Aspen Center for Environmental Studies has appointed John Middleton as the new ranch director at Rock Bottom Ranch, its flagship regenerative agriculture site in Basalt, according to a press release. 

With nearly two decades of hands-on experience in organic and sustainable farming, Middleton steps into the role at a time when ACES is expanding both its agricultural output and educational reach. His background in environmental science and finance, paired with a deep commitment to ecological stewardship, positions him to lead the ranch into its next chapter of innovation and impact.

“From designing innovative farm production systems, training future farmers, and teaching the public about the intersection of food, nature, and society, I can’t imagine a better culmination of my life’s work than to join ACES as Rock Bottom Ranch Director,” Middleton said in the press release. “My family is thrilled to find ourselves in the Roaring Fork Valley, and we are elated and humbled to take on a new adventure in service of this truly amazing community.”

Over the past 15 years, Rock Bottom Ranch has evolved into a regional model for small-scale regenerative agriculture. Under ACES’ guidance, the site has grown significantly in food production, community engagement, and farmer training, according to the press release. 

Middleton’s arrival builds on that momentum. As ranch director, he will oversee operations and advance programs that prioritize soil health, carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and animal welfare — foundational tenets of the ranch’s mission to farm in harmony with natural systems.

Middleton’s career spans a diverse range of agricultural experiences, from managing a 1,000-member community-supported agriculture operation to running a model demonstration farm at a UNESCO World Heritage site, according to the press release. He has worked internationally as an environmental and agricultural educator, launched an agroforestry nursery business, and consulted on farm design and establishment. Each of these roles has focused on education and sustainability, core values that align with ACES’ approach to land stewardship and environmental literacy.

Chris Lane, CEO of ACES, said that Middleton is a perfect fit for the position.

“John has nearly two decades of regenerative farming experience, in addition to degrees in environmental science and finance,” Lane said, in the press release. “He’s a perfect fit to lead ACES’ work at Rock Bottom Ranch to reshape the way people think about farming and food systems. We welcome John and his family to the mid-valley as he hails from Spring Green, Wisconsin.”

Rock Bottom Ranch is one of three ACES sites in the Roaring Fork Valley. It serves as a demonstration farm where food production is integrated with ecological restoration and public education. The ranch’s livestock and vegetable systems are designed to mimic natural cycles, showing how agriculture can enhance ecosystem health rather than degrade it. With Middleton at the helm, ACES aims to deepen its role as a leader in replicable regenerative farming practices and environmental education across the region.

As Middleton takes on his new role, he will contribute directly to ACES’ mission of “educating for environmental responsibility,” ensuring that the lessons learned at Rock Bottom Ranch ripple beyond its fences and into classrooms, kitchens, and communities across the valley, according to the press release.