Often called the “mother of Boulder’s greenbelt”, Ruth Wright is a name that resonates with environmental activism, civic leadership, the power of individual dedication to our community and environmental stewardship. Her life story reflects a journey marked by resilience, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Boulder and protecting the rights of all of its residents.

She grew up in a time when the world was undergoing significant transformations. The post-war era was a time of great change and opportunity. Ruth, with her keen intellect and determination, seized these opportunities to make a lasting impact. She pursued her education with vigor, eventually graduating cum laude from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Philosophy. Later, while married and raising two children, she pursued a law degree from the University of Colorado. It was during those years that she cultivated a passion for environmental issues, which would guide her life’s work.

Her journey to Boulder began in 1957. Following her husband, Ken, (a hydrologist and longtime Boulder Roadrunner), they settled in our picturesque city nestled against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Our city, known for progressive values and stunning landscapes, became the perfect canvas for Ruth’s environmental ambitions. She quickly immersed herself in the community, recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities that the rapidly growing city faced.

In 1964, Ruth became chair of Plan Boulder, a group dedicated to intelligent city planning and environmental protection. Under her leadership, the organization became a formidable force in local politics, advocating for sustainable growth policies that balanced development with environmental preservation.

In 1967, she was instrumental in getting voter approval for a one cent sales tax that would be used to purchase and preserve land for green belts (aka “Open Space”), around our city limits — making Boulder the first city in the nation to tax itself for the sole purpose of land preservation. (1967 was also the year that Boulder approved liquor sales within the city limits.)

The 1970s were a pivotal decade for Boulder, marked by rapid development and a growing population. Ruth saw the potential dangers of unchecked urban sprawl and the threat it posed to the environment. Her legal training and advocacy skills became powerful tools in her mission to protect Boulder’s open spaces and quality of life. She understood that preserving the environment was not merely about protecting nature for its own sake but also about ensuring a high quality of life for future generations.

While a student in law school, she wrote a legal paper that advocated for limiting all building heights within the city to not more than 55 feet (five stories). Under her leadership, the ballot issue passed and the height limit amendment became part of the City Charter.

While originally a member of the Boulder County Republican Party, she switched to the Democratic Party in 1973.

Ruth’s influence extends beyond grassroots activism. In 1980, she won a primary against former city councilman Homer Page by 123 votes for the right to run for election to the Colorado State House of Representatives for District 10. She was elected, and she served until 1994. As a legislator, she was a trailblazer, advocating for land use policies that prioritized environmental conservation. Working with Governors Roy Romer and Dick Lamm, she championed bills that promoted renewable energy, water conservation and public transportation.

While ahead of their time, these priorities have gained even more relevance in today’s discussions on climate change and sustainable living. Of the 14 years she served at the Capitol, six were spent as only the second woman to serve as the House Minority Leader.

Her impact on Boulder and Colorado is not only seen in policies and legislation; it is felt in the very culture of our community. Her work inspired a generation of environmental activists and civic leaders who continue to uphold her vision of a sustainable and balanced community.

Throughout her life, she faced challenges with grace and determination. As a woman in a male-dominated political field, she broke through barriers with her intellect and tenacity. Her leadership style was characterized by collaboration and inclusivity, earning her respect across party lines and among diverse community groups.

Her many achievements that have helped make Boulder what it is today are far too many to list.

She has been recognized for her work from such groups as the Colorado Wildlife Foundation, Colorado Water Control Commission, the ACLU, State Health Board, Colorado Mountain Club, Sierra Club and Colorado Open Lands. In June of 1993, she was appointed by the governor to be an original Board member for the Great Outdoors Program, which distributes state gambling funds for outdoor recreation.

Later in her life, Ruth and her husband developed a keen interest in studying the water usage habits of prehistoric people. They focused their work specifically on the Inca of Peru. This interest took them many times on journeys to Machu Picchu, often referred to as the “lost City of the Incas,” located on a mountain ridge in the Andes Mountains in southern Peru. They have published multiple books on the subject and have served as consultants to the National Geographic Society. She received the Meritorious Service Award to the Republic of Peru from former President Alan Garcia Perez.

In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, Ruth Wright’s life serves as a guiding light. Her story encourages us to advocate for what we believe in, to work tirelessly for the betterment of our communities, and to always consider the long-term impact of our actions on the planet. She not only shaped the landscape of our state and city but also left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who continue to fight for a more sustainable future. Her legacy serves as a reminder that the actions of today will shape the world of tomorrow.

She still encourages us to think globally but act locally: “Find an issue you are interested in because you can make a difference. Get involved. It will be rewarding and you will be successful.”

Ruth’s greatest legacy is her leadership in working to protect two of the earth’s vital resources: our land and water.

Jim Martin can be reached at jimmartinesq@gmail.com.