Speaker Series
Your Donation to FDRD will make a difference!
Friends of the Dillon Ranger District hosts free speakers and film screenings that are open to the public. Most often taking place during the winter months, experts from a wide variety of specialties come to Summit County and give a presentation. Topics include everything from wildlife and scenic photography, backcountry adventures, wildflowers, snow-science, history, and more!
Check out our calendar for the upcoming presentations and information on how to attend.
Annual Events
Winter Speaker Series
Looking for inspiration this winter? Join FDRD every third Tuesday from December through March for our engaging Winter Speaker Series. Each year, we bring together a diverse lineup of presenters—from professional athletes and snow science experts to photographers and inspiring storytellers sharing their journeys of achievement and self-empowerment.
These events are designed to educate, inspire, and connect our community while celebrating the many ways people experience and care for the outdoors. The series will be held at the same welcoming location all winter long, making it easy to mark your calendar and join us each month. It is free and open to the public!
Have someone in mind who would make a great presenter? We’re always looking for passionate speakers—reach out and let us know!
Backcountry Film Festival
Backcountry Film Festival (BCFF) is a collection of human-powered stories and backcountry-inspired experiences. The films ignite wild conversations and inspire action to communities that celebrate the present, while looking towards the future. Each film manifests the power of humans and their spirit. They are stories of outdoor stewardship, grassroots policy and advocacy work, backcountry adventure, and snow cinema by human-powered advocates, athletes, brands, activists, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts. FDRD hosts an annual screening of the Backcountry Film Festival in early to mid December, complete with giveaways, beer, and snacks. All ticket sales, raffle, and beer proceeds benefit our mission of forest stewardship in Summit County.
Water in the West
This event is a collaborative effort among local nonprofits dedicated to sharing knowledge about the vital water resources of Colorado’s Western Slope. Each month throughout the summer, a different partner organization hosts an evening featuring expert speakers who bring unique insights into our region’s water—from its sources and management to the challenges it faces.
Past presentations have included Denver Water representatives, the Summit County Water Commissioner, wildland firefighters, and ski resort managers, each offering their perspective on this essential resource.
Enjoy an evening of learning, conversation, and community.
Skill Series
Want to gain practical skills you can use in the outdoors or backcountry? Join us for our Skills Clinic Series!
Throughout the year, we partner with experienced outdoor enthusiasts and experts to share their knowledge in a fun, hands-on way. These clinics are beginner-friendly and free and open to all ages, making them perfect for anyone eager to learn something new.
Past clinics have included: navigating the night sky, casting a fly fishing rod, trail-side bike maintenance, and reading weather patterns.
Come build your confidence, expand your skills, and make the outdoors even more rewarding!