Twenty-six miles to the west of Boulder, at 9,500 feet in elevation, scientists and students at the Mountain Research Station (MRS) have gathered since 1920 to conduct some of the world’s most unique studies on high-altitude ecology and, more recently, how climate change is altering it.
Banner image: Dr. Francis Ramaley and Dr. Caldwell (right) with a class in the forest near the Mountain Research Station in 1909. Students are wearing formal field dress. (Credit: CU Boulder Archives)
Today, the station maintains the longest continuous record of greenhouse gas measurements in the continental U.S. and is the highest elevation climate station in the country. It is managed by the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR), University of Colorado.
As the Mountain Research Station celebrates its 100th anniversary this month, its director is already planning for the next 100.
The anniversary celebration was postponed for two years because of the pandemic. The Mountain Research Station was established from predecessors in 1920, but 1922 was the date of the first field course offered on site.
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Learn about the history of MRS and its plans for a diverse, accessible, and visible next century.
Browse the MRS website
See events, research, and more.
Celebrate at the MRS
During a two-week special event in June, the public is invited to enjoy a dinner and seminar by artists and scientists at the newly renovated Wildrose Dining Hall. Dinners are $30 per seat per night ($15 per child 12 and under), and only cash or check are accepted. Part of the proceeds will go toward supporting access to field experiences for students from underrrepresented groups. June 21,22,23 and June 28,29,30. Advance registration is required.
The Mountain Research Station is run by a dedicated set of staff, students and faculty who maintain equipment, gather data and work on one of the most beautiful parts of CU Boulder's campus. (Credit: CU Boulder)
