Caring for our public lands: a year in review
January 7, 2026
Local students pursuing careers in outdoor recreation and natural resource management can apply for a $2000 scholarship through this year’s installment of the Brett Beasley Memorial Scholarship.
The Greater Arkansas River Nature Association (GARNA) plans to award one $2,000 scholarship this spring to those planning to start post-high-school education in the fall of 2026. The scholarship honors the late Brett Beasley, a father, husband, partner, friend to GARNA and employee of the US Forest Service – Salida Ranger District, who passed away in January 2017.
One of Brett’s core values, as a steward of public lands, was to provide for a diversity of high-quality education and volunteer experiences in the Upper Arkansas Valley. Applicants must be from the area served by the US Forest Service – Salida Ranger District, and show an interest in recreation and natural resource management work. Funding for the scholarship comes from the Beas Knees Citizens Race and individual donors.
Through strong partnerships and an inclusive culture, GARNA empowers volunteers, staff, and community members to enhance public engagement, celebrate our heritage, and care for the natural environment. GARNA is dedicated to supporting the many avenues of natural resource careers and to the development of young people who, like GARNA, are nature centered and community driven.
Eligible applicants will reside in and around Chaffee County and be starting their post-high school education this fall. Preference will be given to those who’ve maintained a cumulative 3.0 grade point average (GPA) or higher, though volunteerism, experience with local public lands and trails, and a passion for the outdoors and natural resources will also be weighed. Applicants must demonstrate an interest in pursuing a career in recreation and natural resources.
The application is complete when the following materials have been received. Please complete the Google Form at https://bit.ly/2026BeasleyScholarship with a current resume, a 750 word (maximum) essay and two letters of recommendation at the designated place in the form by end of day April 30, 2026.
For additionally questions or to donate to the Brett Beasley Memorial Scholarship, please visit the Scholarship Page, email director@garna.org or call 719-539-5106.
GARNA works with communities of the upper Arkansas River valley to foster the stewardship of the region’s natural environment and the resilience of our communities.