A Mancos native has been tapped as acting forest supervisor for the San Juan National Forest.
Born and raised in Mancos, where his parents still reside, Ron Archuleta will assume his post on Monday, Dec. 16. With more than 32 years of experience with the U.S. Forest Service, Archuleta is excited to return closer to home.
"I grew up in this area, and it has always had a special place in my heart," he said.
Currently, the deputy forest supervisor for the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest and Pawnee National Grassland in Fort Collins, Archuleta has worked on seven national forests and two national grasslands. He also worked with the U.S. Forest Service in Washington D.C.
"As acting San Juan National Forest supervisor, I am really looking forward to working with the people, communities and partners until a new permanent forest supervisor is selected," Archuleta said.
Archuleta will serve as San Juan National Forest supervisor for the next four months.
With a bachelor's degree in wildlife biology from Colorado State University, Archuleta started his Forest Service career on the San Juan National Forest in 1981.
He and wife, Elizabeth Crowe, have a 6-year-old son, Perry. They enjoy many outdoor activities, including skiing, fishing, hunting, hiking and biking.
tbaker@cortezjournal.com