Celebrating Heritage Days in Collbran, Colorado: Community, Mules, and Rodeo Fun

One of the best parts of Black Mule Forestry isn't just clearing land, reducing wildfire risk, or helping property owners with forestry projects—it's being part of the incredible communities we serve throughout Western Colorado.

This year's Collbran Heritage Days Rodeo and Parade was another reminder of why we love calling the Plateau Valley home.

We were proud to sponsor this year's rodeo, and seeing the Black Mule Forestry banners displayed around the arena was a special moment for us. Supporting local events that bring our community together is something we truly believe in, and we're grateful to play a small part in helping make Heritage Days a success!

I (Mary) had the opportunity to volunteer at the rodeo, helping wherever I was needed. Justin helped as well the first day, but had to miss the second day of the rodeo due to a machine breakdown and had to get it up and running for a job. While my jobs were mostly the little things that keep an event running smoothly, it was such a rewarding experience. Being surrounded by hardworking volunteers, talented contestants, and the energy of the livestock and horses made the entire weekend unforgettable. Missy Wallace, Tammy Clark, and Wendy Nichols really knew what they were doing and are some of the core pieces of this rodeo! Alisa, the coach for the Latigos Up Drill team that performed before the rodeo, were spectacular! She was very proud of her team and they performed flawlessly! Thank you all so much!

The Heritage Days Parade was another highlight of the weekend!

Justin and I had the pleasure of riding our mules through downtown Collbran. Justin rode Pedro, our black mule who inspired the name Black Mule Forestry. Pedro has been a dependable partner for years and represents the hard work, strength, and steady attitude that we try to bring to every forestry and fire mitigation project.

I rode Dash, our big, beautiful red mule who always turns heads wherever he goes. Riding through town alongside friends, neighbors, families, and fellow community members was a wonderful way to celebrate the traditions that make the Plateau Valley such a special place.

Events like Heritage Days remind us that small-town communities are built on volunteers, local businesses, agriculture, and neighbors supporting one another. We're proud to be part of that tradition and grateful for everyone who organizes these events each year.

At Black Mule Forestry, we believe in giving back to the communities that support us. Whether we're providing fire mitigation, brush clearing, forestry mulching, or land management services throughout the Western Slope, we're honored to serve the same communities where we live, work, and make memories.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this year's Collbran Heritage Days such a success. We can't wait to do it all again next year!

From all of us at Black Mule Forestry, we'll see you on the trail—and hopefully at next year's rodeo.