The Chief Ouray Cemetery is now open following the removal of a large, aging cottonwood tree, which sat at the center of the property. A few wooden crosses, and flag poles that were damaged are being repaired. The Chief Ouray Memorial itself was undamaged by the fallen tree, and now sits upright — back in its original position.

Workers with Animas Valley Arborists Inc. out of Durango, Colo. work to cut up and remove large sections of cottonwood on Thursday, Aug.9, it was an effort involving numerous Tribal Departments, including Risk Management.