Regional Stewardship
Since 1966, the Museums of Western Colorado has served as the region's steward of history, paleontology, archaeology, agriculture, and cultural heritage. Today our organization operates three distinct museum experiences that together tell the story of the Colorado Plateau—from dinosaurs and ancient ecosystems to pioneer communities and the American West.
Collections & Research
Since its founding in 1967, the Museums of Western Colorado has preserved and interpreted the natural and cultural heritage of Colorado’s Western Slope through its network of museums, historic sites, and research collections. The organization cares for extensive collections of paleontological specimens, archaeological artifacts, historic objects, photographs, archives, and agricultural equipment that tell the story of the region—from prehistoric life and Indigenous cultures to farming, ranching, transportation, and settlement. These collections support exhibitions, research, education, and public programs, ensuring that the history and scientific significance of western Colorado are preserved and shared with future generations.
Accreditation
American Alliance of Museums Accreditation is the highest national recognition afforded to the nation’s museums. Accreditation signifies excellence to the museum community, to governments, funders, outside agencies, and to the museum-going public.
Alliance Accreditation brings national recognition to a museum for its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and continued institutional improvement. Developed and sustained by museum professionals for over fifty years, the Alliance’s museum accreditation program is the field’s primary vehicle for quality assurance, self-regulation, and public accountability
Funding and Stewardship
The Museums of Western Colorado is committed to the responsible stewardship of its collections, historic sites, and public resources through sound financial management, strategic partnerships, and sustainable funding. Support from admissions, memberships, donations, grants, sponsorships, earned revenue, and public funding enables the organization to preserve collections, care for historic buildings, develop engaging exhibitions, expand educational programming, and improve visitor experiences. By investing in long-term preservation and community engagement, the Museums of Western Colorado ensures that the region’s natural and cultural heritage remains accessible and protected for future generations.
