Each year the Access Fund recognizes individuals, organizations, and businesses that go above and beyond to volunteer their time and efforts to protecting America’s climbing. These recipients stand out in their commitment to the American climbing community, and the Access Fund is honored to present this year’s awards to a worthy group of volunteers and activists.
We are proud to announce that this week, the Access Fund presented Crag’s Co-Executive Director and staff attorney Chris Winter with a Sharp End Award for his role in protecting climbing areas in Oregon and the Northwest. As an attorney, Chris has supported the efforts of Access Fund, American Alpine Club, Mazamas, and local climbers by providing legal and advocacy support for climbing access efforts across the Northwest. He founded Crag Law Center, a nonprofit legal team dedicated to protecting and sustaining the Pacific Northwest’s natural legacy. He has been a key player in efforts to reopen Madrone Wall, and his experience in raptor management has helped balance climbing and resource protection. In 2012, Chris provided critical support to a coalition of organizations and climbers working to preserve climbing access at Trout Creek while protecting Golden Eagles.