Editor’s note: Who We Are features men and women who embody the Grand Valley’s unique spirit. Email nominations to crow@gjfreepress.com.

Libby Collins of Grand Junction finds passion in connection — to Grand Valley trails, organizations and people she has interacted with in the last 15 years.

As the project coordinator for Mesa Land Trust since 2011, she has helped create dozens of trails and conserved many acres of land including Three Sisters Trail, Bookends and many farms in Palisade. And with a master’s degree in economic development, she knows what it takes for a region to grow.

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“It’s about having people work and successfully participate effectively in their community,” Collins said.

According to Collins, her love for the outdoors started during her childhood in Vermont. And when she moved to Grand Junction 15 years ago with her family, Collins was at first startled by the desert landscape compared to her home state’s lush forests.

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“I fell in love with Grand Junction by being outside,” she explained, adding that it’s a good place to raise children due to its access to outside recreation and public open space.

After working with other nonprofits in the area and becoming an iyengra (yoga) teacher, Collins began working for Mesa Land Trust in 2011. As a project coordinator, she develops land-conservation initiatives and trail-building projects.

So far, Collins’ favorite Mesa Land Trust project has been trail planning along Monument Road because it is community driven.

““I am lucky to be able to do that,” she added.

Dave Grossman, who has known Collins for about four years, appreciates her efforts when it comes to connecting Mesa County entities — from government to trail users. Grossman is an avid mountain biker, event organizer for Grand Junction Off-Road and a leader of Grand Valley Trails Alliance.

“She’s able to cross so many important boundaries,” he said. “She’s been able to work hard and see the big picture, but also looks at the details and that’s something I admire.”

Grossman appreciates Collins’ behind-the scenes work especially.

“It’s important to recognize her for her efforts,” he said. “Mesa Land Trust primarily focused on agriculture preservation; but with the efforts at Lunch Loops (bike area), like Three Sisters and Bookends, they have expanded to new space. It’s important development in the Grand Valley.”

When she’s not working with Mesa Land Trust, Collins enjoys being with her kids, ages 18 and 14, plus practicing yoga and fly fishing.

For more information about Mesa Land Trust, visit http://www.mesalandtrust.org.