problems to Ragged Mountain. The agreement signed with the Nature Conservancy calls for RMF to manage preservation and use of the area, and to assume ownership of Ragged Mountain if a two-year trial period is completed successfully.
Ragged Mountain is perhaps the best climbing area in the state, with a long climbing history. Climbing here has been threatened by various issues, including land owner liability, lack of parking, and limited public access.
The RMF's campaign to preserve climbing at Ragged is an excellent example of how climbers can work proactively to support their interests. In 1991, leading activist Leslie Brown contacted the Access Fund, which helped set up the RMF and has continued to provide legal and financial assistance, including funds for trail improvements. When the Nature Conservancy proposed to close the area to climbing, the RMF developed a management plan for the site and offered to assume responsibility for implementing it.
Now, climbing is a welcome use of the area. The RMF must post signs, indemnify the Nature Conservancy against liability through an insurance policy, and maintain existing facilities such as trails. The RMF, a 501(c)(3) non-profit group, will need to raise revenues over the next two years to manage Ragged Mountain. For information on how to make a tax-deductible donation, contact Leslie Brown, 203.758.6124, or the Access Fund 303.545.6772.