To replenish an $18,000 revenue loss due to the recent federal government shutdown, the Colorado National Monument Association (CNMA) is holding a new membership drive and sponsor program. The membership drive will kick off at the Holiday Open House planned for Saturday, Nov. 23, 1-5 p.m. at the monument’s Visitor Center.

CNMA currently has 400 members, primarily composed of Grand Valley residents, and hopes to grow by 100 new members this winter.

“Colorado National Monument Association relies on the generosity of its Grand Valley neighbors to provide the best possible support to the monument, its programs and services,” said board chairperson Ginny McBride. “We encourage everyone who hikes, bikes or enjoys the monument in a variety of ways to deepen their partnership with our western Colorado treasure.”

A new Rim Rock Partner Corporate Sponsorship program has also been introduced and includes opportunities to sponsor individual projects that CNMA bookstore revenues normally fund, such as the printing of the park’s Visitor Guide and transportation for local school children to participate in ranger-led activities at the monument. CNMA would also like to fund an ongoing paleontology survey next year, as well as support studies of the seeps and springs on the monument and their effect on the wildlife.

The Holiday Open House will also kick off the special member discount period for the holiday season, in which members receive a discount in the visitor center bookstore throughout the year, but receive an additional discount during the holidays.

The Colorado National Monument Association is a 501(c)3 organization and exists solely to assist and support the Colorado National Monument. Proceeds from retail operations, memberships, and donations support the monument’s educational, interpretive, historical, and scientific programs, helping visitors better understand and connect to this premier geologic and recreational gem in Western Colorado. To find out more about Colorado National Monument Association, visit http://www.coloradonma.org.