About Aspen Center for Environmental Studies
Company Overview
Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES), a private nonprofit organization
HeadquartersAspen, CO, United States
Founded1968
SizeApproximately 50 employees ranged in recent years (source: linkedin.com)
What They Do
Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) is dedicated to environmental science education and stewardship, focusing on fostering ecological literacy and environmental responsibility throughout the Roaring Fork Valley. Their core activities include natural history interpretation, regenerative agriculture, forest and ecosystem health, land restoration, and environmental leadership development (source: aspennature.org). ACES reaches over 140,000 people annually through diverse programs such as school outreach, summer camps, adult education classes, naturalist-led hikes, and public lectures and events (source: aspennature.org). The organization collaborates extensively with land trusts, public agencies, and other nonprofits to steward the regional landscape and address critical environmental issues including climate change and forest health (source: aspennature.org).
Projects & Track Record
ACES operates three primary sites that serve as hubs for environmental education and conservation efforts. Hallam Lake, a 25-acre nature preserve and environmental learning center in Aspen, was the organization’s first location, donated in 1968 by Elizabeth Paepcke (source: aspennature.org). Rock Bottom Ranch in Basalt functions as a mid-valley center for environmental education, wildlands preservation, and sustainable agriculture programming (source: aspennature.org). The Catto Center at Toklat, a historic family home of one of ACES’ founders, Stuart Mace, is also part of their public program footprint, supporting community engagement and educational activities (source: aspennature.org). Beyond these sites, ACES partners with schools, government agencies, and other organizations to promote ecological literacy, forest health, regenerative agriculture, land restoration, and climate resilience across the region (source: aspennature.org).
Recent Developments
In recent years, ACES has focused on expanding and promoting its seasonal programming and public events rather than pursuing acquisitions or mergers. Winter events and recurring nature programs at Hallam Lake and Rock Bottom Ranch have been highlighted in 2025 and 2026, engaging the community in hands-on environmental education and outdoor activities (source: aspentimes.com). The organization’s 2025 updates emphasize continued commitment to environmental education, regenerative agriculture, forest and ecosystem health, climate action, land restoration, and leadership development, maintaining a broad community reach (source: aspennature.org). ACES also continues to publish annual reports and audited financial statements for transparency and public review (source: aspennature.org).
Working There
Employment at ACES centers on roles in environmental education, naturalist interpretation, community programming, development and fundraising, and site operations. Publicly visible positions include President and Chief Ecologist/Executive Director, Vice President of Development, Community Programs Director, Field Programs Coordinator, and Naturalist roles, reflecting a strong programmatic and leadership focus (source: linkedin.com, linkedin.com, linkedin.com). The organizational culture emphasizes hands-on education, community outreach, ecological literacy, and collaboration with local schools and partners, fostering a mission-driven and community-oriented work environment (source: aspennature.org). ACES operates multiple visitor-facing sites with specific opening hours, including Hallam Lake, Rock Bottom Ranch, and the Catto Center at Toklat, providing staff with opportunities to engage directly with the public and local community (source: aspennature.org).
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