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Isn't it awesome being a climber? Climbing is one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I feel transformed every time I return home after a day at the crag or in the mountains. But one of the best parts of being a member of this remarkable community is getting to meet so many people who are making a difference for our planet. This year marks the centennial of one our most influential, effective lifetime members not only in the 110-year history of the Club but in the history of America's conservation movement. If you aren't already familiar with the extraordinary climber conservationist and former AAC Vice President, David Brower, I encourage you to check out one of his books or the inspiring documentary Monumental. Enjoy this 2-minute trailer to whet your appetite. And be sure to join us at next year's Annual Dinner where we will announce the 2013 recipient of the David Brower Conservation Award! 

There are more inspiring examples of climbers and AAC members leading the way in protecting the places we climb for future generations. Read on to learn about the seven recipients of this year's Cornerstone Conservation Grant, which aims to protect, restore and sustain local crags around the country.

The AAC will be celebrating another important 100th birthday next year: that of Denali's first ascent! As part of the Denali Mountaineering Centennial in 2013 and in partnership with Denali National Park and Preserve, the Club is co-hosting Sustainable Summits: The International Mountain Conference on Environmental Practices, on September 8-11 in Talkeetna, Alaska.

Between these conservation initiatives and numerous policy and advocacy advancements on behalf of climbers, it has been a busy and boisterous fall for our new department. I can't wait to share more stories about so many members in our community who are making a difference. Thank you for being an important part of our tribe and helping to continue our extraordinary conservation legacy.

Climb softly,

Introducing the 2012 Cornerstone Conservation Grant Recipients

The American Alpine Club is pleased to announce that it has chosen the recipients of the 2012 Cornerstone Conservation Grant. The Cornerstone Grant funds essential infrastructure to reduce climber impacts at the climbing areas we love. Launched in 2011, this new AAC grant aims to protect, restore and sustain local crags around the country. This year, we are thrilled to award $25,000 to seven outstanding projects, from the Pacific Northwest to New England. Read more about the improvements happening in your region.

AAC Teams Up with Denali to Co-Host Sustainable Summits

The AAC is once again partnering up with the National Park Service to co-host backcountry and mountain ecosystem experts from around the globe. 150 international land managers, climber scientists, industry VIPs, park rangers, conservationists, gear manufacturers, professional guides and sherpas will be descending upon Denali National Park and Preserve next September for a very special international summit. The line-up of speakers, panels, field trips and parties is not to be missed. Please visit the Sustainable Summits webpage for the full program and how you can get involved in this historic event.

Mr. President, Protect Our Outdoors!

In September, the AAC joined forces with our friends at the Colorado Mountain Club to welcome the President of the United States to our hometown and to highlight the need to protect our public lands and grow the outdoor recreation economy that these lands support. We recruited a contingent of enthusiastic young climber volunteers to hold a banner in front of the American Mountaineering Center and talk to people on their way to the President’s speech just a few blocks away. Read the full story here and learn about 6.1 million direct American jobs and a staggering $646 billion in consumer spending.