Join us at the launch party for Mad Ag Journal Issue 12, to celebrate how mountains and agriculture are part of the same system. 

Mad Agriculture, James Ranch, Joe Grant, and Black Diamond invite you to an immersive evening exploring the deep connection between the alpine hydrology of the San Juan Mountains and the agriculture communities of the Western Slope. Through the lens of renowned athlete and photographer Joe Grant, this multimedia event blends storytelling, science, and adventure to illuminate the vital role of high-altitude snowpack and water cycles in sustaining agriculture, ecosystems, and outdoor recreation.

From the jagged peaks to the valley pastures, water is the lifeblood of the region, shaping both livelihoods and landscapes. Attendees will gain insight into the delicate balance of snowpack-dependent watersheds, the increasing climate pressures on water availability, and the innovative stewardship practices ranchers and conservationists are implementing to adapt. Sponsored by Black Diamond, this event celebrates endurance—in human resilience, in the land, and in the water systems that sustain us all.

This event also celebrates the launch of Mad Agriculture’s biannual print magazine, shining a spotlight on groundbreaking ideas and solutions for a more resilient future.

6:00-8:00pm: Dinner, party, and panel discussion:

James Ranch Grill

33846 US-550

Durango, CO 81301

MAD! Ag is partnering with James Ranch Grill for a hearty meal of James Ranch beef burgers (+veggie burger) served on buns from locally-grown grain, potatoes from Jones Farm Organics, with cider from Eso Terra Cider Works as we gather around the center piece conversation of the San Juan mountains and in-region sourcing.

Voices featured in the reception panel include:

Jonnah Perkins, Mad Agriculture Director of Media

Joe Grant, Professional Mountain Athlete, contributor Journal Issue 12

Sarah Murphy, Owner/Operator, Murphy Legacy Bison

Robbie Vitrano, Mad Agriculture Board Chair

Blake Mamich, Programs Director, Colorado Water Trust

Wyatt Ball, Mad Agriculture Director of Regenerative Business

Abe Ott, Herd Manager, James Ranch

Elizabeth Philbrick, Eso Terra Cider Works

All guests will receive a copy of Mad Agriculture Journal Issue 12 and a gift from Black Diamond

Mad! Agriculture is a 501c3 nonprofit that works from heart to head, poetry to science, financing to markets, and soil to shelf. We meet farmers where they’re at in their journey as they transition to regenerative agricultural models.

Learn more and purchase tickets here.