Imagine a world where scientific research and policy decisions seamlessly intertwine to tackle pressing environmental challenges. That’s the vision Molly McKeon, the new executive director of the Mountain Studies Institute (MSI), is bringing to life in Southwest Colorado. With drought and water conservation dominating local concerns, McKeon’s arrival couldn’t be timelier. But here’s where it gets intriguing: her journey to this role wasn’t just about professional expertise—it was deeply personal.
McKeon, a Durango resident and outdoor enthusiast, has spent her life immersed in nature, from skiing and kayaking to exploring the region’s natural wonders. This passion evolved into a career in environmental policy, where she honed her skills bridging science and decision-making. Before joining MSI, she led global initiatives at Environmental Incentives, LLC, crafting natural climate solutions. Yet, two life-altering events last year—the federal shutdown impacting her work and the birth of her son—realigned her priorities. ‘I wanted to invest my time and energy here,’ she reflects, ‘to make Durango a place my son can be proud of.’
And this is the part most people miss: McKeon’s role at MSI isn’t just about leadership; it’s about legacy. She’s determined to model community engagement for her son while steering MSI toward a future where science drives policy. Her ‘trifecta of skills’—budgeting, operations, and implementation—make her a perfect fit for the executive director position, the third MSI job she applied for. ‘It’s about building an organization that lasts,’ she says, emphasizing MSI’s value to both mountain and downstream communities.
But here’s the controversial part: as MSI expands its research into stream restoration and snowtography—using remote sensing to study water distribution in watersheds—questions arise. Is focusing on mountain ecosystems enough to address broader environmental crises? McKeon argues that MSI’s work is more critical than ever, especially in a region experiencing acute climate shifts. ‘We’re capturing data from unique ecosystems to understand adaptation options,’ she explains. Yet, some might wonder: are we moving fast enough?
McKeon’s vision for MSI includes strengthening ties with downstream communities, ensuring the institute’s impact extends beyond Durango. ‘We’re not just serving mountain towns,’ she notes, ‘we’re safeguarding the health of entire river systems.’ Her dual role as MSI director and global environmental politics instructor at Fort Lewis College adds another layer to her mission. ‘Bringing fresh student voices into the conversation is exhilarating,’ she says, highlighting the energy they bring to environmental discourse.
When she’s not working, McKeon enjoys backcountry skiing and hiking, staying connected to the landscapes she’s dedicated to protecting. MSI, founded in 2002 with support from the U.S. Forest Service and Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, was born from the need for science-driven mountain decision-making. Today, its mission feels more urgent than ever, with drought, wildfire, and water demand reshaping the region.
But here’s the question we leave you with: Can science and policy truly align to solve these crises, or are we missing a critical piece of the puzzle? McKeon’s leadership at MSI is a bold step forward, but the conversation is far from over. What’s your take? Let’s discuss in the comments.
