Tara Pettit
President
Salida resident, lifelong hiker, and retired National Park Service professional with extensive experience in park planning and project management. Passionate about expanding trail access and making Salida more walkable and bike-friendly, Tara is committed to connecting our community and preserving the natural beauty that makes Salida special.
Denise Wentz
Treasurer
Salida resident, co-owner of Wentz Foot and Ankle Specialists, physical therapist, project leader in replacing the playground equipment in Salida’s Alpine Park.
John Allen
SPOT board member
John is a Salida resident and has worked in education, travel & hospitality, and most recently a mapping & location software company, managing revenue strategy and enablement. An avid outdoors enthusiast who enjoys cycling, fly fishing, skiing, and camping. Passionate about keeping our community connected and advocating for better access to trails & outdoor systems as we grow.
Katy Grether
SPOT board member
Salida resident, (former) owner of the Salida Mixing Bowl kitchen store, grant writer, historic preservationist, project leader in restoring the Hutchinson Homestead and Learning Center and the current restoration of the historic Valley View School, Board member for Starpoint, an agency that provides services to individuals with disabilities.
Jessica Downing
SPOT board member
Salida resident and avid bike commuter and recreationalist with a masters certificate in community planning and development, mountain bike coach for youth through Salida Youth Cycling, Executive Director for GARNA (Greater Arkansas River Nature Association) and former chair of the City of Salida Parks Rec Open Space and Trails Advisory Board, and current member of the Chaffee County Planning Commission.
Lisa Walner
Secretary
Salida resident, Teacher at Salida High School and former Office Manager at the Salida Chamber of Commerce, SMT volunteer, lifelong learner, nature lover & outdoor enthusiast. Lisa is always ready for an adventure in the wilderness!
Sarah Rasmussen
Vice President
Salida resident and Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving the Chaffee County community. Sarah volunteers for Salida Mountain Trails and the community AcuWellness Clinic. She is an avid outdoors person and can regularly be found on the trails biking, backpacking, running, or skiing, often with her dog, Hobbes.
Daniela Valencia-Carroll
SPOT board member (soon to be Treasurer)
Poncha Springs resident with 12 years of experience owning and managing a small business in Mexico, as well as 5 years of experience working as a medical and legal interpreter. Passionate about being involved in the community and supporting projects that help preserve and enhance the outdoor spaces that make the Salida area special.
Janine Prout
SPOT board member