PEAK TO PEAK — In light of the holidays, the recent windstorm that was reaching speeds of up to 75 mph decided to be festive as it knocked down some perfect Christmas tree candidates in people’s yards. 

Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, many Peak to Peak residents are used to the extreme winds that Gilpin County, Nederland, and surrounding towns receive.

This commonly happens when air travels at high altitudes, avoiding obstacles like buildings and trees that reduce friction. The air is then channeled through valleys and passes, adding to the high speed it previously had.

Mountain waves also create strong winds, according to the National Weather Service. Moving air runs into a stationary mountain and travels up, reaching the top and naturally and immediately descending down with great speed, creating strong winds.

Folks in the area have endured the latest windstorm and now it is time to clean up.

The Gilpin County Slash Site was scheduled to close on November 15, but it is reopening as a result of the windstorm. The slash site will be open from December 11 - 21. They will be accepting any slash that needs disposing of on Wednesday - Saturday from 7 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., and also on Sundays from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Janet MacDougall from Gilpin County Public Works said that it is important for loads to be secured so no branches fly off, but they do not need to be covered. The upcoming days are a good time to transport loads as the winds calm down.

Richard Conklin at the Gilpin County Slash Site says they have already received over 67 loads of slash as of Friday and Saturday, December 12 - 13, and will be expecting more.

If you are wondering how some animals get through tough weather like this, the San Diego Bird Alliance explains how the small, winged creatures do it.

Before a storm even begins, birds can sense changes in temperatures, wind speeds, and many other factors that can indicate an oncoming storm. To get through it, many birds will fuel up by eating a lot more than they normally would.

This can allow them to fly away from the storm (sometimes even a few miles is enough) or it will keep them warm. They will try to hide in cavities or under branches or bushes to escape the worst of the storms.

Something you can do to help is provide birds with food and sturdy shelters, and then look for injured ones and volunteer to help restore the areas affected after the storm. 

Remember to help yourself just like you would help the wildlife when preparing for a windstorm. If the season is right, make sure you are looking out for potential strong wind forecasts. Secure outdoor items and trim trees around your home, if needed. Make sure you have an emergency kit and electronics are charged in case of a power outage.

As for cutting down Christmas trees or gathering firewood in public forests, Reid Armstrong from the Forest Service states that there are no Christmas tree cutting permits for the Roosevelt and Arapaho Forests, but firewood cutting permits are obtainable. 

The Gilpin County Slash Site is located directly across Highway 119 from the Gilpin County Transfer Station. The Gilpin County Transfer Station is located at 278 Jankowski Drive, Black Hawk. It is just off Highway 119, approximately 1/4 mile north of Taggert's Gas Station at mile marker 15.5.