05/07/2026
Every Fourth of July in Crested Butte, "a wild-looking clan of scientists dressed in foliage" (as once described by the WSJ) dances alongside the floats parading down Elk Avenue. The scientists are from the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory, decked out in Veratrum californicum (false skunk cabbage or corn lily), and often little else — a tradition that dates back decades.
This year, as the U.S. marks 250 years of independence, RMBL is also gearing up for a milestone: 100 years of groundbreaking research and hands-on education in the heart of the Rockies. Since 1928, we’ve been dedicated to advancing ecological research and inspiring the next generation of scientists. Here’s to another century of curiosity and collaboration. Happy 4th from the wildest bunch in science! 🌱🎉🇺🇸
📷RMBLers in the 2023 parade. Dave Basden